I'm considering tattoo removal, can a complete tattoo removal be achieved or will I end up with a 'ghost' image?

Question

Im considering getting a big black (which has now turned an off blue colour) thigh tattoo removed.. it has no colour just black, i have pale skin and i seem to heal normally. However im feeling a bit uninformed on what to expect with results. Ive been told that i will end up with a ghost image of my tattoo as the final result however ive then been told complete removal is achievable. Please help advise as im feeling very indecisive.

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The key to tattoo removal is patience. The number of treatments varies by the ink and size of the tattoo. What type of laser did you use for tattoo? The PicoSure laser is has been developed and approved for tattoo ink removal, acne scars and any other blemishes you dislike. The PicoSure is FDA-approved and highly effective for removing regrettable tattoos and scars.  I recommend getting a in person consultation with a board-certified dermatologist.

Kory Kitagawa, MD · Answer

The tattoo removal process is a lot more complicated and time-intensive than getting a tattoo in the first place. However, in the hands of an expert your tattoo can be completely removed. I would recommend the PicoWay laser, which uses short, intense bursts of laser energy to shatter the pigment in your tattoo. Luckily, black is the easiest ink to shatter. The tiny pieces of the pigment are then absorbed by the body, where they are gradually filtered through the lymph system and eliminated via the urine. It takes many sessions to remove tattoos, because the ink is not superficial. It can extend several layers deep into your skin and only a portion of it can be shattered at a time. You need to leave about two months between removal sessions so that your skin can heal and your body can eliminate the ink.After your final tattoo removal session (you will probably need at least four or five), you will still see a slight shadow of your tattoo. However, the shattered ink will eventually be processed by the body. Within a few months, your tattoo will have completely disappeared. A board-certified dermatologist who is expert in tattoo removal will be able to get you the best results.

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

It is impossible to predict which tattoos will have ghosting and which tattoos will completely go away. It has alot to do with the laser as well as the settings used. Not all lasers are created equal. You must use a 1064 wavelength for best results and one which has pico and nanosecond pulses is best. All pico laser use photoacoustic pulses (not just Picoway). I prefer Piqo4 because of it high power.

Mark A. Blair, MD · Answer

Hello, Thank you for your question, it would be beneficial if you had included a photo.  Speaking in general, it is impossible to "guarantee" complete removal for anyone for any tattoo. The body plays a part in the removal process, therefore it is impossible to know how it will turn out completely.  The latest technology in tattoo removal is the pico-second technology. The PicoWay Laser (Candela/Syneron) uses photoacoustic
impact/pressure waves rather than photothermal/heat.  This process has less heat, therefore it is
more comfortable and the chances of hyperpigmentation are less.  The Pico-second pulse shatters the ink into
even smaller particles, allowing the body to more easily absorb the ink.  Because of this new technology, there are far fewer chances of hyperpigmentation/hypopigmentation (darkening or lightening of the area treated) You can click on the weblink below and put in your zip code to find out if this technology is available in your area. Good Luck!

I'm considering tattoo removal, can a complete tattoo removal be achieved or will I end up with a 'ghost' image?

Answers (4)

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