Tattoo removal: is it possible to completely remove this 1-year-old black tattoo? (Photo)

Question

1 year ago i made these birds which are positioned on my stomach and i will start laser treatment with picosure at a good tattoo removal place. I'm wondering if it is possible to remove them completely? I normally have light skin but i can be very brown and I'm affraid that i will loose pigments in that area

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, this can be removed with laser tattoo removal. Keep in mind, it will take a series of treatments. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a laser tattoo removal expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Jeffrey Gosin, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, it is possible to completely remove the tattoo.  That is not a guarantee that it will be completely removed, but it is certainly possible.  In order to avoid losing pigment, be sure that the area is not tan and is well protected from the sun both before and after treatment.

Gregory Roche, DO · Answer

In my experience it is possible to completely remove a tattoo with proper treatment. In my practice, I recommend using laser, topical products between treatments, and erbium as well as microdermabrasion.

Kory Kitagawa, MD · Answer

Black tattoo ink is the easiest to remove. The PicoWay laser will shatter the pigment with intense and very short bursts of energy. Your body must then eliminate the ink through the lymph system over the next few months. After your final treatment, you may still see a trace of your tattoos, but they should fade over 3 to 4 months until they are not visible at all. You will need at least 5 sessions with the PicoWay laser. A board-certified dermatologist who has expertise in tattoo removal will be able to let you know how long it will take to fade your tattoos.

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

Complete tattoo removal is possible but not always the case. It depends on numerous factors including the laser used. Picosure is not the best for black inks. It has a 755 wavelength which is ideally suited for green inks. Black inks are best treated with the 1064 wavelength, and a laser with pico and nanosecond capabilities is ideal. I prefer the Piqo4 for this.

Jessica H. Kim, MD, FAAD · Answer

Yes, laser treatments can definitely address this tattoo.  The newer picosecond technology makes treatment more effective and efficient.  Consult with a board-certified and experienced cosmetic physician.

Tattoo removal: is it possible to completely remove this 1-year-old black tattoo? (Photo)

Answers (6)

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