Can a tattoo be removed completely without scars?

Question

what is the best way to remove tattoo for good?

Mitchel Goldman, MD · Answer

With the advancements in recent years in laser
tattoo removal devices, such as the PicoSure laser, tattoo removal is quite
effective when performed by a highly experienced and qualified laser expert. Scarring
should not occur or be extremely minimal. The scarring you experience is
typically a direct result of the experience of your physician and type of laser
used to treat the tattoo.

Evan Sorokin, MD · Answer

Lasers have become more and more advanced and remove tattoos without a scar if done by a properly trained specialist.  Some states allow people with all levels of training to perform tattoo removal.  Some states (NJ) only allow a physician to do it.  Some docs are trained well in doing it and some take weekend courses.  You have two things to look for when selecting a place to have your tattoo treated.  First, find someone with a laser that actually works such as the Picosure laser.  There are other lasers that work on tattoos but I personally like this one the best.  I had an Accolade laser before and find the PicoSure to take fewer treatments.  I see many doctors using lasers that aren't truly designed for tattoo removal.  These multi-purpose machines are suboptimal.  I had an IPL machine 10 years ago that supposedly treated tattoos and after using it once or twice on tattoos I stopped offering this as it simply was not effective.  Still I see doctors advertising this all of the time.  Don't fall into this trap.  Finally the person running the laser needs to have the experience and abilities to remove the tattoo as quickly as possible without hurting you and to know if you are having a rare complication how to handle it.  I hope this answer is helpful!

Kristin J. Tarbet, MD, FACS · Answer

The best way to remove a tattoo is by laser from a trained provider.  This can be done safely with a series of treatments.  If lasering is done with the right settings, scarring is very rare.  Black ink is the easiest to remove, colors take longer. I recommend an in-person consultation to determine risks, the number of estimated   treatments, and the cost.

Can a tattoo be removed completely without scars?

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Can a tattoo be removed completely without scars?

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Everything you need to know about Tattoo Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.