How soon can I begin to remove my black and gray tattoo?

Question

I got tattooed by a friend about 2 weeks ago - Big mistake. I liked it at first, but the more I look at it, I am disliking it and I'd like to have it removed. I feel like he did not execute it properly. I have done a lot of research on tattoo removal since I was in a panic. I guess my main question is - How soon can I start on getting it removed? And as an estimate - how many treatments will I need and how much will it cost? Thank you in advance.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and the photo.  Yes, you can start Laser tattoo removal treatments as soon as you want.  Luckily, the tattoo ink is likely still liquid.  It takes about 6 months for the ink to become solid in your skin.  There is promise combining Q switched YAG Laser treatments (RevLite or PicoSure) with fractional laser technology, such as an Erbium:YAG Laser.  This usually cuts the amount of treatments you need in half.  It will probably take about 6-10 treatments to remove your tattoo. Treatments are spaced every 6-8 weeks.  Cost varies according to your geographic area and available technology.To be sure what is right for you, see two or more licensed providers in your area who have extensive experience with Laser Tattoo Removal.I hope this helps. Best wishes!

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

The best way to get rid of your tattoo is the
new Picosure Laser. The Picosure laser is 100 times faster than any other laser
on the market. There are fewer treatments required without harming the
surrounding tissue. Consult with your doctor about the Picosure laser and find
if this is the right laser for you!

Sean A. Simon, MD · Answer

I utilize the latest in laser tattoo removal technology, the Picosure from Cynosure. I can definitely laser this entire tattoo in one session and it should be well tolerated. There may be significant fading after only one session and complete removal is possible in several sessions - with Picosure approximately 3-4, with traditional Yag lasers 10-20 if at all. Even if you want a cover up, removing the maximum pigment will be best so your future tattoo choices will not be limited. To see the effect of the first session, you will wait 6-8 weeks and that is the standard amount of time between laser sessions as well. My office will give pricing after phone / email consultations regarding tattoo removal.  Good luck.

How soon can I begin to remove my black and gray tattoo?

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How soon can I begin to remove my black and gray tattoo?

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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.