Getting a tattoo is becoming increasingly popular. As a result, the demand for tattoo removal is rising sharply. We, as laser practitioners, have observed this growing demand from patients wishing to remove a tattoo by laser.
Pigment lasers (which target and destroy color) have been used for many years to remove tattoos.
There are two types of laser for tattoo removal, both used by dermatologist Dr. Molinari:
The time it takes to remove a tattoo with a laser depends on a number of parameters, but also on the laser used.
The consultation required with Dr Molinari before any laser session will allow him to assess the number of sessions required after clinical examination of the area to be detattooed.
Depending on the size of the tattoo, the session lasts from a few seconds to around twenty minutes. Laser tattoo removal can be painful, whether performed with the Q-Switched laser or the Picosure laser. The use of an anesthetic cream is recommended.
In the days that follow, daily dressings are required on the newly untattooed areas for an average of two weeks.
It should be noted that these side effects are generally less frequent with the Picosure laser, which offers greater safety.
Regardless of the type of the chosen laser, it is usually very difficult to predict in advance the number of sessions required (i.e. the time it will take and the overall cost), as well as the quality of the result.
The picosure laser, however, is faster and less tedious.
Laser tattoo removal is a safe and relatively effective treatment today with the arrival of Picolaser from Cynosure.
Examples of results after Picosure laser and Qswitched laser tattoo removal sessions.
Here are the most important things to remember
Here are the main things to remember before your session:
The area to be treated should not have been exposed to the sun for at least one month.
Stop taking any photosensitizing medication at least 5 days before the session.
1 to 2 hours before the session, apply anaesthetic cream and wrap the tattoo in plastic thread.
Come to the laser center with all the products needed for the dressing.
Here are the most important things to remember
Pain usually lasts no more than a few hours. In some cases, it may last 2 or 3 days.
Scabs and blisters are usually observed. Dressings should be continued on a daily basis until healing is complete.
There may be some edema. This may persist for up to 5 days.
Sun exposure is possible one month after the treatment.
Wait at least one month between appointments.
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Since setting up my own business, I have spent 4 years taking additional university courses focusing on aesthetic and restorative medicine.