Tattoo Removal

There have been major advances in tattoo removal technology over the past 5 years. Most novel systems carry what is called picosecond technology, which allows the laser to fire its energy in trillionths of a second. In contrast to conventional tattoo removal technology (nanosecond systems), the newest picosecond lasers do not heat the tissue but break the ink particles by inducing photoacustic or photomechanical damage. These fragmented particles are then consumed by your own immune system, and will be flushed out naturally through your body. The latest technology is gentler, faster and more effective for all types of pigment color.

A good candidate is someone who has a tattoo they want removed, is realistic with their expectations, is in general good health, will commit to the recommended recovery time, and is aware of all potential risks. The best way to determine if Houston laser tattoo removal is for you, is to make an appointment for a consultation.

Laser tattoo removal in Katy Tx is a non-invasive procedure, which minimizes the risk of side effects. However, some slight blistering and scabbing could occur. If this happens, a healing ointment along bandaging is recommended. Hyperpigmentation (darkening of skin) or hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) can occur more commonly on patients with etnic skin (mediterranean, Hispanic, Asian and African American skin tones).

It can be slightly more irritating than the initial tattoo process. The pain can best be described as being similar to how it feels when a rubber band is snapped against your skin. Fortunately though each treatment is quick, lasting anywhere from 30 seconds to 30 minutes. The amount of time depends on the size and depth of the tattoo. And, a numbing agent may be applied before starting to reduce the irritation. We also use a chiller to blow cold are which minimizes the discomfort of the procedure.

Because most tattoos are created with multiple layers of ink, breaking them up will probably require a few treatments. The average amount of treatments is about 5 to 10 per tattoo. However, a faded or lighter tattoo might only require 3 to 4 treatments. Importantly, it is advisable to have a session every 2-3 months and not sooner as the pigment needs to rearrange so that the laser can effectively treat it. Multiple factors are taken into consideration when determining how many treatments could be needed, including: The age of the tattoo Density of the ink Location of the tattoo Depth of the ink Pre-existing scarring Skin type of the patient Patient’s health A consultation will help determine the amount of treatments you will need.

You should expect to get it lighter almost immediately. The area will be sensitive to temperature and sunlight and you should be careful not to irritate the treated area for up to 48 hours after a treatment. Petrolatum ointment or in cases of blistering antibiotic or steroid ointments might be indicated in the postprocedure.

Yes, it can. Tattoos can be lightened through laser treatment, which can make it easier for a potential tattoo artist by allowing for more freedom and creativity when covering up or altering an existing tattoo.

Yes. Many times a patient would like a name or date removed, but not the entire tattoo. The laser beam is precise, so it will be able to target the desired parts for removal.

That will depend on a few things, such as the size of the tattoo, how many treatments you will need, the depth of the ink, and your skin type. A consultation in the office will help determine the cost you will have for your specific needs. For further questions and more information, please call the office to make a consultation.

Traditionally, for tattoo removal we will numb the area with a topical cream for up to 1 hour. The laser energy, which is delivered in super-short bursts, feels like you are being lightly snapped by a thin rubber band. A chiller that blows cold air is also used to diminish the discomfort.