About Tattoo Removal at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta
People get tattoos for different reasons: to be rebellious, as a dare, for visual appeal or to promote something they feel strongly about (just to name a few). Going into the tattoo parlor for the first time is exhilarating, but years later when this permanent piece of art is not as it once appeared, the option for removal is wonderful. Laser tattoo removal makes this possible, not only for those who have faded tattoos that have lost their luster, but also for those who no longer wish to represent the image their tattoos convey. At Dermatology Associates of Atlanta’s Laser Institute of Georgia, our physicians utilize PicoWay, PicoSure™, Q-Switched Ruby (RD-1200™) and Lutronic® Spectra™ lasers, among other lasers, for removal of tattoo pigment of all colors.
Professional, multi-colored tattoos are the most difficult to eliminate as their pigments are usually more concentrated and placed deeper within the skin. The FDA-approved PicoSure™ and PicoWay lasers use short bursts of energy to effectively remove deep, dark tattoos in fewer treatments than other lasers. These highly advanced lasers can safely remove tattoos without injury to surrounding skin. Rest assured that our physicians who have been performing tattoo removal since the 1990’s have experience with even the most stubborn tattoos. Homemade blue-black tattoos respond best to lasers because lasers are more easily absorbed by the darker pigment.
The sensation associated with laser tattoo removal is manageable and mild, like a rubber band snap. The number of treatments necessary depends upon multiple variables such as size, color, type, amount of ink used, and the age of the tattoo. As with any laser procedure, there is a risk of scarring; however, DAA’s precise laser technology and experience reduces the risk of treatment side effects considerably.
Laser Tattoo Removal FAQs
How do lasers remove tattoos?
Tattoos are created using insoluble ink that is injected into the middle layer of skin; they are long lasting because the pigment is not able to be absorbed by the body. Using FDA-approved lasers, the highly-trained providers at Dermatology of Atlanta’s Laser Institute of Georgia emit concentrated beams of laser light to penetrate the outer layers of the skin. The laser light targets the pigmented ink, breaking the ink into tiny particles, which is then naturally absorbed into the body.
What are the side effects of laser tattoo removal?
While laser tattoo removal is safe for all skin types, there is the rare possibility of side effects occurring such as hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation. With the help of the latest and most precise laser technology combined with the experience of Dermatology Associates of Atlanta, P.C.’s providers, the risk of side effects are greatly reduced for our patients.
How many laser tattoo removal treatments do I need?
There are many factors that determine the number of laser tattoo removal treatments needed to effectively reduce the appearance of tattoos. During a pre-laser skin analysis, the trained providers at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta conduct a test spot to gauge how your skin will react to treatment. The age of the tattoo, overall size, color and type of ink used are considered when determining the most effective treatment plan. Now offering patients the FDA-approved PicoSure™ and PicoWay Lasers, blue and green ink tattoos as well as dark, deep tattoos can safely be removed in fewer treatments than previous tattoo removal systems.
Laser tattoo removal treatments are generally spaced four to six weeks apart, depending on how quickly the skin absorbs the pigment.
To inquire about laser tattoo removal, contact us today to schedule your pre-laser skin analysis.
