For the last decade or so, getting a tattoo has become more popular for both men and women. From biblical verses to large works of art covering an entire leg or even the back, tattoos can be seen everywhere. Because getting “tatted” is more commonly done when people are younger (age 18 to early 20s), sometimes as they age, the tattoo they were so excited to display in their youth no longer represents who they are today. With this regret, many are now seeking to undergo tattoo removal.
The most common form of tattoo removal is via laser treatments. Patients often say that there is minimal pain during the procedure and compare the feeling to that of a rubber band snapping against their skin. Depending on the size and depth of the ink’s penetration, your tattoo may be removed within two to four treatments. In cases where the tattoo is large and has multiple integrated colors, several more treatments may be required to fully remove the tattoo. However, the best way to determine how many treatments will be necessary is to visit a qualified laser tattoo removal specialist. It is important to note that laser treatments may not provide 100% removal of the tattoo.
Another form of tattoo removal is through excision. This procedure entails surgically removing the skin that has been inked. Similar to laser treatments, the size of the tattoo will determine how many excisions will be necessary in order to provide the best results with minimal scarring.
If you live in or around Los Angeles, Covina, Hollywood, Pasadena, or Arcadia and would like to learn more about tattoo removal, we encourage you to contact our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Martin O’Toole. To schedule your consultation with Dr. O’Toole, please call us at (626) 689-7800 or fill out our online contact form.