Tattoo Removal
What is Tattoo Removal?
Tattoo Removal in Lone Tree, CO is A method of removing/fading tattoo ink in the skin with a laser that breaks up the tattoo pigment
Photo Credit: Lumenis
FAQ's
Can tattoos get fully removed?
Yes. Tattoo ink can be fully removed with lasers such as the Lumenis M22. It does take a series of treatments and some tattoo ink colors are easier to rid of than others. At Elite Medical & Aesthetics in Lone Tree, CO we can remove blue and black ink. However, there may be a little “ghosting” of the skin once treatments are completed. This is normal, the skin will re-pigment to normal with time.
How does tattoo removal work?
Laser tattoo removal works by using targeted light beams to target the pigment in the ink of the tattoo. Once the laser targets this ink, it breaks up the ink into small enough fragments to be removed by the immune system. Over time, with repetitive sessions, the tattoo ink begins to fade and is eventually removed.
Is tattoo removal painful?
Everyone’s pain tolerance is different, but in general tattoo removal can be pretty uncomfortable. Luckily, at EMA we apply topical numbing medication to the treated area to ensure our patients are as comfortable as possible. Prescription grade numbing is one major benefit of having tattoo removal at a Medical Spa rather than a tattoo shop.
What does the skin look like after tattoo removal?
After a tattoo removal treatment, the skin will likely have pin point bleeding along with “frosting” (a clinical endpoint where the colored ink turns into a white overcast). This area will need to be treated like a minor wound until it heals and is ready for the next session. See below for more info on what to expect after tattoo removal 👇
Photo Credit: Lumenis
Are old tattoos harder to remove?
Older tattoos are generally easier to remove because they have already had some ink fading from over the years. Because of this, older tattoos may need fewer sessions than newer tattoos to get full clearance. However, it is best to consult with a provider to assess your tattoo and determine the best treatment plan for you.
What is the downtime after tattoo removal?
Complete healing time from tattoo removal is about 6-8 weeks after 1 session. This is because it takes the body time to absorb the pigment that is broken up from the laser treatment. After each session, your provider will bandage the area and apply a topical ointment to help keep the area clean and hydrated. This 6-8 week time frame also allows for the skin to completely heal from normal skin reactions of tattoo removal:
- Mild blistering & scabbing
- Bleeding/open skin
- Swelling
- Itchiness
- Tenderness/mild pain
How many sessions does it take to remove a tattoo?
There are a lot of factors that go into tattoo removal and the treatment plan such as the colors, the thickness, and how old the tattoo is. All of these factors play a role in the estimated number of sessions needed for complete removal. However, on average most tattoos need 6-8 sessions. Below is an image of the progression of tattoo removal.
What should I avoid after tattoo removal?
It is best to avoid the following after tattoo removal:
- Hot baths, saunas, pools, or hot tubs for 7-10 days
- Sun exposure
- Touching, rubbing, applying harsh products on the treated area for 24-48 hours
- Excessive heat
- Depending on the area, tight, compressive clothing for 24-48 hours
- Depending on the area: intense exercising or sweating for 24-48 hours
How much does tattoo removal cost?
On average, tattoo removal costs $200-500 per session depending on the size, color, newness of the tattoo, and the provider’s skillsets/machinery. To learn more about Elite’s pricing, click the button below.
Can all black tattoos be fully removed?
Absolutely!! Black tattoo ink is actually an easier color to remove compared to greens/yellow because the pigment is an easy target for the laser to find and break up effectively.
Does tattoo removal cause scarring?
When the provider follows protocol and the patient follows proper post-care instructions, scarring is very rare! However, understanding that scarring is a potential risk of the tattoo removal treatment is important before going though with the treatment. Any laser has the potential to burn and scar the skin, that is why it is crucial to go to a provider who is experienced and knows the appropriate protocols for each individual case.
What are the risks with tattoo removal?
It is important to know about potential risks involved with tattoo removal. Be sure to talk with your provider about all risks but the following are possible:
- Infection
- Poor wound healing
- Scarring
- Skin discoloration
- Hypopigmentation
Who is a good candidate for tattoo removal?
You are a good candidate for tattoo removal if you have a dark pigmented tattoo, healthy skin, proper health history, have realistic expectations, and are willing to commit to the treatment process and plan. Since tattoo removal requires a series of treatments to see improvement, it is important that the individual is aware of the healing process and is able to follow pre/post care instructions.
Who is not a good candidate for tattoo removal?
You are not a good candidate for tattoo removal if you have the following:
- History of abnormal scarring such as hypertrophic or keloid scarring
- History of uncontrolled diabetes or poor wound healing
- Have an active infection or rash in the area to be treated
- Have uncontrolled auto-immune disease
- Are pregnant/breastfeeding
- Have allergic reactions to ink
- Are on medications that make you photo-sensitive
- Have extremely tanned skin from sun exposure
Can all tattoo colors be removed?
It is possible to remove all colors of a tattoo, however dark colors such as black and blue are the easiest to remove and require the least amount of sessions. Greens and yellows tend to take a lot longer to be removed because of the lighter ink pigmentation. At Elite, we focus primarily on the dark blue and black colored tattoos to provide realistic expectations for tattoo removal goals.
Can cosmetic tattoos be removed?
Yes, in fact it is really common to remove cosmetic tattoos such as eyebrows, eyeliner, lip lining, and much more! Often times these inks fade and turn different shades after a few years and the desire to get it removed is high! Below is an image of cosmetic microbladed eyebrows and tattoo removal.
Photo Credit: Lumenis
Can I get a new tattoo on the same area after tattoo removal?
Yes, you can either completely remove the undesired tattoo or have enough sessions to fade the undesired tattoo enough for appropriate tattoo cover-up.
How long does a tattoo removal appointment take?
After the initial consultation, a tattoo removal appointment only takes about 45 minutes (including numbing). This time is also dependent on the size of the tattoo, obviously a shoulder piece will take longer than a small design on the forearm. Once the proper numbing medication has been applied/administered, before photos have been taken, and consent documentations have been signed the actual laser portion of the appointment is relatively quick! After the treatment is over, the provider will bandage up the area and go over post-care instructions with you before you schedule your next appointment.
How often can I get tattoo removal?
It is recommended to wait 6-8 weeks in between each session to ensure the skin has fully healed, and the body has had enough time to absorb the ink from the laser breaking it apart. There may be individual cases, so always be sure to discuss this with your provider.
Can you remove only part of my tattoo?
Yes, we can remove as much or as little of the tattoo as you’d like.
Can you get tattoo removal on any part of the body?
Yes! Tattoo removal can be done on ant part of the body. Some areas are more sensitive than others, though, and some areas with thinner skin tissue may take longer to heal.
Tattoo Removal in Lone Tree, CO may be a great option for you! If you are located in the Denver, CO area and want to explore tattoo removal options, schedule a consultation to speak with one of our EMA providers. Click the button below:
Schedule a consult
Elite Medical & Aesthetics is a premier Med Spa in Lone Tree, CO that takes a holistic approach for natural results. We are proud to have an all nursing staff with NPs and RNs with safety as our #1 priority.
