Almost 96,000 laser tattoo removal procedures were performed in 2013, according to the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. The year before, the ASDS reported 63,000 such procedures were completed.
Generally, there is great demand for tattoo removal. Harris Interactive in a 2012 poll found 14 percent of those with tattoos regretted having them. As it relates specifically to laser-based treatments, the ASDS calls it a “preferred treatment.”
Other options include dermabrasion and surgical removal. Laser therapy is generally considered safer and with less risk of side effects such as scarring, skin discoloration and infection. Surgical excision is limited to smaller tattoos.
The “preferred treatment” uses a high-intensity laser beam to break up the pigment in the tattoo. This approach selectively targets the tattooed area without damaging surrounding areas the way other more invasive options might.
To inject the colors that make the tattoo design, artists use an electrically powered machine. Removing this ink is not as simple as you might think. The coloring penetrates the outer layer or epidermis of the skin, as well as the deep layer or dermis. The cells of the dermis are more stable, which allows the ink to stay in place. For this reason tattoos are considered permanent.
There are various types of lasers on the market differentiated by wavelength and depth of penetration into the tissue to be treated. The type of laser California Skin & Laser Center uses is so effective because it affects deeper layers of skin than other light energy-based products.
While a treatment of choice, laser technology doesn’t guarantee the tattoo will be removed completely. Scarring is still possible. Some tattoos are more difficult to remove than others. Fluorescent colors, for instance, can be more challenging to remove than black- or blue-inked designs.
California Skin & Laser Center has the knowledge and experience to take into account the following:
- Personal characteristics such as preexisting medical conditions and complexion
- Tattoo characteristics such as size, location and pigment
By developing a treatment plan based on the above considerations, Dr. Gerald Bock and his specialized team minimize side effects and increase the odds that your tattoo will be removed successfully.
If you are considering laser tattoo removal near Stockton, call California Skin & Laser at 209-751-4292.
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