How Effective is Laser Tattoo Removal?

Tattoos have been around for centuries. They hold a lot of meaning and respect in many cultures. While most men and women love their tattoos, some patients may have ones they want to remove because it seemed like a good idea at the time. However, if you have someone’s name, a memory you’d like to erase, or the tattoo looks discolored, stretched, or faded, laser tattoo removal may be a good option for you. At Xage Medical Spa in Provo, UT, our board-certified physician, Dr. Stuart B. Porter, specializes in this popular procedure. Whether you have a tattoo sleeve or a rose tattoo from college, Dr. Porter can help you remove an unwanted tattoo. Want to know how effective laser tattoo removal can be for you? Discover more in our blog, and schedule a consultation to receive additional information.

Am I a good candidate for laser tattoo removal?

While possible, we can remove more prominent or colorful tattoos, but they may be more expensive and require additional appointments. Laser tattoo removal works best for patients with:

• Older tattoos
• “Stick n poke” (amateur) tattoos
• Colors, like black, brown, dark blue, or green

For all tattoo removal consultations, we evaluate your tattoo and provide a detailed treatment plan that covers information about the cost, follow-up sessions, and pain level. Unfortunately, we do not recommend this treatment for patients with darker skin tones or those with underlying skin or health conditions, like eczema or herpes, because of an increased risk for side effects.

Before undergoing tattoo removal, many patients often wonder, “Does laser tattoo removal hurt?” This depends on the size of your tattoo and the location. Over time, the pain lessens throughout your appointment and afterward.

How does laser tattoo removal work?

At your appointment, we begin cleaning the treatment area and numbing it with a topical anesthetic. Dr. Porter uses some of the latest laser-assisted technology in the industry to ensure his patients receive the best care. He uses Alma lasers, which specialize in a variety of treatments for the body, including laser tattoo removal. This precise and safe device emits high energy and pulsing light that targets only the tattoo and protects the surrounding skin. Depending on the size of your tattoo, you may require multiple sessions. Dr. Porter will discuss the number of appointments at your consultation.

What should you expect with laser tattoo removal healing?

After laser tattoo removal, your skin will feel like a severe sunburn. Throughout your healing process, the treatment area will blister and peel for around 3 – 14 days. The amount of time needed greatly depends on your body. You may also experience some mild bleeding in the area. All of these side effects are very normal and should subside on their own. If you require multiple treatments, you will need to properly heal before coming in for your next appointment. Dr. Porter can let you know the best timing for your follow-up appointment.

Fade the old memory with laser tattoo removal

Laser tattoo removal is a safe and effective procedure. Dr. Stuart B. Porter will set realistic expectations and ensure you feel comfortable with the treatment. If you have questions throughout your consultation, please be sure to let Dr. Porter know. He and his team at Xage Medical Spa look forward to helping you reach and exceed your cosmetic goals. Please schedule an appointment at our medical spa in Provo, UT.