Is Scarring a Problem With Laser Tattoo Removal?
Tattoos are meant to be permanent, but when yours is destined for removal, seek a treatment that produces minimal scarring. Laser tattoo removal is a recent development in tattoo removal. Depending on the tattoo, there may be little to no scarring on the skin afterwards.
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Function
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According to Dr. Jean Loftus, a plastic surgeon in the Midwest, laser tattoo removal works by using the heat to "target" the tattoo ink. Dr. Loftus describes the process as the heat from the laser disintegrating the ink into very small parts that are absorbed by the body.
Features
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There is pain associated with laser tattoo removal, but it is said to be moderate. Several treatments are often needed for complete removal, depending on the tattoo's size and colors.
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Types
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According to Dr. Christopher Arpey of the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, there is more than one laser used in the procedure. They are the Alexandrite Ruby and NdYAG. They are Q-switched lasers. Of the three, the NdYAG causes the most scarring.
Color Considerations
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Dr. Arpey writes that the type of laser used depends on the color pigments used in the tattoo. The NdYAG is best on red pigments, while the Ruby and Alexandrite do well with the rest of the color spectrum, especially blue and black.
Size Considerations
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Large tattoos take several sessions under the laser to remove. They are also more painful, because the laser is being used for longer sessions than with a small tattoo. Larger tattoos are also more expensive to remove. However, careful work by a competent plastic surgeon makes scarring not a more significant issue with larger tattoos than smaller ones.
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