If you are in Los Angeles and are interested in quality laser tattoo removal results, it will be important to understand how this can be achieved and what to expect.

Here is a brief list of areas that would be important for you to understand from a patient’s perspective:

1) What factors of tattoo removal contribute to a longer process (i.e. greater number of sessions)

2) What energy wavelengths are appropriate for getting rid of certain colors

3) What laser wavelengths are safe for your skin type.

4) How laser tattoo removal generally works

5) Why most doctors prefer using Q-Switched systems for laser tattoo removal results.

Although it is optional, it may also benefit you to understand concepts like: fluence and spot size of the laser beam. This information a little more technical. But it will help you understand a more complete picture of how laser tattoo removal works and how these procedures can be optimized for individual cases.

The proper knowledge enable you to ask the right questions as you consult with different service providers. And this will help you make the best choice for getting the best laser tattoo removal results.

LOS ANGELES LASER TATTOO REMOVAL – BACKGROUND INFO

Laser tattoo removal works by applying intense light energy to break up granules of tattoo pigment in the skin.

Different Laser Wavelengths

The laser energy needs to first be absorbed by the tattoo ink. Without proper absorption, the procedure will not be successful.

Therefore, it is important for the practitioner to select the right wavelengths to address each color.

Examples:

1) Nd:YAG 532nm is a green light which is suitable for red and orange ink

2) Ruby: 694nm is a red beam which can break up green ink and dark colors in general.

3) Nd:YAG 1064nm is appropriate for dark colored ink. And it is the safest choice for patients with ethnic skin tones.

Sometimes dye module accessory units can be used to convert one type of laser wavelength into another. This is particularly useful for multi colored tattoo designs.

Excellent Laser Tattoo Removal Results Through Q-Switched Mode

Generally speaking, laser beams can be administered as long pulses of energy or short bursts through a Q-Switched mode.

Most doctors prefer using using Q-switched lasers. The energy is able to be delivered through a high level of intensity. And this is needed to shatter the tattoo ink effectively.

There are several terms that are pertinent to Q-Switched systems which would be helpful for you to know.

  • Pulse Width. This refers to the time duration of the laser pulse. Shorter pulses deliver the energy at higher impact levels to shatter the ink.
  • Spot size.  This refers to the width of the beam. Larger spot sizes are more effective than smaller ones because they can reach deeper layers of the skin.
  • Fluence refers to the amount of energy administered per square centimeter of skin.

The doctor must be able to choose safe parameters for individual patients  that will effectively do the job of breaking the pigment.

PROCEDURES

Successful laser tattoo removal results will require a different number of procedures for individual cases.

Here are six factors that will affect the number of sessions you will need:

1) Anatomical location of the tattoo. Some areas of the body have more blood vessels than others. The circulatory system is what carries away the broken pigment from the skin’s surface.

2) Colors used. Darker colors are easier to remove than lighter ones

3) Presence of scarring or tissue changes. If tattoo ink is enmeshed in scar tissue or other forms of tissue change, it will be more difficult for the laser to break this up.

4) Layering. This is when one tattoo covers up another design. Ultimately this equates to more ink that needs to be removed, and more time that will be needed.

5) Amount of ink.  Again, when there a greater amount of tattoo pigment beneath the skin, more sessions will be needed.

6) Skin type. Laser energy is risky for patients with darker skin. Doctors may choose to use less energy across a larger number of sessions to ensure proper safety.

Also, according to research, laser tattoo removal results are much slower if the patient is a habitual smoker. Smoking reduces the performance of the immune system which is needed to help carry away the tattoo ink particles.

Older tattoos are also harder to remove. These pigments are deeper beneath the skin compared to newer designs.

Los Angeles Laser Tattoo Removal Results – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does laser tattoo removal hurt?

This really depends on the individual pain threshold for different patients. For some people, the procedures are quite painful. Other people will report little to no pain.

2. What can be done to help minimize the pain of my procedure?

Although numbing cream can be used, it may not be very effective. Creams are limited by how far they can penetrate the skin. Laser energy often reaches very deep layers, depending on where the pigment resides.

Therefore, it may be necessary to inject a local anesthetic.

3. What will happen after my procedure

After your procedure, your skin will be very red. And scabs will develop.  It will be important to apply an antibiotic ointment on the area regularly and to keep it covered to avoid infection.

4. How much do most people pay to have their tattoos removed?

This will depend on the number of sessions that will be needed. This can vary widely. On average, the cost of laser tattoo removal results is about $750.

5. How much time is needed in between sessions?

The amount of time needed in between sessions is around four to six weeks. During this period, your skin will  be engaged in healing itself.  Also your body will be transporting the broken ink particles away from the skin’s surface.

Los Angeles Laser Tattoo Removal Results – Photos and Video

This patient decided it was time to get rid of her black tattoo of the word, “Faith.” She had to keep it concealed at work by wearing long sleeved shirts.

She only needed three sessions for the successful removal of this tattoo.

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getting rid of the tattoo with the Spectra laser*

Here are before and after procedures.

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Los Angeles patient showing excellent laser tattoo removal results*

 Laser Tattoo Removal Consultations For Patients in Los Angeles

Los Angeles laser tattoo removal results will vary in the number of sessions required.  Fine Touch Dermatology offers free initial consultations. This will help you gain relevant insight on how many sessions you will need and the factors that will be affect the ease or difficulty of the removal process.

Fill our our form at the top of the page. Or give us a call at 877-337-6424