Renewal Tattoo Removal
– FAQs –
by patients in Fayetteville, Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Greensboro
How do lasers remove tattoo ink?
Lasers like PicoSure and Q-switched technology emit energy in the form of light, which is absorbed by the pigment in the tattoo. This causes the ink to shatter into tiny pieces that the body can absorb through the lymphatic system.
Are all lasers the same?
Not all tattoo removal lasers are the same. The most commonly used technology today heats the tattoo ink breaking it into particles, which are sometimes too large for the body to absorb. The Q-switched and other nanotechnology lasers can sometimes take up to 20 treatments or more. In contrast, PicoSure’s energy is emitted a trillion times per second and breaks the ink into microscopic particles that are easily removed by the immune and lymphatic system. Research shows that the PicoSure can remove tattoos two times faster than the other leading technologies.
Does it hurt?
Many patients describe the feeling of the PicoSure laser as a “rubber band popping” sensation. However, we believe that removing unwanted tattoos shouldn’t have to be an uncomfortable process. Dr. Miller will strategically place a numbing solution just underneath the tattoo to make the procedure pain free.
How much does it cost?
We start our pricing at $50 and up. The factors we consider are size, location, color and the density of the ink. We offer free consultations to successfully determine the best treatment plan for you.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments needed is hard to predict, it depends on many factors such as; the amount of ink used, type of ink, colors, depth of ink, location, age, and your individual immune system. However, PicoSure works two times faster than any other tattoo removal laser on the market today making it the best option for your unwanted tattoos.
Do all colors of ink disappear equally as well?
No, black ink removes the best. However, PicoSure does an excellent job at removing green, blue, and purple ink which were previously very difficult to treat. While PicoSure is our go to for most colors we turn to the Q-Switched MedLite for red ink. It responds very well to the shorter wavelength.
Can I lighten a tattoo to get another on top?
Using the PicoSure, tattoos can sometimes be lightened enough to allow for a cover up tattoo in just one treatment! We recommend that you wait six weeks after your tattoo removal treatment before getting the cover up.
What should I expect after my treatment?
After your treatment you can expect the treated area to feel similar to having a mild-sunburn. Blisters and scabs can also be a normal response to tattoo removal, however most patients will not experience them. You will need to keep the tattoo area covered with a dressing and ointment to allow the area to heal successfully. Be sure to keep your tattoo protected from the sun. This can help minimize the chances of developing hyper-pigmentation (darkening). Many patients find it helpful to drink a lot of water following the treatment. This will help flush the tiny ink fragments out of the body.
How soon after receiving a tattoo can I get it removed?
After receiving a new tattoo you will need to wait at least six weeks to allow the area to heal. Once that happens we can begin the removal process.
Are there any faster alternatives for tattoo removal?
There are a few other techniques for tattoo removal such as dermabrasion, salabrasion, and surgical excision. Though all of these can be effective, they tend to be more painful and major scarring is inevitable. Laser tattoo removal is the safest and most widely recommended treatment for tattoo removal.
– It’s important to remember that there are many factors that are considered that effect your treatment plan and that individual results may vary.