Individuals throughout the Richmond, Virginia community and across the nation have found relief from an unwanted tattoo through laser tattoo removal. The procedure works by applying the laser energy to the tattoo, which breaks up tattoo pigment and fragments it. The fragmented pigment will pass through the body's natural processes and is eventually removed. Several sessions are usually required to completely get rid of a tattoo, although the number of sessions required will vary depending on several factors that should be discussed with a removal specialist.
Not all tattoos may be completely removed through laser tattoo removal, however. Most can be, but some may be extremely difficult. The best candidates for the procedure include individuals with fair skin who have a tattoo that is superficially placed on their arms, chest, buttocks or legs. Those with darker skin or who have tattoos on areas with little body fat such as the fingers and ankles may find removal more difficult. What's more, newer tattoos are generally difficult to remove. Other factors that will determine potential success rates include the tattoo's size, location, age, color, and the application of the tattoo. As artists continue to improve their skill, removal gets harder.
The treated tattoo will be treated with ice to minimize swelling in the area, and an antibiotic ointment will be placed on the area. Then a sterile dressing is applied and the patient is encouraged to keep the area dry for a few days. Patients will be told to treat the area like they would treat their skin if it were sunburned. In fact, the treatment area may appear sunburned for several months, although this will eventually go away. Some possible side effects include excessive color or fading, infection, and permanent scarring.
Before receiving this treatment, patients should speak with a Richmond tattoo removal specialist to go over their candidacy, chances of success, as well as the potential side effects. Patients should also discuss how the process works, and what they should expect throughout the procedure and during aftercare.
The process has been used to help many patients overcome an unwanted tattoo whether they find it embarrassing, offensive, or simply do not want it anymore for whichever reason. Most insurance plans do not cover the cost of treatment, although there are some programs that will remove gang tattoos for free. Otherwise, the cost may range from several hundred to several thousands of dollars depending on the number of sessions that are required to reach optimal results.
Learn more about laser tattoo removal in Richmond, Virginia.
