As tattoos grow in popularity, so, too, will laser tattoo removal in Roseville, California and around the country. People may choose to remove an unwanted tattoo for a number of reasons, such as if the tattoo is embarrassing, offensive, they regret having gotten it, or they just simply grow tired of it. Through laser tattoo removal, which has become the gold standard of tattoo removal procedures, many have found success and gotten rid of such unwanted tattoos. But the procedure may require several sessions to achieve optimal results, and even then, you may not fully remove the tattoo.
The success of the procedure is largely determined by the color, location, application, and the age of the tattoo. The tattoo's size and the patient's skin tone and overall health may also play a factor. The best candidates tend to be those with light skin who have superficially placed tattoos located on the arms, chest, legs, or buttocks. Those with dark skin or who have tattoos on the ankles or other areas with less body fat may have more difficulty reaching optimal results and fully removing the tattoo. Results vary, though, and most require several sessions to reach optimal results. For an estimate of the number of sessions it may take to remove a tattoo, patients should set up a consultation with a tattoo removal specialist in the Roseville area.
The laser tattoo removal process works by aiming the laser energy towards the tattoo, and sending pulses of the laser energy at the pigment. This breaks apart the pigment, allowing it to be removed by the body's natural processes. Cooling methods are used during and after the procedure to protect the skin and reduce pain and discomfort. Blister formation is not uncommon, although the surrounding tissue is generally undamaged as the laser energy targets the tattoo pigment. There is also a chance of scarring with laser tattoo removal, and patients should discuss this in detail with the laser specialist.
The procedure itself takes only a few minutes in most cases, depending on the size of the tattoo. Each session is spaced over the course a month or several months depending on the specific needs of the patient and the number of sessions that are required to remove the tattoo. Ice is placed on the tattoo to reduce swelling after the procedure, and a topical antibiotic is applied with a sterile dressing to help prevent infection and protect the treatment area. Patients will be provided recovery instructions they should follow to ensure proper healing and best results. Potential side effects include hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, infection, and scarring. The skin may appear red throughout the removal process, but usually goes away after a few months.
Learn more about laser tattoo removal in Roseville, California.
