I've had my small wrist tattoo treated 8 times, but the outline is still present (grey looking). I know extremities take longer, but could it be impossible to remove the tattoo considering the depth/placement?
Different laser wavelenghts operate effectively to different depths in the skin. There are supplemental techniques that help remove the ink. We use a very powerful laser machine with 3 very powerful lasers that remove ink the most popular lasers can't. However, it should be understood that the laser just breaks up the ink; it is the body that actually removes the majority of the ink. We teach people how they can assist the body's process of removing the ink, if they wish to enhance the removal.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
There are cases where the tattoo ink may be unusually deep and unreachable by all tattoo removal lasers, or the tattoo ink itself could be an unusual substance. All of these can make it hard to remove the tattoo. In most cases, where some improvement is obtained, but no more despite continued treatment, it is usually a function of the laser being inadequate. In other cases, maybe the settings on the laser were not the best. When compared to other lasers, the Picosure laser will treat all tattoo colors more successfully, and in fewer treatments. It is often very successful at completing the tattoo removal process, where other lasers have failed. Remember, the Picosure laser is the first new technology for this purpose in over 20 years. The Cynosure company did not just "tweak" an already existing tattoo removal laser to make the Picosure. The Picosure is totally new and has proven to be much better than any other tattoo removal lasers.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It's hard to tell without seeing a photo of the tattoo, but you may need more than the average 8-12 sessions to remove the rest. I have treated difficult tattoos as you describe, where the ink is embedded much deeper and denser on the outline than in the shading.
There is a new laser technology on the market that may help you remove the remaining stubborn ink. It is supposed to remove the tattoo in fewer sessions and cause less damage to the skin. The laser is called Picosure (CynoSure manufacturer). The Picosure delivers the laser energy in picoseconds, versus the nanosecond technology that is found in most of the existing q-switched lasers. The reviews are really good, and the photos are impressive. Sometimes just changing the type of laser you use for the treatments can make a difference. I'm not sure how much the Picosure procedure will cost, or how available this laser is, but you can try contacting qualified laser centers in your area.
Published on Jul 11, 2012