How Many Tattoo Removal Sessions Do I Need to Get Rid of My Tattoo?
Tattoos have become increasingly popular in the past few decades. The disappointing news, however, is that the number of people who regret their tattoos is also increasing. Although sometimes it’s because of poor design, other times our personal preferences have simply changed. At Dermatology and Skin Cancer Institute, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Aradhna Saxena helps patients lessen the appearance of their tattoos in a safe and efficient manner.
One of the first things patients learn about laser tattoo removal is that this laser treatment is not always considered a quick fix. People often return for multiple visits before their tattoo is gone. So how many sessions does it take to remove a tattoo? At our clinic in the Greater Philadelphia, PA area, we will cover these questions and more. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Saxena or a member of our team by calling our clinic in Fort Washington and Lansdale, PA.
How does laser tattoo removal work?
With modern advances in tattoo removal technology, Dermatology and Skin Cancer Institute makes it feasible to significantly lighten or remove an unwanted tattoo. We achieve this through a unique laser system called the Q-Switched KTP and Nd:YAG. These devices are proven to produce better and more enhanced results than similar devices in the industry. During your tattoo removal consultation, Dr. Saxena will review which laser is best for your situation.
The lasers work by emitting a pulse of energy that passes through the upper layers of the skin and is absorbed by the tattoo ink. This energy heats up and breaks down the ink into small fragments that are naturally cleared away and eliminated by your immune system. All of this occurs without causing damage to the surrounding skin. Black and other dark pigments in a tattoo are the easiest to remove, while lighter colors can be a little more difficult.
There are many factors that increase the success of laser treatment. The most ideal candidates for this procedure include people who:
- Have older or more faded tattoos
- Have a tattoo with darker colors
- Are generally healthy with a strong immune system
How many sessions does it take to remove a tattoo?
As soon as Dr. Saxena determines that you are a good candidate for laser tattoo removal, we will prepare the treatment area by cleaning it and applying a topical anesthetic. We will then pass the device over the skin as it emits the laser energy. The session time may vary based on the size of the tattoo, but this will be discussed during the consultation with Dr. Saxena. Sometimes, patients require multiple appointments before obvious results can be seen. At this time, you will learn how many sessions it takes to remove a tattoo.
Laser tattoo removal looks different for everyone since each person and their tattoo is unique. Although it is not possible to predict the number of sessions required for complete removal, most patients generally need 6 – 8 sessions. Larger tattoos may take 10 treatments or more. To make sure the skin heals properly in between each session, our administrative staff schedules appointments 6 – 8 weeks apart. The average tattoo takes about eight months to get rid of, so we ask patients to plan accordingly in the Greater Philadelphia, PA.
What does recovery look like from laser treatment?
Another common question we get at Dermatology and Skin Cancer Institute is about what to expect when recovering from tattoo removal. After each laser treatment, patients experience some redness and sensitivity in the area. People compare the feeling of having a bad sunburn, followed by a slight scabbing. It is important to follow any aftercare instructions as given by Dr. Saxena precisely in between each appointment. We will discuss how frequently to schedule each session to allow enough time for healing.
During the recovery process, it is essential that patients manage their expectations. Although laser tattoo removal is an effective treatment, the results are not always perfect. For instance, tattoos located farther down the arms and legs may be difficult to remove since they are further away from the heart due to circulation issues. You can also prep your immune system for treatment by eating healthy, nutritious foods and following an exercise regime. Immune-boosting foods like those with Vitamin C keep your body healthy and ready to heal.
Schedule your laser tattoo removal
There are many reasons someone will want to get rid of their tattoo. Perhaps it no longer holds sentimental value or it is preventing you from living the life you want. Dermatology and Skin Cancer Institute has invested in top-of-the-line laser systems so individuals can lessen the appearance or eliminate their tattoos for good. Dr. Aradhna Saxena works in the Greater Philadelphia area to help patients with the most innovative treatments available. If you would like to know more about the removal process, contact our facility for a tattoo removal consultation in Fort Washington and Lansdale, PA.