Mevish Jaffer
One of the most common decisions that individuals can regret making is getting a tattoo on their body. Fortunately, tattoos can be now be reversed through a cosmetic procedure. It is important for those who wish to get rid of body tattoos to understand the tattoo removal process, as well as the cost of tattoo removal and how effective the treatment can be.
Reasons for Tattoo Removal
There are several reasons that can validate the need for tattoo removal. A popular reason among many individuals is the requirements placed on them at work, where a professional appearance is not only important, but often mandated. Another motivating factor that causes people to consider tattoo removal is bodily changes. For instance, when fat or muscle is lost or gained over time, the shape and look of a tattoo can take on an unattractive appearance.
Many people also wish to remove their tattoos in order to get rid of signs which express establishment affiliations they are no longer connected to. Others can simply change their mind or desire tattoo removal for the purpose of removing an ex partner’s name. Regardless of the specific reasons that warrant tattoo removal, many people feel unburdened and relieved when they are finally able to remove a tattoo they no longer want to have on their body.
Laser Tattoo Removal
A common technique used to remove tattoos is through a laser. Laser tattoo removal works by breaking up the ink which is imbedded in a person’s skin. This method allows the individual’s body to absorb it and begin to break it down naturally. Because every individual’s pain tolerance is different, their level of discomfort can vary during the laser tattoo removal process. However, the sensation has been known to be compared with the snapping of a rubber band on the skin. For those with extreme sensitivity, the doctor can usually apply an anesthetic cream to the area of removal. Others who may be worried about feeling discomfort during laser tattoo removal can also take Tylenol before the procedure upon consulting with their doctor.
Laser tattoo removal is a low-risk technique that is usually performed as an out-patient procedure. Most individuals require 1-10 treatments to fully remove the tattoo. All laser tattoo removal treatments are generally done in succession, around 8 weeks apart or longer. Each treatment lasts only a few minutes and most patients can return to work immediately. The exact number of treatments which may be needed can depend on the following factors:
- Type of ink used
- Amount of ink used
- Depth of the ink imbedded in the skin
- Location of the tattoo on the body
- Individual health conditions
Laser Tattoo Removal Prices & Side Effects
When it comes to laser tattoo removal cost, the price can range from about $300 - $900 on average, per treatment. The cost of tattoo removal also depends on the doctor performing the skin resurfacing procedure; however it’s important for patients to seek consultation and laser removal from board-certified specialists who are experienced in the field.
Although most patients do not experience many side effects, the potential risk for the following threats still exist and should be taken into consideration:
- Hyperpigmentation
- Hypopigmentation
- Infection
- Scarring (less than 6% chance)
At one point in time, a tattoo was a permanent mark on an individual’s body. However in today’s technologically advanced world, cutting-edge techniques such as laser tattoo removal are making it possible to undo the damage in a relatively safe and effective manner.
[page updated December 2008]