Tattoo Removal

Tattoos are a popular form of artistic expression, but tattoo regret can set in for a number of reasons. If you’re seeking a new job or breaking into a career that doesn’t allow tattoos, removal is the best option. No longer are tattoos completely permanent; laser tattoo removal is a relatively painless and non-invasive solution to eliminate unwanted ink. The team of Gainesville dermatologists at Gainesville Dermatology Aesthetic Center provides patients the best in laser tattoo removal. Contact us today to book your tattoo removal consultation or learn more about our other skin care services!

What Is Laser Tattoo Removal?

Lasers are the most common method for removing tattoos. Unlike dermabrasion, chemical peels, or surgical excision of the tattoos, lasers are non-invasive. This process takes multiple appointments with a dermatologist in Gainesville, FL, depending on the type and color of the tattoo ink. Tattoo removal cost is based on the size and type of tattoo.

How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?

Tattoos contain thousands of ink particles embedded in the skin. Typically the body’s immune system removes small, foreign objects, but tattoo ink is too big, making it permanent on the skin. Our laser, Candela’s Alex Trivantage, zaps away these particles by breaking up the pigment colors with a high-intensity light beam, regardless of ink type or color; however, black tattoo pigments are the easiest to remove since the color absorbs all laser wavelengths. The number of treatments needed to completely remove the tattoo depends on its size, style, location, and the colors used, but it usually takes 1–10 sessions. At Gainesville Dermatology Aesthetic Center, we are dedicated to providing patients with the best care using a noninvasive approach.

How Long Will It Take To Remove The Tattoo?

The speed of tattoo removal depends on many different factors, from skin type to tattoo type. Dermatologists in Gainesville and many others use the Kirby-Desai scale, which helps determine the time it will take to remove the tattoo. The scale accounts for the following factors:

Benefits Of Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser tattoo removal is considered safer than other treatment options and has a lower risk of infection. It also offers a more therapeutic approach with less blood than dermabrasion or surgical procedures. Laser treatment of tattoos is the gold standard because it affords patients with a low-risk and safe procedure without a myriad of side effects.

Risks Of Laser Tattoo Removal

As with any procedure, it’s important for patients to be aware of the risks of laser tattoo removal. These include:

Tattoo Removal Procedure

The Alex Trivantage laser is a Q-switched laser that releases energy in a single, powerful pulse. Before the treatment begins, the patient’s skin is numbed with a topical or injected anesthetic. During the procedure, a powerful pulse of energy is applied to the tattoo to break up the ink. The laser targets only skin with the tattoo, leaving the surrounding tissue with little damage. Much like getting the tattoo, its removal can be somewhat painful — patients compare it to having a rubber band snapped against skin repeatedly.

Tattoo Removal Recovery

No matter the type of tattoo removal procedure, gauze will be placed over the open wound, and some bleeding is to be expected. Immediately after the laser treatment, patients will be given an ice pack to soothe the affected area. Be sure to generously apply sunscreen or other skin care products to the treated area if you go outside. During the recovery process, it’s important to gently wash the area with soap, apply an antibiotic cream or ointment, and bandage it.