Laser Tattoo Removal
Do you have a tattoo that no longer resonates with you? Or perhaps you’re ready to change up your look after trying permanent makeup? You may even just want a clear canvas for a new masterpiece—whatever your reason for considering laser tattoo removal, we got you!
We understand the regrets that can come with a permanent tattoo, and our knowledgeable and highly-trained laser technicians at Granite Bay Cosmetic Surgery are here to help make your unwanted tattoo(s) just a memory!
How does laser tattoo removal work?
Laser tattoo removal is a non-invasive procedure that works by delivering short, concentrated bursts of laser light into the skin to target tattoo pigment. The laser energy causes the pigment to break apart into tiny particles, which are then naturally eliminated by your immune system. Through the recommended course of 6-12 sessions, your tattoo will gradually fade and eventually can be eliminated in most cases.
Differences between laser tattoo removal and surgical removal
Surgical excision requires anesthesia (typically a local anesthetic) and involves cutting out the tattooed skin and suturing the area closed; as such, it can only be used in certain cases and with smaller tattoos. Laser tattoo removal is also favored because it is much less invasive than skin surgery and does not involve incisions or stitches. Properly used, Q-switch laser tattoo removal also greatly reduces the risk of scarring and infection.
Why we choose Alma™ Harmony XL PRO for laser tattoo removal
The Alma™ Harmony XL PRO is a top-tier, FDA-cleared Q-switch laser system that offers precise, efficient laser tattoo removal and is known for its safety and effectiveness. This machine uses specific wavelengths to target different ink colors for optimal results. That means our patients can enjoy faster, safer treatments and often complete tattoo removal.
Other Alma Harmony treatment options
The Alma Harmony is our go-to for laser tattoo removal, but it’s an extremely versatile device and offers other laser treatments using various laser technologies, including:
- ClearLift™: This treatment combines two lasers with different wavelengths (1064nm + photoacoustic) to correct pigmentation irregularities, tighten and rejuvenate the skin, and remove benign skin lesions (moles).
- Dye-VL: Using 500-600nm wavelengths, this option treats brown and red spots on the skin for a brighter, clearer complexion.
- Laser hair removal: The Super Hair Removal (SHR) method works by gently heating the dermis to damage hair follicles and prevent re-growth. We also have other laser hair reduction options.
Getting started with laser tattoo removal
If you’re considering laser tattoo removal, the first step is to schedule a consultation with our specialists. We will review your medical history, examine your tattoo, discuss your goals, and answer any questions you may have. We will also provide information about the expected results and potential side effects.
Candidates for laser tattoo removal
You are likely an ideal candidate for laser tattoo removal if you:
- Are in general good health
- Have realistic expectations about the results
- Have tattoos with colors that respond well to our laser technology
What to expect from a tattoo removal session
We’ll cleanse the tattoo area and apply a topical anesthetic to minimize discomfort during your laser tattoo removal treatment. Your laser technician will carefully place the handpiece over your tattoo to send pulses of light energy through the skin, targeting only the tattoo ink.
Recovery after laser tattoo removal
You may experience some redness and swelling after your laser tattoo removal treatment. These side effects are typically mild and diminish quickly; you should not scar if you follow post-treatment instructions to the letter. Importantly, we will ask you to avoid exposing the treated area to the sun for several weeks after each treatment. When appropriate, we will provide topical medication for you to apply to support quicker healing.
How many laser tattoo removal sessions will I need?
Most patients require between 6-12 sessions scheduled 6-8 weeks apart to achieve the best laser tattoo removal results possible. Part of your consultation will cover the estimated number of laser tattoo removal sessions you’ll need to see complete tattoo removal. Our experienced laser technicians consider several factors when determining how many sessions to expect, including your tattoo’s:
- Size
- Color(s)
- Location
- Quality
Potential side effects of laser tattoo removal
Side effects of laser tattoo removal may include redness, swelling, blistering, hyperpigmentation, or hypopigmentation. However, these are usually avoidable, and minor, temporary symptoms will resolve on their own. Choosing the right provider for laser tattoo removal will limit the severity of potential side effects or prevent them altogether.
The Granite Bay Medspa team is specifically trained to use Q-switch laser technology for laser tattoo removal, and we will customize your treatment plan to achieve faster, safer outcomes without risking increased side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will laser tattoo removal hurt?
Your laser tattoo removal treatment should not be painful; we apply a numbing cream to minimize any pain during treatment. Some patients describe laser tattoo removal as similar to having a quick rubber band snap against the skin.
The size of your tattoo and its location will also affect how much discomfort you experience—just like it does when getting tattoos, some areas are more sensitive than others. Our goal is to make your laser tattoo removal procedure as painless as possible, and we will customize your treatment to increase comfort.
Can a tattoo be completely erased with laser tattoo removal?
Most tattoos can be significantly faded or fully erased after a series of laser tattoo removal treatments. Some colors are more challenging to remove than others, but our provider’s expertise, coupled with the advanced technology of our laser ensures you will receive the best results possible.
How much does laser tattoo removal cost in Granite Bay?
We’ll provide a personalized quote during your laser tattoo removal consultation based on the size, location, and color of your tattoo(s).
Will there be any scarring?
There is a minor risk of scarring with any procedure that disrupts the skin, including laser tattoo removal. That said, one of the reasons we exclusively use the latest Q-switch laser technology for laser tattoo removal is because it delivers laser energy much faster than other tattoo removal machines. Because our laser is more efficient, the risk of scarring is reduced.
Other factors may affect potential scarring, such as your skin’s condition, how you heal, and the tattoo’s size, location, and quality. Our team uses the most advanced techniques to minimize the risk of scarring and will provide specific aftercare instructions to prevent unnecessary damage and support a speedy healing process.
How long does each treatment session last?
Most laser tattoo removal sessions are quick and usually last just a few minutes. The exact treatment time will depend on the size and complexity of the tattoo—we will give you an accurate time frame during your consultation.
Can I remove a part of my tattoo?
Yes! Laser tattoo removal is completely customizable. We can treat the whole tattoo or strategically target certain areas you no longer want; we can also simply fade it enough to update the area with a new tattoo.
Can I have a new tattoo in the same spot after removal?
Yes, you can have a new tattoo in the same area once your skin has fully healed and there is no visible scarring. We recommend waiting at least a few months after your last treatment session before tattooing in the same spot to be sure skin in the treated area is in optimal condition.
Is laser tattoo removal safe for all skin types?
Q-switch lasers are safe for people of all skin types. That said, there are some cases where we don’t recommend laser tattoo removal, and we always perform a comprehensive analysis during the consultation to ensure this treatment can safely achieve your goals.
What should I do before laser tattoo removal treatments?
The area you wish to treat should not be tanned. Avoid UV exposure as well as skincare products with active ingredients that may make your skin more sensitive for at least two weeks before each treatment. If you have any medical changes or start new medication, please let us know so we can continue providing safe, effective laser tattoo-removal results.
Can laser tattoo removal treat all ink colors?
Our laser treats a wide range of tattoo ink colors, though some colors, like bright greens, blues, and fluorescent inks, can be more difficult to remove completely. We can provide more details on how much fading you can expect during your consultation.
Laser tattoo removal in Granite Bay
Don’t settle for a tattoo you don’t love; let us help you erase the past with expert laser tattoo removal. Our Medspa providers have extensive training and experience in laser tattoo removal and are overseen by the GBCS team of board-certified cosmetic surgeons to ensure you receive the highest standard of care. Call Granite Bay Cosmetic Surgery at (916) 242-2662 or message us to schedule your consultation!
