Tattoo Removal Options

Well that tattoo that you thought was a great idea a few years ago now one of the biggest regrets of your life!  The reason for the regret for the tattoo varies from person to person, but common reasons include the size and placement of the tattoo, as well as the quality of the tattoo.  Sometimes people want to remove the name of a significant number that is no longer significant!  In the past, tattoo removal was not possible, mainly because it was not possible to remove tattoo ink from the skin once the tattoo is done.  When a person gets a tattoo, the tattoo gun basically injects ink into the different layers of the skin using a needle, which penetrates the skin hundreds of times per minute.

Tattoos can now be removed easily by either surgical techniques or by the use of the Cool Glide Laser.  Surgical techniques will require one to two treatments, depending upon the size of the tattoo and the location.  While effective, the surgical treatment will require stitches for up to two weeks after the surgery.  In addition, a small scar will be visible, which could be problematic for some patients, depending upon the location of the surgery.

The other alternative is the Cool Glide laser, which is also very effective in removing tattoos.  The exact number of treatments necessary will vary due to the size and location of the tattoo, as well as the colors used in the tattoo.  Some colors are harder to remove than others, so in most cases numerous treatments are required.  In the Cool Glide laser treatment, the tattoo gradually fades, as the ink is absorbed into the patient’s body and eventually eliminated.  While highly effective, both procedures are not free of discomfort, but the surgeon will provide suitable medications to relieve the discomfort.   There is no longer any need to regret that tattoo!

Posted on behalf of Northwest Georgia Dermatology

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