Have you ever looked at your tattoo and wondered “What was I thinking?” Well there is help with laser tattoo removal. The technology of laser tattoo removal has evolved over the years to be safe and effective for all skin types with little side effects compared to how it was done in the past. Here at Paragon Plastic Surgery and Med Spa Dr. Mark A. Bishara and his staff can help you get rid of that tattoo with our state of the art technology.
 
How does it work?
Tattoo removal lasers, also called Q-switch lasers, use very short and fast pulses to help break the ink into much smaller particles to be carried away by the body’s white blood cells and transfer it to the liver. The ink is recognized as a toxin in the body and will flush it out through the lymphatic system like all other toxins. Black ink typically responds the best because of the 1064 wavelength that is absorbed by darker colors. Other wavelengths such as the 532 KTP or the 694 Ruby laser are absorbed by colors like red, blue and green. There are many other factors that play a role in laser tattoo removal such as, size, location, the individual’s ability to heal, how the tattoo was done and how long has it been in place.
 
How many sessions will I need?
Typically with laser tattoo removal it is hard to guarantee how many treatments it will take with so many factors that play a role in laser tattoo removal. Tattoo removal can usually take anywhere between 6 to 15 sessions spaced out every 6 to 8 weeks.
 
Does it hurt?
Most patients describe the treatment as equally uncomfortable as getting the tattoo. The plus side of that is that it can be done extremely fast compared to getting it done. To help alleviate some discomfort an anesthetic topical cream and some ice may be applied 30 minutes before the treatment.
What can I expect after my treatment?
Following the treatment your technician will apply an antibiotic ointment and cover the tattoo with a bandage or gauze. You will experience a sunburn like sensation and mild to moderate swelling. You must keep the area clean and covered with ointment for 3 days. It is also very important to keep your tattoo out of the sun while receiving your treatments to avoid increased sensitivity from the laser. The area might also form a scab, which should be handled gently. After healing, the ink will gradually fade.
 
What are the side effects?
Side effects are typically few but may include hypo- or hyperpigmentation, lack of complete pigment removal and a small percentage of permanent scarring.
If you are considering laser tattoo removal, Dr. Mark A. Bishara and his staff can help you get on your way to removing your unwanted tattoo.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT LASER TATTOO REMOVAL, PLEASE CONTACT US (817) 473-2120 OR EMAIL APPOINTMENTS@MARKBISHARAMD.COM TO SCHEDULE AN  APPOINTMENT.