Early attempts to remove tattoos have had less than desirable results. The use of dermabrasion, salabrasion and the Argon or CO2 lasers have left behind scars in place of the tattoo. The advent of Q-Switched lasers has permitted the removal of most tattoo inks with a very low risk of scarring. The Q.YAG 5 laser is the newest system in this class of lasers. The Q.YAG 5 can significantly lighten or remove many tattoo inks, and is particularly advanced in the removal of blue, black and red inks.

The Q.YAG 5 laser removes tattoo ink with light energy. Just as natural sunlight is composed of wavelengths of light of many colors, a laser is a device which is designed to produce one or more specific wavelengths of light. These wavelengths are either absorbed, reflected, or simply passed through objects. Tattoo ink is removed by using a specific wavelength which passes through the skin, but is absorbed by the ink in the tatoo. This rapid absorption of light energy dislodges the tattoo ink in tissue, so that it can be removed by the body’s natural filtering systems.

Is the Process Painful?
The Q.YAG 5 laser emits light in very short flashes called pulses. The impact of the energy from the powerful pulse of light is similar in feeling to the snap of a thin rubberband or specks of hot bacon grease on the skin. The vast majority of patients do not require anesthesia, but topical forms of anesthesia also are available if needed.

How Many Treatment Sessions will it take to Remove the Tattoo?
On the average, professional tattoos require 5 to 6 treatments, all spaced approximately one to two months apart. The number of treatments needed depends on the color, type and amount of ink used, and its depth within the skin. Occasionally, more than ten treatments may be needed to eliminate all the ink from a tattoo.

Do all Colors of Ink Disappear Equally as Well?
No, dark (blue/black) inks and red inks fade the best. Oranges and purple inks usually respond well. Green and yellow inks are the most difficult to remove, although additional treatments with an Alexandrite laser will produce significant fading.

Will the Tattoo Completely Disappear?
In many cases, yes. Greater than 95% fading of the tattoo may be accomplished. However, it is very important to know that over 100 tattoo inks are in use worldwide today, none of which are regulated by the FDA. Not knowing which tattoo ink or how much was used, or how deeply it was placed, makes it impossible to predict exactly how many treatments will be necessary to remove a tattoo completely.

What Type of After-Treatment Care is Necessary?
Usually there will be pinpoint bleeding associated with the treatment. An antibacterial ointment and a dressing will be applied to the area. The treated area should be kept clean and covered with an antibiotic ointment. A shower can be taken the next day, although the treated area should not be scrubbed.