Tattoos have become so prevalent in recent years that body ink is an acceptable form of self-expression for people of all ages and walks of life. Tattoos can capture an emotion, a memory, or reveal a part of you very few people know. The one thing to remember is that tattoos are meant to be permanent. They don’t wash away nor do they fade into oblivion. That’s why it’s absolutely essential that, before you get a tattoo, you acknowledge that body art could be with you for the rest of your life. And it’s also important to remember that the sentiments and expressions you have when we are a young adult may not always synch up with who you are when you have young adults of your own.
Some tattoos over time cause regret or embarrassment. Others may be frowned upon due to the nature of your occupation. Whatever the reason, some people see fit to have their tattoos removed.
Laser Fast and Efficient
At one time not so long ago, tattoo removal was often more painful than getting the actual tattoo. In some cases, the tattoo was simply cut out, stitched up, and left to heal.
Today, tattoo removal is performed with laser technology, with the tattoo being broken down into tiny pieces until it eventually dissipates from the skin. The process usually is performed over the course of multiple sessions, depending on the size, color, type and location of the tattoo. And with modern laser technology, the process takes less time than previously used methods.
A few simple sessions broken down into phases may be all it takes to erase what used to be considered permanent.
Stages of Removal
Due to their precision, the lasers penetrate only the skin cells that contain ink molecules – not the untouched skin that surrounds it – by breaking the ink down into smaller pieces. With time, the immune system will work to remove these smaller pieces and the tattoo will begin to fade. Because of the body’s unique ability to heal and repair itself, don’t expect to see ugly scars or burns. Even the deepest ink can, with time, be removed with precision accuracy – usually with treatments every six to eight weeks until the tattoo is gone.
Following the treatment, expect some swelling that can be easily managed with an ice pack or other at-home treatments recommended by your doctor.
Tattoos don’t have to be permanent, but removal can be. To learn more about our tattoo removal process, call the Vein Institute & MediSpa today at (281) 312-0208 or request an appointment online for a consultation with one of our skilled cosmetic service professionals.