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Laser Tattoo Removal in New Jersey
David Evdokimow, MD
Everyone makes mistakes. If you feel like your tattoo is one of those mistakes, you're not alone. In the last 30 to 40 years, the popularity of tattoos has exploded. It's a full-fledged cultural phenomenon and it is most popular in people between the ages of 18 to 30 who believe that a tattoo will make them more attractive and sexy. Unfortunately, this same group undergoes the fastest, most significant lifestyle changes, and the tattoo that was once sexy often becomes a burden.
Does this sound familiar? If it does, there's something you can do – laser tattoo removal. New Jersey plastic surgeon Dr. David Evdokimow performs this non-invasive, effective method of tattoo removal so that you don't have to live with an unpleasant reminder of a past mistake. After all, everyone is allowed to change their mind and about 50% of people with tattoos regret their choice.
To learn more about laser tattoo removal with one of the plastic surgeons New Jersey patients consult more often regarding unsightly skin marks, you can request your consultation online or call us at 908-221-1136. Dr. David Evdokimow has many years of experience helping men and women from New Jersey, New York and the rest of the country remove their tattoos.
About Tattoo Removal
A tattoo is a deposit of organic dyes with a mixture of metallic components to create different colors. The pigment is deposited in the deep layers of the skin (a depth usually between 1 and 2 mm).
Although tattoos were meant to be permanent, many people find themselves wanting their tattoo removed. There are several methods of tattoo removal:
- Dermabrasion
- Dermal planing
- Surgical excision
- Cryotherapy
- Lasers
- Combined laser and excision
With the exception of lasers and surgical excision, all other methods of tattoo removal are inefficient and associated with complications.
Lasers have become the most popular method of modern tattoo removal. During laser tattoo removal, laser energy breaks up the ink into particles so small that they can be absorbed and removed through the body's immune system. Q-switched YAG lasers represent the gold standard, with multiple wavelengths to cover a broad spectrum of colors. Dr. Evdokimow uses the HOYA ConBio Revlite laser with the addition of PhotoAcoustic Technology Pulse for improved results.
For many people, however, surgical excision is the most time- and cost-effective method of tattoo removal. Excision achieves the best aesthetic results when the resulting scar can be positioned in a natural skin crease. Whether you ultimately decide on excision or laser treatments (or a combination of the two), choosing a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to the success of your procedure. Some practitioners refer to themselves as "cosmetic specialists" or "laser surgeons," often hiding the fact that they lack proper credentials. Don't be fooled. Pick a board-certified plastic surgeon.
Before the Procedure
During your tattoo removal consultation, Dr. Evdokimow will evaluate the type of tattoo (professional vs. amateur), the colors used, the location, and the size. He wills also assess the condition of your skin, your general health, and history of scarring. Together, you will develop a treatment plan, usually involving excision, a laser treatment, or both.
There are several things you can do before your procedure to ensure favorable results. First, stop smoking (or using nicotine gum and patches). Also, discontinue the use of Aspirin® or other NSAIDs. Finally, avoid tanning and excessive sun exposure.
The Procedure
Laser tattoo removal is usually performed in the office. If it will be combined with other cosmetic procedures or if surgical excision is the intended method, the procedure may be performed in a surgery center, although in-office treatment may still be possible. Anesthesia options include topical anesthetic, application of cold devices, or injectable local anesthesia.
Several laser tattoo removal treatments are usually needed. The number of sessions required depends upon the amount or type of dye (or combination of dyes) used, the experience of the tattoo artist (a less experienced tattoo artist may lead to easier removal), the age of the tattoo (newer tattoos are usually easier to remove), and the depth of ink injection. Generally, 6 to 12 treatments are required with 6 weeks in between treatments.
After the Procedure
After laser tattoo removal, some skin irritation (such as bleeding and blistering), is expected followed by scabbing (sometimes). Rare complications include: hyper pigmentation, hypo pigmentation, changes in skin texture, superficial infections, or scarring (very rare).
For a few people, the tattoo may not be removed completely. To prevent or minimize these undesirable effects, patients should use an antibacterial dressing and avoid sun exposure both before and after treatment.
Two weeks after the laser tattoo removal procedure, the tattoo will begin to become lighter. This will continue for up to 6 weeks after treatment. Tattoo removal can be combined with another laser skin treatment, such as laser hair removal or laser skin rejuvenation in New Jersey. Dr. Evdokimow can discuss combined procedures with you during your consultation. He can also answer any questions you may have regarding other non-surgical cosmetic procedures, such as whether you may be a New Jersey Botox, Sculptra, Radiesse or Restylane candidate.
