Tattoo Removal
The best way to remove a tattoo is with Q-switched Nd:Yag laser. Using this type of laser allows us to remove unwanted tattoos with reduced risk of scarring and discoloration. Dr. McCoy at Contour Medical in Gilbert, Arizona, has significant experience removing tattoos in the most comfortable and effective way possible. Given the discomfort of the laser, Dr. McCoy recommends using local anesthetic to numb the tattoo- allowing a more aggressive and comfortable treatment. This can speed up the tattoo removal process.
Tattoo Removal Benefits
- Best for black and/or red ink, but all colors targeted
- More comfortable with local anesthetic
- Reduced risk of scarring or discoloration
- Minimal downtime
How Tattoo Removal Works
Light pulses from the laser target the pigment in the skin. Energy from the laser selectively targets the ink, without causing damage to the surrounding skin. This breaks apart the pigments into small fragments that are absorbed by the body and sloughed off through exfoliation.
What to Expect
The average tattoo takes 4-8 treatments to remove. The easiest colors to target are red and black pigment. Treatment time varies depending on the size of the tattoo. The treated area is covered with a sterile bandage after the treatment and a scab typically forms. After the scab heals, the tattoo will continue to fade for 6 weeks. Dr. McCoy at Contour Medical in Gilbert recommends doing treatments 6 weeks apart.
