Tattoo Removal

Tattoos have been a representation of one's personality.  For instance, people often get a tattoo of their loved ones done. But when something unusual happens, the first thing that they want to do is to get rid of the tattoo they got. With the introduction of tattoo removal procedures, removing a tattoo that no longer serves its purpose has become possible.

1. When the site of the tattoo has developed a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate attention.
2. To make you get rid of unwanted tattoos and get yourself aligned with your current sense of self.

The most common technique used for tattoo removal include the following:

1. Laser surgery: The laser used is called a Q-switched laser, which releases a single, powerful pulse. This is often the choice of treatment for most people. Another type of laser called Q-switched Nd: YAG is used for darker skin to avoid skin pigments completely.
   1. Before the procedure begins, the skin will be numbed by injecting local anaesthesia.
   2. Once the local anaesthesia is injected, a powerful pulse of energy is applied to the tattoo to shatter and heat the tattoo ink.
   3. If one has multi color tattoos, then you might need treatment with various lasers with different wavelengths.
   4. Once the procedure is done, there might be slight swelling, redness and possible bleeding or blistering.
2. Surgical removal:
   1. In surgical removal, the skin is numbed with local anaesthesia.
   2. Once the local anaesthesia (LA) is injected, the tattoo is removed with a scalpel, and the skin edges are stitched back together.
   3. This procedure is effective only on small tattoos but will leave a scar on your skin.
3. ​​​​​​​Dermabrasion: 
   1. Dermabrasion is also known as sanding away of the top layer of skin.
   2. In this procedure, the tattooed area is completely chilled down to make it numb.
   3. Once the skin is numb, a high-speed rotary device that has an abrasive wheel brush is used to sand down the outer layers of the skin around the tattoo area.
   4. This will allow the tattoo ink particles to come out of the skin.
   5. After the procedure, the affected area will feel sore for several days.
   6. This procedure is not done commonly because the results are not that predictable. Also, the outcome of this procedure is less effective than the other two procedures explain above.
   7. Also note that this procedure is painful and results in an open wound which would need care post the procedure is done.

1. Tattoo removal looks different for everyone since each person's tattoo is unique. Although it is impossible to predict the number of sessions required for complete removal, most patients generally need 6 – 8 sessions. Larger tattoos may take ten treatments or more.
2. One should consult the dermatologist before the procedure and discuss all the different treatment procedures used for tattoo removal.
3. Your dermatologist will explain to you which method will be suitable for you.
4. You will be advised not to expose the treatment area to the sun or use any tanning products two weeks prior to surgery.
5. Avoid using any topical products that will cause photosensitivity to the treatment area.
6. During your consultation with the doctor, prior to the procedure, provide details of all the medications you are taking.

1. You have to sign the consent form.
2. You will be asked a few questions about your health so that the treatment will go smoothly.
3. The treatment area will be cleaned, and the dermatologist will start the procedure.
4. The area that has to be treated will be exposed, and the rest of the body will be covered with the cloth.
5. The time of the treatment will depend on the size of the tattoo.

1. Ointment like Neosporin and aloe vera gel should be used twice a day after tattoo removal.
2. After the procedure, you might experience swelling, redness, irritation and flaking in the treatment area.
3. Pain killers will be prescribed along with ice packs to relieve the pain.
4. You will be advised to avoid sun exposure.
5. The doctor will advise you to avoid physical exercise for the first two weeks.
6. Avoid saunas, jacuzzis or hot tubs for a few days.

1. Your first follow-up will be three weeks after the procedure.
2. The doctor will check the operating site, and if you have any stitches, they will be removed depending on the type of treatment you have received.
3. The doctor will stop or alter the medication prescribed to you depending on the scar condition.
4. The next appointment date will be scheduled on the same day.

Consult your doctor immediately in case of:

1. Tattoo site is infected
2. Skin discolouration
3. Poor wound healing
4. Unfavourable scarring