Is there a way to remove Permanent Tattoo?

More and more people are drawn towards the culture of getting a tattoo, be it to adapt to the fashion statement or have a broader significant meaning attached to it. It is extremely important for the individual to choose a hygienic place to get a tattoo, due to the high-risk factors that come alongside. Getting the skin inked permanently is a big decision that an individual chooses to make. Wanting to get it removed may not be an easy task, but definitely not impossible.

Some of the most common reasons why people opt for tattoo removal are as follows;

• When the tattoo is no longer meaningful to the individual
• Relationship issues
• Employment barrier
• When the ink begins to fade
• Allergy or infections due to the pigments and metals contained in the tattoo ink

So, are tattoos completely removable?

Since the tattoo ink is penetrated beneath the top layer of the skin, which makes it quite complicated to remove it entirely. However, there has been a growing number of treatment options that could effectively remove the tattoo ink using the latest cutting-edge techniques. One of the most asked questions is, “how many sessions to remove a small tattoo?”

While larger tattoos may take up to 10 sessions, smaller tattoos may require anywhere between 5 to 7 removal sessions.  Here are some of the possible treatment techniques that your consultant might suggest based on the concern;

Laser Treatment

Laser tattoo removal, one of the most sought after types of tattoo removal, uses a specific wavelength of light that makes a pass into the skin and gets absorbed by the tattoo ink. Once this is done, the tattoo ink gets broken into tiny fragments that are usually disposed of by the body’s natural filtering mechanism. While this happens, the surrounding area of the skin is not generally affected. The laser device is calibrated based on the ink to be removed because different colours of the ink can contain different spectra.

Skin Excision

Skin excision, also known as surgical tattoo removal, is not an effective treatment option for larger tattoos and is predominantly suggested for those with smaller tattoos. During the surgical removal procedure, the skin is usually numbed with local anaesthetic injection. The tattoo ink is then removed off with a scalpel, and the edges of remaining skin are sutured back together. After the procedure is completed, the individual is required to use an antibacterial ointment which helps heal the skin and prevent any infection. 

Injectable Solutions

Injectable solutions that contain saline mixed with certain types of acids can also be used to remove the tattoo ink, unless otherwise the patient has any allergic reactions to the solutions. The solutions are specially designed to pull out the pigment out of the skin’s surface. 

Dermabrasion

The process of dermabrasion makes use of a sanding device that uses a high speed rotating abrasive mechanism, scraping off the top layers of the skin that allows the tattoo ink to drain out. 

The effectiveness of this procedure differs from person to person, thereby making it a less popular treatment option. The individual is mostly not recommended for this treatment technique in case of sensitive skin or conditions like eczema. 

If the patient is under medications like blood thinners, they may also be under the risk of experiencing bruising, bleeding and skin discolouration, leading to scarring. Those with darker skin are also not recommended for this treatment due to the changes in the skin pigment that can possibly occur. 

Will tattoo removal leave a scar?

Although it is not common for most of the individuals to get a scar after the tattoo removal procedure, there may be slight chances for those with darker skin tones and larger tattoos. However, if the aftercare protocol is properly followed, the scarring will become less visible to the naked eye. 

How to prevent any possible tattoo removal scars?

Whether you are undergoing laser removal or surgical removal, it is important to adhere to the aftercare protocol suggested by your doctor in order to experience the smoothest recovery process without having to deal with scarring. After your tattoo removal procedure, make sure to;

●    Wash the treated region with a mild soap and water twice a day
●    Pat the area dry with a soft towel or a paper towel, instead of rubbing it
●    Avoid using harsh creams and perfumes directly on the skin 
●    Pick or pop the blisters that may appear after the procedure
●    Change the dressing every once in a while

That being said, the individual must realise that these protocols will only reduce the chances of scarring and cannot be guaranteed to be entirely scar-free.

Cost of the Tattoo Removal

If you’re wondering how much is tattoo removal, the cost of tattoo removal treatment, regardless of the technique, is based entirely on the size of the tattoo and the number of sessions that are needed to make sure that every bit of the ink is thoroughly removed. There are various other factors that affect the cost of tattoo removal. To start with, every individuals’ treatment plan will be scrutinised based on; 

• Past medical history
• Type of concern
• Intensity of the procedure
• Treatment technique
• Experience of the surgeon
• Quality of the medical equipments used
• Medications and Follow ups

Every individual must understand the fact that choosing a clinic is the most crucial part and must not be chosen only based on the cost. Choosing a clinic that offers cheaper costing solutions, but fails to have outdated equipments and inexperienced consultants, can increase the risk of health problems, skin infections and poor results.

We ensure that when you choose Tamira, you choose over 25 years of combined experience with exceptional skills, guaranteeing effective and positive results. Your permanent tattoo removal procedure will be customised according to your concerns, keeping in mind your specific goals along with accurate consultation. Book your appointment now to get rid of your permanent tattoo ink.