Tattoo removal

Definition

Tattoo ink is placed beneath the top layer of skin. That makes tattoo removal more complicated — and expensive — than the original tattoo application. If you're no longer satisfied with your tattoo, however, tattoo removal may be possible.

The most common tattoo-removal procedures include:

• Laser surgery
• Dermabrasion
• Surgical removal

If you're interested in tattoo removal, consult your dermatologist about the options. Don't attempt tattoo removal on your own. Do-it-yourself tattoo removal creams and other home treatments aren't likely to be effective and may cause skin irritation or other reactions.

Why it's done

You might consider tattoo removal if you regret the tattoo or you're unhappy with the appearance of your tattoo. Perhaps the tattoo has faded or blurred, or you decide that the tattoo doesn't fit your current image. Tattoo removal might also be important if you develop an allergic reaction to the tattoo or other complications.

Risks

Scarring is likely after most types of tattoo removal. Infection or skin discoloration is possible as well.

How you prepare

If you're considering tattoo removal, consult your dermatologist. He or she can explain the options for tattoo removal and help you choose the method that's most likely to be effective for your tattoo. For example, some tattoo inks are more responsive to laser treatment than are others. Likewise, some small tattoos may be good candidates for surgical removal while others are simply too large to remove with a scalpel.

What you can expect

Tattoo removal is usually done as an outpatient procedure with local anesthesia. The most common techniques for tattoo removal include laser surgery, dermabrasion and surgical removal.

Laser surgery
Q-switched lasers — which release energy in a single, powerful pulse — are often the treatment of choice for tattoo removal. Before laser treatment, the skin is numbed with an injection of a local anesthetic. Then a powerful pulse of energy is applied to the tattoo to heat and shatter the tattoo ink. Multicolored tattoos may need treatment with various lasers and different wavelengths. After the procedure, you may notice swelling and possibly blistering or bleeding. You may need to use an antibacterial ointment for several days to promote healing. You'll likely need repeated sessions to lighten the tattoo, and it may not be possible to completely erase the tattoo.

Dermabrasion
During dermabrasion, the tattooed area is typically chilled until numb. Then the tattooed skin is sanded down to deeper levels with a high-speed rotary device that has an abrasive wheel or brush. This allows the tattoo ink to leach out of the skin. The affected area may feel sore and raw for up to 10 days after the procedure. During this time, it's important to treat the affected area gently. You may need to use antibacterial ointment and cover the affected area with special bandages. Dermabrasion might not completely erase the tattoo.

Surgical removal
During surgical removal, the skin is numbed with an injection of a local anesthetic. The tattoo is removed with a scalpel, and the edges of skin are stitched back together. After the procedure, you may need to use an antibacterial ointment for several days to promote healing. Surgical tattoo removal is effective — but it leaves a scar and may be practical only for small tattoos.

Results

Tattoos are meant to be permanent, and complete tattoo removal is difficult — especially for people who have dark skin or multicolored tattoos. Some degree of scarring or skin color variations are likely to remain, regardless of the specific tattoo-removal method.