Thank you for contacting our practice. Dr. Kelly has been removing tattoos for ten years and is the largest provider of tattoo removal in the state of Texas.
How many treatments will it take to remove a tattoo?
On the average, professional tattoos may require 3-5 treatments, while amateur tattoos may require 2-4 treatments. However, because of the variety of inks used, this is not a guarantee. The number of treatments depends on the amount and type of ink used and the depth of the ink in the skin. Treatments should be spaced three to four month’s apart, or no sooner than four to six weeks.
What Kinds of Tattoos and Pigmented Lesions Can Be Treated?
A tattoo’s color, depth, and the chemical composition of the ink all affect how it responds to laser light. Black, red, dark orange, and dark blue tattoos will usually respond relatively quickly to treatments with the Palomar Q-YAG 5. However, green, purple, brown, light orange, and light blue colors may require more treatments. In general, most tattoos can be successfully treated, given a sufficient number of treatments.
A wide range of pigmented lesions can also be treated, including freckles, sunspots and many brown-colored birthmarks.
Will the tattoo completely disappear?
In many cases, yes. Greater than 95% fading of the tattoo may be accomplished. However, it is very important to know that over 100 tattoo inks are in use worldwide today, none of which are regulated by the FDA. Not knowing which tattoo ink was used or how deeply the ink was applied, makes it impossible for the physician to predict the degree of removal on any given tattoo.
How Long Does It Take?
Depending on the size and location of the tattoo or lesion, each treatment usually takes about 10 to 30 minutes. Some faint tattoos and pigmented lesions will fade completely after on one treatment, though some may require five treatments or more.
What Happens After Treatment?
Immediately after laser exposure, the treated areas may become whitish-colored and swell slightly. This whiteness subsides in about 30 minutes. The swelling may last longer. The tattoo or pigmented lesion will fade over the next few weeks.
What type of post-treatment care is necessary?
Occasionally there will be pinpoint bleeding associated with the treatment. An antibacterial ointment and a dressing will be applied to the area. The treated area should be kept clean with continued application of any ointment given to you by your physician. A shower can be taken the same day, although the treated area should not be scrubbed.
How Do I Get Started?
Dr. Kelly will be happy to discuss this procedure with you. Please feel free to make an appointment for a private consultation. You may contact us at 281-444-5172 or toll-free at 1-877-444-5172. A consultation is $75.00 and is then applied to the first treatment if you elect to proceed.
How It Works
Dr. Kelly uses the latest technology. The Palomar Q-YAG 5 System is a high-powered laser that removes unwanted tattoos and pigmented lesions (sunspots, freckles, etc.) It emits a highly focused beam of laser light, which passes harmlessly through the outer layer of the skin and is absorbed primarily by the tattoo ink or the excess pigment within the lesion.
As the light is absorbed, it is quickly converted to heat. The sudden rise in temperature within the treatment target fractures the ink or pigment into tiny particles. Tattoo ink fragments are carried away by the lymphatic system, while pigmented lesions are naturally shed from the skin one to two weeks after treatment.
How Much Does It Cost?
Fees vary depending on the size and number of tattoos. You will be given a price at the time of your consultation. We do offer financing for tattoo removal. You may apply online at www.cosmeticfeeplan.com.
