Details: Tattoo Removal

Special pricing available for Tattoo Removal Packages! 

See below.

What is laser tattoo removal?
Laser tattoo removal involves a series of treatments during which laser light is pulsed over the tattoo.  This lightens and removes the tattoo without harming the surrounding skin.  The treatment is completed right in our Frederick, Maryland office with our Laser and Cosmetic Nurse, Susan.

Before	In Progress

How do the lasers work?
The laser emits an intense beam of light which is absorbed by the tattoo ink. The laser energy breaks the ink particles into smaller fragments which can then be safely absorbed by the body.

How long will my treatment take?
The physician or nurse pulses the entire tattoo using the laser hand piece. The time to treat a tattoo depends on the size of the tattoo and the number of colors. A small (one inch) single color tattoo takes less than five minutes. A large multi-color tattoo takes up to 30 minutes. 

We'll make sure to give you an estimate for the length of your treatments at your initial consultation.

Does the laser hurt?
You will experience discomfort with each pulse similar to the discomfort you felt when you received the tattoo. We'll give you a prescription for a numbing cream at your initial consultation, which will make your visit easier.

You should apply the cream in a thick layer and cover the entire area with plastic wrap one and a half hours prior to the procedure. We'll remove the cream once you arrive for your appointment, and our Laser and Cosmetic Nurse will inject the area with Lidocaine so that you're even more comfortable.

How will my tattoo look after treatment?
After a single treatment, your tattoo will whiten immediately. In a few minutes, the white color from the laser dissipates and the tattoo will be swollen, red, and sometimes crusty (like a fresh tattoo). Your tattoo will be back to normal in a few days or a week.

Usually three to five treatments are necessary before the colors start to fade. As your tattoo fades with additional treatments, its colors may become uneven or spotty.

Before	After

How frequently will I have to come in for treatments?
We prefer to wait six to eight weeks between the visits to allow your body to absorb the fragmented tattoo particles. Waiting longer than eight weeks between treatments will not impact overall success.

How many treatments are necessary for most people?
It is not possible to accurately predict the total number of treatments needed. On average, amateur tattoos take six to eight treatments. Professional tattoos can require eight to 12 treatments. Tattoos over tattoos can require more than 12 treatments.

Patients who pre-pay for 5 tattoo removal sessions will get the 6th treatment for free!  Treatments

range from $200 to $500, depending on the size of

your tattoo.

What are my risks?
Depending on the natural pigment of your skin, you may notice temporary darkening or lightening of the skin that's been treated. Permanent texture changes such as firmness or lumpiness are possible. Certain colors (historically, those used in cosmetic tattoos) can turn black when treated. This black discoloration might not respond to further laser treatments.

Some tattoos do not fully respond to laser treatment and residual spotty pigment is possible. Rarely, a tattoo will not respond at all. It is not possible to identify which tattoos will not completely respond or the rare tattoo that will not respond at all. We discontinue treatments if no response is visible by the fourth session.

There are reports of allergic skin reactions forming in the tattoo or on the entire body after laser treatment. As with any medical or surgical intervention, unforeseen consequences are possible.

How can I minimize my risks?
Keeping your skin as pale as possible in the tattoo area will keep the risk of pigment problems as low as possible. Use sunscreens if the tattoo is exposed daily or keep it covered with clothes or bandages.

What should I do now?

Call our office to schedule a consultation with our Laser and Cosmetic Nurse, Susan Young!  She has many years of experience with tattoo removal and will answer any questions you may have.  (301)698-2424.

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