Laser Tattoo Removal

Females and males of any age group and tattoos both new and old can be treated. Tattoos amenable to treatment include Professional Tattoos (from a tattoo artist), Amateur Tattoos (India ink) and some Cosmetic Tattoos (eyeliner, lipliner). Because of our advanced technology we are able to treat multi-coloured tattoos. We currently use multiple wavelengths- Q switched 1064 nm, Q switched 694 nm (Ruby laser), Q switched 532 nm, Q switched 755 nm, intense pulsed light (IPL) and/or and a new dual combination optical energy / radio-frequency system (ELOS™, from Syneron Inc.).

Laser treatment of tattoos consists of multiple treatments (7-9 for professional or 4-7 for amateur tattoos). Our success rate is very high and we can achieve 80-100% clearance of tattoo ink, in most circumstances.

How Does It Work?

It is important that you not be tanned at the time of treatment. The procedure is performed as a simple office visit and usually takes under 30 minutes depending on the size and number of tattoos. To ensure minimal discomfort there are some local anesthetic options- either a numbing cream or local freezing. You will be required to wear eye protection in the form of goggles during your treatment.

 Different colours in tattoos require different laser wavelengths for best results. The reason that we are so successful with tattoo removal is that we have the largerst number and most up-to-date laser systems and wavelengths to address multi-color and challenging tattoos. The laser heats the tattoo ink so significantly that it is broken into tiny pieces that are removed either as a crust while healing or processed by the immune system and taken away.

Healing and Recovery

Immediately following treatment the tattoo will have a white surface and be swollen. The white colour turns to red within 10-30 minutes and then becomes crusted. Over the next 2-3 days blisters are not uncommon and a thicker crust forms. The crust takes 7-10 days to heal and during time an antibiotic ointment is applied twice a day. Fading of the tattoo pigment will continue to occur over the next 4 weeks.

Sun avoidance is instituted for 4-6 weeks after a laser treatment.

Is It Covered By Insurance?

The removal of tattoos aging, sun & brown spots is considered cosmetic and therefore is not covered by insurance. The patient is responsible for payment. The cost of treatment varies with the size and number of pigmented lesions or tattoos.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of each treatment starts at $350.00 and costs as much as $2,000.00 to $3,000.00 per treatment depending upon the size and number of tattoos.