Tattoo Removal

A tattoo is a marking made by inserting ink into the skin to change the pigment for decorative purposes or for other reasons. There are generally 4 types of tattoos. Decorative tattoos which are the most common and are placed with various types and qualities of design and color throughout the body. Cosmetic tattoos are used as a type of permanent makeup. Medical tattoos which are often used to mark areas of treatment or used in reconstruction of tissue. And lastly, traumatic tattoos which result from trauma induced insertion of foreign material into the skin such as gravel or gunpowder.

Tattoos are considered permanent, although it is possible to remove them with laser treatments, fully or partially. Typically, black and darker colored inks can be removed more completely. The expense and pain of removing tattoos will typically be greater than the expense and pain of applying them. The standard of care today involves the use of several laser treatments, which can range from 4-12 treatments. Dr Frank uses several technologies including the Medlite Nd:Yag, Tattoo removal Laser and the Fraxel Repair to remove them. The success of tattoo removal depends strongly on the color of the skin, the color and quality of the tattoo, and the age of the tattoo. Because of the variations that exist, the success rate and number of treatments vary considerably. A consultation with Dr Frank will help determine the appropriate course of action and the expectations for potential removal.