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Tattoos have been around for at least 5000 years. The interest in removing them is just about as old. Many of the techniques to remove the tattoos in the past have produced less than desirable results. Dermabrasion, or sanding of the tattoo, chemicals, or even the older CO2 or Argon lasers removed tattoos but left undesirable scars.
The Nd:YAG laser removes tattoo ink using directed rays of light with a very low risk of scarring. The laser works best on blue, black, and red inks. Others colors like yellow, orange, green and purple are more difficult but can be muted. Medical research has taught us exact wavelengths of light to use to selectively remove certain colors of ink. The ink is broken up into 10-100 small fragmented particles to be carried off by the body.
After these treatments the tattoo fades and your normal skin tone shows through.
How many laser treatments? New technology laser treatment is effective but slow. Between three and eight laser treatments spaced 6 weeks apart are necessary to remove black and multi-colored tattoos. The end result is worth it!
Are there any side effects? There is always a slight chance of side effects after laser treatment. Darker skin is more likely to have one or more of these side effects: (1) Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation (a darkening or lightening of the skin) ,(2) infection if not cared for properly, (3) scarring if an infection is not treated, and (4) incomplete clearing (some inks may not respond completely). You will be given a bag of medical supplies to use after the laser treatment. It is important that you follow the directions given to you to prevent side effects. If you have a problem, a doctor will help you work these temporary side effects.
Who performs the laser treatment? Lose the Tattoos is a non profit organization which organizes volunteer M.D.’s and laser technicians to remove gang related tattoos. Most of our doctors are board certified plastic surgeons or dermatologists. All doctors and staff have gone through a special laser tattoo removal training course. A laser technician will usually operate the laser under a doctor’s supervision. Laser Safety procedure will be followed. |
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Gang members only stay in a gang for less than one year...the stigma of the permanent tattoos branded on their hands, face ,breasts, arms label them for life. |
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Phone: 414-962-0696 or Toll Free: 800-821-5532 in Wisconsin |
