Frequently Asked Questions
Does laser tattoo removal hurt?
Yes. The laser light is absorbed by the pigment in the tattoo. The pigment-containing granules heat up rapidly and then break apart, creating a shock-wave and heat, which the body feels as pain. We use a Zimmer cooling machine, which super-cools the skin to be treated before and during the laser and this keeps the pain to a minimum. You can use a local anaesthetic cream an hour before the procedure, if you so choose. The tattoo removal process is quick, and we can do it in very short bursts, at your pace, so that it is as gentle as possible for you. We also support you lovingly during the process.
How much does laser tattoo removal cost?
The laser is expensive. So is the running of it and the trained staff members who operate it. We want to stay in business so that we can continue to offer this service, and the charges cover the running costs of the service. Each treatment session costs $250 and the number of treatments required depends on you and your tattoo. For an individual quote, please call and book a consultation with the doctor.
Why do you need several treatments?
The laser can only release so much pigment at a time and the body can only clear so much pigment at a time. We do as much in one session as your body can physically take – any more could burn your skin or overload your lymphatic system and could cause complications.
How many laser tattoo removal treatments will I need?
This depends on the nature of you and your tattoo. Your skin colour, general health and the state of your lymphatic system all play a part. Where your tattoo is on your body, whether it is amateur or professional, the size and complexity of it, and whether it has been treated before or tattooed over also matter.
This is why we have an initial consultation to assess the various factors involved.
This is why we have an initial consultation to assess the various factors involved.
Is there anything I cannot do afterwards?
The laser tattoo removal treatment can cause a mild sunburn-like effect. We cover the treated skin with a special spray-on dressing designed for burns and a sterile bandage dressing if needed and ask you to keep it clean and out of the sun afterwards, to prevent further skin damage and infection.
We will give you more specific instructions after you have had the laser.
We will give you more specific instructions after you have had the laser.
Does laser tattoo removal leave a scar?
The laser itself does not cause reactions or scarring.
If the skin was scarred by the tattoo itself, this may remain afterwards.
If you do not care for yourself after each treatment, the skin may get infected and scar.
If you care for yourself after the laser tattoo removal sessions, it is highly unlikely you will have any problems.
If the skin was scarred by the tattoo itself, this may remain afterwards.
If you do not care for yourself after each treatment, the skin may get infected and scar.
If you care for yourself after the laser tattoo removal sessions, it is highly unlikely you will have any problems.
