What Does Tattoo Removal Entail?
As the name would suggest, tattoo removal is an aesthetic procedure that is used to eliminate the appearance of a tattoo through the destruction of its ink. Tattoo ink enters the dermal layer as a fluid, but quickly solidifies to form the permanent aesthetic mark. To be able to remove or obscure the tattoo without the use of surgery or skin grafts was something inconceivable for the better half of the last century. Even after lasers came into wide use in the medical field, their prospects of being used effectively for non-invasive tattoo removal remained uncertain. With RevLite, that has all changed.
How does tattoo removal by laser work?
Tattoo ink is a collection of colored pigments known as chromophores. All matter on the Earth reflects and absorbs light to produce the color we perceive. Certain colors and materials, however, absorb particular wavelengths of lights better than others. Lasers for tattoo removal are equipped with the ability to produce a varied range of wavelengths in order to target specific colored pigments. The chromophores will absorb light targeted specifically for them, and the heat generated from the absorption will cause them to degenerate.
What makes RevLite special?
Unlike other lasers, Dr. Giles explains, RevLite uses four wavelengths of light to target the whole spectrum of colored chromophores. The use of Q-switched technology also ensures maximum and consistent laser output throughout the entire procedure. This allows for the safe travel of the laser beam through the surface of the skin and minimizes the damage caused to the dermal tissue that houses the tattoo ink.
Will it also remove tattoos of lighter colors?
Yes. In the past, only the removal of dark pigments was highly effective, but with RevLite, colors such as orange, green, and light blue are also capable of being addressed. While darker tattoos will still be most easily removed, RevLite provides the ability to target more lightly-colored pigments.
How many sessions will it take to completely remove the tattoo?
Tattoo removal unfortunately cannot be completed in a single procedure. While a significant fading will occur after the first treatment, several more are generally necessary to restore the skin to its original look. Depending on the size of the tattoo, its pigments, length of duration, and the skill level of the tattoo artist, it may take Dr. Giles between five to fifteen sessions to completely remove the tattoo.
Does it hurt?
Patients describe the tattoo removal process to be similar to having a rubber band snap onto your skin. While there is some minor discomfort, it is generally well tolerated and does not normally require any topical ointments. However, tell Dr. Giles if you are particularly sensitive to pain.
