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The Spectra Q switch Ndyag laser – the choice for tattoo removal…
Decorative tattoos have a history dating back at least 5000 years. The desire to remove them has probably existed for just as long. Early attempts to remove tattoos have had less than desirable results. The use of chemical, microdermabrasion, excisional surgery and Argon or CO2 lasers have left behind scars in place of the tattoo.
The advent of Q-Switched lasers has permitted the removal of most tattoo inks with a very low risk of scarring. The Q-Switched Nd: YAG laser is the laser of choice. This class of laser produces a photo acoustic effect in Nano second (billionth of a second). This results in selective lysis of the pigment and avoiding the thermal side effect from heating by other long pulse laser. The Spectra is the 4th generation of Q switch laser which can significantly lighten or remove a wide variety of tattoo inks. It is less painful, less side effect, faster treatment with the new 8mm spot size.
How does the laser remove the tattoo?The Q-Switched laser removes tattoo ink with the energy of light. A laser is a device which is designed to produce one or more specific wavelength of light which passes into the skin, and then is absorbed by the ink. The rapid absorption of light energy causes the tattoo ink to break into tiny particles which can then be removed by the body’s natural immune systems. Big particle just like that of a elephant can not be swallowed or digested easily by even a tiger. The Spectra laser provides maximum tattoo removal while leaving the surrounding skin unharmed.
What type of tattoos can be removed?
The Spectra laser can remove professional, amateur (homemade), traumatic and surgical tattoos.
How many treatments will it take to remove a tattoo?
On the average, professional tattoos requires 6-8 treatments, while amateur tattoos require 4-5 treatments, all spaced approximately 6-8 weeks apart. Kirby-Desai scale has shown to closely predict the number of treatments with the following parameters. They are the skin type, location, presence of layering or scarring , the amount and type of ink used. (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2923953/) Estimated Number of treatment sessions are calculated by adding the scores from the above variables. Following picture shows the variables and their scores.
Does the laser remove colored tattoos?
Dark (blue, black) inks will resolve the best. Red ink also responds well except those containg iron oxide which may turn black. Oranges and purples can fade as well. Green, light sky blue and yellow inks are the most difficult to remove, and additional treatments are needed to produce significant fading.
Will the tattoo completely disappear?
In many cases, It is Possible. Greater than 95% fading of the tattoo may be accomplished. However, it is important to know that there are many, many types of tattoo inks in use worldwide today, none of which are regulated by the FDA. Not knowing which tattoo ink was used, or how deeply it was applied, makes it impossible for the physician to predict the degree of removal on any given tattoo.
Is the process painful?
The laser emits light in very short pulses. The impact of the energy from the powerful pulse is similar to the snap of a small rubber band on the skin. The majority of patients do not require anesthesia, depending on the size, concentration of ink and location of the tattoo. Anesthesia creams are available if needed.
Post-treatment care?
An antibacterial ointment and a dressing will be applied to the area immediately after treatment. Occasionally, there will be pinpoint bleeding associated with the treatment. The treated area should be kept clean. Follow your physician’s instructions exactly as to what to do during the days following the procedure. A shower can be taken the next day, although the treated area should never be scrubbed. If a scab forms, it is vital that you do not pick it or scratch it.
How to get started?
Doctor Huang will be happy to discuss this procedure with you. Please feel free to make an appointment for a consultation to discuss your specific needs.
Englewood Laser : 201-568-8888
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