Laser Tattoo Removal

Laser Tattoo Removal in San Francisco, CA

Many men and women experience second thoughts about their tattoos. Fortunately, you don’t have to live with the decision forever. The Nd:YAG laser can lighten or remove your tattoo by pulsing light on the ink to break it into tiny particles that are absorbed harmlessly by the body. The Dermatology Medical Group can accomplish all this without damaging the surrounding tissue.

What is Nd: YAG Laser?

The Nd:YAG laser is a non-ablative laser that produces brief, powerful energy pulses that last a few nanoseconds. The pulse concision is vital for tattoo removal, so ink embedded in the skin is shattered while adjacent tissue remains unharmed. YAG lasers are an excellent choice to remove unwanted tattoos because their 1064 nm wavelength is absorbed well by all ink colors.

How Does Nd:YAG Laser Work?

Nd:YAG laser comes in two wavelengths, 1064 nm, and 532 nm. This laser is designed to target pigmented skin cells, including the pigment in tattoos. The heat created by the Nd:YAG laser is delivered in waves that damage cells containing ink pigment. Then, the damaged cells are naturally absorbed by the body and flushed, resulting in lightening of the pigmented area.

What is the Nd:YAG Laser Process?

Treating skin problems with Nd:YAG laser is a quick process with minimal downtime.

One of our skilled clinicians will perform the treatment. While each treatment will be unique, here are some general steps to expect.

1: Our experienced clinician will confirm if you are a suitable candidate for laser tattoo removal and would benefit from this procedure.

2: To minimize discomfort, your provider will use a numbing cream that takes 20 to 30 minutes to activate before beginning the treatment.

3: We will employ the Nd:YAG laser to direct the light pulses into the dermis to remove the tattoo. Typically, the entire procedure takes less than an hour.

4: After treatment, you may experience redness in the treated area, which may last a few hours, and minimal swelling. Patients can typically resume normal activities soon after treatment.

5: You may or may not see your tattoo lightening immediately after treatment. The treatment site may darken for one to two weeks before lightening. Conversely, you may realize tattoo lightening immediately after treatment.

Results can be seen within a few weeks, although larger and darker tattoos may require a series of treatments. Occasionally treated skin will look paler than the adjacent skin, but this is temporary and typically fades in the months following treatment.