Laser tattoo removal

We provide a tattoo removal service for both NHS and self-paying patients. Most Patients will not receive NHS treatment for the removal of an unwanted tattoo and will need to fund the treatment themselves. Occasionally someone may receive NHS funding when they have developed a tattoo during the introduction of debris under the skin when trauma has been involved.

Developments in laser treatment mean that tattoos can often be safely and effectively removed.

However, it is not always possible to completely remove an unwanted tattoo. Some patients only require the tattoo treatment in order to fade the tattoo with the intention of having a new tattoo applied.

It is likely that a number of treatments will be required to remove the unwanted tattoo.

Because each tattoo is different it is not always possible to predict exactly the number of treatments that will be required. We will be able to give you an estimate. Less densely pigmented tattoos and those that are not deep will be removed more quickly. Denser, deeper tattoos sometimes require more treatments.

Tattoo removal lasers are sometimes called Q-switched lasers. They deliver laser energy in very short bursts which breaks up the particles of ink. The laser targets the pigment of the tattoo. In the weeks following treatment these smaller particles of ink are removed by the body.

Risks of laser tattoo removal

Whilst laser treatment itself is extremely safe there are some risks in terms of side effects and outcome.

The treatment may cause some damage to the skin surface in the form of microscopic holes, inflammation and bleeding. With good skin care the skin can rapidly heal. There should be at least 6-8 weeks between treatments.

Risks include.

Pronounced swelling and redness may be present for 48 hours following treatment.
Hypopigmentation –the possibility of paler, white spots on the skin.
Hyperpigmentation –dark spots on the skin.
Textural changes-these changes are not usually permanent. Sometimes these changes have been caused by the tattoo itself and become apparent once the pigment is removed.
Burns are very rare.
Paradoxical darkening can occur when some cosmetic semi-permanent make up tattoos are treated. If this type of tattoo is to be treated a very tiny test patch of 1 or 2 spots will be carried out to establish what the likelihood of this happening is.
Allergic reaction is extremely rare.

Aftercare Instructions

Keep the treated area clean and dry while it is healing. If the area is hot it may be cooled with a cold compress or an ice pack. Do not apply ice directly to the skin as this can cause a burn. Keep the skin well moisturised with a gentle unperfumed moisturiser or emollient.

AVIOD

Wearing restrictive clothing around the treated area.
Any perfumes, body lotions or make up on the treated area.
Hot baths or continuous soaking, leave at least 6 hours before tepid showering.
Heat treatments such as saunas and steam rooms for at least 2 weeks as the skin will be more sensitive.
Swimming for at least 4 weeks.
Sun exposure or the use of sun beds to the treatment area for the duration of your course of treat
Strenuous activity or contact sports for 7 to 10 days or until the skin has healed.

If the area becomes infected or you experience an unusual discomfort or bleeding please contact us immediately or seek medical advice. If you develop any other complications please contact us immediately or seek medical advice.

Prices for treatment

The price for each tattoo removal treatment will depend on the size of the treatment area. This price will have been discussed with you during your 1^st consultation.

The total price will depend on the number of treatments required to remove your tattoo.