Tattoo Removal

Leading plastic surgeons and dermatologists regard laser as the superior method for the safe removal of amateur and professional tattoos.

How does it work?
Tattoo ink particles are too large for the body's immune system to remove naturally. By passing a very short pulse of high power laser light through the skin, the tattoo ink is broken into smaller particles, which the body is able to remove.

How many treatments do I need?
Most amateur tattoos require 3 to 5 treatment sessions at monthly intervals. Most professional tattoos typically require 8 to 12 treatment sessions at monthly intervals.

What are the costs likely to be?
You can view our complete pricelist and simply contact one of our clinics to arrange an appointment with one of our specialists. We can conduct exact costs based on your requirements.

Contact a Clinic and arrange a consultation to discuss your individual needs.

Do all tattoos respond to treatment?
In the majority of cases we are able to remove most tattoos. No one laser can remove all types of tattoo ink, this is why we use two laser frequencies on the site to ensure optimal results.

How long does it take?
Typical treatment sessions last between 5 and 40 minutes depending on the size of the tattoo.

Does it hurt?
The lasers do cause discomfort during treatment, similar to being 'snapped' with a rubber band. Most patients equate the pain of tattoo removal with the pain of getting the tattoo. Some areas are more sensitive than others, such as ankles and the shoulder blade. The pain tends to decrease as treatment progresses and the tattoo ink fades. Most patients tolerate the discomfort of treatment very well, but a local anaesthetic is available if required.

Are there any after-effects?
Redness and swelling may occur, similar to sunburn. This settles within a few days. Some patients may blister, which is quite normal and does not indicate potential scarring. Blistering does not require treatment and will usually clear within days. Please refer to the blister advice sheet.
The treated area should not be exposed to strong sunlight between sessions without the use of sunblock (SPF 30).

Does the treatment scar?
Our lasers are Q-switched, this means the lasers deliver high power in a very short pulse (25 billionths of a second!) There is normally no lasting damage to the skin. Very occasionally, mild changes in skin texture may occur.

Will the skin be normal again when the treatment is finished?
Both Ruby lasers and KTP lasers are absorbed by skin pigment as well as tattoo ink. Darker skinned patients may notice some lightening of the skin (depigmentation). This usually returns to normal in 6 to 12 months. We tend to limit treatment for darker skinned patients to the NdYAG laser as the risk of pigment change is less.

Is it safe?
There is no evidence whatsoever to suggest that the treatment can lead to skin disorders or an increased risk of cancer.