Tattoo ink pigments are too large for your immune system to recognise and remove, which is why they are permanent.  These days lasers offer extreme precision for removing unwanted tattoos from all parts of the body.

Lasers, such as the Q-Switched Nd YAG Laser, selectively target and shatter the ink of the tattoo into smaller particles which your immune system can then recognise and remove.  

The Melbourne Cosmetic Group uses a sophisticated Q-Switched Nd YAG Laser which is specifically designed for the purpose of tattoo removal, particularly with darker inks.

How does the tattoo removal laser work?

The rapid pulse of laser light energy delivered by our Q-Switched Nd YAG Laser penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the tattoo pigment. This causes the large tattoo ink granules to be shattered into tiny particles, which are then removed by your skin’s own natural (lymphatic) filtration system, with minimal effect on the surrounding skin.

How may treatments  are needed?

Usually 8 to 12 treatments are needed, 1 to 2 months apart.  The number of treatments is influenced by a number of factors, including the following:

• Skin Type

Pale skin is easier to treat than darker skin as there is a bigger contrast between pale skin and the tattoo ink. The laser targets the colour it is programmed for and if there is not a lot of difference between the skin colour and the tattoo colour then both will be targeted. Darker skin colours will require more sessions as the laser power will need to be lowered to minimise side effects.

• Placement of Tattoo

The immune system clears laser shattered tattoo inks better when the tattoos are located on the torso. These tattoos require fewer treatments. Tattoos on the extremities such as feet or hands are cleared the slowest and therefore require more sessions.

• Colour(s) of Tattoo

The darker the ink colour, the easier it is to remove.

• Volume of Tattoo Ink

Tattoos with minimal ink require fewer sessions as they are easy to remove. These are usually amateur or cheap tattoos that were obtained whilst overseas in places such as Bali and Thailand.

• Depth of Tattoo

The skin consists of multiple layers. The deeper the tattoo the harder it is to remove and the more sessions required to fade or eliminate the inks.

What is the cost?

Costs vary depending on the size, colour(s) and location of the tattoo on the body.  You will need to be assessed first to be given a better idea of how many treatments you will need, and the cost per treatment.  The average cost per treatment is $250 to $350

How long after being tattooed can removal commence?

 Removal can commence as soon as the tattoo has completely healed. Although it may appear healed within a week or two the tattoo will still require further time to completely heal prior to removal commencing. A minimum period of six (6) weeks is advised. 

Can the area be re-tattooed?

 Yes, the area can be re-tattooed following laser removal. Whether you have had complete removal, partial removal or just lightening of the area will be able to be re-tattooed. The wish to replace an existing tattoo is a common reason for having laser tattoo removal.

Will the tattoo completely disappear?

In many cases, there will be a 100% clearance of the tattoo. On average, 95% fading is considered a good result. The result depends upon the colour and type of ink used as well as the depth of penetration of the ink in the skin.

Your therapist will discuss with you the likeliness of success during your initial consultation.

To find out if you are suitable for this treatment, or for more information, call us now on 1300 33 87 11, or book in for a consultation.