|
There are several excellent methods of tattoo removal available today. The
method that the physician chooses will depend upon the size of the tattoo
and its location as well as the length of time it has been on the skin.
How the patient heals may also be a factor in the decision.
Questions:
Excision
Another popular method of tattoo removal especially when the dyed area
is small is by excision. The advantage of this method is that the entire
tattoo can be removed. With larger tattoos, however, it may be necessary
to excise in stages, removing the center of it initially and the sides
at a later date.
Excision involves an injection of a local anesthetic to numb the area
after which the tattoo is removed surgically. The edges are then brought
together and sutured. With this procedure, there is minimal bleeding which
is easily controlled with electrocautery. In some cases involving large
tattoos, a skin graft taken from another part of the body may be necessary.
Back to Top
Dermabrasion
Another method of tattoo removal is called dermabrasion in which a small
portion of the tattoo is sprayed with a solution that freezes the area.
The tattoo is then "sanded" with a rotary abrasive instrument
causing the skin to peel. Because some bleeding is likely to occur, a
dressing is immediately applied to the area.
Back to Top
Laser
In recent times, many physicians consider laser surgery one of the best
methods of tattoo removal . Today, the Q-switched Nd:Yag, Q-switched Alexandrite
and the Q-switched Ruby are among the most frequently used lasers today
for the removal of unwanted tattoos. They are all employed in a similar
manner. If necessary, a cream to numb the skin can be applied prior to
the treatment. Pulses of light from the laser are directed onto the tattoo
breaking up the tattoo pigment. Over the next several weeks the body's
scavenger cells remove the treated pigmented areas. More then one treatment
is usually necessary to remove all of the tattoo.
Back to Top
Salabrasion
Salabrasion, a procedure which is centuries old, is a method still sometimes
used today to remove tattoos. As with the other methods, a local anesthetic
is used on and around the tattooed area after which a solution of ordinary
tap water dipped in table salt is applied. An abrading apparatus such
as the one used with dermabrasion, or an even simpler device such as a
wooden block wrapped in gauze, is used to vigorously abrade the area.
When the area becomes deep red in color, a dressing is applied.
Back to Top
What Results Can Be Expected?
Regardless of which method of tattoo removal is used, some scarring or
color variations are likely to remain. Healing time varies depending upon
the size and depth of the tattoo, the proce-dure used and the patient's
healing process. It is important for the patient to discuss with the physician
the various procedures, how they are performed, and the probable results.
Care of the treated area must also be discussed.
Back to Top
|
