Tattoo Removal in Sacramento, CA | Granite Bay Dermatology & Laser Center
The days of unwanted tattoos being a permanent source of embarrassment are long gone. Laser tattoo removal technology has come a long way, and Granite Bay Dermatology and Laser Center offers its patients to take advantage of this innovation by offering the MedLite® Laser.
The MedLite® Laser is the only Q-Switched laser emitting up to 4 wavelengths, while other Q-Switched lasers (ruby, alexandrite) produce only one wavelength. MedLite® offers the greatest number of wavelengths for more color removal (black, dark and sky blue, red, orange, green).
Dr. Scott Hearth and his staff at Granite Bay Dermatology & Laser Center are experts in tattoo removal. With quality care and individualized attention, Dr. Hearth aims to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals through cosmetic dermatology.
Contact Granite Bay Dermatology & Laser Center at (916) 773-3376 or complete our online form to schedule your consultation today! We are dedicated to serving patients in the Roseville, Granite Bay, Sacramento, Rocklin, Lincoln, Auburn, Folsom, El Dorado Hills, Fair Oaks, Carmichael, Citrus Heights, Orangevale, Gold River, Elk Grove, and West Sacramento areas.
How does the MedLite Laser remove the tattoo?
The MedLite® laser removes tattoo ink with the energy of light. Tattoo ink is removed by using specific wavelengths of light which pass into the skin and is absorbed by the ink. A given wavelength targets only a single color (or a group of nearby colors). For example, the red wavelength removes the green ink and the green wavelength removes the red ink.
The rapid absorption of the light energy (shock wave) causes the tattoo ink to break into tiny particles which can then be removed by the body’s natural filtering systems, often referred to as the body’s lymphatic drainage system.
How many treatments will it take to remove a tattoo?
Tattoos clear up gradually between treatments. On the average, professional tattoos may require 6-10+ treatments, while amateur tattoos may require only 2-5 sessions. Treatment sessions are usually spaced 4-8 weeks apart. Old tattoos typically come out more easily than recent tattoos. The number of treatments depends on the size of the tattoo, the amount and type of ink used, and the depth of the ink in the skin.
The length of each treatment varies according to the size of the tattoo and to the number of colors which composes it. The MedLite® laser is typically 5 to 10 times faster than most other Q-Switched lasers.
Can the tattoo be completely removed in Roseville, CA?
Yes, in many cases, if adequate wavelengths are used. Greater than 95% fading of the tattoo may be accomplished. Black and dark blue, as well as red inks, resolve the best. Oranges and yellows usually fade as well. Purple, aqua and green inks are the most difficult to remove and additional treatments are needed to produce significant fading. However, it is important to know that there are many different types of tattoo inks in use worldwide today. Not knowing which tattoo ink was used, or how deeply it was applied, makes it impossible to accurately predict the degree of removal.
What type of post-treatment care is necessary?
Special healing ointment and a dressing will be applied to the area immediately after the treatment. The treated area should be kept clean. It is recommended to ice the area as often as possible in the next 8 hours. A shower can be taken the next day, although the treated area should never be scrubbed. It is vital not to scratch or pick at the treated area. Also, it is advisable to avoid sun exposure on the treated site for the duration of the treatment.
If you are interested learning more about the MedLite® Laser, or if you wish to schedule your tattoo removal session with Dr. Scott B. Hearth, be sure to call our office today! Dial (916) 773-3376 or fill out our appointment request form. Our practice looks forward to serving you!
Meet The Expert
Scott B. Hearth, MD, FAAD
Combining his medical knowledge, injection skills and artistic taste for beauty, Dr. Hearth’s priority is to understand his patients’ needs and goals and help them achieve the best results.
