Tattoo Removal (cont.)
What Are The Possible Side Effects?
There are minimal side effects to tattoo
removal by lasers. However, you should consider these factors in your decision:
- The tattoo removal site is at risk for infection. You
may also risk lack of complete pigment removal, and there is a slight chance
that the treatment can leave you with a permanent scar.
- You may also risk hypopigmentation, where the treated
skin is paler than surrounding skin, or hyperpigmentation, where the treated
skin is darker than surrounding skin.
- Cosmetic tattoos like lip liner,
eyeliner and eyebrows may darken following treatment with tattoo removal lasers.
Further treatment of the darkened tattoos usually results in fading.
Is Laser
Tattoo Removal Safe?
Thanks to newer technology, treatment of tattoos with laser
systems has become much more effective with very little risk of scarring. Laser
treatment is often safer than many traditional methods such as excision,
dermabrasion or salabrasion (using moist gauze pads saturated with a salt
solution to abrade the tattooed area by rubbing) because of its unique ability
to selectively treat pigment involved in the tattoo.
In many cases, certain
colors may be more effectively removed than others. It is known that blue/black
tattoos respond particularly well to laser treatment -- the response of other
colors is under investigation.
Remember, the information provided here is
designed to provide general information only and is not a replacement for a
physician's advice. For details pertaining to your specific case, please arrange
a consultation with a physician experienced in the use of tattoo lasers.
Does
Insurance Cover Laser Tattoo Removal?
Since tattoo removal is a personal option
in most cases and is considered a cosmetic procedure, most insurance carriers
will not cover the process unless it is medically necessary. Physicians or
surgery centers practicing tattoo removal may also require payment in full on
the day of the procedure. If you are considering tattoo removal, be sure to
discuss associated costs up front with the physician, and obtain all charges in
writing before you undergo any treatment.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic, Department of Plastic Surgery.
Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, Sept. 2003.
Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2003.
Last Editorial Review: 1/31/2005 7:05:52 AM
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