Preparing for Laser Tattoo Removal

Tattoo removal is a personal decision that can be based on many factors. If you have made the decision to have a tattoo removed, below is a list of questions you might be asking yourself before you go to your laser removal appointment.

What will the doctor need to know before I go to have my laser surgery? Are there any preoperative conditions that I will have to abide by?
The doctor will need to know if you smoke because smoking make the capillaries smaller and puts your immune system at a disadvantage. This can slow healing and could make the end result less favorable. So, let your doctor know if you smoke. You should stop smoking a few weeks before and after the surgery for optimum results. The doctor will also need to know if you have an active infection or other inflamed skin condition. It is often best not to ingest aspirin, or MAO inhibiting and serotonin drugs. for 14 days prior to surgery and 14 days after surgery.

Should I purchase any supplies that will promote healing like gauze pads, medical tape, or topical antibacterial cream?
Yes, and remember, since you may not feel like going shopping immediately after the procedure, you should stock up on what you need beforehand. Antibacterial soap for cleansing the tattoo area a few days before surgery (to kill Staph and other surface bacteria) is strongly recommended. Some surgeons simply suggest Dial antibacterial soap. You will also need to get gauze and other types of dressings to tend to your incision area. Vitamin C supplements are also helpful to maintain your immune system strength.

How should I dress for the procedure?
Wear loose, comfortable-fitting clothing because you do not want your clothes to rub against the affected area. Remove any fingernail and toenail polish so that the medical team is better able to determine if you are getting enough oxygen during surgery. Most doctors have meters to determine this, but it never hurts to be cautious.

The Day of The Tattoo Laser Removal Procedure

Should I have someone drive me to/from the treatment appointment?
You should arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure because it is difficult to know how the surgery will affect you.

Will the doctor apply numbing cream or inject a local anesthesia before the laser removal process begins?
The medical staff will apply a topical anesthetic around 30 to 90 minutes before the laser removal process. Sometimes, a local anesthetic is injected or an oral sedative can be prescribed that is taken beforehand. You should talk to your doctor about your options before the surgery appointment.

If the pain is intense can I ask the doctor to decrease the strength setting of the laser?
Typical laser surgery takes 60 to 90 seconds and most people don’t find it very painful. A lot of people describe the feeling as similar to being stung by a rubber band. Often, Tylenol or other over-the-counter options are recommended for pain relief after the procedure.

After the Tattoo Laser Removal Treatment

Should I avoid exposure to sunlight?
You should keep the site covered to protect it from the sun when you are outdoors. Always treat the area as you would severe sunburn or a new tattoo. Apply ice to control swelling and the feeling of excessive heat.

Should I wear loose clothing the first few days after treatment?
You should wear loose-fitting clothing to your laser removal appointments and after the procedure if your tattoo is under clothing

Can I go swimming or get into a hot tub after the treatment?
Avoid environments like hot tubs or steam baths and swimming. It is not recommended to get the surgery site wet for the first few days.

Will the treatment area bleed after the procedure?
Tattoo removals often bleed after treatments, so your doctor will most likely cover the affected area with gauze to avoid staining your clothes.

How long should I wear a bandage on the treated area?
Cover the affected area with a bandage for a few days after the procedure. Your doctor will give you guidance on this. You will most likely use a triple antibiotic cream two or more times a day. After a few days, you can take off the bandages and leave the affected area open to the air. It’s not good to keep bandages on for to long, air flow is good for healing of the area after the initial recovery period of three days.