Sep
At Clear Skin Dermatology, lasers and light-based therapies are important in treating many aesthetic concerns and medical conditions, from signs of aging and sun damage to psoriasis and acne. The PicoSure® laser system alone is a versatile technology. When in the capable hands of Dr. Sanjay Siddha, the PicoSure® is just as adept at improving the appearance of stubborn melasma as it is at getting rid of unwanted, even embarrassing tattoos.
Conventional approaches have a reputation for being aggressive and invasive. Often, they have involved surgically excising or removing the tattoo. These and other earlier-generation treatments are time-consuming, may not be “well-tolerated,” and don’t always support the best results. PicoSure® is different; there is no cutting or aggressive techniques. Due to the laser’s short pulses, treatment sessions can take just minutes. Of course, the total time varies depending on factors like the size of the tattoo to be treated. Patients also appreciate that they notice substantial fading of unwanted inks in far fewer treatment sessions.
Older approaches were limiting. Only certain types of tattoos were appropriate candidates for removal procedures. Dr. Siddha has had great success in treating patients with a wide range of tattoo “types,” including those whose tattoos were previously treated, and those with challenging or “stubborn” tattoos (green and blue hues, hyper-pigmented inks).
As with many in-office treatments at Clear Skin Dermatology, laser tattoo removal is not a “one-session-and-done” process. Enjoying your clear, tattoo-free skin will require a series of treatments! During each treatment session, the skin is cleansed. We may administer numbing anesthesia for utmost comfort. As the laser is gently directed toward the pigmented areas, you may feel a mild snapping sensation, similar to a rubber band being applied to the skin. The laser delivers powerful energy deep within the skin and pigment to stimulate the processes that gradually break up the ink particles and fade the tattoos over time. We also apply ointment and a dressing to keep the treatment sites hydrated and protected. Common side effects are similar to a sunburn and may include swelling, redness, and crusting at the site. Dr. Siddha and our team will discuss ways to minimise these effects, prevent complications, and manage discomfort with good pre-treatment and after-care.
The answer to this question depends on the total number of required treatments, specific to your tattoo’s unique characteristics, and how your body responds to treatment. In general, we recommend that you wait between six and eight weeks before undergoing the next treatment session. Once the tattoo has been treated, however, the results are forever. So, getting lasting and effective results is a small investment of time. You can feel comfortable again in your skin, free of the tattoo that no longer aligns with your life and that might otherwise define you.
To get started on the process, schedule a consultation today at one of our two area offices, Toronto, ON (437) 524-0489 or Newmarket (905) 508-2710.
Dr. Sanjay Siddha is an accomplished dermatologist with over 20 years of international experience, currently serving as an Assistant Professor and Staff Dermatologist at the University Health Network and Women’s College Hospital. Trained in the UK at Glasgow and Aberdeen, he has garnered numerous accolades for his expertise, including the prestigious Bernice Rose Krafchik Teaching Award and the Canadian Dermatology Association’s Excellence in Clinical Teaching Award. Recognized consistently among the top educators at the University of Toronto, Dr. Siddha is a trusted figure in dermatology, committed to excellence in patient care and medical education.
