There are many factors that are used to determine the number of sessions. These factors are: the age of the tattoo, what colors are in the tattoo, what the goal is for the tattoo removal, and how dense the tattoo is.
Age
Since tattoos tend to fade and spread as they age, an older tattoo can typically be removed with fewer sessions than a newer tattoo. A 10 year old black ink tattoo can typically be removed with 1-2 less procedures than a year old tat. A name tattoo written in black that appears dark greenish may take 5-7 sessions to be removed completely if it is newer.
Color
Color plays a big role since some colors are more difficult to remove than others.
Size
Size does not typically determine how quickly a tattoo can be removed
EASIEST TO REMOVE: Black and red tattoos
INTERMEDIATE: Shades of Orange, pink, purple, brown. Ones that are traditionally “difficult” for other lasers, actually come off well with our laser. This includes : light green, light blue, and teal/turquoise
DIFFICULT: yellow, white, and those tattoos that have scarring that results from the tattooing itself.
In your free consultation, our staff will discuss the probable number of sessions you will need for your laser tattoo removal. Keep in mind, the more difficult the color, the more sessions you may need. Also realize that while we offer one of the most effective procedures available, in some cases the more difficult colors may leave a residual coloration.
Goal
Most patients want to completely remove their tattoo. This will take more sessions than if you simply want to fade it.
Density of the Tattoo
If the tattoo is extremely bright and dense with ink, expect it to take more laser sessions than a less pigment intense design. Typically, homemade tattoos are easier to remove than a professional tattoo, but again the amount of ink in the skin is the primary determining factor. Typically shading will be removed in only a few sessions.