Q-Switched ND YAG Laser Tattoo Removal
Years ago, getting a tattoo meant having a lifetime commitment to your body art. Today, minimally invasive laser solutions like Q-Switched ND YAG laser tattoo removal have made it possible to erase most tattoos.
At Berman Skin Institute, our staff of more than 100 skin care doctors and specialists regularly use lasers for safe, effective tattoo removal. Schedule an appointment at any of our offices to receive the personalized care that we have delivered for more than 30 years.
How Do Q-Switched ND YAG Lasers Work?
The Q-Switched ND YAG laser simplifies the process of removing unwanted tattoos from the skin. When used alone or in tandem with other tattoo removal lasers, it can reduce the appearance of tattoos, even those with multiple colors.
As the laser is moved across the tattooed skin, its beam shatters the pigments used in the tattoo. Once shattered into microscopic pieces, the pigment can be absorbed, processed and eliminated from the body. The overall effect of reducing the look of a tattoo takes time. Most patients require multiple 10-minute appointments with the Q-Switched ND YAG laser to see results.
What Benefits Does the Q-Switched ND YAG Laser Offer?
When used to help the body get rid of unwanted tattoo pigments, the Q-Switched ND YAG laser can be highly beneficial. Several advantages of this leading-edge piece of equipment include:
- Treating blue-black, red and orange tattoos.
- Treating cosmetic tattoos in sensitive areas.
- Treating trauma-related tattoos.
- Reducing the look of some brown-colored birthmarks and other skin discolorations.
Are There Any Side Effects to Tattoo Treatment With the Q-Switched ND YAG Laser?
After receiving treatment with the Q-Switched ND YAG laser, patients typically experience irritation of the top layer of their skin. Generally, the irritation level is mild to moderate and can last up to a week. Every patient has a different response because every tattoo, and, therefore, tattoo removal process is unique.
Can Anyone Get Q-Switched ND YAG Laser Tattoo Removal?
This kind of laser tattoo removal produces reliable outcomes for most patients. However, individuals with very dark skin may need to discuss a different kind of tattoo removal. Additionally, tanned patients should wait until their tan has faded.
Is the Q-Switched ND YAG Laser Tattoo a Safe and Comfortable Procedure?
All surgical procedures carry a degree of risk and minor complications that rarely affect the outcome may occur when being treated for tattoo removal with lasers. However, major complications related to the use of the Q-Switched ND YAG laser are unusual.
Some patients tolerate the procedure better than others, but all patients receive a topical anesthetic cream a half-hour before each procedure. If sensations of pain persist, lidocaine injections may help.
During your consultation at Berman Skin Institute, our skin care experts will discuss all considerations.
Set up Your First Laser Tattoo Removal Session
Are you ready to feel better about the way your skin looks by removing an unwanted tattoo? Book an appointment online or call any of our locations.
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*Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Q-Switched ND YAG Laser
The number of treatments varies significantly based on factors including tattoo age, size, depth, ink type, color, and location. Most tattoos require 6-12 treatments, though some may need more. Professional tattoos typically require more sessions than amateur tattoos because professional inks are applied deeper and more densely. Treatments are usually spaced 6-8 weeks apart to allow the body time to eliminate fragmented pigment.
Individual Q-switched Nd:YAG laser treatments are typically quick, usually lasting 15-30 minutes depending on the tattoo size and complexity. Smaller tattoos may only take a few minutes, while larger tattoos naturally require longer. The actual treatment time involves the laser application, but the appointment includes consultation, preparation, and post-treatment care, which extends the total visit duration to 30-60 minutes.
During treatment, your skin will be cleaned and numbing cream applied. Protective eyewear will be provided. The dermatologist will use the handheld laser device over the tattooed area in short pulses. You may hear a clicking sound and see a whitening or frosting effect on the skin, which is normal. After treatment, the area is cleaned, and post-treatment instructions are provided. The entire appointment usually lasts 30-60 minutes.
Results are not immediately visible after a single treatment. Tattoo lightening occurs gradually over weeks as the body eliminates fragmented pigment. Most visible improvement appears 4-8 weeks after treatment. Complete results are only achieved after multiple sessions spaced 6-8 weeks apart. The entire tattoo removal process typically takes 6-18 months depending on the number of treatments needed.