WHAT IS ENLIGHTEN?

With the growing popularity of tattoos, “tattoo regret” is also becoming more prevalent. Fortunately, there have been recent advances in tattoo removal technology that make it easier than ever to remove an unwanted tattoo! Springhouse Dermatology is now offering tattoo removal using the enlighten™ laser to make the process quick, painless and safe! enlighten™ uses high-power picosecond laser pulses to target the ink and break down the pigment, making for a more thorough removal in less time.

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Tattoo Removal 101

Overview

Enlighten laser tattoo removal is the most sophisticated tattoo removal device currently available, often requiring fewer treatments and providing a more comfortable experience than the average device. This laser targets and shatters the pigment deposited in the skin, making it small enough for the body to break down and remove. Depending on the size and color of the tattoo, a series of treatments is required to fully treat the area. Every tattoo is different, and we are prepared with methods to help speed up the process, treat different colors, and make the treatment as comfortable as possible.

What to Expect

• On the day of the treatment, we will administer local numbing medicine to the tattooed area. Patients also have the option of using our ProNox anesthesia device, and Zimmer cooling system to increase comfort levels.
• The laser treatment can be uncomfortable, especially in the early treatments when the tattoo ink is very dense. Patients describe a sharp, snapping sensation, however, we take all measures to make you as comfortable as possible.
• Different colors and types of ink respond differently to laser treatment. Colored tattoos are more difficult to treat, with yellow being the most resistant.
• After treatment, the area will be sore and tender. We recommend patients keep the area covered while the skin heals and goes through a scabbing process.
• Patients will return every 8 weeks for treatment until they are satisfied with the results.

Pre-Treatment Instructions

• Patients are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes early for numbing and may choose to add-on Pro-Nox, the Zimmer cooling system or the DeScribe patch.

WHY CHOOSE US?

• Our office is proud to be the first in the Philadelphia area to offer this amazing new procedure that cuts down on removal time and complexity
• Two decades of experience with laser treatments
• in-depth knowledge and understanding of laser technology
• Dr. Weishar is a Cutera luminary and trainer to other physicians

Select “Watch Video” to see a Springhouse Dermatology treatment in action!

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE TREATMENT?

Every tattoo is unique, and so is the individual treatment required to remove one. Many factors can determine the exact treatment needed to remove a tattoo, including color, placement and size. Color is one if the greatest variables in determining the length of treatment required, from black and red being some of the easiest colors to remove, to harder colors to remove such as blue and green, up to some of the most difficult colors such as yellow. Once the tattoo has been assessed by Dr. Weishar, the area will be cleansed to ensure optimal results. Once protective eyewear is in place, Dr. Weishar will demonstrate the sensation of the laser on a test area of the skin before carrying on, making several passes with the laser over the tattoo area. The process may take as little as 15 minutes, with the patients experiencing minor discomfort (often described as a rubber band snap against the skin!). Following treatment the patient will be provided with a cold compress to soothe any lasting discomfort.

Accelerate Your Tattoo Removal with DeScribe

Springhouse Dermaesthetics is now thrilled to offer the DeScribe Patch to enhance your tattoo removal! This specially designed patch adds additional protection to the skin, and effectiveness to the laser treatment. Patients who elect to add-on the DeScribe Patch will be able to increase the number of passes of the laser in one sitting, up to 4 times as many! This can decrease the number of treatments needed and produce faster results. The DeScribe Patch also allows the laser to target more stubborn tattoo ink, and to penetrate more deeply, resulting in faster healing and less time between sessions. Ask for the DeScribe Patch when you schedule your tattoo removal!

WHEN DO I SEE THE RESULTS?

Typically a tattoo requires multiple treatment sessions in order to reach the ink that is deposited deep in the skin. In many cases, patients will begin to see the tattoo fading before they even leave the office! Beginning results can be seen after just one treatment though multiple should be expected, with ultimate result of a removal session being visible in 2-4 weeks. Any redness or swelling that may present following treatment is temporary, and there is zero downtime before you are able to return to regular activities!

Written By:
Dr. Margo Weishar
Board Certified Dermatologist, Montgomery County