What Is Laser Tattoo Removal?

There are many reasons someone might want to remove a tattoo — it could remind you of a difficult time, lose its color over the years, or simply no longer reflect who you are. Thanks to advances in laser technology, it’s now possible to lighten or even completely erase unwanted tattoos. At Hermosa Plastic Surgery in Albuquerque, NM, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Miguel Gallegos offers laser tattoo removal using two state-of-the-art systems: the Cutera XEO and the PICO Discovery. Both technologies provide excellent results and may require fewer treatment sessions.

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Cutera® XEO System

Dr. Gallegos uses the versatile Cutera XEO System for tattoo removal among other skin treatments. This advanced laser platform features multiple specialized technologies, including:

  • Pearl™ — For skin resurfacing, smoothing texture, reducing wrinkles, and correcting pigmentation
  • LimeLight™ — For skin rejuvenation, targeting sun damage, redness, and pigmentation
  • ProWave 770™ — Designed for hair removal
  • Xeo YAG Laser — Primarily used for spider vein and vascular treatments
  • TITAN® — For skin tightening on the face, neck, arms, abdomen, and more

PICO Discovery System

In addition to the Cutera XEO, Dr. Gallegos employs the PICO Discovery System for tattoo removal. This noninvasive, nonsurgical laser delivers ultra-short pulses that “shatter” tattoo pigments instantly upon contact, breaking down ink more efficiently while sparing surrounding tissue. This technology can reach even deeply embedded pigments and also serves to improve pigmented lesions and rejuvenate skin.

What Are the Benefits of Laser Tattoo Removal?

Laser tattoo removal at Hermosa Plastic Surgery offers several benefits for those wanting to erase unwanted or outdated tattoos:

  • Reduces or removes undesirable, outdated, or distressing tattoo art
  • Uses proven and reliable technology
  • Protects surrounding skin cells, minimizing risk of scarring
  • Treatment involves quick, straightforward sessions spaced over time

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Laser Tattoo Removal?

Several factors can influence the success of tattoo removal. Ideal candidates generally:

  • Have a healthy immune system, which helps the body break down and eliminate tattoo ink
  • Maintain overall good health, since smoking and poor diet can slow healing
  • Have high contrast between tattoo ink colors and skin tone, improving removal effectiveness
  • Possess older tattoos, as older ink tends to respond better to laser treatment