Tattoo Removal (Left Ankle)

Treatment details: Tattoo Removal (Left Ankle)

The tattoo on the left ankle fell within the 30 to 50 square centimetre range and was treated with picosecond laser. Ink is shattered into particles small enough for the body to clear through the lymphatic system, so fading continues between sessions rather than appearing all at once. The ankle clears more slowly than sites closer to the trunk because circulation there is comparatively poor, and patients are told this before starting so that the pace is not mistaken for failure. This image is two months after the session shown. Sun protection over the treated skin is required throughout the course to avoid pigmentation.

Each session leaves the ankle red, swollen, and stinging for a day or two, followed by scabbing or blistering that must be left to heal without picking. The skin may end lighter or darker than the surrounding area, and this can take months to even out, since the ankle heals more slowly than the face. Several sessions spaced weeks apart are needed, and green, light blue, and some cosmetic pigments may not clear. Scarring and texture change are rare. Sun protection is required throughout.