How Do I Choose The Right Doctor To Remove My Tattoo?

Laser tattoo removal, although safe and effective, is a specialized medical technique. As with any medical procedure, to ensure safety, satisfaction, and the most effective outcome possible, you should carefully evaluate the facility you chose.

Below is a list of questions to ask the laser tattoo removal facility you consult:

1. How long has the laser operator (nurse or doctor) been removing tattoos?
2. Has the clinic been open for less than a year or do they have a long track record of successful removal?
3. Do the doctors who oversee the clinic have a practice limited to treatment and diseases of the skin or are they certified in another specialty, doing tattoo removal as a "side business"?
4. Have the doctors who oversee the facility published research and/or lectured to other doctors on tattoo removal? If so, ask to see a copy of those publications/research on laser tattoo removal.
5. Does the doctor or laser operator have dermatology training from an experienced physician to perform tattoo removal or just a weekend training course from the laser company?
6. Does the office give back to the medical profession? i.e. Do they train interns, residents, and students on the art of laser tattoo removal or is the business soley for profit?
7. Are the doctors who oversee the medical practice members of the American Academy of Dermatology?
8. Do the laser operators solely practice laser medicine or are they "moonlighting"?
9. Do the doctors who oversee the clinic strictly limit their practice to dermatology or did they do their training in another medical specialty? Ask what the doctor's specialty, degree, residency training or certification is in.
10. Does the facility use the Medlite C6 laser? Currently, the most effective laser for tattoo removal of all colors is the MedLite C6 by Hoya Con-Bio. Other older lasers, although effective for some tattoos, may not be completely effective, may not treat specific colors, and may raise the risks of side effects.
11. If the office performs other laser procedures, do they use the proper laser? Example: The MedLite C6, although highly effective for tattoo removal, is not a first choice for as laser hair removal or skin rejuvenation. Facilities that perform multiple procedures with one laser should be closely examined.
12. Does the facility have all of the proper equipment to ensure your comfort? A high-power prescription-only anesthetic should always be used in combination with a Zimmer Air Chiller to blow cold air during your treatment— people say this makes a significant difference.
13. Is the office busy? A good doctor's office usually is. Ask other patients in the lobby about their experiences.
14. Is the office spacious, organized and clean? You will be visiting multiple times throughout the process, so make sure you feel comfortable with the office.
15. Is the staff friendly, professional and knowledgeable?
16. How large is the staff? A team of experienced laser operators performing procedures along with a group of physicians who specialize in the skin ensures the stability of the practice.
17. Does the clinic encourage you to consult with other laser centers?
18. Does the clinic have informative and professionally-produced educational materials to help you understand the process?
19. Is the clinic well-known around town? Check their website and search engines for history, media coverage, etc.
20. Are the prices on par with other clinics? Any facility with extremely low prices may not be using the most effective laser. Thus, individual treatments may be less expensive, but also less effective.
21. Does the facility relay information to you in a straightforward manner? No matter where you choose to be treated, you will need between 5 and 15 treatments to remove a tattoo properly. This has been shown in multiple, well-documented medical studies. If a facility says they can remove a tattoo with "just a few treatments", this may be misleading.

Please browse this website for more detailed information on tattoo removal or schedule a complimentary consultation by calling (888) TATT-OFF (828-8633)