Making the decision to remove unwanted tattoos is not always an easy one. The most challenging part of this decision is which tattoo removal method is right for me?
One of the most common questions we hear clients ask is – laser tattoo removal vs surgical tattoo removal, which one is best?
In your journey to achieve clear skin again, or to remove a faded tattoo and get a new one, it is important to know that not all tattoo removal treatments are created equal.
At Zapp Laser Studio, we believe in using the latest laser technology to safely and effectively remove all types of tattoos and ink colours.
We may not offer surgical excision for tattoo removal, but what we can do is break down the differences between surgical removal and laser removal. This will help you make an informed decision on which method might be right for you.
If you want to chat in-person, you can reach out to our experienced tattoo removal specialists to book a non-obligation consultation.
Surgical tattoo removal – what it is and how it works
Surgical tattoo removal or surgical excision is a minor operation that is usually treated as a day case.
The process involves using a scalpel to cut away the tattoo and then the remaining skin is stitched together using fine sutures.
Even though surgical removal sounds simple, it requires a qualified medical practitioner to perform it, as it can come with risks such as infection and scarring.
The procedure usually takes up to two hours, depending on the location of the tattoo.
As a tattoo removal method, it is only really suitable for small tattoos, or small to medium tattoos. This is because it is easier to close the skin up without causing too much tension.
Why people consider surgical excision
- Most patients see complete removal in one session
- It can provide a more predictable outcome
- Offers permanent results in the treated area
Cons of surgical tattoo removal
- Tends to leave a permanent scar (which may or may not fade)
- It is not suitable for some medium tattoos or larger tattoos
- Comes with a risk of delayed wound healing
- Larger downtime than laser treatments (up to 14 days)
- Comes with risk of complications depending on skin types (scarring and pigmentation)
- Removes both the tattoo and some of the healthy surrounding skin
There are times when surgical excision may be considered for larger tattoos, however. But this will normally involve the use of a skin graft to cover the treated area.
Laser tattoo removal – what it is and how it works
Laser tattoo removal is a non-invasive alternative to surgical removal.
It uses ultra-short bursts of laser light energy to target tattoo ink and break it down into smaller particles.
Because the laser light energy only targets the ink on the tattooed skin, it does not damage any of the healthy surrounding skin.
At Zapp Laser Studio, we use the latest laser technology – PicoSure laser tattoo removal.
This is one of the most advanced laser devices on the market that can fade and completely remove all ink colours on the spectrum.
How laser removal works
- Uses ultra-short bursts of precise laser light to break down tattoo ink
- Each session targets tattoo ink at different depths in the skin
- The ink particles shatter into tiny fragments
- Your body’s immune system will naturally process the tiny ink fragments
- Works to fade or completely remove unwanted tattoos
Unlike other tattoo removal methods, such as surgical excision, laser therapy works beneath the skin’s surface. As a result, the skin on the surface is not negatively impacted.
Why is laser tattoo removal so popular?
We treat hundreds of patients each year with laser tattoo removal, as it is one of the safest methods for removing a tattoo (when you choose an experienced practitioner).
It offers a permanent way to fade or remove small tattoos and larger tattoos with minimal risk.
It is also suitable for different types of tattoos including semi-permanent makeup and eyebrow tattoos.
Unlike surgical removal, you are not left with scarring. Laser treatment can also be tailored to your skin type and ink depth. This means you will see optimal results.
Just remember:
- Most tattoos will require multiple sessions of laser treatment to fade and fully remove them
- Results will vary from person to person
- Factors such as tattoo age, tattoo location, and ink colour will impact how long it takes to remove the tattoo
If you are looking for a more personalised approach to tattoo removal that delivers effective results, laser treatment is an ideal option.
Laser tattoo removal or surgical tattoo removal
The choice of laser tattoo removal or surgical removal often depends on several factors.
Here are just a few things to think about when making your decision:
Surgical tattoo removal
- Only works on small tattoos
- Only need one procedure to remove
- Needs a local anaesthetic to manage pain and safe remove
- Will leave you with a scar
- Tends to remove some healthy surrounding skin
- Comes with more complications and delayed wound healing
Laser tattoo removal
- Suitable for all types of tattoo and sizes of tattoos
- Does not damage the healthy surrounding skin
- You will need multiple laser sessions to fade or remove a tattoo
- Minimal risk of scarring (when you use the right laser for your skin type)
- Body naturally removes the ink through your lymphatic system
- We can customise the treatment and build a cost effective plan
We know most people will be drawn in by surgical excision as it offers immediate removal. But you need to weigh up the costs that come with that including complications and scarring.
Laser removal focuses on effectively removing tattoo ink to help you achieve clear skin. It may take longer to see results, but it will also protect the integrity and health of your skin.
Most patients find laser removal a more advanced option compared to surgical methods of removal. It is also the favoured option by most skin specialists in the industry.
Different laser treatments for tattoo removal at Zapp Laser Studio
PicoSure laser tattoo removal
This laser device is one of the most effective treatments to fade and fully remove tattoos.
It delivers ultra-short bursts of laser at a fast rate directly into the tattoo ink. This shatters the ink into much smaller particles. This makes it more precise than traditional laser treatments.
The main benefits include:
- Can treat every tattoo size, tattoo type and all ink colours on the spectrum by using two wavelengths
- Safe for most skin types, but works best on skin types 1-4
- We also use PicoSure laser to help with skin rejuvenation
- Fades tattoos in 2-6 sessions, and offers complete removal in 6-10 sessions
- Works well in previously inked skin or stubborn types of ink
PicoWay tattoo removal (London studio only)
PicoWay is another type of pico laser that uses multiple wavelengths to target and break down different types of tattoos.
It is also one of the only laser devices that works on all skin types. This includes people with darker skin tones.
It delivers high powered ultra-short bursts of light energy to precisely shatter tattoo ink, which makes it more effective than a lot of other laser devices. As a result, most people often need fewer treatment sessions.
The main benefits include:
- Uses 1064nm, 764nm and 532nm wavelengths to target and shatter ink pigments in multi-coloured tattoos
- The 1064 wavelength bypasses the melanin in the skin and only focusses on the ink, which means it is safe for dark skin types.
Why laser tattoo removal is often the right removal method
Most people are attracted to surgical excision, as unlike laser treatment, it offers immediate results.
But just because it is faster, it does not mean it is the right option for your skin.
Both surgical excision and laser treatment offers a permanent solution to tattoo removal. But surgery often leads to potential complications and scars.
Laser tattoo removal is a better choice, as it works with your body to safely remove tattoo ink.
The laser does the hard work of breaking down the ink, but your body does the rest by naturally processing the ink to flush it out. This provides more natural fading, while protecting your skin.
Laser tattoo removal also offers tailored treatment plans, which means we can focus on your skin type, tattoo location, tattoo size, and age of the tattoo to ensure you see amazing results.
Yes, it might take slightly longer, but with proper aftercare, including avoiding excessive sun exposure, most people see optimal fading and removal in a few short sessions.
Book your consultation for Laser tattoo removal
The first step in making an informed decision about tattoo removal is to meet with a qualified practitioner.
At Zapp Laser Studio, you will meet with one of our skin and laser specialists. They will assess your skin type, skin condition, and your tattoo.
We will also discuss your goals and talk you through the different laser treatment options.
You will also get a bespoke treatment plan that you can take away with you to decide whether laser tattoo removal is right for you.