Laser Tattoo Removal Aftercare
Advanced ENT and Facial Plastic Surgery offers state-of-the-art laser tattoo removal, which can help you get rid of unwanted ink and designs. Countless people in the Orange and Placentia, CA area have benefited from this safe and effective means of removing tattoos.
Dr. William C. Cohen tells his patients that proper aftercare helps ensure that the tattoo removal process goes by smoothly. Below are some basic guidelines for laser tattoo removal aftercare. We will provide more detailed day-to-day recovery information during the consultation process.
Aftercare Is an Ongoing Process During Laser Tattoo Removal
Keep in mind that multiple laser tattoo removal sessions are required to eliminate that unwanted ink. Patients should follow the aftercare instructions after each laser treatment session to achieve the most ideal outcomes from treatment.
Keep the Treated After Covered and Clean
After each laser tattoo removal session, it’s of the utmost importance that patients keep the treated area covered and clean for the first three days. That means applying antibiotic ointment to the treated area and keeping it covered with sterile gauze.
Common Side Effects After Laser Tattoo Removal
Some of the most common side effects after laser tattoo removal include:
- Discomfort around the treatment area
- Itchiness of the treatment area
- Blistering of the skin around the treated area
- Mild swelling
If you need to take a pain reliever to address discomfort, be sure to use Tylenol. Avoid aspirin as this can cause thinning blood, bleeding, and bruising around the treatment area.
To soothe discomfort and to manage swelling, consider the use of a cold compress applied to the sterile gauze. Keep the cold compress on for several minutes and leave it off for several minutes. Repeat as necessary.
Proper Cleaning and Hygiene of the Treated Area
Laser tattoo removal patients can take a shower roughly two-to-three hours after treatment. That said, it’s important for patients to avoid direct shower spray on the treated area. Use lukewarm-to-warm water while showering to avoid inflammation and irritation.
It’s also important for patients to avoid soaking the treated area in water until it has fully healed. Avoid baths, saunas, hot tubs, and swimming until you’re cleared to do so.
Do Not Pick at Scabs or Blisters
Blistering and scabbing are part of the recovery process and natural following treatment. Do not pick at scabs or pop blisters yourself. If you are irritated by them, simply apply a gentle moisturizer to the area, which relieves itching and irritation.
Attend Follow-Up Visits as Scheduled
Follow-up visits are scheduled after laser tattoo removal in order to monitor your recovery. Be sure to attend all of these visits when scheduled. We’ll be able to assess your situation and provide further recovery advice as the process continues.
Report Any Serious Side Effects ASAP
If you develop any serious side effects or have concerns about your recovery, feel free to contact us as soon as possible. We can offer immediate assistance to help prevent complications.
Learn More About Laser Tattoo Removal
For more information about laser tattoo removal and why it may be the right option for you and your needs, be sure to contact a skilled cosmetic dermatologist and skin care specialist. You can reach Advanced ENT and Facial Plastic Surgery in Orange by calling (714) 628-1313 and in Placentia by calling (714) 203-1320. We look forward to hearing from you.