when I thought about getting a tattoo in the early 2000s, everything seemed perfect and I thought it would be far from a negative development. but time was not kind and it went from a positive message to a meaningless blur that got lost in the middle of my back. after years of procrastination, I decided to take the plunge and go to my referral clinic in all that is concern with rejuvenation and aesthetic in lisbon and ask to have it removed. I spoke with dr. ana cristina santos silva, pharmacist and founder of the avenue clinic, and dermatologist dr. bernardo pimentel. I asked all the basic questions and some more detailed ones, and began the procedure to remove my old tattoo.
image 1. the reason of my regret
what is the best treatment for tattoo removal?
the best treatment for tattoo removal today is laser therapy, specifically the q-switched (nanosecond and picosecond) laser. this type of laser is able to emit very short, intense pulses of light that are absorbed by the tattoo pigment, breaking it down into smaller particles that can be eliminated by the body's immune system. currently, the most advanced technology in this area is the picosecond laser. and even within this category, I would highlight the PicoSurePro (Cynosure ™️) as the most complete, especially for certain colors such as blue.
how many sessions are needed to remove a tattoo?
the number of sessions required to remove a tattoo varies greatly depending on factors such as the age of the tattoo, the colors used, the depth of the ink in the skin, and the individual's skin type. on average, a series of 3 to 10 sessions may be required, with approximately 6 to 8 weeks between each session.
what is the average cost of tattoo removal?
the average cost to remove a tattoo also varies greatly depending on the size and complexity of the tattoo, as well as the geographic region and the professional chosen. as a guide, each session can cost between 100 and 500 euros, but this should be confirmed with your chosen professional.
will I have marks or scars after the removal?
regarding the formation of marks or scars after the removal of a tattoo, it is possible that there may be some degree of change in the pigmentation or texture of the skin. however, if the treatment is performed by a qualified professional and all post-treatment instructions are followed, the risk of significant scarring is minimized. depending on the characteristics of the tattoo and the color of the patient's skin, there may be a whitish shadow that outlines the previous tattoo, which will improve over time.
image 2. after only one session of PicoSurePro (Cynosure ™️) at avenue clinic
want to know the truth? it hurts! but it comes off, and it's safe and effective. so I think the topical anesthetic and the relief of not having that blur outweigh any momentary pain. off course all the comfort and security of being advised with the best that I already know from previous treatments. and of course in a space avenue clinic that values how the patient feels and with very recent equipment and technology. in a few days I'll be back for another session, and even though it's bittersweet I know that the faces (thank you dra. ana cristina, dr. bernardo e dra. solange) will always be marvellous.
li furtado is the founder and creative director of CINCO. born in '82 in alentejo, portugal she graduated in geography from the university of coimbra. after working for 10 years as a consultant, she quit her job to follow her dream and love for fashion. with a creative and restless mind, she is driven by new ideas and her focus is to always have time to enjoy life with her family.
