What side effects might I experience with laser tattoo removal?

The most common side effects associated with laser tattoo removal includes discomfort and swelling. These occur fairly frequently but are easily alleviated with ice, rest, and elevation. Blistering is another acute side effect that can occur as well. Occasionally we will observe discoloration (both lightening and darkening of the skin) but in most cases this too is temporary and may be assisted with a bleaching cream. Very, very rarely laser tattoo removal patients will have tissue texture changes or scarring. I the vast majority of patients laser tattoo removal is well tolerated with minimal, temporary side effects.