LASER TATTOO REMOVAL

Medical Text Book Chapter On Laser Tattoo Removal

2012-01-18T17:27:00.000-08:00

Please see my newly released medical text book chapter on laser tattoo removal by clicking HERE!

Thanks, Modern Medicine!

2012-01-18T17:26:00.000-08:00

A big thanks to modern medicine for this flattering article. Read it HERE!

Please check out this new article on laser tattoo removal!

2012-01-18T17:23:00.000-08:00

Laser Tattoo Removal in the news!

MY OTHER BLOG SITE FOR LASER TATTOO REMOVAL

2011-04-19T11:26:00.000-07:00

Please make sure you check out my other blog site on laser tattoo removal by clicking HERE!

My other blog site (wwwEexpertWitnessLaserTattooRemoval.blogspot.com) is another great source of information on tattoo removal and it is specifically devoted to my service as an expert witness in legal cases invloving laser tattoo removal procedures.

TATTOO REMOVAL INFORMATION

2010-09-21T11:37:00.000-07:00

More and more, patients requesting tattoo removal are well educated about the process prior to actually getting treated. The question is, where can the best information on tattoo removal be obtained? While tattoo removal before and after pictures are a great start and very useful, some patients like to review medical articles on tattoo removal. Bottom line: There is a ton of information available on tattoo removal and getting accurate facts will make you an informed patient!

AMATEUR TATTOO REMOVAL

2010-08-31T09:35:00.000-07:00

Amateur tattoos are easier to remove than professional tattoos because there is usually less ink, that ink isn't deposited deeply and it is usually lower quality ink. To estimate the number of treatments you'll need please visit Dr. Tattoff. All of these factors mean fewer overall treatments. Some of the amateur inks that are used to create tattoos include pen ink, ground up or crushed pencil lead and ashes from burned newspaper. In these before and after photographs of amateur tattoo removal on the fingers the patnet clearly had an excellent clinical outcome.

SIDE EFFECTS OF TATTOO REMOVAL

2010-08-24T11:30:00.000-07:00

As the leading authority on tattoo removal I'm often asked about the side effects associated with the procedure. There is a fine line between expected unwanted side effects and true adverse events and patients often confuse the two. Expected side effects include pain, swelling, redness and occasionally blisters. We also see prolonged healing, temporary skin discoloration and some crusting at times as well. That said, we expect to see these types of reactions and inform the patients that they should be prepared to experience these things. True adverse events associated with tattoo removal are much more rare and include bacterial infections, giant blisters, permanent discoloration and scarring. the likelihood of having a true adverse event is less than one percent when treated properly. Thus, tattoo removal is considered a very safe procedure and is the gold standard means by which to removal a tattoo.

BEFORE AND AFTER TATTOO REMOVAL PICTURES

2010-08-11T12:06:00.000-07:00

Here is an excellent example of before and after pictures following tattoo removal. This patient was concerned with the orange color but as you can tell, it resolved very nicely. He received a total of six tattoo removal treatments. The first picture was take before his first treatment, the second picture was at his fourth treatment and the final photo was captured after his sixth laser treatment. To view more laser tattoo removal before and after pictures please click here or visit www.DrTattoff.com.

CLINICAL ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF DERMATOLOGY

2010-08-10T09:43:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to announce that I now proudly serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Western University of Health Science and as a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Dermatology, for Nova Southeastern University. Medical students, interns and residents can request rotations through their institution to be trained in dermatological procedures including surgery, cosmetic procedures and tattoo removal.

WHO SHOULD PERFORM TATTOO REMOVAL?

2010-08-10T09:21:00.000-07:00

Like nearly all medical procedures, proper tattoo removal treatment is a function of the experience of the practitioner. With proper supervision and protocols coupled with a good candidate and proper expectations, tattoo removal is the gold standard means by which to remove unwanted tattoo ink. Ideally the individual overseeing laser tattoo removal is a board certified dermatologist as these specialists receive specific training in conditions involving the skin. Feel free to follow this blog and send in any questions you have regarding tattoo removal or click on www.DrTattoff.com for more information!

ARTICLE ON TATTOO REMOVAL SIDE EFFECT: PARADOXICAL INK DARKENING

2010-06-07T13:19:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to announce the publication of a new article that describes paradoxical ink darkening that can occur during laser tattoo removal treatment. This phenomenon has been noted in white, yellow and now, pink tattoo ink. You can read this article on paradoxical ink darkening associated with laser tattoo removal by clicking on this orange link.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL EXPERTS

2010-02-22T15:53:00.000-08:00

Would you like to learn more about laser tattoo removal? The best way to be informed on a subject is to do your research and go to the experts- well Dr. Tattoff makes that easy for you! Please check out some ARTICLES PUBLISHED ON LASER TATTOO REMOVAL.

COST OF LASER TATTOO REMOVAL

2010-02-22T15:48:00.001-08:00

Many patients contact me with questions regarding the price of laser tattoo removal. As the industry leader in the field of laser tattoo removal, Dr. Tattoff helps you easily estimate the cost of treating your tattoo! Just check out our TATTOO REMOVAL COST page!

THE NUMBER OF TREATMENTS NEEDED TO REMOVE A TATTOO

2009-03-16T09:27:00.000-07:00

I'm very pleased to announce that an article I wrote entitled, " The Kirby - Desai Scale: A Proposed Scale to Assess Tattoo-removal Treatments" has been published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. The Kirby - Desai scale is the first study that quantifies the number of tattoo treatments needed to remove a tattoo. I suspect that it will be quickly adopted by all members of the medical community who offer laser tattoo removal services and its use during an initial consultation will become standard of care. To estimate the number of laser treatments you'll need to remove your tattoo please review the KIRBY-DESAI SCALE.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL VIDEO

2009-02-20T18:49:00.000-08:00

To see a great example to laser tattoo removal please watch this LASER TATTOO REMOVAL VIDEO! It was filmed in my Beverly Hills office today and it gives a good look at a typical patient experience. This patient choose not to use numbing cream so he experiences more discomfort than necessary.

OLD INK VS. NEW INK: WHICH IS EASIER TO REMOVE VIA THE LASER TATTOO REMOVAL PROCESS

2009-02-19T12:06:00.000-08:00

A question I occasionally get asked is, "Which is easier to treat, new ink or old ink?" Well, it seems that there is a benefit to having ink for a longer period of time. In many cases your body will attempt to break down ink on its own over time so your own immune system, given enough time, will very slowly help ink resolve. That said, it takes a really long time to make a difference - years in fact! So to properly answer the question I'll put it this way. If two twins received the exact same tattoo on their 18 birthday and one was treated on his 19th birthday while the other one waited until he was 80 years old. The twin that waited all those years would possibly need a few fewer treatments and would also possibly see faster resolution of his tattoo with each treatment. The bottom line is that very old tattoo probably respond a little faster to treatment but waiting and additional 50 years (or more!) is probably not a reasonable option. On the other side of the coin, as we age we can see a decrease in the efficiency of our immune system so it could be suggested that laser tattoo removal would not work as well in someone with advanced age. I tell patients that they should wait at last 8 weeks after getting their tattoos before they consider tattoo removal and that waiting a few extra months or even a few extra years will not make much of a difference in their overall experience with laser tattoo removal.

Dr. KIRBY

Q&A with Dr. WILL KIRBY from Dr. Tattoff about laser Tattoo Removal

2009-02-13T13:14:00.000-08:00

I recently participated in an interview regarding laser tattoo removal with 'About.com'. The actual article is a little too long to print here but just click on the link if you would like to read the entire article on LASER TATTOO REMOVAL! Best Regards, Dr. KIRBY

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE CASES INVOLVING LASER TATTOO REMOVAL (EXPERT WITNESS LASER TATTOO REMOVAL)

2009-01-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Having supervised thousands and thousands of laser tattoo removal procedures I am occasionally asked to serve as an expert witness in medical malpractice cases involving laser tattoo removal and tattoo removal procedures. I recently reviewed another malpractice case involving laser tattoo removal and was again reminded that patients (and many doctors) need more information on laser tattoo removal. I do my best to provide the most comprehensive, accurate, and up to date information available on laser tattoo removal and tattoo removal techniques through this blog so that individuals seeking tattoo removal services can educate themselves on the subject and avoid some of the adverse effects that I occasionally see as an expert witness in legal cases. As a board certified dermatologist and one of the leading authorities on laser tattoo removal I can be contacted regarding being MEDICAL EXPERT WITNESS FOR LASER TATTOO REMOVAL CASES. or calling Maureen at 310-659-5101, ext: 311 or e-mail KirbyDermatology@gmail.com.

Thank you,

Dr. Will Kirby

THE GOLD STANDARD OF TATTOO REMOVAL IS THE Q-SWITCHED LASER...

2008-12-08T12:35:00.000-08:00

In the November 2008 edition of Dermatologic Surgery magazine there is an article entitled, "Hypertrophic Scar After Chemical Tattoo Removal". The authors, Saini, et al, noted that, "there are various modalities for tattoo removal. The gold standard of tattoo removal is the Q-switched laser". The paper specifically discusses the Rejuvi Tattoo Removal System and they report on a patient who developed hypertrophic scars after treatment with this system. They go on to note that the chemical removal systems have been associated with "hypertrophic scar formation, hypopigmentation, and even full-thickness burns". Bottom line: The safest and most reliable way to remove a tattoo is via laser. I strongly suggest that my patients avoid chemical removal systems.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL LECTURE...

2008-12-07T09:47:00.000-08:00

As an authority on laser tattoo removal techniques I frequently give lectures and presentations on this subject. On December 12th, 2008 I'll be speaking at the 16th Annual World Congress on Anti-Aging Medicine at 6:30. The meeting is being held from December 11th to the 14th in Las Vegas and is schedule to be attended by over 6,000 participants. If you are in the Las Vegas area and have specific questions on Laser Tattoo Removal please feel free to attend my lecture!

Best Regards,

Dr. WILL KIRBY

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL... on "The Doctors"!

2008-11-20T15:10:00.000-08:00

I recently filmed an episode of "The Doctors" where I performed laser tattoo removal. The patient was an excellent candidate for the procedure and his results, although impressive, were typical for a black tattoo. Please watch this VIDEO ON LASER TATTOO REMOVAL.

Laser Tattoo Removal Guarantee!

2008-11-03T14:02:00.000-08:00

When you choose Dr. TATTOFF for laser tattoo removal, you can be confident that the results we promise are the results we deliver. If you complete the number of treatments we recommend and your tattoo ink is still visible, we will provide free additional laser tattoo removal treatments consistent with our medical protocols for a period of up to one year following your last paid treatment!

YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM AND LASER TATTOO REMOVAL

2008-10-29T10:36:00.001-07:00

Multiple factors contribute to the success of laser tattoo removal one of which is a patient's own immune system. As a result, a healthy patient will get the best results. Adequate hydration, eight hours of sleep a night, maintaining a health weight, eating a well balanced diet, exercise, and not smoking are just some of the factors that can help patients get great results. Additionally, although treatment on some patients with immune systems problems should be avoided (AIDS, untreated hepatitis, cancer, etc) some patients with underlying conditions (HIV patients with undetectable viral loads, hepatitis patients in remission, etc) can be successfully treated. To get excellent results from laser tattoo removal it is imperative that you provide accurate information on your intake paperwork, are honest with your health care team, and take great care of your immune system!

EXPERT WITNESS FOR MEDICAL MALPRACTICE CASES INVOLVING TATTOO REMOVAL (LASER TATTOO REMOVAL EXPERT WITNESS)

2008-10-24T18:50:00.001-07:00

Since I am a board certified dermatologist, have published articles on tattoo removal, have supervised tens of thousands of laser tattoo removal procedures, have laser tattoo removal articles currently pending publication and frequently speak at medical conferences on laser tattoo removal techniques, I am considered by many to be an authority on laser tattoo removal. As a result, I am occasionally contacted to serve as an expert witness on medical malpractice cases involving tattoo removal. Please allow me to remind you that the purpose of this blog is to provide you with the most up to date and accurate information regarding laser tattoo removal so you won't have to experience some of the less then ideal results that I see in malpractice cases. Please feel free to comment on any of my blog entries and I'll do my best to address your question or concern. To contact me about expert witness information on laser tattoo removal please CLICK HERE or call Maureen at 310-659-5101, ext: 311.

Best Regards,

Dr. WILL KIRBY

WHY LASERS ARE THE GOLD STANDARD FOR TATTOO REMOVAL...

2008-10-24T16:29:00.000-07:00

The patient in this picture went to a tattoo studio and inquired about having his tattoo removed. They informed him that they could tattoo a salt solution into his tattoo and it would be gone in three sessions. Three sessions later he presented to our clinic requesting information on laser tattoo remova l. As you can see, the strips where the tattoo was injected show crusting, scarring, and retained ink. In fact, the ink doesn't look lighter at all. Lasers are the gold standard for removing tattoos. Once he is completed healed from these injections we will discuss with him his other options including laser tattoo removal.

IS LASER TATTOO REMOVAL COVERED BY MY INSURANCE?

2008-10-24T08:58:00.000-07:00

Since laser tattoo removal is a cosmetic procedure insurance carriers and health plans will not cover the procedure. That said, the procedure is likely more affordable then you think. With prices as low as $39 per square inch, Dr. Tattoff offers multiple packages and plans to help patients remove their unwanted ink. Please www.Drtattoff.com to see pricing options and get an immediate on-line estimate as to how much you can expect to pay.

FREE TATTOO REMOVAL!

2008-10-21T09:29:00.001-07:00

From METRO MIX: "For the third time this year, on October 21st, Dr. Tattoff is having an open house. All day, from 8 a.m. till 8 p.m., you can get six square inches of deplorable tattoo removed for absolutely no charge. Sounds like an excellent alternative to Johnny Depp's old trick, where he just changed "Winona Forever" to "Wino Forever." But you don't have any old girlfriends' names tattooed on your body, do you? Nah, we thought you didn't."

OPERATION INK OFF!

2008-10-21T09:25:00.000-07:00

Another article from MetroMix regarding tattoo removal: "On October 21st, Take your unfortunate tramp stamp, impulsive tribal armband or cougar neck tattoo out to Encino, where Dr. Will Kirby (of Dr. 90210) and his Dr. Tattoff cohorts will bestow upon you a complementary session with their wand of second chances, also known as a laser. They’ll help you fade up to six square inches of regret, and since it’s free, you’ll be saving money you can allocate toward getting a new, larger tattoo of Paris Hilton on your chest!"

HOW DOES LASER TATTOO REMOVAL WORK?

2008-10-14T12:42:00.000-07:00

A Q-switched laser delivers very short pulses of high intensity light into the treated area. The term Q-Switched indicates that the laser is pulsed so quickly (billionths of a second) that it is able to dissolve the ink without destroying the live tissue in the process. The tattoo inks and pigments then selectively absorb the light dissolve into smaller ink particles that are harmlessly removed by the body's immune system in the weeks following treatment. For a more detailed explanation as to how tattoo removal works please visit www.Drtattoff.com.

WHY DO SOME TATTOOS TAKE LONGER TO FADE?

2008-10-13T09:26:00.000-07:00

There are many factors related to successful laser tattoo removal. Amount of ink, quality of ink, depth of ink, tattoo location, the length of time you have had the tattoo, ink color, and immune system status are just some of the things that can affect the amount of time needed to remove a tattoo. Multiple treatments are always needed and I recommend that you wait at least six weeks between treatments. Once you begin treatment you should follow the after care instructions and the recommendations of your clinic closely. Most tattoo are treatable but it's very important that you have realistic expectations and patience.

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE SEEKING TATTOO REMOVAL?

2008-10-12T15:47:00.000-07:00

2004 study estimated about a quarter of Americans had at least one tattoo, and among folks born between 1975 and 1986 the figure was 36 percent. One expert projects that eventually 40 percent of U.S. human bodies will sport at least one instance of epidermal art. Research suggests only 20 percent are dissatisfied with their markings, and just 6 percent actually seek to get them removed.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL BEFORE AND AFTER PICTURES...

2008-10-11T10:30:00.000-07:00

One of the most common requests I get from new patients is to view before and after pictures. We take pictures at every single treatment but we only make these available for others to see with a patient's permission. Needless to say, because many patients are trying to erase the past they never want their old tattoo to see the light of day. That said, many patients are so thrilled that their tattoo is gone that they are more then happy to make their wonderful results know. Please CLICK HERE to see laser tattoo removal before and after pictures.

TATTOO REMOVAL FACTS!

2008-10-09T16:23:00.000-07:00

Tattoo removal has been around for a really, really long time... The first earthly prescription for tattoo removal is from the Byzantine physician Aetius who wrote, "First clean the stigmata with niter, smear them with resin of terebing, and bandage for five days". Surgeon Lionel Wafer described an attempt to remove a tattoo from the face of one of his companions during his travels in the mid-1600s. In 1879, the Daily Democrat of Sedalia, Mo., ran a story titled, "In a Bad Fix", which describes the plight of a jilted society woman who¹d had her former lovers name tattooed on her leg.

OPERATION INK OFF!

2008-10-09T16:10:00.000-07:00

We try to make laser tattoo removal very affordable and offer different payment plans but on certain occasions a particular patient can't afford treatment. Luckily for them, a few times a year we offer our services for free. Yep, that's right... patients who can't afford laser tattoo removal can come to see us on selected days and we'll treat their tattoo at no charge. It seems that so of us, myself included, are so concerned with our financial well being that we forget to give back to those less fortunate. Needless to say, I'm very proud of Operation Ink Off! It's a great feeling to help someone in need. To watch a video of the first Operation Ink Off please visit www.DrTattoff.com.

CAN I JUST HAVE A SMALL PORTION OF MY TATTOO REMOVED?

2008-10-08T10:24:00.000-07:00

Most patients want their entire tattoo removed but some only want a portion to disappear. As an example, I had a patient who had a beautiful piece of art but it contained an the name of his ex-girlfriend. Needless to say, we just wanted the name removed. An experienced laser operator can be very detailed and precise in their laser tattoo removal treatment. Fairly often, a tattoo artist will bring a client to me and show me exactly what small portion of a tattoo they want removed so that it can later be corrected with new ink. My recommendation for someone seeking to have just a small portion of a tattoo removed should go to a clinic that has significant experience and is recommend by tattoo artists.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL VIDEO

2008-10-08T10:20:00.000-07:00

Please CLICK HERE to watch another video of laser tattoo removal! This clip was feature on Fox News. To see more laser tattoo removal videos please click here.

HOW SOON AFTER GETTING A TATTOO CAN I START LASER TATTOO REMOVAL?

2008-10-06T09:15:00.000-07:00

On average the skin cell cycle is 35 to 57 days. As a result, you would need, at the very minimum, 35 days between the time of getting a tattoo and getting it removed. That said, most dermatologists including myself note that 35 days refers to healthy normal skin (not tattooed skin). Needless to say, industry professionals feel that at least 6 weeks is needed before you can start getting a tattoo removed. This 6 week period is also the recommended the amount of time needed between laser tattoo removal treatments. Treating ink too early or too frequently only raises the risk of adverse side effects and doesn't help remove a tattoo any faster.

TATTOO REMOVAL FACT!

2008-10-05T15:55:00.000-07:00

A 2004 study estimated about a quarter of Americans had at least one tattoo, and among folks born between 1975 and 1986 the figure was 36 percent. One expert projects that eventually 40 percent of U.S. human bodies will sport at least one instance of epidermal art. Research suggests only 20 percent are dissatisfied with their markings, and just 6 percent actually seek to get them removed!

What side effects might I experience with laser tattoo removal?

2008-10-04T16:01:00.000-07:00

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.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL VIDEO ON BLAKE LEWIS FROM AMERICAN IDOL

2008-10-03T10:38:00.000-07:00

To watch a TMZ video of Blake Lewis from 'American Idol' getting laser tattoo removal in Beverly Hills please CLICK HERE. I'll be the first to admit that the video is rather cheesy but you can clearly see that he is going to get great results from his treatment!

TATTOO REMOVAL FOR MILITARY PERSONNEL...

2008-10-03T10:31:00.000-07:00

I'm seeing more patients seeking laser tattoo removal who are participants in the armed forces or interested in joining. It seems that the military is becoming more strict in what type of tattoo they allow. In fact, Jennifer L. Bean of The News-Sentinel reported the following: Although getting a tattoo in the military was once almost a rite of passage, the armed forces now have new rules. For example, Marines cannot have tattoos on their head or neck or sleeve tattoos, which are large tattoos or groups of tattoos on the lower arm. Tattoos on the upper arm or the leg that are visible when wearing military-issued T-shirts and shorts are also prohibited. Military personnel already in the service and who have tattoos in those locations can keep them if they have documentation the tattoo existed before April 1, 2007. Army regulations prohibit tattoos on the head or face, except for permanent makeup such as eyebrows or fill-in lip color. Two years ago, the Army began allowing tattoos on the backs of hands and necks. Navy regulations are less restrictive, stating a tattoo that is “obscene, sexually explicit or advocates discrimination of any sort is prohibited.” Otherwise, it considers content, size and location of tattoos on a case-by-case basis.

HOW MUCH DOES LASER TATTOO REMOVAL COST?

2008-10-02T20:20:00.001-07:00

One of the reasons that the cost of laser tattoo removal has gone down in the last few years is because there are more places are now offering this service. That said, when a new clinic offers a really low price they may have have little experience, old equipment, or even a laser that's not indicated to treat ink! On the flip side, when a facility has really high prices you may just be paying for the doctor's time and there's no guarantee that they are any better then the fly-by-nightmedspa. Ultimately, just like any purchase in life, you should research the laser tattoo removal clinic and see what kind of reputation they have in the community. Prices can range greatly but to get a really accurate estimate of the cost of laser tattoo removal please CLICK HERE.

FUN TATTOO REMOVAL FACT...

2008-10-01T20:03:00.000-07:00

The earliest description of tattoo removal is from a Greek inscription at the sanctuary of Asclepius of Epidaurus (400 BC) which tells of Pandarus, who had tattoos removed from his forehead with the help of the gods!

HOW LASER TATTOO REMOVAL WORKS...

2008-10-01T11:27:00.000-07:00

One of the most common questions asked is, "how does laser tattoo removal work?" Well, it's a relatively complex process called selective photothermolysis. When I teach laser tattoo removal to nurses, interns, residents, and other physicians I go into specific detail but most patients want to keep the explanation simple. I usually have them watch THIS VIDEO.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL ON 'INSIDE EDITION'...

2008-09-30T10:15:00.000-07:00

Please CLICK HERE to watch another video of laser tattoo removal from 'Inside Edition'.

MORE LASER TATTOO REMOVAL INFO IN THE NEWS...

2008-09-29T09:02:00.000-07:00

From "YOU Magazine":

While they technically don't fall under the category of skin damage, the subject of tattoos is a familiar one for Dr. Kirby. Considered to be one of the leading experts in tattoo removal, Dr. Kirby serves as medical director for the three Dr. Tattoff clinics within southern California. His clinics are responsible for more tattoo removals than anywhere in the country."There are countless reasons why a patient wants their tattoo removed," he begins. Foremost, many patients regret what they received. It can be anything from a former spouse's name to a tattoo that was done badly, or no longer suits the recipient's taste. "Fraternity letters, Asian symbols, tribal art, and cartoon characters are recurring themes for many of the tattoos I remove," he says, adding that many times the patient doesn't want the tattoo completely removed, but simply lightened so a cover up tattoo can be placed over it. When asked about the treatment itself, Dr. Kirby told us that it starts with a laser that has the ability to destroy ink pigments. He likens it to using a hammer to smash a piece of glass. Once the ink has been "shattered", our immune system does the rest and the ink starts to fade. Dr. Kirby says that most tattoos can be removed with 5 to 15 treatments. Much, however, depends on the amount of ink, the color of the ink, the location of the tattoo, and the quality of the patient's immune system. Since pain is an issue commonly associated with tattoo removal we asked the doctor for his honest opinion on the subject. "It's uncomfortable but definitely tolerable," he claims. Dr. Kirby explained that he starts off all tattoo removal procedures by applying a topical numbing cream over the tattoo. The good news he says is that the procedure itself is very fast. He does admit, however, that the amount of ink in the tattoo, as well as where it is placed, has a lot to do with the level of discomfort during its removal. Another bit of good news is the price. We were surprised to find out that Dr. Kirby charges only $39 per square inch (per treatment). A fairly affordable cost when you think about the end result.Dr. Kirby's last bit of advice on the subject of tattoos – "If you're going to get one, get it in black ink, have it professionally done, and keep it in the upper portion of the body." These three factors along with one state-of-the-art laser allow for much easier removal if the need arises.

DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT LASER TATTOO REMOVAL FOR THE DOCTOR?

2008-09-28T10:58:00.000-07:00

Please feel free to comment on specific posts or ask any question regarding tattoo removal that you like. Skin & Aging magazine has recognized me as the "leading authority on the art and science of laser tattoo removal" and I'll do my best to get an accurate answer for you!

Sincerely,

Dr. KIRBY

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL IN THE NEWS...

2008-09-27T08:31:00.000-07:00

Here's an article that ran in today's newspapers:

Tattoos needn't be forever
By Leo Smith, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 09/26/2008

Maybe it's a cute little drawing of the Tasmanian Devil hiding on the inside of the left forearm. Or maybe it's the name of an ex-lover scrawled shoulder to shoulder across the back. Whatever the case, some people with tattoos are just ready to get rid of them. "There are so many different reasons," said Dr. Will Kirby, a certified dermatologist who is medical director of the Dr. Tattoff tattoo removal chain. "About 70 percent of my patients are female, and we treat hundreds of patients a week. Women are generally more aesthetically concerned than men. A man with an ugly tattoo is less concerned and also, I think, a man with an ugly tattoo is less stigmatized." Dr. Tattoff has offices in Encino, Beverly Hills and Irvine. It's the Encino office that will be holding an Ink-Off event from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 21, providing free tattoo removal treatments on a first-come, first-served basis. Clients can have up to 6 square inches of tattoo treated. The service generally costs $39 per square inch and can take five to 15 sessions for complete removal. Tattoo removal has been around since the '80s, said Kirby, winner of CBS' "Big Brother" reality show in 2001 and now a regular on the E! network's "Dr. 90210." But it's only been within the past seven years or so that advanced laser technology has made it commonplace. "For ink to become permanent, it has to be in the middle layer of skin, the dermis," Kirby said. "And what laser technology does, is the laser light enters the skin and basically fragments the ink. It allows the body to digest the ink on its own, as it would any foreign substance." Clients generally have the area numbed prior to the procedure, a process that can take about 30 minutes. But the treatments themselves are quick - about 30 seconds per square inch, Kirby said. The number of sessions required depends on a variety of factors, including skin type, the location of the tattoo and the quality of the ink used. Black ink is easiest to remove, Kirby said, and tattoos done by amateurs also can be easier to eliminate. "Typically, when people go to a professional artist, they have more than one color, they have bright colors," he said. "They're meant to be permanent. As a result, they are more challenging." Kirby plans to have three Ink-Off events a year, one in each Dr. Tattoff location. Clients can attend more than one Ink-Off if follow-up treatments are unaffordable.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL ON TELEVISION...

2008-09-26T09:58:00.000-07:00

Please visit www.DrTattoff.com to watch a brief but very informative segment about tattoo removal in the news. To see even more videos of laser tattoo removal procedures please CLICK HERE.

DANNY BONADUCE GETTING A TATTOO REMOVED...

2008-09-25T10:42:00.000-07:00

One of the best ways to understand the laser tattoo removal experience is to watch a procedure. If you would like to view a video of Danny Bonaduce getting his wedding ring tattoo removed please visit www.DrTattoff.com.

WHAT DETERMINES THE SUCCESS OF LASER TATTOO REMOVAL?

2008-09-25T10:32:00.001-07:00

A number of factors come in to play when determining how successful a laser tattoo removal procedure will be. These include skin type, location of tattoo, colors involved, quality and quantity of ink, the age of the tattoo, the patient's own immune system. Multiple treatments are always needed to remove a tattoo and a clinic with experience can usually give you an accurate number of treatments you'll need when you get an initial consultation.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL ON 'Dr. 90210'...

2008-09-24T17:14:00.000-07:00

An attractive model from NBC's 'Deal or No Deal' came to see me because of a tattoo on her lower back... Please CLICK HERE to watch her laser tattoo removal on an episode of E! Entertainment Television's 'Dr. 90210'.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL ON 'LA INK'...

2008-09-23T17:11:00.000-07:00

If you'd like to watch one of my favorite patients, Pixie, undergo laser tattoo removal on an episode of TLC's 'LA INK' please CLICK HERE! She had so much beautiful artwork I was almost sad to see it go... until she informed me that she was making room for new ink!

ANOTHER BEFORE & AFTER LASER TATTOO REMOVAL PICTURE...

2008-09-22T16:57:00.000-07:00

Here is another set of before and after pictures. As you can see, this patient had a dragon tattoo on his right shoulder after a few treatments it is nearly gone. He likely needs just one more treatment to make it completely disappear. For more before and after pictures from laser tattoo removal treatment CLICK HERE!

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER LASER TATTOO REMOVAL?

2008-09-21T12:14:00.000-07:00

The treated area will often appear red as it were sunburnt with swelling. Occasionally patients will experience pin-point bleeding as well. After a few days bruising may develop. These side effects are very common and can be minimized with elevation and off-and-on icing. Blisters are seen approximately 10% of the time and are more common on distal extremities. Antibiotics are rarely needed for any of these side effects as laser tattoo removal is a relatively sterile procedure; Unlike traditional surgery, in laser tattoo removal only laser light enters the skin. Specific after care instructions should be given to each patient after their treatment. To reduce the risk of side effects associated with laser tattoo removal, carefully follow all of your clinic's instructions, before and after your next treatment.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL OF BLACK TATTOO INK...

2008-09-20T11:58:00.000-07:00

Black, carbon based, tattoo ink is the easiest ink to remove via laser tattoo removal. This patient needed just a few treatments to get an excellent result. We recommend shaving prior to starting laser treatments but as you can see in the "after" picture, the hair grows back...

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL ON THE SCALP...

2008-09-19T11:06:00.000-07:00

The scalp, much like the neck and face, responds very well to laser tattoo removal because it is so vascular and has excellent lymphatic drainage. Here is a picture of a patient who is having a tattoo removed from his scalp. He probably needs just one or two more treatments.

DO TATTOO REMOVAL CREAMS WORK?

2008-09-17T13:28:00.000-07:00

A dermatologist from the Mayo Clinic who I respect by the name of Dr. Lawerence Gibson said this about tattoo removal creams: "...there's no evidence that they work. At best, tattoo removal cream may fade or lighten a tattoo. The tattoo will remain visible, however, and skin irritation and other reactions are possible... if you're interested in tattoo removal, don't attempt it on your own. Ask your dermatologist about laser surgery." I completely agree with Dr. Gibson. I often get questions about "Wrecking Balm", "Ink Busters", "Tat B Gone" and other at-home, tattoo fade systems. Candidly, they do not offer the results they claim. Patients who use these kits have ink retention and adverse side effects. Laser tattoo removal is the gold standard for removing tattoos.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL BEFORE AND AFTER PICTURES...

2008-09-15T11:23:00.000-07:00

One of the clinic staff members offered to get our logo tattooed on his arm and then removed to prove how effective laser tattoo removal is. Here are two of his photos and you can view all of them all by clicking here.

HOW LONG SHOULD I WAIT BETWEEN LASER TATTOO TREATMENTS?

2008-09-14T09:42:00.000-07:00

I highly recommend that patients wait at least six weeks between laser tattoo removal treatments. As with all medical procedures there is a very specific reason for this. Skin cells are constantly sloughing off and dying and although there are many factors that play in to cellular turnover, the time necessary for a skin cell to be "born" and the "die" is approximately 35 to 57 days. Needless to say, you'll need at least this much time to heal up between treatments. Occasionally I'll recommend that patients wait eight weeks or even longer depending on their results. Treating more frequently than six weeks doesn't speed up the laser tattoo removal process and in fact, it makes you more vulnerable to discoloration and other adverse side effects.

ALLERGIC REACTION TO TATTOO INK...

2008-09-13T16:23:00.000-07:00

A few times a month a patient will present with a new skin condition that arose after getting a tattoo. The most common complaint they have is itching but I have seen some cases so severe that it appeared verroucous, or "wart like". Some patients will tell me that their new ink caused "eczema". Occasionally I'll have to take a biopsy to rule out psoriasis or sarcoidosis but the vast majority of time theses cases do prove to be an allergy to the tattoo ink. I have seen allergies to blue (Cobalt) , green (Chromium), purple (Manganese) and yellow (Cadmium sulfide) colors but the most common color associated with tattoo ink allergies is red (Mercury). Patients with tattoo ink allergies are not candidates for laser tattoo removal and instead have to use topical therapies or have the tattoo surgically excised. Here are some pictures of tattoo ink allergies:

ALLERGIC REACTIONS TO TATTOO INK

CELEBRITY LASER TATTOO REMOVAL CLIENTS...

2008-09-12T11:57:00.000-07:00

I frequently receive inquiries regarding laser tattoo removal treatments for celebrity patients. While many patients who work in the entertainment industry visit us during normal office hours, some high profile individuals request that they have privacy so that other patients and the media won't know they are having their tattoo removed. Our offices are completely HIPPA compliant and we take every step possible to ensure patient privacy but due to the high visibility of some patients we do offer "Private VIP" laser tattoo removal sessions. These appointments take place either before or after normal office hours. The only individuals present will be myself, a nurse, and a front office staff member. There is an additional fee for these types of appointments which is typically twice our normal rate as well as a minimum charge. If you are interested in booking a private laser tattoo removal session please call Monya in Beverly Hills at 310-659-5101 or CLICK HERE.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL IN VASCULAR AREAS...

2008-09-10T09:16:00.000-07:00

Tattoos located in very vascular areas (like the face, neck, scalp, etc) often respond to laser tattoo removal very well. Here is a picture of a patient of mine who had an ex-lover's name on the posterior portion of his neck. After just a few laser tattoo removal treatments he was very pleased. If this exact same tattoo was located on a more distal area (foot, hand, ankle, etc) it would take more treatments to remove. It is important to realize that tattoo location has a great deal to do with how fast tattoo ink will disappear.

AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS FOR LASER TATTOO REMOVAL...

2008-09-06T16:01:00.000-07:00

When patients present to my clinic requesting laser tattoo removal I try to make them understand how important proper aftercare is. In fact, all of my patients leave with very specific printed instructions because how the patient cares for the treated area is nearly as important as the treatment itself. Below you'll see is a "before & after" photos from a patient with a tattoo on the ring finger. With proper treatment, and excellent aftercare, an exceptional result was obtained with just a few treatments. There is minimal hyperpigmentation seen in the "after" photo that will resolve completely over time...

BEFORE AFTER

CHOOSING THE RIGHT LASER TATTOO REMOVAL CLINIC OR CENTER...

2008-09-05T16:19:00.000-07:00

Finding the right place to get treated can be a daunting task. Often in life the simplest answer is the best answer and that is definitely true in this instance: Go to the laser tattoo removal clinic in your area that has the most experience removing tattoos with lasers! Sure you can get a good deal at a med-spa but you get what you pay for and if a facility isn't using new, properly calibrated equipment then you'll likely need more treatments in the long run. Ask how many tattoo removal treatments they do a day, find out what equipment they use, see how long they have been in business, and research their reputation in the community.

DOES LASER TATTOO REMOVAL HURT?

2008-09-04T16:40:00.000-07:00

Quite frankly, yes, laser tattoo removal can be uncomfortable. It's important to remember that pain is very personal and everyone experiences it differently. Also, the good news is that there are a number of different means by which we make the process very tolerable: Prior to your treatment, you can numb the area with a high-power topical anesthetic cream mixture. Additionally, at my clinics, as we treat the area, we cool the overlying skin with our Zimmer Cryo 5 skin cooler, resulting in additional anesthesia. This device is used to minimize pain during laser tattoo removal by providing temporary topical relief. Always ask your clinic if they have a "Zimmer". Lastly, I rarely provide anesthetic injections. Of course using injections will numb the area completely, but because so much fluid is infused into the area it may add many additional treatments in the long run.

SPECIFICALLY, HOW DOES LASER TATTOO REMOVAL WORK?

2008-08-04T12:55:00.000-07:00

While many patients just want to know the best treatment, I do get a lot of people (frequently other physicians) asking how the laser tattoo removal process works specifically. While the mechanism of action can be rather complex I try to make the explanation as simple as possible so I always refer them to this webpage called "All About Laser Tattoo Removal". I am the medical director for

that laser tattoo removal company, Dr. TATTOFF, and there is a wealth of information about laser tattoo removal on www.drtattoff.com.

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS...

2008-07-04T12:18:00.000-07:00

There is so much erroneous information out there about laser tattoo removaland the vast number of patients just want to be educated on this process. Click Here to view the the 15 most frequently asked questions (and my answers).

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL VIDEOS...

2008-06-04T11:22:00.000-07:00

I treat a number of celebrity clients for laser tattoo removal and while most have requested to remain anonymous, some are very open about having their laser tattoo removal treatment known! A few of my videos are posted on the left side of this blog but to see 18 different laser tattoo removal videos (including those featuring some celebrity patients) please Click Here!

LASER TATTOO REMOVAL LECTURES AND PRESENTATIONS...

2008-05-04T10:52:00.000-07:00

As a recognized expert in the field of laser tattoo removal and laser technology I am frequently invited to give lectures on laser tattoo removal and I'll be providing updates regarding my speaking schedule so that you can attend the lecture in person and ask questions. My next lecture will be on October 26th at 5:00 pm at The Venetian Resort Hotel in Las Vegas. The specific meeting is the 2008 AOA 113th Annual Convention and Scientific Seminar. The lecture will be attended by physicians from all over the country and is sponsored by Hoya Con Bio, the manufacturer of the MedLite C-6 and the Rev-Lite. Please feel free to attend this presentation.

MEDICAL JOURNAL ARTICLES ON TATTOO REMOVAL TECHNIQUES...

2008-04-04T10:23:00.000-07:00

I'm rather new to this whole blogging thing so I apologize that I couldn't attach these articles directly. Just click the link below and then you can download both articles (they are located about half way down my bio page on the following link ). I highly recommend that anyone with questions on tattoo removal techniques and laser tattoo removal review both of these articles:

Medical Journal Articles on Laser Tattoo Removal

WHY LASERS ARE THE GOLD STANDARD FOR TATTOO REMOVAL...

2008-03-04T09:50:00.000-08:00

As one of the physicians on E! Entertainment Television's "Dr. 90210" I am frequently presented with difficult patient cases. These photos were sent to me recently. This attractive young woman underwent dermabrasion (not micro-dermabrasion and not laser treatment) for tattoo removal. As you can tell, the results were less then ideal. Laser tattoo removal offers the most effective means by which to remove tattoos but unfortunately this patient choose an alternative method. Dermabrasion can obviously leave significant hypertrophic scarring...

HOW MUCH SHOULD LASER TATTOO REMOVAL COST?

2008-02-03T16:34:00.000-08:00

Prices for laser tattoo removal vary from city to city and clinic to clinic. Traditionally, private dermatologists will charge more as their time is valuable. Med-spas often offer cheaper prices but they may not have enough experience to offer quality results. It's important to note that price doesn't necessarily equate to experience or equipment quality. Please click on this link to see what I charge: PRICES AND COST OF LASER TATTOO REMOVAL.

WELCOME TO THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR LASER TATTOO REMOVAL INFORMATION!

2008-01-15T09:36:00.000-08:00

Thank you for your interest in learning more about laser tattoo removal, tattoo removal techniques, the cost of laser tattoo removal, and what to look for in a laser tattoo removal center! As an leader in this field I'm excited to provide you with as much information as possible. I hope you find this blog useful and I'm always at your service so please feel free to comment on any post here and I'll do my best to answer your laser tattoo removal questions.

Best Regards,

Dr. WILL KIRBY