Tattoo Removal

At Goldman Butterwick Fitzpatrick Groff & Fabi Cosmetic Laser Dermatology our doctors provide expert and cutting edge technology for San Diego tattoo removal.

Laser tattoo removal offers a safe and effective way to get rid of unwanted tattoos. Since we have multiple lasers for tattoo removal, we can effectively remove or fade tattoos of almost every color from black to red to green to blue. The type of laser used depends on color of the tattoo.

GBFG&F is pleased to house one of the ONLY PicoSure lasers in Southern California. The newly FDA approved PicoSure laser system is the most advanced tattoo removal treatment available, producing amazing results in fewer treatments!

We own the following tattoo removal lasers:

• PicoSure Laser
• Q-switched Alexandrite
• Q-switched Ruby
• Q-switched Nd:YAG

We are also one of the 1st offices in the country to use fractional CO2 lasers to remove tattoos:

• Fraxel Repair
• Deep FX

Watch a Laser Tattoo Removal Treatment

What Are the Benefits of Laser Tattoo Removal?

Laser tattoo removal techniques can remove your unwanted body art safely and with minimal side effects. Our doctors are able to remove your tattoo with techniques that are tailored to suite your individual case. Overall, laser tattoo removal is the least invasive and most effective method of removing a tattoo.

How Does Laser Tattoo Removal Work?

The laser emits a pulse of energy that passes through the top layers of the skin and is selectively absorbed by the tattoo ink. The laser energy causes the ink pigment to break down into smaller particles and is then  absorbed by the body. The laser safely and effectively removes the tattoo without damaging the surrounding skin.

Multiple treatments, generally 5-10 sessions, are required for laser tattoo removal in San Diego.  The amount of treatments needed depends on the size of the tattoo, the color, what type of ink was used, the tattoo’s location, and your skin color. Laser treatments are spaced out every 4-6 weeks for maximum tattoo removal results.

 Laser Tattoo Removal Frequently Asked Questions

How to remove a tattoo?

Laser energy is directed at the tattoo, passing harmlessly through the outer layers of the skin and directly targeting the tattoo ink.  The laser disrupts the ink, allowing your body to absorb it and break it down naturally and remove tattoo.

What types of tattoos can be removed?

We are able to remove any type of tattoo you have because we have various lasers. Different lasers are able to remove different colored tattoos. Our office is fully equipped with the lasers need to remove whatever colors, shape or size tattoo you have.

Are certain tattoos easier to remove than others?

Yes, certain colors respond quicker to laser tattoo removal. For example, black, red, dark orange, and dark blue are the easiest and fastest to removal.  Green, purple, brown, light orange and light blue may require more visits.  The depth of the tattoo will also determine how many treatments are needed, as well as the type of ink used. Lastly, your skin tone will play a part in how fast your tattoo responds to laser.  Lighter skin tones typically have a higher success rate.

How many laser removal treatments will I need?

During your consultation, one of our board-certified dermatologists will estimate the number of treatments you will need.  As every person is unique, every tattoo is unique, but most tattoos take between 5-10 treatments to remove, each 4-6 weeks apart.

Will the tattoo completely disappear?

In most cases, yes, the tattoo will completely disappear. The ability to completely remove a tattoo depends on several factors, including size, location, how long you have had it for, etc.

How much downtime is required after laser tattoo removal?

Tattoo removal aftercare is minimal. You are able to return to your daily activities immediately after the treatment. However, you should keep the treated out of the sun for a few days and wear a good sunscreen.

Will I have tattoo removal scars?

After the removal of tattoo most patients will not scar, however scarring is possible with any medical procedure.  Compliance with our detailed after-care instructions will reduce your chances of scarring.

Can I remove only part of a tattoo? 

Yes, our lasers are very accurate so we can remove just a portion of your tattoo if you wish.

Can I remove permanent make-up?

Yes. Cosmetic ink is different than the ink used in body tattoos, but we have the correct lasers to effectively remove permanent make-up tattoos.

Is laser tattoo removal painful?

The pain associated with removing a tattoo is very tolerable. Most patients describe the feeling as similar to a rubber band snapping on the skin. A numbing cream can be applied prior to the treatment. When our San Diego dermatologists treat a sensitive area, local anesthetic may be used.

Are there any side effects of laser tattoo removal?

Laser tattoo removal side effects are generally very minimal, but may include hyperpigmentation (an abundance of color in the skin around the treatment site) or hypopigmentation (treatment area becomes lighter than your normal skin color).

How much is tattoo removal?

Tattoo removal price varies from patient to patient and depends on the size, color and location of the tattoo. To find out how much the cost of tattoo removal will be for you, schedule a consultation with one of our cosmetic dermatologists.

More Tattoo Removal FAQs

Tattoo Removal Before and After Pictures

To see more before and after tattoo removal pictures see our photo gallery.

Tattoo Removal Videos

Dr. Goldman talks about laser tattoo removal on San Diego Fox 5.

Dr. Goldman performs tattoo removal on patient’s face.

Please contact Goldman Butterwick Fitzpatrick Groff & Fabi Cosmetic Laser Dermatology at 858.657.1002 for more information on laser tattoo removal and to schedule a consultation. We are located in the UTC area of San Diego, minutes from La Jolla, Del Mar, and Downtown San Diego.