Key Takeaways
- Laser tattoo removal at Venia in Coeur d’Alene provides successful results. Almost all tattoos can be removed; however, the more complicated ones take more time and require more treatments.
- Treatment costs in Coeur d’Alene vary per session and depend on tattoo size, color, complexity, and the required number of sessions.
- How PicoWay laser tattoo removal works
- The tattoo removal process
- Professional medical provider Venia, in Coeur d’Alene’s board-certified physician, Dr. Douglas Stafford, performs all treatments following hospital-grade safety standards and comprehensive aftercare support for optimal results
- Recovery typically involves 2-3 days of redness, 24-48 hours of swelling, and requires following specific aftercare instructions for 4-6 weeks to ensure the best outcomes
Didn’t think before you inked? Do you have regrets about that tattoo you got years ago? Many people do and choose to remove their tattoos for personal or professional reasons. Modern technology, such as Candella PicoWay, makes it possible with an easy, safe, and effective procedure.
Dr. Stafford at Venia, has been removing patient’s tattoos and helping patients in Coeur d’Alene and the Inland Northwest transform their appearance using Candella PicoWay laser removal treatment in since 2004. Dr Stafford has removed 100s of tattoos and has performed over 1,000 procedures.
Tattoo removal has become a highly requested service at Venia as more people seek ways to refresh and regain confidence in their skin. Whether you’re looking to completely remove a tattoo or fade it for a cover-up, there is a solution available in North Idaho at Venia.
Understanding Candella PicoWay Tattoo Removal Option at Venia in Coeur d’Alene
Dr. Stafford can easily erase your ink using the PicoWay® Laser tattoo removal treatment. PicoWay is an innovative three wavelength picosecond laser that enables the removal of multi-colored tattoos, recalcitrant tattoos and benign pigmented lesions on any skin type. PicoWay’s unique technology delivers ultra-short picosecond pulses of energy to the tissue. This concentrated energy breaks the targeted ink area into miniscule particles that the body can absorb and eliminate naturally.
Venia – the Top Tattoo Removal Clinic in Coeur d’Alene
Venia offers tattoo removal in a medical clinic environment in Coeur d’Alene and the Inland Northwest. Utilizing state-of-the-art laser technology, all procedures are performed by board-certified physician Dr. Douglas Stafford ensuring safe, effective tattoo removal treatments based on individual needs The office maintains strict medical standards, advanced sterilization protocols for equipment, emergency response capabilities and offers other treatments and services.
The Tattoo Removal Process
Tattoo removal follows a structured process that starts with a thorough evaluation and progresses through multiple treatment sessions. Understanding each step helps create realistic expectations for the removal journey.
Initial Consultation and Assessment
A comprehensive consultation begins with examining the tattoo’s characteristics including size, color, depth, age and location. The evaluation identifies factors affecting treatment success such as ink types and colors and skin tone. During this assessment Dr. Stafford prepares a customized treatment plan documenting the tattoo through photos measuring its dimensions noting any unique qualities requiring special attention.
Number of Sessions Needed
The total number of sessions varies based on specific tattoo characteristics. Professional tattoos typically require an average of 6 to 12 sessions while amateur tattoos need on average 4 to 8 sessions. Treatment sessions occur at 6-to-8-week intervals allowing the body to process removed ink particles.
Treatment progress depends on:
- Ink density concentration
- Previous tattoo modifications
- Patient’s immune system response
- Skin healing capabilities
- Adherence to aftercare instructions
Each session builds upon previous treatments maximizing ink removal effectiveness.
Recovery and Aftercare Tips
Proper aftercare maximizes tattoo removal results while minimizing potential side effects. Following specific post-treatment guidelines reduces recovery time and improves overall outcomes.
Post-Treatment Care Instructions
- Keep the treated area clean and dry for 24 hours
- Apply cold compresses for 10-15 minutes every 2 hours to reduce swelling
- Use prescribed antibiotic ointment 3 times daily for 3 days
- Avoid direct sun exposure on the treated area for 4-6 weeks
- Skip swimming pools, hot tubs saunas for 7 days
- Wear loose clothing over the treated area
- Skip intense exercise for 48 hours post-treatment
Common Side Effects Include:
- Redness lasting 2-3 days
- Mild swelling for 24-48 hours
- Temporary skin whitening
- Light scabbing for 5-7 days
- Blistering
More to Understand
Types of Treatments Available
(Note: Venia Only Utilizes the Candella PicoWay Laser)
Laser Therapy uses focused beams of light to break down tattoo ink particles into smaller pieces that the body can then absorb and remove.
Surgical Excision is when a surgeon cuts out the tattooed skin and stitches the remaining skin together. This method is best for small tattoos and may not be suitable for large areas. Scarring is a potential outcome.
Dermabrasion uses a motorized tool to “sand” away the top layers of skin containing tattoo ink and can be painful and less precise than laser therapy.
Chemical Peels use acid-based solutions to peel away the top layers of skin. This method can be unpredictable and painful, with the potential for severe skin damage and scars.
Tattoo Removal Creams are available but are generally not as effective as other therapies.
Treatment Costs
Treatment costs vary based on tattoo size, color intensity, and required sessions.
Choosing the Right Provider
Selecting a qualified tattoo removal provider impacts your treatment success rate and safety. Medical facilities in Coeur d’Alene offer advanced technology combined with experienced professionals to deliver optimal results.
Certification and Experience
Board-certified physicians possess specialized training in laser treatments and skin care procedures. Medical professionals with 10+ years of experience demonstrate a proven track record in performing successful treatments. Look for providers who:
- Maintain current state medical licenses
- Complete ongoing laser safety training
- Document extensive procedure experience
- Demonstrate expertise with different skin types
- Use FDA-approved laser equipment
- Follow strict sterilization protocols
Patient Reviews and Success Stories
Patient feedback reveals important insights about a provider’s skill level and service quality. Key indicators include:
- Before and after photos showing progressive fading
- Detailed treatment documentation
- Pain management effectiveness
- Healing time reports
- Post-treatment care support
- Communication clarity
- Scheduling flexibility
- Facility cleanliness standards
- Track their success rates
- Share authentic patient testimonials
- Provide free consultations
- Explain realistic timelines
- Discuss potential outcomes openly
- Create customized treatment plans
- Monitor progress consistently
- Address concerns promptly
Conclusion
Ready to start again, refreshed? Remove your tattoo with Dr. Douglas Stafford at Venia in Coeur d’Alene. With the PicoWave advanced laser technology coupled with Dr. Stafford’s expertise, removing your unwanted tattoos is easy. Understanding that removing unwanted tattoos is a personal decision and Venia is here to support you every step of the way.
Whether you’re looking for complete removal or fading for a cover-up, we’ll create a customized treatment plan that fits your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward achieving your desired results. With our proven track record and commitment to patient care, you can feel confident you’re making the right choice for your tattoo removal needs in North Idaho and the Inland Northwest.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does tattoo laser removal work?
The PicoWay Zoom handpiece delivers short picosecond pulses of energy that blast/target pigment in the tattoo. The largest pigment particles are broken up into minuscule particles that are absorbed by the body, revealing new, unpigmented skin cells.
Is the treatment effective for all types of tattoos?
Yes, the treatment is effective for all tattoo sizes and colors, including black, brown, blue, green, purple, red, yellow, and orange. The treatment is also effective regardless of the age of the tattoo.
How do I prepare for my tattoo treatment?
Avoid sun exposure at least 2 weeks prior to treatment and arrive with the area clean (and shaven if applicable).
Is tattoo removal painful?
The level of discomfort depends on the color of the ink. Black ink will be the most uncomfortable. Colors such as red, green, and blue result in minimal discomfort. Venia can offer topical numbing cream or laughing gas if necessary to reduce/eliminate the pain.
What are the common side effects of tattoo removal?
Common side effects include blistering, temporary redness, swelling, and mild discomfort. Some patients may experience temporary skin whitening at the treatment site. These effects typically subside within a few days to weeks after treatment.
How should I care for my skin after treatment?
Keep the treated area clean and dry, apply cold compresses to reduce swelling, and avoid sun exposure. Avoid intense exercise for a few days post-treatment and follow your provider’s specific aftercare instructions for optimal results.
Will I be able to get another tattoo in the same place later?
Yes, removing a tattoo will not affect your skin’s ability to have another tattoo once you are completely healed.
How long will it take to remove my tattoo?
Treatment times vary based on tattoo size and colors, and the number of tattoos that need treating. Treatments are schedule approximately 6 weeks apart.
Can all tattoos be completely removed?
While most tattoos can be significantly faded or removed, complete removal isn’t guaranteed for every tattoo. Factors like ink type, tattoo age, location, and skin type affect the outcome. Some tattoos may leave slight shadowing or minimal residual ink.
How much do tattoo removals cost?
Costs vary based on the size of the tattoo. Each treatment is charged individually. Contact Venia to schedule a free consultation to discuss a treatment plan and estimated costs. Call Venia to schedule a consultation for more information – 208.676.0104.
How many treatments does it take to remove a tattoo?
The number to treatments to remove a tattoo is not based on the size of the tattoo, it is dependent on the depth and color of the ink. Whether it is a small tattoo or a complete sleeve, the average tattoo is between three and six treatments. Colors such as black and red are easier to remove whereas yellow and orange are harder and will require more treatments. Call Venia to schedule a consultation for more information – 208.676.0104.