One may want to remove their tattoo if they do not like its design or if it no longer holds significance or meaning. Sometimes, people undergo tattoo removal for professional purposes, too. Regardless of the reason, tattoo removal needs to be done after careful consideration because the procedure can be complex and expensive. Before getting a tattoo removed, here are a few important things one should know to make a better decision.

Common tattoo removal procedures
There are several ways to remove a tattoo, such as laser removal, surgical removal, and dermabrasion. To understand which procedure works best, one needs to consider several factors, such as the current level of scarring, the amount of ink in the tattoo, the amount of color layering, the shades used, one’s skin color and type, and the tattoo location. A tattoo removal professional can help people choose a procedure that works. Here’s a quick look at each option:

• Laser removal
  This FDA-approved method uses light waves from a laser to break down the color pigments under the skin. Depending on the tattoo’s size, it takes about six to ten sessions. Over time, the pigments are cleared out of the body naturally. Laser removal causes scarring, which heals later.
• Surgical removal
  Also known as excision tattoo removal, this procedure removes the tattooed skin by making incisions. While cheaper than laser removal, surgery leaves behind a permanent scar. The procedure is generally performed in a plastic surgery office instead of a tattoo removal clinic.
• Dermabrasion
  This is a less common tattoo removal procedure where a professional removes the ink by sanding away the skin’s top layers with a rotating device. It is pretty painful, requiring an extended healing time between sessions.

Tattoo removal professionals
Regardless of the tattoo removal procedure a person chooses, they should find the right, qualified professional. Doing so ensures safety, and one can rest assured of the best result. Individuals can start their search by meeting a licensed dermatologist specializing in cosmetic procedures. The doctor can guide the person and help them choose a procedure suitable for the specific type of tattoo. They can also refer one to other professionals or surgeons performing the procedure. Furthermore, they can help find legitimate and licensed tattoo removal clinics nearby.

Tattoo removal procedure cost
The best way to understand how much one will pay is to meet a professional at a tattoo removal clinic. The cost of removing a tattoo depends on several factors, the most primary being the procedure type. Laser removal can cost around $420 per session on average. The cost can go up to $4,000 for larger and more complex tattoo designs. Most tattoo removal clinics charge a flat fee for removing tattoos up to a specific size. Some may also charge per square inch of the tattoo being removed.

On average, surgical procedures can cost between $200 and $1,750 for a forearm tattoo. For dermabrasion procedures, the cost can touch several hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the tattoo’s size and complexity.

Removal of cosmetic tattoos
It is possible to remove tattoos inscribed using cosmetic procedures. These tattoos, also called permanent makeup, are created using permanent eyebrow filler, lipstick, and eyeliner. While they usually fade on their own in a couple of years, one may want to remove them earlier for several reasons.

Removing cosmetic tattoos requires consulting a professional skilled in using saline, glycolic acid, and specialized lasers. The procedure usually costs between $215 and $400, with laser procedures being the cheapest and glycolic acid treatments being the most expensive.

Insurance coverage for tattoo removal
Since tattoo removal is considered a cosmetic procedure, insurance coverage does not pay for it. One may get some percentage of the cost covered by insurance only if a doctor verifies that the tattoo must be removed for health reasons. Individuals should read the terms and conditions when buying an insurance policy. If unsure, it is advisable to consult a professional when picking a plan for tattoo removal.

Additional costs involved in tattoo removal
One will have to bear other expenses besides the cost of tattoo removal treatments. It usually includes the cost of aftercare products. Proper aftercare promotes effective healing and prevents complications like permanent scarring and infections. The health professional or expert performing the tattoo removal procedure may prescribe aftercare products like creams, cleaners, and bandages. Individuals will have to purchase these by paying out of their pockets. Therefore, one must plan for these expenses while setting a budget for the procedure.