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Q Switched Alexandrite Laser
The Q Switched Alexandrite laser is the last of the group of three (Ruby, Nd: YAG, Alexandrite) to be approved by the FDA and it’s the most expensive laser that offers tattoo removal. Alexandrite is made of a crystal that doesn’t tolerate laser impact very well; therefore it’s not as good as the other models. It has the least amount of tissue splatter and the pulse duration is 50nsec (not that quick). You could sit in the doctor’s chair up to 15 times using the Alexandrite laser trying to remove your tattoo. Going at a rate of 755nm, it’s delivered through a fiber optic cable with less variation from pulse to pulse.
The Q Switched Alexandrite laser is very similar to the QSRL (Q Switched Ruby Laser) in removing dark tattoos using ink colors such as black, blue and green. Unlike the QSRL it is NOT effective when removing red ink. In fact, you will never remove red with the Alexandrite laser. This laser is recommended on dark skinned patients and is also effective in the treatment of lentignes and pigmented lesions. The laser affects the melanin (the body’s natural pigmentation) in the form of hypo pigmentation however the melanin regenerates itself in a shorter amount of time compared to the other two lasers. Remember though, the goal of the treatment is the same as the others, tissue whitening and after a few more treatments you will eventually reach your goals.
Discomfort will always be apart of the process, however this pain is compared to the snap of a rubber band, which isn’t that bad. I'm sure the pain of getting the tattoo was worse. Costs always vary. Plus this laser is new and more expensive than the Nd: YAG laser. It’s going to depend on many things; size, type of colors used, type of ink used, age and whether or not it was done by an amateur or a professional. Take your time when choosing a doctor and make sure this new laser is the right one when removing your tattoo.
More Surgical Procedures for Tattoo Removal
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