As mentioned by my colleagues, q switched lasers are the method of removal of tattooes.
New picosecond lasers are indeed more efficacious; older nanosecond lasers might require upwards of 10-20 sessions each spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, even then with some attaining less than satisfactory clearance.
Picosecond lasers offer quicker and better clearance of tattoos, and though a guide of 5 sessions might be expected, some may require more sessions depending on the type of ink and tattoo.
I commonly combine this with fractional lasers to reduce the occurrence of blister formation that can happen with tattoo removal with just the q switched lasers alone.
Tattoo removal can be an arduous process for the patient, but keep at it and you should be able to achieve what you are looking for.
Cheers.
Dr Shane Tan
