How laser tattoo removal works
Laser tattoo removal works by directing high-energy light beams at the tattoo ink, breaking it into tiny particles that are naturally cleared by your body's immune system. The laser energy stays in the tissue only briefly enough to shatter the ink itself, without damaging the surrounding skin.
Complete removal takes multiple sessions, because tattoo ink sits at varying depths in the skin. Darker or more densely inked tattoos generally require more treatments than lighter, more sparsely shaded designs.
Two laser technologies, matched to your tattoo
Not every tattoo responds the same way to the same laser. At Plump Medical Spa, Dr. Mortazavi has both Q-switched and picosecond (PicoLazer) technology available, and selects the right one — or combines both across a treatment series — based on your ink's color, density, and depth. For a deeper technical comparison of how these two technologies actually differ, see our Q-switched vs picosecond guide.
Established Technology
Q-Switched Laser
Delivers ultra-short pulses lasting nanoseconds — a billionth of a second
Powerful enough to shatter ink without damaging surrounding skin
A long-standing, proven standard for tattoo removal, particularly effective on dark and black ink
Newest Technology
PicoLazer (Picosecond)
Pulses roughly 1,000× shorter than Q-switched — measured in trillionths of a second
Shatters ink into smaller particles that the body clears more efficiently
Dual wavelength (1064nm/532nm) performs especially well on stubborn or lighter ink colors
Why having both matters
A single-technology practice treats every tattoo the same way. Because Plump has both Q-switched and picosecond lasers, Dr. Mortazavi isn't limited to one tool — he can select whichever technology is best suited to your ink, or use both across your removal series as the tattoo fades and responds to treatment.
What to expect
01
Consultation
Dr. Mortazavi assesses tattoo size, ink colors, depth, and your skin tone, then selects the appropriate laser technology.
02
Treatment
Rapid laser pulses pass over the tattoo. Most sessions take 10–20 minutes depending on tattoo size.
03
Clearing
The treated area may whiten immediately, then scab or blister lightly over the following days as ink fragments clear over several weeks.
04
Series
Most tattoos need 6–10 sessions spaced 6–8 weeks apart. Amateur and lighter tattoos often clear faster than dense professional work.
Pricing by tattoo size
Tattoo removal is priced by size, since a small ankle tattoo and a full back piece require very different amounts of laser time per session. Dr. Mortazavi confirms your tier and technology at consultation.
Small
Up to 2" × 2"
Small wrist, ankle, or finger tattoos.
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Medium
Up to 6" × 6"
Forearm pieces, small shoulder tattoos.
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Large
12" × 12" and up
Back pieces, full sleeve sections.
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Who benefits most
Strong candidates
Any tattoo you want faded or removed, regardless of skin tone
Black, dark, and most colored inks — including traditionally difficult shades
Patients who tried removal elsewhere with limited results — a different laser technology may succeed where another didn't
Amateur tattoos, which typically clear faster than dense professional work
Worth discussing at consultation
Cosmetic tattoos (permanent makeup) — different pigments can behave unpredictably
Very fresh tattoos — allow full healing before treatment begins
Tattoos over active skin conditions in the treatment area
Patients wanting complete removal in very few sessions — most tattoos need a realistic series
Treatment pricing
Laser tattoo removal — priced by size, from $250
Small, medium, and large tiers available. Most tattoos need 6–10 sessions. By appointment only.
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Frequently asked questions
How does laser tattoo removal work?
Laser tattoo removal directs high-energy light at the tattoo ink, breaking it into tiny particles that your body's immune system naturally clears over time. At Plump Medical Spa, this is done with two complementary technologies — Q-switched lasers delivering nanosecond pulses, and PicoLazer delivering even shorter picosecond pulses — selected based on the ink color and density of your specific tattoo.
What is the difference between Q-switched and picosecond laser tattoo removal?
Q-switched lasers use nanosecond pulses and have been the long-standing standard for tattoo removal, particularly effective on darker ink. Picosecond lasers like PicoLazer use pulses roughly a thousand times shorter, shattering ink into smaller particles that clear more efficiently and performing especially well on stubborn or lighter colors. Having both allows Dr. Mortazavi to match the technology to your specific tattoo rather than using one approach for everything.
How many sessions does tattoo removal take?
Most tattoos require 6 to 10 sessions spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart for significant fading or full clearance. Tattoo ink sits at varying depths in the skin, and darker or more densely inked tattoos generally require more sessions than lighter, more sparsely shaded designs.
Is laser tattoo removal safe for all skin tones?
Yes. Between Q-switched and PicoLazer's dual wavelengths, Dr. Mortazavi can select the appropriate technology and wavelength for the patient's skin tone, making treatment safe and effective across all Fitzpatrick skin types, including darker complexions.
How much does laser tattoo removal cost at Plump Medical Spa?
Tattoo removal at Plump Medical Spa is priced by tattoo size, starting at $250. Current pricing tiers are available on the Plump Medical Spa treatment menu.
Ready to start your removal series?
Consultations Tuesday through Saturday. Every session performed personally by Dr. Mortazavi.