Lumenis® Stellar M22™ Q-Switched YAG laser

Stellar M22™ Q-Switched Nd: Yag Tattoo Removal laser by Lumenis® is a technology that removes black, blue and other dark tattoos, either amateur or professional. 

The Lumenis® Q-Switch technology enables tailoring of the treatment according to the type of the tattoo, to effectively target the dark pigment and destroy it. Ultrashort laser pulses target the tattoo ink in the skin and break it into small particles that are naturally dissolved by your body; the surrounding skin is left intact.

Before treatment, we will apply a local anesthetic to the treatment area. During treatment, we will treat the tattoo by applying ultrashort laser pulses on the tattoo area. The treatment will take between 15-45 minutes, depending on the size of the tattoo being treated. During the treatment you will feel heat on the tattoo area, and may experience a feeling similar to a band aid being ripped off.

A change in the color intensity of the tattoo may be visible immediately after the first treatment. The number of needed treatments depends on the area of the body, skin color, and the tattoo itself, and can start from 2-3 treatments and up to 10 in some cases. Treatments are typically spaced 6-10 weeks apart.

Immediately following treatment, you will see whitish bubbles on the treated tattoo area, accompanied by some mild redness and swelling which will resolve within 24 hours.

A thick crust will appear over the treated area and will fall in about 2 weeks. In rare cases, minimal bleeding in the treated area can occur. Fading of the tattoo is gradual and will be noticed in the following weeks.

The Stellar M22™ Q-Switched Yag Tattoo Removal laser is ideal for men and women who have tattoos that they regret. It is also a good option for people who are looking for a safer tattoo removal option. Stellar M22 is safe for most skin tones. Dark pigments, such as black and blue, can be removed more easily than bright colors like red and yellow.

• Patients who have taken Accutane must wait at least 12 months before tattoo removal to avoid severe scarring.
• Patients prone to developing cold sores should take anti-herpes medication before laser tattoo removal treatment. 
• Smokers should quit at least two weeks prior to the procedure and for 6 weeks after in order to allow for better healing.
• Patients who have active infections, viral, fungal or bacterial diseases, inflammatory skin conditions or skin cancer.

If you are considering M22 tattoo removal, it is important to consult with a qualified provider. Not all providers are qualified to perform M22 tattoo removal, and it is important to find a provider who is experienced in using this laser. At Altheda Medical Center, our aesthetic experts are specially trained to use the M22 laser for tattoo removal. We will work with you to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.

The number of treatments required will depend on a number of factors, including:

• The age of the tattoo
• The size of the tattoo
• The location of the tattoo
• The depth of the tattoo
• The ink used in the tattoo
• Your skin type
• Your body’s natural ability to remove the ink

We will be able to evaluate you and develop a treatment plan during your consultation with us. 

Yes, the Stellar M22™ Q-Switched YAG Laser is much safer than other lasers, as it is equipped with CoolScan technology; this scanner helps to evenly distribute the laser energy over the entire tattoo, which reduces the risk of burns or other side effects. Stellar M22 provides patients with a more comfortable experience through continuous contact cooling.

After your laser tattoo removal treatment, you may see small white circles on the affected area. These will usually turn into redness and mild swelling, but they should dissolve within 24 hours. It is important to follow all post-treatment care instructions, which will vary depending on the area treated, but may include:

• Wearing sunscreen
• Avoiding hot tubs and saunas
• Using a topical antibiotic
• Avoiding picking or scratching at the treatment area
• Avoid exposing the treatment area to sunlight for at least 6 weeks after treatment

A crust will start developing on the tattoo within 24 hours; this is a normal, natural response from your skin as it starts to heal. The crust should fall off completely within 2 weeks, and you will begin to see the tattoo fading in color and shape during this time period. You should wait 4-6 weeks before scheduling another laser removal session. We will walk you through the post-treatment care instruction after your treatment session.