Q-Switched 1064/532 nm Laser with Nanosecond Pulse in Tattoo Treatment: A Double-Center Retrospective Study

Abstract

Tattoo removal is a well-established procedure in dermatology. Lasers represent the gold standard in the management of this condition nowadays. In this study, we report our experience on the use of a Q-switched nanosecond source. A total of 52 patients were consecutively enrolled in performing tattoo removal at Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro and Tor Vergata University of Rome. Black and blue tattoos were treated with a 1064 nm laser, with a pulse duration of 6 ns and a fluence up to 10 J/cm2, while colored tattoos were treated with sessions of 532 nm laser, with a pulse duration of 6 ns and a fluence up to 5 J/cm2. Up to nine treatments with a minimum interval of 8 weeks between each session were performed. A six-month follow-up visit assessed patient satisfaction (Visual Analogue Scale). Overall clinical result was assessed with a clinical evaluation by two blinded dermatologists using a 5-point scale, comparing pictures before treatment and at follow up. A total of 52 patients were included and analyzed: 30 females (57.7%) and 22 males (42.3%). Mean age was 43.7 ± 12.7 years. According to Fitzpatrick’s skin classification, 16 individuals (30.8%) were type II, 15 (28.8%) were type III, and 21 (40.4%) were type IV. Most of the treated tattoos were carried out by professionals. The mean number of sessions required to obtain a result was 4.6 ± 2.5, and the final tattoo removal rate was 60% or higher, with 51.9% of the patients reporting highest satisfaction scores Q-Switched 1064/532 nm laser may be considered today as the gold-standard treatment for tattoo removal. Our results confirm literature findings of the safety and effectiveness of these devices.

Picosecond Q-Switched 1064/532 nm Laser in Tattoo Removal: Our Single Center Experience

“…The QS Nd: YAG laser is reported as the optimal tattoo removal device because it can obtain excellent cosmetic results with minimal skin damage, low scarring risk, and low incidence of hypopigmentation [17,18]. A two-month interval between sessions permits the removal of tattoo pigmented particles via the phagocytic cells, and it is necessary before carrying out any other session or procedure [19,20]. Red ink is more frequently associated with long-term reactions, including granulomatous and pseudolymphomatous phenomena or morphea-like lesions and vasculitis.…”

Q-Switched 1064/532 nm Laser with Picosecond Pulse to Treat Benign Hyperpigmentations: A Single-Center Retrospective Study

“…2021, 11, 7478 2 of 8 Among these lasers, various papers suggest that the Q-switched laser, releasing energies in nano or picosecond, acts selectively on melanin, and does not cause any thermal damage on the surrounding tissues. Picosecond-pulsed Q-switched lasers release energy in a minimal amount of time and appear to be the most effective therapy [10][11][12].…”