What Can I Expect From Tattoo Removal?

Laser tattoo removal is notoriously uncomfortable, but most patients comment to us that it is no worse than receiving the tattoo in the first place—plus it is quicker! We do everything in our power to help minimize discomfort. First, we apply topical numbing cream and allow it to sit on the tattoo for 60 minutes. (Bring some reading materials!) Then, we perform the laser treatment, which, depending on the size of the tattoo, lasts between five to 35 minutes.

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What Is a PFD Patch, and How Can It Improve My Experience?

A PFD patch is a square of silicone infused with perfluorodecalin (PFD), a harmless liquid that allows us to treat your tattoo with our laser multiple times in a single treatment session. It helps protect the skin without disrupting the laser, allowing us to safely make multiple passes on your ink. Because of this, you often require fewer treatment sessions than those who choose not to use the patch. Often, patients also report improved comfort during their treatment sessions.

How Many Laser Sessions Are Required?

Complete removal of a black or dark ink tattoo can be accomplished with laser tattoo removal in San Luis Obispo County in six to ten sessions, fewer with the PFD patch.

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What Are the Risks of Laser Tattoo Removal?

As with any heat or energy-based device, the same risks apply. These include, but are not limited to, increased susceptibility to sun damage, burns, blistering, or scarring, prolonged redness or sensitivity, hair loss, pain, unsatisfactory outcome, or the need for additional procedures. Our laser machine is only operated by our physician and a physician assistant in order to minimize these risks.

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What Laser Tattoo Removal Machines Do We Use?

There are three types of Q-switched laser tattoo removal systems on the market today: Nd: YAG (our system, and considered the most widely used), Alexandrite laser (755nm), and Ruby laser (694 nm).

The Alexandrite and Ruby lasers are lesser-used systems for stubborn, difficult-to-remove pigments.

Common laser tattoo removal systems include Rohrer Spectrum Laser System (our machine), Astanza Duality, Candela PicoWay, Quanta Pico Discovery, PicoSure by Cynosure, Lutronic Spectra Nano, Cynosure RevLite SI, and Quanta Q Plus C.

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Testimonials

“I feel free for the first time in so long, and the relief has been incredible. I always felt like I was in the best possible hands.”

– H.S.

“I am healing, I am HAPPY, and I know I can reach out to them for anything. They have taken such good care of me.”

– K.D.

“I am so completely happy with my body transformation. My life has already been transformed and it was completely worth it.”

– L.K.

“Great surgeon and office! Special shoutout to Angela that really advocated for me by arguing with my insurance to get coverage. Not only are the MAs and front desk nice but Dr. Cha...”

Great surgeon and office! Special shoutout to Angela that really advocated for me by arguing with my insurance to get coverage. Not only are the MAs and front desk nice but Dr. Chalekson also truly cares for his patients. I've gotten multiple compliments on the work he has done from close friends and my partner. Thank you guys for everything you have done for me. You gave me the experience of being comfortable in my body for the first time in my life.

– S.

“As a mom of three little boys, I just wanted to feel like me again, like I did before years of nursing and pregnancy. Thanks to Dr. Chalekson and his amazing team, I now do. The re...”

As a mom of three little boys, I just wanted to feel like me again, like I did before years of nursing and pregnancy. Thanks to Dr. Chalekson and his amazing team, I now do. The results of my BA are absolutely beautiful and so natural, which was important to me. The staff were incredibly kind, and the level of individual care in the operating room was exceptional. Dr. Chalekson is honest and down to earth, I felt comfortable talking to him each time we met and always felt he was giving me honest feedback that was never rushed. I couldn’t be happier with my experience and the confidence I’ve regained. Can’t recommend enough!

– S.L.

“The whole experience from my first visit to today has been amazing. DR Chalekson and his staff are amazing. I highly recommend this surgical office. I am so impressed with the staf...”

The whole experience from my first visit to today has been amazing. DR Chalekson and his staff are amazing. I highly recommend this surgical office. I am so impressed with the staff and outcome of my procedure.

– C.S.

“From the very beginning, at the initial consultation, I was greeted and treated with the upmost professionalism, and attentiveness. The beautiful, elegant, and private office made ...”

From the very beginning, at the initial consultation, I was greeted and treated with the upmost professionalism, and attentiveness. The beautiful, elegant, and private office made the experience perfect. The staff and doctor were available to answer any of my questions and worked with extremely busy schedule. Dr. Chalekson has raised the bar and set the new standard that all practitioners in his field should mirror.

– M.S.

“I had the best experience with Chalekson Plastic Surgery. I was a bundle of nerves and Dr. Chalekson and staff made me feel at ease. I am 4 days post op and I’m already amaze...”

I had the best experience with Chalekson Plastic Surgery. I was a bundle of nerves and Dr. Chalekson and staff made me feel at ease. I am 4 days post op and I’m already amazed by the results. I feel so grateful to have been treated by Dr. Chalekson and staff. A special thanks to Stephanie (surgical nurse), Christine (nurse manager) and Danielle (pre & post op nurse).

– A.C.

“The first time I walked into the office, it was like coming home to family. Everyone said hi and the nurse was fabulous. Kind and professional. Then the Doctor came in and made me ...”

The first time I walked into the office, it was like coming home to family. Everyone said hi and the nurse was fabulous. Kind and professional. Then the Doctor came in and made me feel comfortable with the procedure. He is kind, professional and funny. I left there feeling like my procedure would be smooth and in very good hands.

– P.M.

“I had a great experience! Dr. Chalekson and his staff are kind, helpful and professional. My surgery and recovery went well, and I was delighted with the outcome. His office staff ...”

I had a great experience! Dr. Chalekson and his staff are kind, helpful and professional. My surgery and recovery went well, and I was delighted with the outcome. His office staff worked with my insurance company and made the process so easy and stress free. I fully recommend Dr Chalekson and would not hesitate to visit him again for any future needs.

– D.M.
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Contact Us to Learn More About Tattoo Removal Treatments in San Luis Obispo County

Tattoos do not always have to be permanent. If you have ink that you regret, consider contacting us to schedule a consultation for San Luis Obispo County tattoo removal treatments and to learn more about the other surgical and non-invasive treatments we offer.

Dr. Charles Chalekson offers patients from across the country and throughout California, including Paso Robles & Atascadero, Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Cambria, Santa Barbara, Templeton, and Santa Maria.

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If you are considering plastic surgery in San Luis Obispo County, our team can help you understand your options and move toward the outcome that feels right for you. We welcome patients from across California and the United States, including Paso Robles, Atascadero, Templeton, Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Cambria, Santa Barbara, and Santa Maria.

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