New machine speeds tattoo removal

New technology is available to quicken the pace of tattoo removal. InkOff.MD’s W.Y. Chung is the first to bring the FDA-approved Pico­Sure laser to Hawaii, one of only three centers in the nation to have the device that halves treatment time and removes difficult colors like blues and greens.

The device uses pulse duration, or pressure waves, to break up the ink into smaller particles than previous lasers did, with less heat, so patients feel less pain and discomfort, said Chung.

"It’s a completely different, new technology that renders all other lasers obsolete," he said.

He said older lasers break up ink to pebble size, while the PicoSure laser reduces it to the size of sand grains, which enables the body’s lymphatic system to clear the smaller particles more rapidly and requires less time between treatments.

Due to the tight job market, the doctor said he has found increasing need among job seekers and those entering the military to remove their tattoos more quickly than the one- to two-year period normally required.

With PicoSure, Chung said most patients will see up to 75 percent of a tattoo removed in their first visit, and complete removal in three or four treatments over three or four months, versus 10 treatments over one to two years for a typical 6-square-inch biceps tattoo.

The doctor is hosting free one-hour seminars demonstrating the PicoSure laser procedure, treatments for varicose veins, and use of Botox and Juvederm to minimize facial wrinkles.

The sessions will take place at 9 and 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tuesday. For reservations call 949-8346.

InkOff.MD is a branch of The Vein and Skin Center of Hawaii in the Pan Am Building, 1600 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 808.