Tattoo Removal
Laser removal of tattoos
Informed Consent and
Before and After Care Instructions
Congratulations on scheduling your cosmetic procedure at Spa 35 Medical Spa.
Use the Information below to learn how to prepare for your treatment and how to maximize your experience after your procedure.
The informed consent form for each procedure also provides important information. Please be sure to read it before signing. Ask a Spa 35 team member to answer your questions before scheduling your procedure.
Call Spa 35 with any questions or concerns regarding your treatment at 208-367-0700. After business hours select option 4 for urgent after-hours assistance. If you have an emergency call 911.
Tattoo Removal - Treatment Purpose
The PicoWay Tattoo Removal treatment uses the latest picosecond technology for faster and more effective removal of tattoos of all colors. This new leading-edge technology means you get tattoo removal results with fewer treatments and the elimination of more tattoo ink colors.
Tattoo Removal normally requires six treatments spaced 2-8 weeks apart.
Tattoo Removal - Consent for Treatment
Informed consent documents are used to communicate information about the proposed cosmetic treatment along with disclosure of risks and alternative forms of treatment(s). Despite C02RE Fractional Resurfacing high level of efficacy and safety, it is not free of side effects. As a patient you have the right to be informed about your treatment so that you may make the decision whether to proceed with the Tattoo Remobal treatment or decline after knowing the risks involved. This disclosure is to inform you about the risks, side effects and possible complications prior to your treatment. This disclosure should not be considered all-inclusive in defining other methods of care and risks encountered. Spa 35 may provide you with additional or different information which is based on all the facts in your particular case and the state of medical knowledge.
Tattoo Removal - Risks
There are both risks, and complications associated with this procedure for the skin. Although the majority of patients do not experience these complications, you should understand the risks and potential complications of laser skin treatment.
Discomfort- The PicoWay Tattoo Removal treatment can be uncomfortable, with a mild burning sensation; lidocaine injections are recommended. Please note that breastfeeding women cannot receive lidocaine injections.
Burned skin- The light energy from a PicoWay Tattoo Removal treatment can burn your skin, in some cases severely. It is important to tell your provider about recent sun exposure and to report any use of light sensitizing drugs (such as Accutane) with an accurate medical history form. Dark skin has a greater probability of burning than lighter skin. Self-tanning lotions dramatically increase the risk of burns.
Reddening and bruising- Plan on temporary reddening and bruising of the treated area.
Scarring and permanent discoloration- Although rare, permanent scarring and discoloration is possible.
Skin sensitivity- Itchiness, tenderness, or exaggerated responses to hot or cold temperatures of the treated area may occur. This typically resolves during the healing process, but in rare situations it may be chronic.
Wound Healing- Treatment can result in burning, blistering, or bleeding of the treated areas resulting in a wound. If this occurs, please contact our office.
Infection- Although infection following the PicoWay Tattoo Removal treatment is unusual, bacterial, fungal, and viral infections can occur with scabbing or other disruption of the skin barrier function. Should any type of skin infection occur, additional treatment including antibiotics might be necessary.
Eye damage- Eye damage can occur from the PicoWay Tattoo Removal energy. Protective eyewear must be worn during the treatment
Photosensitizing medication complications- Some over the counter and prescription medications can increase the risk of burning. We are unable to treat clients that are on ACCUTANE, and PHOTOSENSITIZING medications.
Hyper-pigmentation (browning) and Hypo-pigmentation (whitening)- Both have been noted after treatment, especially for people with a darker complexion. This usually resolves within weeks but can take as long as 3-6 months. Permanent color change is a rare potential risk. If you have dark skin a skin lightening cream may be advised to reduce the melanin in your skin before the treatment. Avoiding sun exposure after the treatment reduces the risk of color change.
Skin tissue pathology- Energy directed at the skin may potentially vaporize diseased lesions making laboratory examination of a tissue specimen impossible. If you have discolored skin that is potentially cancerous you should have it examined by a dermatologist or other medical provider before your PicoWay Tattoo Removal treatment.
Allergic reactions/numbing agent reactions- In rare cases, local allergies to tape, preservatives used in cosmetics or topical preparations, have been reported. Systemic reactions (which are more serious) may result from prescription medicines. Your skin may be numbed using an analgesic agent(s). Analgesics typically include but are not limited to benzocaine, lidocaine, tetracaine and epinephrine. There is the possibility of complications, injury, and even death from all forms of analgesics. Allergic reactions may require additional treatment.
Pacemaker or internal defibrillator damage- It is possible for a PicoWay Tattoo Removal treatment to interfere with functioning of a pacemaker or internal defibrillator.
Tattoo Removal - Pre Treatment Instructions
It is prudent to follow some simple guidelines before your treatment. These guidelines can reduce possible side effects associated with the procedure and make all the difference between a fair result and a great result.
Sun exposure- Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least three weeks prior to your treatment. Your appointment will be rescheduled if needed.
Hydrate - Drink at least eight glasses of water per day to completely hydrate your skin.
Self-Tanner- Stop self-tanner for four weeks prior to treatment.
Skin Care- Stop exfoliating skin care products, such as retinols and glycolic acid, for one week before your treatment.
Over the Counter Medications- Avoid aspirin, Motrin, Ibuprofen and sun sensitizing medications for one week prior to your treatment. Inform your provider if you are taking blood thinners or regularly take aspirin or Ibuprofen.
Prescription Medications – Review prescription medications with your provider for potential sun sensitizing effects.
Accutane- Inform your provider if you have taken Accutane (oral acne medication) in the past year.
Supplements- Avoid fish oil, Gingko Biloba, Garlic, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, or any other supplements one week before treatment.
Alcohol- Avoid alcohol for two days prior to treatment.
Ice Packs- Store ice packs in your freezer for use after you get home from procedure.
Special Events- Schedule your treatment at least three weeks prior to a special event i.e., wedding, vacation, speaking engagement, to allow time for the healing process.
Photographs- Take at home photos to monitor your skin improvement.
Current smokers- If you are currently smoking, it is HIGHLY recommended to stop smoking completely. Smoking constricts your blood vessels, and this can inhibit your results by up to 70%
Tattoo Removal - Treatment Day Instructions
Clothing- Wear comfortable loose clothing.
Shave- Please shave the treatment area prior to your appointment.
Tattoo Removal - Post Treatment Instruction
There may be discomfort/pain resulting from the treatment. A white-gray discoloration may appear immediately after treatment and last for a few minutes to a few days. This may be replaced with an erythema or purpura (red and bruised) for several days. A scab may form at the treatment area and drop off in 7-10 days.
Ointment application and non-stick dressing-Following treatment of the tattoo apply an emollient (Aquaphor® Healing Ointment or Vaseline®) to the area and cover with a nonstick dressing secured with tape. Apply the emollient and dressing for 7-10 days following your tattoo removal treatment.
SPF- Use a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen SPF 30 or greater each day for 4-6 weeks before starting the treatment, throughout the treatment duration and for 4-6 weeks after the conclusion of your tattoo removal treatments.
Exercise- Avoid physical exercise (aerobics, lawn mowing, sport activities) for 1- 2 days to reduce the risk of infection. Do not participate in any rough physical activities (playing football or ice hockey, etc.) for 10 days after treatment and avoid excessive perspiration to the area as it may cause tissue disruption.
Treatment area- The treated area should be cared for delicately until healing is complete. Prevent trauma to the treated area for the first 7-10 days following treatment.
Tattoo Removal - Treatment schedule
To achieve optimal benefit, multiple treatments are necessary, we typically recommend at least 6 treatments, spaced 8 weeks apart.
Tattoo Removal - Alternative Treatments
No treatment is an alternative to PicoWay Tattoo Removal.
Tattoo Removal - Synergistic Treatments
None
Tattoo Removal - Acknowledgement
I have read and understand the Informed Consent documentation and been informed about what I must do and "not do" before, during and after my treatment. I agree to follow the pre and post care instructions carefully. I understand that compliance with recommended pre and post procedure guidelines are crucial for healing, prevention of scarring, and other side effects and complications.
I completed an accurate medical history document. If there are any issues that are not covered by the medical history form which I think are relevant to my treatment, I will inform Spa 35 prior to my treatment. I will also notify Spa 35 of any changes in my health or medical care as they occur during my treatment program.
I confirm that I am not pregnant or breastfeeding at this time.
Photographs: I give permission for my photographs to be used to help document my treatment course. Complete confidentiality will be maintained.
No guarantee, warranty, or assurance has been made to me as to the results that may be obtained. I am aware that follow-up treatments may be necessary for desired results. Clinical results will vary per patient. I agree to adhere to all safety precautions and regulations during the treatment. Some people are unable to complete the treatment due to discomfort. No refunds will be given for treatments received.
I recognize that during the course of the treatment, medical treatment or anesthesia, unforeseen conditions may necessitate different procedures than those above. I therefore authorize Spa 35 providers to perform such other procedures that are in the exercise of his or her professional judgment necessary and desirable. The authority granted under this paragraph shall include all conditions that require treatment and are not known to the provider at the time the procedure is begun.
I understand and agree that all services rendered to me are charged directly to me and that I am personally responsible for payment.
The nature and purpose of the treatment have been explained to me. I have read and understand this agreement. All of my questions have been answered to my satisfaction and I consent to the terms of this agreement. Alternative methods of treatment and their risks and benefits have been explained to me and I understand that I have the right to refuse treatment.
If I experience any major or life-threatening symptoms, I will call 911 immediately. For non-emergency questions I will call Spa 35 at 208-367-0700, (for after-hours concerns selection option #4).
I release Spa 35, medical staff, and specific technicians from liability associated with this procedure. I certify that I am a competent adult of at least 18 years of age. This Consent Form is freely and voluntarily executed and shall be binding upon my spouse, relatives, legal representatives, heirs, administrators, successors, and assigns.
By signing below I consent to and authorize Spa 35 to perform this treatment(s) and to deliver any post treatment medical services that may be necessary.
Please contact the Spa 35 team if you have questions about Tattoo Removal and/or information on this webpage.
Why Chose Spa 35 Med Spa for Your Cosmetic Treatments?
The medical providers at Spa 35 Med Spa have been delivering cosmetic services for thirteen years. Our staff includes Nurse Practitioners, Registered Nurses and Aestheticians.
Experience - Spa 35 Med Spa has been helping clients Look and Feel their Best for twelve years.
Medical Staff - The team is led by Nurse Practitioners and composed of Registered Nurses and aesthetic skin care professionals. Botox and filler injections are performed by medically trained injectors, not estheticians.
Industry Leadership - Warren Danforth, the Spa 35 owner, is a Key Opinion Leader for Candela Medicals's Medical Spa Program. Candela Medical is a global non-surgical aesthetic device company and the maker of Profound RF Skin Tightening, CO2RE CO2 Laser Resurfacing, Sublative RF Resurfacing and Picoway Tattoo removal devices.
Broad Scope of Expertise - From Botox to CoolSculpting Fat Reduction and Vaginal Rejuvenation, Spa 35® Med Spa has an extensive set of experience to help you reach your goals. This means you get the expertise to help you select the service(s) are right for you and your budget.
Photographs on this website are used to illustrate how services are used and their potential impact on your appearance. Your results will not completely match any photographs. Genetics, sun exposure, diet and exercise all influence your results. The Spa 35 Med Spa team strongly encourages all of our clients to maximize their lifestyle choices.