Retrospective clinical evaluation of Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser safety and efficacy in tattoo removal: A new perspective on the Kirby–Desai scale

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundWith nearly 50% of the population in the United States, Italy, and Sweden tattooed with at least one tattoo, the demand for its removal has risen by 32% since 2011. Traditional removal methods, such as Q‐switched (QS) laser‐based tattoo removal, can be lengthy, requiring up to 20 sessions.AimThis study presents a retrospective clinical evaluation of seven short‐pulsed QS, dual‐wavelength Nd:YAG laser, as an efficient alternative, that can potentially reduce the number of sessions needed as calculated by a founded scale.MethodsThe QS modality delivers high‐intensity pulses in four wavelengths, ideal for removing multicolored tattoos, of which two were used. We studied 11 patients who underwent 3–8 treatments (average 5.09) every 2–3 months. Each tattoo was assessed using the Kirby–Desai scale, considering the following factors: location, Fitzpatrick skin type, ink amount, layering, scarring, tissue changes, and tattoo color. Follow‐ups were conducted after 6 months and at 4–5 years following last session.ResultsThe long‐term follow‐up presented a significantly higher tattoo removal efficiency than the short‐term follow‐up (p < 0.001), indicating a sustained process of ink breakdown and elimination. Notably, the actual number of treatments were significantly lower than that predicted by the Kirby–Desai scale (average 5.09 vs. 9.9, p < 0.001). No severe adverse events were reported.ConclusionsIn conclusion, the QS Nd:YAG laser offers a safe and effective alternative for tattoo removal, requiring fewer treatments than initially expected.