One of the first questions people ask when researching laser tattoo removal is, “How much will it cost to get my tattoo removed?”  There are many factors that influence the cost of your laser treatments. The going rate in your particular location may vary depending on demand and competition. I’d suggest doing a Google search to see what the standard rate is in your area, and be prepared to negotiate from there.

Other factors that determine cost of your laser tattoo removal treatments include:

• The size and shape of the tattoo
• Where the tattoo is located on the body
• What colors, if any, are in the tattoo
• How long the patient has had the tattoo
• Whether it was a professional or amateur job
• Type of laser used for the treatment

How to get a discount
First and foremost, don’t be afraid to just ask for a discount! Why not? The worst that can happen is they won’t give you one. If you are having multiple tattoos treated simultaneously, it is customary to ask for a discount. Also, check out the business you are interested in online, specifcally their social media profiles on Facebook and Twitter, to see if they are running any special promotions. Chances are good they are!

Payment plans
At your initial tattoo removal consultation, be sure to inquire about what payment plans they offer. When I went in for my first consultation, I was presented with three separate payment options:

1. Pay as you go – $300 a session (for two tattoos)
2. Twelve payments of $225, then I could continue to come in and get treated until they were faded to my satisfaction ($2,700 total)
3. Pay $2250 up front, then I could continue to come in until they were properly faded.
   I went with option #2 and I’ll tell you why that’s the option I recommend.

Doctors can only estimate how many treatments it will take to fade the tattoo to your satisfaction. During my consultation, he estimated ten treatments, based on the age of the tattoo, line work, etc., and my skin tone (I am very fair skinned). Well, I’m currently waiting for my 18th treatment in a few weeks, and I’d say they’re only 80% faded. I have several treatments to go, possibly another year of treatments, but I’m no longer paying for them.

If I had gone with the “pay as you go” plan, I’d have paid over $5,000 to date. Be sure to keep this in mind before you sign your contract.