Scottsdale/Phoenix Arizona
X-Tattoo Gang Tattoo Removal Program

Yes, that was Dr. Nachbar on the Channel 15 News in Phoenix. The City of Phoenix operatesthe X-Tattoo Program to help former gang members and others with gang-related tattoos get a new start. Gangs "brand" their members with tattoos, to remind themof their ties to the gang. These tattoos are often on very visible locations, often thehands and arms, and even the face. When they want to get out of the gang,the tattoos make it harder to get their past behind them. Many, such as this young man,do not want their children to know about their past. Others find it hardto get a good job with tattoos on their hands and face.

Modern laser technology allows many of these tattoos to be removed with hardly a trace. A tattoois made up of particles embedded in the skin. Although microscopic, they are too large for thebody to remove. The laser light is selectively picked up by these dark particles, and breaksthem up into much smaller particles which the body can remove over the subsequent weeks. Mosttattoos require several laser treatments to get maximal removal. Scarring is unusual, and ifa scar remains after treatment, it is often from the original tattoo placement.

The X-Tattoo Program takes advantage of this technology to help youngsters, who otherwisecould not afford these treatments, to get rid of their tattoos. In exchange for communityservice, the City of Phoenix, via its "At Risk Youth" division, arranges for thelaser treatments. The City rents a laser, and physician volunteers, such as Dr. Nachbar,come in on Saturdays and provide the treatments. Each participant can get a treatmentabout every six to nine weeks.

"Not only does this give me a chance to help the community, but I enjoy gettingto know these people. It's fun to see them over the months as their tattoosdisappear." Dr. Nachbar recently received a thank-you note from one of theparticipants. "Getting these tattoos off is very, very important to me & I can'tstress how much I appreciate your time and work. Thank you so much. I can honestlytell you that I really enjoy my volunteer hours and will continue even when thesetattoos are removed. Again, thanks."

Dr. Nachbar has been proud to volunteer his services to this program since 1996.