How many treatments will I need?
Every case is different, so it’s difficult to generalize how many treatments will be needed. The number of treatments needed will largely depend on the type and severity of problem being addressed. During your consultation, you may be able to get an estimate of how many treatments will be necessary, but that number could change as treatment progresses.
Should PicoSure be combined with other treatments?
It depends on what your goals are. PicoSure is an extremely versatile laser treatment that can be used to treat a range of skin problems. However, if you have some goals the procedure can’t address, you may want to combine treatments for comprehensive results. This is something you should discuss during your PicoSure consultation.
Are there any risks with PicoSure?
All procedures have risks, but PicoSure is overall a very safe procedure. The fast pulses and wavelengths minimize skin injury, making scarring and other complications exceedingly rare.
Does the treatment hurt?
Most patients find the discomfort involved with PicoSure treatments to be mild and tolerable without anesthesia or numbing. However, if you are nervous or sensitive to pain, you should ask for a topical numbing agent to be applied prior to the treatment. This can reduce unpleasant sensations and make the treatment more comfortable.
Why do I need to avoid the sun before my treatments?
The PicoSure laser targets melanin (brown pigment) in the skin, and tanning can make it more difficult for the laser to distinguish the unwanted pigmentation. Patients should take care to protect their skin from the sun before and after treatment for optimal results and to prevent uneven pigmentation.
How long will my results last?
Improvement to acne scarring is typically permanent. Anti-aging and rejuvenating effects are long lasting, but patients age at different rates and lifestyle can have a big impact on the longevity of PicoSure results. After the initial round of treatments, many patients undergo touch-up treatments every six months to maintain results.
When will I start seeing the results?
Patients may see some improvement immediately after treatment, but because much of the skin’s rejuvenation will rely on increased collagen production stimulated by the laser, it may take several weeks for signs of improvement to appear. Additionally, multiple treatments will be needed to achieve the expected results, and patients should be prepared for improvement to come gradually.
What areas can be treated?
Because PicoSure is safe and gentle, it can be used on many sensitive areas of the body, including the face, chest, hands, legs, and more. Your provider will be able to tell you which areas can be safely treated, and which cannot.
Can PicoSure completely get rid of acne scars?
As with any cosmetic treatment, the goal is improvement, not perfection. Although PicoSure can produce dramatic reduction in acne scarring, it may not be able to erase all scarring entirely. Patients should have realistic expectations, and realize that results vary from person to person. With that said, many patients have regained their confidence and self-esteem, thanks to a massive reduction in acne scarring after PicoSure treatments.
Is PicoSure safe for any skin type?
In the past, many lasers were not safe for patients with dark skin, as they often produced changes in pigmentation, causing uneven skin color. New lasers like PicoSure are safer for all skin types, but it’s still a good idea to address this concern with your plastic surgeon before scheduling your first treatment.
