Is Pico Laser Painful?

Pico Laser treatments are generally well-tolerated, with most patients describing the sensation as mild and similar to tiny rubber band snaps against the skin, though a topical numbing cream can be applied before the procedure, especially for more sensitive areas. The ultra-fast pulses of the Pico Laser reduce heat buildup, making it less uncomfortable than traditional lasers. Any discomfort experienced during the treatment typically subsides immediately after the session. Post-treatment, you might feel a slight warmth or sensitivity, similar to a mild sunburn, which fades within a few hours.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

While some patients see noticeable improvements after just one session, most conditions—such as hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and tattoo removal—require a series of treatments for optimal results. Typically, 3 to 5 sessions spaced several weeks apart are recommended to achieve the best outcome. Dr. Gentile will assess your skin during your consultation and outline the ideal number of sessions for you. Regular maintenance treatments may also be suggested to keep your skin looking its best.

How Long Until I See the Results?

Many patients notice improvements in skin tone, texture, and clarity within a few days to a week after their first session. For conditions like hyperpigmentation or acne scars, results become more noticeable as the skin continues to heal and regenerate, typically improving over several weeks. When treating tattoos, fading occurs gradually with each session as the ink breaks down and is naturally processed by the body. Optimal results are usually seen after completing the recommended series of treatments, with continued enhancement over time.

Can I Combine Pico Laser with Other Procedures?

Pico Laser can be safely combined with other aesthetic treatments to enhance your overall results. Many patients choose to pair it with procedures like chemical peels, microneedling, or dermal fillers to address multiple skin concerns simultaneously because combining treatments can help improve skin texture, tone, and elasticity while targeting specific issues such as fine lines, volume loss, or deeper pigmentation. During your consultation, Dr. Gentile will assess your skin and discuss the best combination of treatments tailored to your skin and aesthetic goals.

What Are the Risks Associated with Pico Laser?

Pico Laser is considered a safe and effective treatment when performed by an experienced professional in the greater Cleveland area like Dr. Gentile. However, as with any cosmetic procedure, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of, such as temporary redness, swelling, mild discomfort, or darkening of treated pigmentation before it fades. In rare cases, there’s a slight risk of blistering, scarring, or changes in skin texture, especially if post-treatment care instructions aren’t followed properly.

Youngstown & Akron, OH

Pico Laser

Introduction

Introduction to Pico Laser

Struggles with sunspots, melasma, or lingering discoloration from past breakouts can be incredibly frustrating. Even trying to get rid of them using over-the-counter products alone can be frustrating. Even tattoos that once held meaning can become reminders you’d rather erase, but traditional removal methods can be painful, time-consuming, and ineffective.

Enter Pico Laser technology—a treatment designed to tackle these concerns with precision and minimal downtime effectively. Utilizing ultra-short picosecond pulses, Pico Laser breaks down unwanted pigment and ink into tiny particles your body naturally eliminates while stimulating collagen production for smoother, healthier skin. Dr. Richard Gentile offers Pico Laser treatments in the Cleveland area to help you achieve a clearer, more radiant complexion without the lengthy recovery of traditional lasers.

A young woman with long blonde hair lies on a light-colored wooden surface, eyes closed and relaxed. She wears a loose, white long-sleeved shirt with a slightly sheer fabric, revealing glimpses of her skin. A delicate rose-gold necklace with a round pendant is visible around her neck. Her hands rest on her chest, gently pulling the shirt open. The soft, warm lighting highlights her skin and hair, with subtle shadows. The background is a blurred wooden surface. - Pico Laser in Youngstown, OH

What is Pico Laser?

Pico laser, short for picosecond laser, is an advanced laser technology used primarily for skin rejuvenation, pigmentation removal, acne scar treatment, and tattoo removal. Unlike traditional lasers that use nanosecond pulses, pico lasers deliver ultra-short pulses in picoseconds (one trillionth of a second). This rapid energy delivery breaks down pigment and skin imperfections into tiny particles without causing significant heat damage to the surrounding tissue, making treatments more effective with minimal downtime. It also stimulates collagen production, improving skin texture and tone.

What are the
benefits of
Pico Laser?

Its ultra-fast picosecond pulses effectively break down unwanted pigmentation, making it highly effective for treating sunspots, melasma, acne scars, and even stubborn tattoos. Unlike traditional lasers, Pico Laser targets pigment without causing significant heat damage, reducing the risk of skin irritation and speeding up recovery. It also stimulates collagen production, leading to smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin over time. Plus, treatments are quick, versatile, and safe for a variety of skin types and tones.

Who are the
best candidates
for Pico Laser?

The best candidates for Pico Laser around Cleveland are individuals seeking to address skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation, acne scars, uneven skin tone, fine lines, and unwanted tattoos. It’s suitable for most skin types and tones, making it a versatile option for many patients, though ideal candidates should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and want a non-surgical solution to improve their skin’s clarity and texture. Whether you’re dealing with sun damage age spots or simply want to freshen up your complexion, Pico Laser can deliver noticeable results with minimal downtime.

What’s the
First Step?

The first thing to do in order to get Pico Laser treatment is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gentile at our Youngstown or Akron offices. During your appointment, he will assess different areas of concern on your skin and review your medical history to determine if Pico Laser is the right treatment for you. He’ll explain how the procedure works and create a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs, whether it be skin issues, removing a tattoo, or both. This is the perfect time to ask questions and address any concerns you may have so that once you feel confident moving forward, we can schedule your first session and provide pre-treatment instructions.

What to Expect
on the Day of a
Pico Laser Treatment

On your Pico Laser treatment day, you’ll arrive at our office with clean, makeup-free skin. After a brief review of your treatment plan, a topical numbing cream will be applied to the area of treatment. Dr. Gentile will then use the Pico Laser device to target specific areas, delivering quick bursts of energy that break down pigmentation and stimulate collagen production. The treatment typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the size and number of areas being treated. Afterward, you may experience mild redness or swelling, similar to a light sunburn, which usually subsides within a few hours to a couple of days.

Pico Laser Recovery

Recovery after Pico Laser treatment is usually quick and straightforward, with almost no downtime compared to traditional laser procedures, though you might feel some slight redness or swelling in the treated area for a few days. Some patients notice a slight darkening of pigmentation before it naturally flakes off as the skin heals. It’s important to keep the area clean, moisturized, and protected from the sun by using a broad-spectrum SPF to prevent further pigmentation. Most people can resume their normal activities immediately after treatment, though avoiding intense sun exposure and harsh skincare products for a few days is recommended. As your skin continues to heal, you’ll notice a brighter, clearer, and more even complexion.

How much
does a
Pico Laser
cost in Cleveland, OH?

The cost of Pico Laser in Cleveland is usually between $300 and $1,500 per session, but it can vary depending on factors such as the size of the treatment area, the number of sessions needed, and the specific skin concerns being addressed. During your consultation with Dr. Gentile, you’ll receive a detailed cost estimate based on your personal treatment plan. We also offer flexible financing options to help make the treatment more accessible.

Why Choose Gentile Plastic Surgery?

Cleveland area plastic surgeon Dr. Richard Gentile is a board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with extensive medical and surgical affiliations. Dr. Gentile serves on the Medical Staff of The Cleveland Clinic Akron General and performs outpatient procedures at leading facilities such as the Fairlawn Ambulatory Surgical Center, the Orthopedic Center, The Facial & Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Center in Boardman, and the Lippy Surgical Center in Howland. With a focus on personalized care, Dr. Gentile combines his expertise with the latest cosmetic techniques to deliver natural-looking, transformative results. At Gentile Plastic Surgery, you’ll receive compassionate, comprehensive care specific to your unique aesthetic goals.

Pico Laser FAQ’S

Pico Laser treatments are generally well-tolerated, with most patients describing the sensation as mild and similar to tiny rubber band snaps against the skin, though a topical numbing cream can be applied before the procedure, especially for more sensitive areas. The ultra-fast pulses of the Pico Laser reduce heat buildup, making it less uncomfortable than traditional lasers. Any discomfort experienced during the treatment typically subsides immediately after the session. Post-treatment, you might feel a slight warmth or sensitivity, similar to a mild sunburn, which fades within a few hours.
While some patients see noticeable improvements after just one session, most conditions—such as hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and tattoo removal—require a series of treatments for optimal results. Typically, 3 to 5 sessions spaced several weeks apart are recommended to achieve the best outcome. Dr. Gentile will assess your skin during your consultation and outline the ideal number of sessions for you. Regular maintenance treatments may also be suggested to keep your skin looking its best.
Many patients notice improvements in skin tone, texture, and clarity within a few days to a week after their first session. For conditions like hyperpigmentation or acne scars, results become more noticeable as the skin continues to heal and regenerate, typically improving over several weeks. When treating tattoos, fading occurs gradually with each session as the ink breaks down and is naturally processed by the body. Optimal results are usually seen after completing the recommended series of treatments, with continued enhancement over time.
Pico Laser can be safely combined with other aesthetic treatments to enhance your overall results. Many patients choose to pair it with procedures like chemical peels, microneedling, or dermal fillers to address multiple skin concerns simultaneously because combining treatments can help improve skin texture, tone, and elasticity while targeting specific issues such as fine lines, volume loss, or deeper pigmentation. During your consultation, Dr. Gentile will assess your skin and discuss the best combination of treatments tailored to your skin and aesthetic goals.
Pico Laser is considered a safe and effective treatment when performed by an experienced professional in the greater Cleveland area like Dr. Gentile. However, as with any cosmetic procedure, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of, such as temporary redness, swelling, mild discomfort, or darkening of treated pigmentation before it fades. In rare cases, there’s a slight risk of blistering, scarring, or changes in skin texture, especially if post-treatment care instructions aren’t followed properly.

Schedule a
Consultation

Scheduling a consultation with Dr. Richard Gentile is the perfect first step in this treatment process. During your appointment, Dr. Gentile will assess your concerns, discuss your goals, and recommend a treatment plan for your needs. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, learn more about the procedure, and explore the best options for achieving smooth, clear skin. Call us at 330-362-9677 to book your appointment.