PicoSure Skin Revitalization

The PicoSure laser is one of the systems we use at Horizons Plastic Surgery for collagen induction.

The advantages of the PicoSure laser derive from its speed of delivery. Pure 755 nanometer wavelength light, when bombarding the skin in one-trillionth-per-second, creates shockwaves that pass through the skin, squeezing the cells. Our skin interprets this event as an injury and increases collagen and elastin production.

Your skin becomes softer and more supple, has a more radiant surface, and is slightly tightened. Fine lines around the mouth and crow’s feet areas are diminished. The elevated level of collagen synthesis continues for several months.

Patients are made comfortable; numbing cream is allowed to sit for 15 minutes, followed by a thorough cleansing. You will be fitted for protective eye wear. The aesthetician will place the treatment piece in contact with your skin and discharge a pulse of laser energy. Once you have experienced a pulse and realize how manageable the process is, treatment can proceed. As the contact piece is methodically moved across your face, you will receive bursts of laser energy.

The level of discomfort is minimal. However, the eyelids and perioral region are the most sensitive. Most patients report resolution of facial redness and edema within 24 hours. Treatments are repeated on two- to four-week intervals.

You should always exercise optimal protection from the sun. However, it is especially important not to expose your healing skin to ultraviolet radiation.

The PicoSure laser is frequently paired with the Potenza to maximize collagen production.

Combining these treatments, usually three each, is an effective method of increasing cutaneous collagen production and is associated with mild discomfort, the eyelids and skin around the mouth being the most sensitive. The numbing cream does an excellent job; treatments last about 45 minutes.

These six treatments trigger a robust acceleration in collagen production that continues for several months. improvements.

These treatments are associated with mild to moderate redness that typically resolves in 24 hours. We recommend limiting your sun exposure and applying hydration to your skin. You may return to work the next day without difficulty.

Treatments alternate between the Potenza and the PicoSure every two weeks for a total of three to six treatments. Patients may choose to use one or both of modalities; combining these complimentary treatment types renders a superior result.

To take advantage of your new skin, it is recommended that you exercise disciplined protection from the harmful rays of the sun and keep your skin well hydrated. Patients receiving the collagen-induction treatments (Potenza/PicoSure) will have initiated an increase in collagen synthesis that extends for several months after completion of treatment.

Some patients choose to have refresher treatments, the following year, to help maintain their new look.

Dr. Wetherington is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He is a former President of the Georgia Society of Plastic Surgeons.