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Many women and men struggle with unwanted skin imperfections. These skin concerns may be the result of sun, age, lifestyle, or genetics and include wrinkles, dark spots, pigmented lesions, and acne scars.

While numerous surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures address these concerns, the PicoWay® laser is a revolutionary treatment option that is safe and effective for all skin types. At Dr. Ariel Ostad’s practice, patients who want to reduce unwanted pigmentation can enjoy the benefits of the PicoWay® laser.

What Is PicoWay® Laser?

PicoWay® laser is FDA-approved to give patients smooth and blemish-free skin by working from the inside out. This laser treatment option actively breaks down particles of skin pigmentation to produce fast and stunning results that you can feel proud of, whether you are out with friends or at home.

The PicoWay® laser is used to reduce all types of pigmentation, but it is mostly popular for its ability to remove pigment from sunspots, age spots, hyperpigmentation from sun damage, pregnancy, or use of some birth controls as well as tattoos. It is also a non-invasive skin rejuvenation procedure that triggers the body’s self-healing ability, making it a good option for those with little time on their hands.

How PicoWay® Laser Works

Other laser treatments use photothermal lasers that can overheat and even damage the skin. However, PicoWay® is an advanced picosecond laser that uses ultra-short pulses (equivalent to one trillionth of a second) to safely and effectively treat an array of skin issues and skin tones. The bursts of energy create a photo-mechanical impact in the layers of skin, which helps break down pigmentation particles.

During your treatment, Dr. Ostad will move the PicoWay® handheld device over your skin, and the picosecond laser energy will be directed over the target areas. The laser pulses create open spaces within the dermis. In addition to breaking down pigmentation in the skin, the PicoWay® treatment also stimulates collagen and elastin production. This is important, as these proteins are responsible for the skin’s health, strength, and elasticity.

The PicoWay® treatment typically lasts about 15 minutes, and multiple sessions may be required depending on the extent of correction needed. Along with the stunning results achieved with this laser treatment, the PicoWay® procedure offers faster results and requires fewer sessions with minimal discomfort or recovery time than other laser treatments.

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Common Treatment Areas

The PicoWay® laser can be used on any body part with unwanted pigmentation, like a tattoo you want to take off. If you have dark spots and hyperpigmentation on your hands, face, or décolletage, then the PicoWay® laser can be used to create a blank canvas. The treatment is also frequently used for the cheeks and forehead, where melasma settles. An appointment with Dr. Ostad can help determine what area (or areas) will benefit most from the PicoWay® treatment.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Customized Consultations

PicoWay® delivers high-peak power and short pulse durations to create an effect that transforms the skin to improve tone and texture. You may be a candidate for PicoWay® laser rejuvenation if you are frustrated with the presence and appearance of acne scars, wrinkles, sun damage, or dark spots. This laser is also an effective treatment option for removing unwanted tattoos. Optimal candidates are non-smoking women and men who are in good general health and have realistic expectations for their results.

During your customized consultation, you will be able to discuss your cosmetic frustrations and aesthetic goals with Dr. Ostad. Additionally, Dr. Ostad will be able to evaluate your condition to determine if the PicoWay® laser treatment is the right option for you.

Treatment Process

The PicoWay® laser treatment process varies from one patient to another, depending on the area you want to have treated. That said, for the effectiveness of the treatment, there are several standard steps that Dr. Ostad undertakes, including the following: 

Consultation: Dr. Ostad assesses your skin condition and the nature of the imperfection you want to address. After that, your medical history and goals will be taken into account. This is necessary to determine whether or not the PicoWay® laser is the proper treatment for your needs. 

Area Preparation: Next, the target area is cleaned and prepped for the treatment. If you have a particularly low tolerance to warmth or have experienced discomfort in previous laser procedures, Dr. Ostad can apply a local anesthetic. However, a numbing cream is often enough to reduce most of the discomfort.

Laser Treatment: At this point, Dr. Ostad will use a handheld device to deliver the laser pulses into your skin. During this time, you might feel a tingly warm sensation as the treatment is administered to your skin. 

Aftercare: After the session, Dr. Ostad will apply a soothing cream to the treatment area. You will be given instructions on homecare, such as wearing sun protection and using gentle skincare products.

The process is minimally invasive, with most patients going about their daily routine right after getting the treatment. As your skin cells renew themselves and the pigments are flushed out of the body, you should notice a gradual improvement in your skin quality.

Benefits of PicoWay® Laser

Improved Skin Quality

PicoWay® can address various skin imperfections, from stubborn pigments to signs of aging. The treatment is highly effective in treating conditions like melasma, which is rather difficult to target otherwise because of its depth. The PicoWay® laser can also trigger a new production of collagen, reducing wrinkles and skin sagging and addressing enlarged pores and acne scars. Over time, this can lead to smoother skin and a more youthful appearance.

Minimal Recovery Time

PicoWay® delivers excellent results with little to no downtime. Though you may experience some redness in the treated areas right after the procedure, this side effect will dissipate within a few hours. You may also experience peeling of darker spots in the treatment site, which is a normal part of the process. Cold compresses can help soothe your skin after the procedure. Most patients can return to their daily activities a few hours after their PicoWay® treatment.

Fast Results

During your consultation, Dr. Ostad will determine how many treatments you should expect. Usually, most patients require three to four sessions to achieve optimal results. It is important to note that you will not see immediate results after your PicoWay® laser treatment. Instead, you will see a gradual improvement in your skin. Most patients require six to eight weeks for their results to become final. For most patients, the effects achieved through their PicoWay® treatment are long-lasting, sometimes even permanent.

Safe for Every Skin Type

PicoWay® is mainly known for its safety across various skin types, including darker complexions. Many lasers have a high risk of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation in people with dark skin. This happens because most lasers deliver continuous light, which damages the melanin in the skin. The ultrashort pulses of PicoWay® reduce that risk significantly, making it a safe option for many patients. You can obtain even skin tone without triggering any supplemental skin problems.

Effective Tattoo Removal

While PicoWay® is a good option for excess pigmentation and stubborn brown spots, it can also be used to remove artificial pigments, such as tattoos. Its ultra-fast pulses make it an effective choice for shattering even problematic inks, such as blue or green, with which older technologies have problems. Fewer sessions are required to break down the ink, making it less likely to damage the skin overall.

Before & After

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This patient was concerned with the appearance of the hyper-pigmented scar on her cheek…. Read More

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This patient was involved in an accident which led him to undergo ear surgery with a skin graft…. Read More

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This patient came to my practice looking to remove an unwanted tattoo… Read More

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Reviews

PicoWay® Laser for Different Conditions

Beyond Cosmetic Uses

PicoWay® laser is mostly used to reduce hyperpigmentation, age spots on the skin, and unwanted tattoos. However, depending on the patient, it can also treat various health conditions. For instance, if you were diagnosed with vitiligo, the PicoWay® laser can be employed as an associated treatment to address the condition. Specialists like Dr. Ostad can also use it to treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which occurs after inflammation or injury. 

Success Stories

“I felt so cared for from the moment I walked through the door. The entire team is caring and made me feel comfortable every step of the way. I cannot recommend them more highly.”- Anonymous 

“I have been going to Dr. Ostad since my early 20s and now as I enter my mid-40s. He truly cares about his patients and their needs, is honest and always tries to be helpful. Be it from medical to cosmetic. Truly hands of an artist! I hope he never retires!!” – Kathrin

“I have seen Dr. Ostad for well over a decade. I trust his care and advice 100%. As a New Yorker who is always time constrained, I also appreciate the efficiency and professionalism of his office. Great service!” – Katie C.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the PicoWay® laser safe for individuals who have a darker skin tone?

PicoWay® laser uses ultra-short pulses of light that do not damage the surrounding tissue, allowing it time to recover between pulses. This makes it an appropriate treatment for those with darker skin tones who want to get their skin imperfections removed.

What age categories should use the PicoWay® treatment?

The PicoWay® laser treatment can help adult patients of all ages achieve smoother, clearer skin. After your treatment, you can look forward to showing off your stunning results and feeling more comfortable with your appearance.

Are PicoWay® laser procedures painful to get?

The level of discomfort mainly depends on how deep the pigment goes into your skin. For the most part, PicoWay® lasers are well-tolerated by patients, as the procedure is mainly used for brown spots and natural age lesions. However, breaking down ink from a tattoo makes it possible to experience some discomfort and pain from the procedure.

What are the side effects generally associated with the PicoWay® laser?

After a PicoWay® treatment, the side effects are usually temporary and mild, fading within a few days. This can include redness, swelling, and mild bruising, which is expected as the skin attempts to expel the pigment and heal.

Can I wear makeup after getting the PicoWay® laser treatment?

While it might feel tempting to conceal the redness or potential imperfections that PicoWay® tries to fix, we recommend that you wait about 24 hours before applying makeup. This gives your skin enough time to heal while avoiding irritation.

Is the PicoWay® laser permanent?

PicoWay® laser has the potential to be permanent, but that depends on the type of imperfections removed. For melasma and dark spots, it can be long lasting. Tattoo removals are permanent, although multiple treatments may be required for optimal results.

How much does the PicoWay® laser cost?

The price of the PicoWay® laser treatment varies depending on the complexity of the imperfection and the size of the area you want to treat. You may be able to get an estimate after a consultation with Dr. Ostad, be it on the phone or at the office.

About. Dr. Ostad

Dr. Ariel Ostad is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon and dermatologist, with his practice set on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, New York. With more than 20 years of experience in the cosmetic and dermatology field, he is renowned for using minimally invasive techniques, including the PicoWay® laser. Over time, he has been recognized as a leader in his domain, offering his clients advanced and personalized treatment plans. Dr. Ostad is dedicated to providing the highest quality standards of care, using the latest technologies to deliver optimal results. 

PicoWay® laser treatments are available at Dr. Ostad’s office in New York, where he offers personalized and top-rated treatment plans.

Have any more questions? 

You may contact our practice if you have other questions that are not addressed in this FAQ. We are dedicated to helping our patients make an informed decision, regardless of the skin condition they want to treat.

Expert Answers

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments required depends on the skin issue being addressed. For pigmentation and acne scars, patients typically see results after 2-4 treatments, spaced about 4 weeks apart. Tattoo removal often requires more sessions, depending on the tattoo’s size, color, and depth.

What is the downtime after Picoway Laser?

One of the benefits of the PicoWay laser is that it has minimal downtime. After the treatment, some patients may experience slight redness or swelling, which typically resolves within a few hours to a day. You can resume normal activities almost immediately, though it’s advised to avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen.

Can I combine Picoway with other treatments?

Yes, PicoWay can be combined with other treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, or injectables (Botox, fillers) to enhance results. At your consultation, we can create a customized treatment plan depending on your skin goals.

Combining PicoWay® Laser with Other Treatments

Complementary Treatments

Despite the PicoWay® laser being an effective treatment on its own, combining it with other procedures can offer a transformative effect. For instance, chemical peels can complement the laser treatment by exfoliating the outer layer pre-treatment. This allows the PicoWay® to enter much deeper into the skin. The skin rejuvenation properties can be further brought out by mixing in a Morpheus8™ treatment, amplifying the skin’s natural healing response. 

Should the PicoWay® laser be used to address wrinkles and fine lines and offer a rejuvenating effect, the procedure may be combined with injectables like dermal fillers and BOTOX® Cosmetic. Combining the two procedures can offer a rejuvenated appearance free of wrinkles and fine lines. The PicoWay® laser can also be used with DiamondGlow™ to provide hydrated, refreshed skin. 

Comprehensive Rejuvenation

At Dr. Ostad’s office, we believe in offering comprehensive rejuvenation services to our clients. For this reason, we use a holistic approach where we combine various treatments, aiming for the best results. Mixing our PicoWay® lasers with other skin rejuvenation treatments and medical-grade skincare allows us to offer natural-looking results with as few interventions as possible.

Latest Trends and Innovations

Advanced Techniques

Recent advancements in PicoWay® made integrating fractional technology into the procedure possible. This delivers small beams of light into fractions of the skin while leaving the surrounding tissue untouched, reducing the potential for downtime. The ultra-short picosecond pulses of the procedure are more effective at targeting pigmented lesions without causing too much thermal damage or injury to the skin. This is what makes the procedure safe for individuals with darker skin tones.

For patients who want to obtain a comprehensive rejuvenation treatment, Dr. Ostad also combines the PicoWay® laser with other non-invasive procedures. This combined approach offers long-term and thorough results, targeting more than one condition and providing a smooth skin canvas.

Innovative Uses

While the PicoWay® laser is commonly used for treating pigmented lesions like age spots, it has also become increasingly popular for removing unwanted tattoos. The technology has improved over time to break down a wide array of colors, all without affecting the individual’s natural skin tone. 

Additionally, the PicoWay® laser has shown promise as a skin-tightening procedure. For those with mild skin laxity issues, the PicoWay® laser can be used to stimulate collagen production and gradually improve skin elasticity.

Safety and Expertise

Why Choose Dr. Ariel Ostad

In addition to outstanding technical skills, Dr. Ariel Ostad is a compassionate, caring doctor with a passion for helping his patients achieve their desired results. He is double board-certified, both as a dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon. Well-known as an expert in his field, Dr. Ostad has been awarded Top Doctor status on RealSelf, listed as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, and named a New York Super Doctor.

Dr. Ostad has created a unique treatment place in New York built around the patient’s comfort. There, anyone can obtain personalized care and consistent, beautiful results. Dr. Ostad and his team of professionals are always one step ahead of the curve, following all the recent developments in skin rejuvenation and aesthetic dermatology. 

List of Credentials: 

  • Top PicoWay® Laser Specialist
  • Top-Rated Mohs Micrographic Surgery Provider
  • Trained at Harvard, UCLA, and NYU
  • 2012-2024 – Top Doctor, by Castle Connoly 
  • 2014-2024 – New York Super Doctor 
  • Clinical Associate Professor at NYU Department of Dermatology
  • Triple Board Certification in Mohs Surgery, Facial Cosmetic Surgery, and Cosmetic Dermatology 
  • 3-Time Recipient of NYU Dermatologic Surgical Attending of the Year

Commitment to Safety

At Dr. Ariel Ostad’s practice, we believe that a patient’s comfort and peace of mind are just as important as the effects of the procedure. For this reason, our practice is designed to be aesthetically pleasing and safe for the patients. We maintain strict sanitation, safety, and cleanliness standards to ensure a secure environment with the best results possible. 

Over time, Dr. Ostad has also invested in various advanced therapeutic devices and lasers to keep up with the changing technology. All the equipment, including the PicoWay® laser, is regularly updated as the technology advances. The practice features an on-site lab mostly used for Mohs micrographic surgery, but it can also be employed for diagnostics. We are fully certified by the AAAASF (American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities) to operate as a surgical facility.

Awards and Certifications

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Dr. Ariel Ostad has seen patients for this service, including BOTOX in NYC, from all over the tri-state area, including Manhattan, Midtown, the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, Brooklyn, New York City, the Bronx, Harlem, Astoria, Queens, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, and more. If you are interested in any of the services offered at the Office of Dr. Ariel Ostad, please contact us for more information.

BOTOX in NYC Doctor - Dr. Ariel Ostad

Dr. Ariel Ostad has seen patients for this service from all over the tri-state area, including Manhattan, Midtown, the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, Brooklyn, New York City, the Bronx, Harlem, Astoria, Queens, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, and more. If you are interested in any of the services offered at the Office of Dr. Ariel Ostad, please contact us for more information.

Medical-grade skincare products that will help maintain and enhance your results

These skincare products combined with your treatment plan customized by Dr. Ostad will help enhance your results and improve your overall skin texture. Click on a product below to learn more.

Sun Shade Clear

Sun Shade Clear
NIA-C+

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Dr. Ariel Ostad has seen patients for this service from all over the tri-state area, including Manhattan, Midtown, the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, Brooklyn, New York City, the Bronx, Harlem, Astoria, Queens, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, and more. If you are interested in any of the services offered at the Office of Dr. Ariel Ostad, please contact us for more information.

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