PICO Laser Technology

Name: Pico Laser
Brand: Cheng Plastic Surgery
Rating: 4.9 (276 reviews)

At Cheng Plastic Surgery, we invest in the most advanced picosecond laser technology available. Our Saratoga office features state-of-the-art PICO Discovery/Q-Switch Laser by Cartessa, giving our providers unmatched versatility for treating hyperpigmentation and tattoo removal.

The Bay Area's Most Advanced PICO Laser Technology

Whether you're searching for PicoSure, PicoWay or PICO Discovery laser treatments, the technology behind these devices is the same: picosecond laser energy. Both Dr. Elbert Cheng and Dr. Jacqueline Cheng, along with our expert nurse provider team, have combined decades of experience working with picosecond lasers. Deep knowledge of how to manipulate laser settings on these devices is key to achieving the safe, precise, and natural-looking results our patients expect.

What Is Picosecond Laser Technology?

Picosecond lasers deliver energy in incredibly short pulses, measured in trillionths of a second. This ultra-fast delivery creates a photoacoustic effect that shatters pigment particles into tiny fragments your body can naturally eliminate, while leaving surrounding skin unharmed.

Pulses are delivered in picoseconds vs. nanoseconds for greater precision
Photoacoustic energy breaks apart pigment without excessive heat or damage to the surrounding skin
Multiple wavelengths target different pigment colors and depths
Safer and more effective than older Q-switch stand-alone technology
Suitable for diverse skin types, including darker skin tones

Our Picosecond Laser Device

Cheng Plastic Surgery features the most advanced picosecond laser, allowing our providers to select the optimal settings for your specific concerns:

PICO Discovery by Cartessa

Three wavelengths (1064 nm, 532 nm, and 694 nm Ruby) for comprehensive pigment targeting
VarioPulse® Technology with three customizable pico-pulse options
PicoBoost Technology delivering up to 1.8 GW of power
Optibeam II handpieces: square (tattoo/spot removal), round (pigmented lesions), and fractional (skin resurfacing)
Ultra-short pulses (370-450 picoseconds) for maximum precision

Benefits of Picosecond Laser Treatment

Faster clearance of pigmentation and tattoos compared to older laser technology
Fewer treatment sessions needed for optimal results
Minimal discomfort during treatment
Reduced risk of scarring, blistering, or textural changes
Safe for diverse skin types, including Fitzpatrick types IV-V
Little to no downtime, return to normal activities the same day
Improved skin tone and texture as a secondary benefit

Are You a Candidate for Picosecond Laser Treatment?

You may be an ideal candidate if you have:

Melasma or hormonal pigmentation
Seborrheic Keratosis (Wisdom spots)
Birthmarks (café-au-lait spots, Nevus of Ota)
Age spots or sun damage (lentigines)
Unwanted permanent brow tattoos or cosmetic brow tattoos
Uneven skin tone or texture
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Why Choose Cheng Plastic Surgery?

Our providers don't just operate lasers—they understand the science behind them. Dr. Elbert Cheng and Dr. Jacqueline Cheng are double board-certified facial plastic surgeons who have worked with picosecond technology since its introduction to aesthetic medicine. In addition, our nurse provider team receives direct training from both doctors, ensuring consistent expertise across every treatment for all our patients. Our deep understanding of laser physics and skin biology, allows us to achieve results that reflect the high standard of care Cheng Plastic Surgery is known for.

At Cheng Plastic Surgery, clients who book a Pico laser treatment receive a complimentary VISIA Skin Analysis to kickstart their facial rejuvenation journey. This advanced, multi-spectral imaging system provides an in-depth assessment of your skin's health, allowing the specialists to perfectly customize your laser treatment and track your progress over time.

What to Expect

Consultation

Comprehensive skin assessment to identify your concerns
Discussion of treatment goals and realistic expectations
Customized treatment plan selecting the optimal laser platform
Transparent pricing based on treatment area and complexity

Treatment

Skin cleansed and prepared
Protective eyewear provided
Laser energy delivered in quick pulses (mild, warm snapping sensation)
Full-face treatments typically completed in 15-20 minutes
Targeted spot treatments may take just minutes

Recovery and Results

Mild redness or warmth immediately after treatment (similar to a sunburn)
Most patients return to normal activities the same day
Pigmented spots may darken temporarily before fading
Gradual improvement over weeks as your body clears fragmented pigment
Multiple sessions are recommended depending on the severity of the concern
Brow tattoo removal typically requires 3-5 sessions spaced 4-8 weeks apart

Pico Laser Frequently Asked Questions

How many treatments will I need?

This depends on your concern. Pigmented lesions may improve in 3-6 sessions, while brow tattoo removal typically requires 3-5 sessions.

Does picosecond laser treatment hurt?

Most patients describe the sensation as a quick snapping or mild stinging. Topical numbing is available for very sensitive areas.

Is picosecond laser safe for darker skin tones?

Yes. Ultra-short pulses minimize heat damage, making it safer for patients at higher risk for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

What's the difference between your PICO Discovery laser and PicoSure/PicoWay?

Both deliver picosecond energy, but the PICO Discovery offers additional wavelengths and customizable pulse options for complex cases.

Schedule Your Consultation

Experience the most advanced picosecond laser technology in the Bay Area. Schedule a comprehensive facial assessment (CFA) with Dr. Elbert Cheng or Dr. Jacqueline Cheng, or book an Advanced Aesthetic Assessment (AAA) with our experienced nurse provider team.

Contact our Saratoga office at (408) 741-9982 or our Redwood City location at (650) 227-9693.