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Dr. Small is a very caring and compassionate surgeon. He made sure everything was done to his own standards. I couldn't thank him enough for the excellent job he has done on me. I don't think anyone else could have done a better job. Thank you so much.

A.J.

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Everything you Need To Know Tattoo Removal Overview

Meet Dr. Stephen E. Small A Trusted Laser Specialist in Toms River and Stafford Township

Overview

For the last 18 years, Dr. Small has provided Ocean County-area patients with exemplary holistic care, emphasizing technical innovation, compassion, and an uncompromising dedication to service. Dr. Small is known for his elegant, nuanced results and his consummate skill as an aesthetic artist. He believes that every patient is uniquely beautiful, and he strives to accentuate and celebrate that individual attractiveness. 

Early Life

Dr. Small became enamored with the field of aesthetics at an early age when he underwent plastic surgery for a serious burn accident at the age of nine. He was astounded by the groundbreaking techniques his surgeon employed to create life-changing results. Today, Dr. Small goes above and beyond to help patients accomplish their vision for a more refreshed, rejuvenated appearance and heightened self-confidence.

Training Background

Dr. Small is a board-certified plastic surgeon with in-depth expertise in reconstructive, laser, and cosmetic procedures. After he obtained his medical degree with honors from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), Dr. Small embarked on a rigorous 5-year general residency at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Stratford. To further refine and improve his skill set, he chose an intensive one-year burn and reconstructive fellowship at New York Medical College, Valhalla. Dr. Small also served as a resident and chief resident in plastic surgery for several years at Ohio University, South Pointe Hospital-Cleveland Clinic Health System.

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Laser Tattoo Removal Procedure Overview

Scope:

For patients who wish to remove an unwanted tattoo, our cutting-edge laser sessions can restore the skin to its pristine, ink-free appearance.

Anesthesia:

Local anesthesia is used.

Treatment Time:

Treatment typically takes 15-20 minutes to complete.

Recovery:

There is no downtime with laser tattoo removal.

Laser Tattoo Removal Before & After

tattoo being lasered off

What Is Tattoo Removal With the PicoWay Laser?

The innovative PicoWay laser emits short, powerful pulses to eradicate unwanted tattoo ink without damaging the surrounding pristine skin cells. Versatile and technologically savvy, PicoWay laser tattoo removal can address a wide range of ink hues, from reds all the way through blacks. In addition to erasing unwanted tattoos, the device also firms and tightens lax skin while enhancing collagen production. Unlike other lasers of its kind that use thermal energy, the PicoWay relies on cutting-edge PressureWave Technology. This promotes a faster healing process, minimizes discomfort, and reduces the likelihood of side effects or complications.

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How is a PicoWay® tattoo treatment different?

Tattoo lasers deliver light energy to fragment your tattoo ink. How that light is delivered makes all the difference; either with a nanosecond laser (a billionth of a second) or picosecond laser (a trillionth of a second). The PicoWay® laser is 100 times faster and blasts apart an ink molecule just by the impact. A nanosecond laser is slower, and it generates heat predominantly to eliminate a tattoo. The difference between the two lasers is astounding.

With PicoWay® you will need fewer treatments, enjoy more a complete elimination of your tattoo, experience less discomfort, and witness better safety.

The tattoo removal process requires a series of treatments at 6-8 week intervals. The time between treatments is needed as the tattoo is naturally eliminated by the body.

What Are the Benefits?

Tattoo removal in Ocean County, Toms River, & Stafford Township with the powerful PicoWay laser provides the following benefits:

  • Safe and effective for all ink colors
  • Erases large, complex tattoos
  • Fewer sessions needed than with other lasers
  • Cost-effective
  • Minimal downtime
  • Painless
  • Lower risk of side effects and complication
  • Boosts collagen regrowth
  • Removes dark spots
  • Corrects the appearance of acne scarring
  • Enhances self-confidence and self-esteem
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Who Makes a Good Candidate for Tattoo Removal in Ocean County?

Anyone who feels they made a mistake with one of their tattoos – or who needs to remove their ink due to work considerations – will make an excellent candidate for tattoo removal in Toms Rivers or Stafford Township with the innovative PicoWay laser. The technology is effective for all skin types and tones. To qualify, you need to be in good health and have realistic expectations for your results. During your private consultation, Dr. Small will assess the size, shape, location, age, and color of your tattoo in order to make the best treatment recommendations possible.

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What Happens During a Pico Tattoo Removal Session?

If you are approved for PicoWay tattoo removal, your treatment sessions will take place in the convenience of one of our Ocean County locations.

The treatment itself typically takes about 15-20 minutes, but this depends on the size and complexity of the tattoo.

First, a topical anesthetic will be placed on each treatment site to minimize your discomfort during the procedure as much as possible. Next, the device’s handpiece is gradually moved across each tattoo, allowing the laser energy to penetrate through the skin and break up the pigments below. The device can be adjusted between two laser wavelengths to target a broad spectrum of pigment colors.

After Your Treatment Sessions

Once each Pico appointment is complete, you should be able to return to your regular routine immediately.

The skin will still be healing, so you’ll likely be asked to follow these steps for proper recovery until otherwise directed:

  • Wear a clean bandage on each treatment area.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
  • Avoid shaving or soaking the tattooed skin, as well as too much sun exposure.
  • Do not pick at your skin or any scabs.
  • If there is any swelling, you may use an ice pack, following a pattern of 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.

Tattoo Removal Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pico treatments expensive?

Pico treatments can cost less than you think, while generally taking fewer sessions to remove a tattoo. PicoWay® We believe that this is the best tattoo removal laser treatment available. Actual treatments may take more or less treatment sessions. The number of treatments depends on the size of the tattoo, type of ink, amount of ink, and number of colors. Complicated designs and larger tattoos tend to take longer to treat.

Example: A typical 4-inch by 4-inch tattoo

Cost / Treatment

$225

$450

Total treatments at 8-week intervals

12

6

Time to complete removal

2 years

1 year

Total Cost

$2,700

$2,700

Individual results may vary. This case is illustrative only and is not a guarantee of price, results, or number of treatments.

Is Tattoo Removal Painful?

Tattoo removal with the PicoWay laser is generally considered painless. You may feel a slight pinch, like the short snap of a rubber band against the skin. The PicoWay does not rely on thermal energy like most lasers, so sessions are usually more comfortable and stress-free.

Can Tattoo Removal Be Combined With Other Treatments?

Yes. Dr. Small offers a wide range of age-defying cosmetic solutions for the skin, face, breasts, and body. He would be happy to discuss a combination treatment plan with you during your private consultation in Toms River or Stafford Township.

What Are the Risks of Tattoo Removal?

The picosecond laser comes with a reduced likelihood of complications compared with other tattoo removal devices. Despite this, there are some inherent risks to be aware of. These include the following:

  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Pain
  • Infection
  • Pinpoint bleeding
  • Crusting
  • Blistering
  • Scarring
  • Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
  • Post-inflammatory hypopigmentation

How Does the Picoway Laser Compare to Other Tattoo Removal Options?

The PicoWay difference is primarily its lightning-fast speed. It emits picosecond pulses that are impressively precise and rapid. The PicoWay is around 100 times faster than its laser counterparts.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Most patients need around 4-6 sessions spaced 6-8 weeks apart. Dr. Small can give you a more exact treatment timeline after evaluating the size, shape, location, and color of your tattoo.

How Long Until I See the Results?

You may need at least 3-4 sessions with the PicoWay laser before you start seeing your full results. However, with each treatment, you will see a marked improvement. Note that larger tattoos and those with more colors will take more time to eradicate.

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Schedule Your Laser Tattoo Removal Session in Ocean County Today!

If you are curious to learn more about tattoo removal in Ocean County, Toms River, & Stafford Township with the world-class PicoWay laser, contact us today to set up a private consultation with Dr. Small, a board-certified plastic surgeon and laser technology expert. Our offices are conveniently situated along the beautiful New Jersey coastline, providing a scenic and relaxing backdrop for your one-of-a-kind aesthetic journey. Contact us today to get started!

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