Frequently Asked Questions
We perform allergy patch testing in our office in midtown Manhattan. There is no need to visit any outside laboratories or offices, providing a convenient and thorough analysis of allergens with as little disruption to your schedule as possible.
Allergy patch testing is a method for determining the substance that causes a skin rash. Dermatologists perform allergy patch testing, while allergists perform scratch and prick testing. Our patch testing does not involve any needles, poking, or prodding. Instead, allergy patch testing involves small patches of allergens being applied and secured to your body (we usually use the back, as it is a convenient, large, flat surface). Allergic reactions to these allergens are then read at specific intervals to determine what you react to, and how strong that reaction is.
During patch testing, we apply panels of allergens to your skin, which are left in place for two days. We perform an initial reading when the tapes are removed, and a subsequent reading 1-2 days later.
Allergy patch testing occurs over the course of one week, during which you will have 3 appointments (Monday, Wednesday, Friday). Your first 2 appointments will be quick as patches are placed and removed, and readings taken. Your final appointment on Friday will be longer, as the results of your test will be discussed, as well as treatment and prevention of skin allergies.
If you’re suffering from contact dermatitis, you surely want to know the cause, so you can prevent future reactions. It’s likely that you have come in contact with something to which you have developed an allergy. Sometimes allergens are easily determined, like most cases of poison ivy. In other cases, we need to do some tests to figure it out.
After your allergy patch test, we’ll provide you with a report explaining which products and substances are safe for you to use. You’ll take small steps to change your lifestyle and avoid your allergens. Within a few months, your skin rash should improve or subside completely.
Laser energy is delivered to the tattoo, targeting the ink and breaking it down into smaller particles. The particles are eliminated through the body’s natural processes resulting in a lightening of the tattoo ink.
For many patients, the feeling of laser tattoo removal has been compared to what it feels like when getting a tattoo, however it is very fast. Your practitioner will work with you on the best comfort option based on your individual situation.
The number of laser treatments needed for tattoo removal is dependent on a number of variables such as ink type, size of the tattoo, location on the body, type of laser used, lifestyle habits, etc. During your consultation, a practitioner will evaluate your tattoo and recommend a realistic treatment regime to help you achieve the best results.
While it typically takes 4-8 weeks for the body to absorb the ink particles, every patient and tattoo responds differently. Following the recommended post treatment protocol will likely improve the results and reduce the chance of small adverse events.
The ideal clinical endpoint for the tattoo treatment is an immediate slight whitening or “frosting” of the skin, however that will subside immediately after the treatment is complete. Other observable effects include mild swelling and redness. Your practitioner will direct you on how best to keep the area moist.
Until the launch of PicoSure, Q-Switched lasers had been considered the gold standard for removing tattoos. Q-Switched laser treatments use thermal energy to heat up and break apart the ink particles. Now with PicoSure, ultra-short pulses hit the ink particle with a pressure so great, the ink shatters into tiny dust-like particles. Because the particles are so small, they are more readily absorbed and eliminated by the body. PicoSure has been proven success in treating even dark, stubborn blue and green inks, as well as previously-treated, stubborn tattoos that were not successfully cleared in the past.
Tattoos can be lightened in preparation for a cover-up tattoo. Your practitioner may have you wait six weeks between your last treatment and when you have the new tattoo completed.
The cost of laser tattoo removal depends on several factors, including the size of tattoo and the number of treatments it will require. After your consultation, your practitioner will provide you a price estimate for the treatment series.
Ultherapy uses tried-and-true ultrasound technology, which has been FDA-cleared to lift the neck, under the chin, the brow, and the décolleté. By directing the ultrasound energy precisely at the areas in need of tightening, Ultherapy stimulates the growth of new collagen.
Collagen is a natural protein that provides the elasticity and tone in youthful skin. As we age, the collagen in our skin loses its strength and diminishes. Ultherapy works by jump-starting the collagen-production deep below the skin. Because your body builds collagen over the months following your Ultherapy treatment, your results appear naturally and slowly.
Ultherapy is the only FDA-cleared procedure that targets the deep foundation, below your skin, without cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin. Also, the only procedure to use ultrasound imaging, Ultherapy allows our surgeons to view the deeper layers and direct the ultrasound to the specific areas that need it the most. The level of precision and the degree of transformation seen from Ultherapy can only be surpassed by surgical intervention. So if you’re not ready for a facelift, an uplift with Ultherapy could be for you.
The lasers offered at The Dermatology & Laser Group address issues in the superficial layers of the skin (e.g. fine lines, wrinkles, pigment changes). Ultherapy addresses the deep skin layer and the foundational layer addressed in cosmetic surgery that lift and lend support to the skin. Therefore, the two technologies are quite complementary!
The procedure has been cleared by the FDA after demonstrating safety in clinical studies, and over 200,000 treatments have been performed safely worldwide. In addition, ultrasound energy has a proven track record, with use in the field of medicine for more than 50 years.
Ultherapy sessions usually last 60-90 minutes. You do not have to take downtime after your treatment, but as the process can leave you red, and there is the possibility that your surgeon will prescribe you medications to limit discomfort, we suggest taking the remainder of the evening to relax after your procedure.
Most patients note that they can feel the ultrasound working. However, comfort thresholds vary from patient to patient, and so it is difficult to say if you will experience this as discomfort. What you do feel during delivery of the ultrasound energy is temporary and a positive signal that the collagen-building process has been initiated. Patients typically leave comfortable and excited about the benefits to come!
Exciting advancements have recently been implemented, including a new-and-improved treatment approach and update to the procedure’s System, Ultherapy Amplify, which is proven to increase patient comfort of the procedure without impacting efficacy. Of course, your practitioner will consult with you prior to your skin treatment to make your experience as pleasant as possible.
Ultherapy works best on areas with moderate loose and sagging skin in the brows, neck, décolleté, and under the chin. While Ultherapy can certainly provide improvement for severe sagging and loose skin, the results will be less dramatic.
Patients may enjoy some initial effect but the ultimate lifting and toning will take place over 2-3 months, as tired collagen is replaced with new, more elastic collagen. As this collagen-building process continues, further improvements can appear up to 6 months following a procedure.
Results from Ultherapy have been shown to last for at least 2 years, with gradual aging beginning to show after the 2 year period. In order to prolong your results, you may wish to have another Ultherapy treatment at the end of the 2 year period. Remember that no procedure is able to stop the aging process, but Ultherapy can help you make significant progress towards turning back the effects of gravity.
The majority of patients only need one treatment; however, some may benefit from more than one treatment (depending on how much laxity you have and your body’s own biological response to the ultrasound and collagen-building process). Your physician will be able to recommend the right treatment plan for your needs during your cosmetic consultation.
It is ideal for smaller spider veins and reticular veins.
Expect to see some improvement in the appearance of your leg vein days following the treatment with maximal improvement at about 6 weeks.
The treatment takes less than 30 minutes – 60 minutes.
A few treatment sessions may be needed to fully clear blood vessels and reduce the appearance of the leg veins completely.
Patients describe a range of sensations from tingling to the snap of a rubber band during the procedure.
Typically, there is no downtime and you can return to your daily activities immediately following the procedure.
Expect to see an improvement in both the tone and texture of your stretch marks.
The treatment can be performed in as little as 30 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.
Most people need four to eight treatment sessions for desired results.
You may experience a temporary redness and swelling of the stretch marks which could last a few days.
Typically you may resume your daily activities immediately following the treatment session.
Most patients are just fine to resume their normal daily routine after a chemical peel, but you can expect to be more red and sensitive than usual for 2-5 days. We recommend waiting 24-48 hours post-peel before applying make-up, and to treat the skin gently and keep it protected from the sun. Post-peel instructions are carefully reviewed with you before leaving our office.
Is there any downtime with a chemical peel?
Chemical peels are a little to no downtime procedure. Most, but not all, patients will experience some degree of peeling after a chemical peel. Approximately 48 hours after the treatment is when the skin starts to peel. This is considered a side effect of the procedure, and will generally last 2 to 5 days.
After the initial healing period, you will begin to see improvement in the texture and clarity of your skin. Depending on your skin concerns, we recommend a series of peels to achieve optimal results.
“Chemical Peel” does not necessarily denote one particular treatment or chemical, and many cosmo-ceuticals have adopted this term for their products. The chemicals used by The Dermatology & Laser Group to specially formulate your individual peel are prescription-grade acids, individually mixed by the very same board certified dermatologist that has examined your skin that very same day. You will not find a safer, more individualized, or more effective chemical peel anywhere else. There simply is no substitute for this level of customization in skin treatments, and the results prove it!
For Voluma injections, more than with other fillers, it is very important that you select an injector that is knowledgeable, well-trained, and highly experienced with replacing facial volume. Replacing volume in the face requires a different skill level than smoothing wrinkles. Our physicians specialize in the three-dimensional art and science of facial proportions and volume.
Injected deep into the face, directly above the cheek bones, Voluma replaces volume lost due to bone absoprtion, connective tissue loss and flaccidity, and fatty deposit absorption and migration. By replacing volume in the cheek contours, Voluma firms, lifts, and smooths the skin in the lower and mid face, eliminating wrinkles and folds in the nasolabial and marionette line areas, replenishing hollows, lifting jowls and the chin.
You can expect long-lasting results,up to 2 years, according to clinical studies.
The entire Juvederm XC family comes in pre-filled syringes, which are used to inject the product. The injection of Voluma takes place in our private Manhattan offices, and the quick procedure allows for you to immediately return to work, or other normal activities.
Juvederm Voluma XC comes pre-mixed with lidocaine for patient comfort. Lidocaine will numb during and after the injections, minimizing discomfort.
Most patients use 2-3 syringes to achieve a lifted, full look. however, each individual is different and a consultation with one of our surgeons will give you a better idea of how much you might need to achieve your aesthetic goals.
Our practice prices fillers by syringe, with discounts given on additional syringes used at the same appointment. A specific quote will be provided at your cosmetic consultation, based upon your specific needs and goals.
Because of our partnership with Allergan, the manufacturers of Botox and Juvederm, we are able to offer our patients a loyalty rewards program, which can provide you with significant discounts on this product.
Start with a cosmetic consultation with one of our Board Certified Dermatologists.
If you wish to have injections the same day as your consultation, you can further prepare, starting a week before, by avoiding excess sun and stopping over the counter medications and vitamins that increase risk of bleeding (St. John’s Wort, Vitamin E, aspirin, ibuprofen, etc).
You’ll have to remove any makeup before Juvederm Voluma XC is injected, but it can be re-applied directly after the treatment. We stock makeup remover in the office, and have mirrors and makeup available in the room, for patient ease and comfort.
Voluma’s instant effects are not generally accompanied by any side effects. Most patients resume their normal activities immediately after their injection session.
As with all injectable fillers, the most commonly reported side effects are swelling, stinging, bleeding, bruising, and itching at the injection site, with most resolving naturally in less than 24 -48 hours. You should avoid strenuous exercise and alcoholic beverages the day of injection, as well as excessive sun or heat exposure.
Juvederm Voluma XC lasts 2 years, but it is not a permanent solution.
Botox is different in use than fillers. Dermal fillers work to increase volume, replacing lost collagen and fat, and lifting wrinkles and folds up and out. Botulinum Toxin A, such as Botox, works to relax muscles that cause wrinkles and lines, releasing lines, and preventing further deepening of wrinkles.
Botulinum Toxin A, branded as Botox, provides a buffer to neurotransmitters within the injected muscles, lessening the signal to contract. This allows the muscle to lengthen, releasing wrinkles and folds. When Botox is injected properly, it only lessens, not eliminates these neurotransmitter signals. Correct use of Botox leads to reduced facial movement, not a complete paralysis, as is seen in “frozen faces.” We never like that look.
Botox is drawn into a syringe from a vial. We use fine gauge needles, to lessen the discomfort during injection. Botox is not mixed with lidocaine or any other numbing agent. Patients concerned with pain can use ice and/or numbing cream prior to injections.
The actual amount of Botox needed to achieve your individual goals will vary by patient. Our physicians can certainly give you an estimate of the units you might need, but as these numbers vary widely between patients, we price our Botox by area, not unit.
We price our Botox by area injected, with significant discounts given when multiple areas are injected in the same session. This allows us to generate a price that reflects the Doctor’s skill and expertise. Botox is a powerful drug, and can have some very serious side effects. For this reason, we suggest you always have your Botox injections from a board certified Dermatologist, well-trained in facial anatomy.
We generally inject Botox into 1 or more of the following 3 areas:
- Horizontal forehead “worry” lines
- 11’s, or vertical frown lines between the eyes, also called the glabella
- Crow’s feet, or horizontal and diagonal lines around the outer corners of the eyes
Botox can be injected into other locations, such as the neck to relax vertical bands. Our physicians can discuss which locations are suitable for Botox injection during your consultation.
You can save on your Botox injections by enrolling in the Brilliant Distinctions Loyalty Rewards Program, available at our office due to our unique relationship with Allergan, the manufacturers of Botox, Juvederm, Latisse, and other cosmetic products.
Start with a cosmetic consultation with one of our dermatologists.
If you wish to have injections the same day as your consultation, you can further prepare, starting a week before, by avoiding excess sun and stopping over the counter medications and vitamins that increase risk of bleeding (St. John’s Wort, Vitamin E, aspirin, ibuprofen, etc).
You’ll have to remove any makeup before Botox is injected, but it can be re-applied directly after the treatment. We stock makeup remover in the office, and have mirrors and cosmetics available in the room, for patient ease and comfort.
Botox’s full effects can take 2-14 days to develop. You should expect some immediate improvement, and further improvement for up to 14 days following treatment.
As with all injectable products, the most commonly reported side effects are swelling, stinging, bleeding, bruising, and itching at the injection site, with most resolving naturally in less than 24 hours. You should avoid strenuous exercise and alcoholic beverages the day of injection, as well as excessive sun or heat exposure.
Botox is not a permanent solution. You will need to continue to receive injections to continue to see results. One of the benefits of being consistent with injections of Botox, however, is that most patients can expect to see Botox’s effect last longer, the more frequently they’ve been getting injections.
Botox is a potent drug, and can have very serious side effects. It is extremely important to have your Botox injected by a board certified dermatologist, who understands facial anatomy, and has been properly trained in injection techniques.
To offset the price of future injections, our office is able to offer patients the Brilliant Distinctions Loyalty Rewards program through our unique partnership with Allergan.
At The Dermatology and Laser Group we know our Manhattan patients well. We know that the great majority of our New York City patients have active work and social lives and can’t take weeks to recover from their laser procedure. That is why we offer the advantage of Fractional Non-Ablative Laser Skin Resurfacing. This allows for great results and a quick recovery. When other resurfacing devices such as CO2 lasers use the ablative method, removing the epidermis and some of the dermis, the drawbacks include red, raw skin, a risk of infection for several weeks after treatment, and prolonged downtime.
Virtually anywhere on the body can be safely and effectively treated from:
- Wrinkles and Fine Lines of the face, neck, and décolletage
- Acne scars on the face
- Stretch marks of the breasts, hips, buttocks, and thighs
- Scars anywhere on the body
- Skin discoloration of the face and body
The discomfort felt during the procedure is typically described by most of our patients as minor. Patients are also welcome to come in a bit early for their appointment to have a prescription topical numbing cream applied to the areas being treated.
Following the procedure most patients experience redness and swelling in treated areas for a few hours. Rarely, this can last as long as 2 days. The areas can be masked with a physician approved foundation 24 hours following the procedure. As your new skin tissue is generated in the treated area you will notice positive changes in your skin that continue to occur for several months following the procedure.
The best way to learn more about the procedures we offer at The Dermatology and Laser Group is to visit us for a consultation in our Manhattan office. If you prefer, you may also call and ask to speak to our Cosmetic Coordinator. Various sources on the web also offer valuable information including: WebMD, The Mayo Clinic, and The Cleveland Clinic.
Ultherapy is the only FDA-cleared procedure that targets the deep foundation, below your skin, without cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin. Also, the only procedure to use ultrasound imaging, Ultherapy allows our surgeons to view the deeper layers and direct the ultrasound to the specific areas that need it the most. The level of precision and the degree of transformation seen from Ultherapy can only be surpassed by surgical intervention. So if you’re not ready for a facelift, an uplift with Ultherapy could be for you.
Ultherapy uses tried-and-true ultrasound technology, which has been FDA-cleared to lift the neck, under the chin, the brow, and the décolleté. By directing the ultrasound energy precisely at the areas in need of tightening, Ultherapy stimulates the growth of new collagen.
Collagen is a natural protein that provides the elasticity and tone in youthful skin. As we age, the collagen in our skin loses its strength and diminishes. Ultherapy works by jump-starting the collagen-production deep below the skin. Because your body builds collagen over the months following your Ultherapy treatment, your results appear naturally and slowly
The lasers offered at The Dermatology & Laser Group address issues in the superficial layers of the skin (e.g. fine lines, wrinkles, pigment changes). Ultherapy addresses the deep skin layer and the foundational layer addressed in cosmetic surgery that lift and lend support to the skin. Therefore, the two technologies are quite complementary!
The procedure has been cleared by the FDA after demonstrating safety in clinical studies, and over 200,000 treatments have been performed safely worldwide. In addition, ultrasound energy has a proven track record, with use in the field of medicine for more than 50 years.
Ultherapy sessions usually last 60-90 minutes. You do not have to take downtime after your treatment, but as the process can leave you red, and there is the possibility that your surgeon will prescribe you medications to limit discomfort, we suggest taking the remainder of the evening to relax after your procedure.
Most patients note that they can feel the ultrasound working. However, comfort thresholds vary from patient to patient, and so it is difficult to say if you will experience this as discomfort. What you do feel during delivery of the ultrasound energy is temporary and a positive signal that the collagen-building process has been initiated. Patients typically leave comfortable and excited about the benefits to come!
Exciting advancements have recently been implemented, including a new-and-improved treatment approach and update to the procedure’s System, Ultherapy Amplify, which is proven to increase patient comfort of the procedure without impacting efficacy. Of course, your practitioner will consult with you prior to your skin treatment to make your experience as pleasant as possible.
Ultherapy works best on areas with moderate loose and sagging skin in the brows, neck, décolleté, and under the chin. While Ultherapy can certainly provide improvement for severe sagging and loose skin, the results will be less dramatic.
Patients may enjoy some initial effect but the ultimate lifting and toning will take place over 2-3 months, as tired collagen is replaced with new, more elastic collagen. As this collagen-building process continues, further improvements can appear up to 6 months following a procedure.
Results from Ultherapy have been shown to last for at least 2 years, with gradual aging beginning to show after the 2 year period. In order to prolong your results, you may wish to have another Ultherapy treatment at the end of the 2 year period. Remember that no procedure is able to stop the aging process, but Ultherapy can help you make significant progress towards turning back the effects of gravity.
The majority of patients only need one treatment; however, some may benefit from more than one treatment (depending on how much laxity you have and your body’s own biological response to the ultrasound and collagen-building process). Your physician will be able to recommend the right treatment plan for your needs during your cosmetic consultation.
SculpSure is a non-invasive body contouring system for the reduction of stubborn fat in areas such as the abdomen and love handles. The 25 minute procedure destroys up to 24% of treated fat cells without surgery.
SculpSure is ideal for people with trouble spots, particularly those that seem resistant to diet and exercise.
Most patients see results with as little as one treatment. However, you may wish to have additional treatments based on your desired results. Ask your treatment provider about the best treatment plan for you.
Most patients feel a tingling sensation intermittently throughout the treatment which is generally well-tolerated.
Many patients start to see results as early as 6 weeks following treatment as the body begins to evacuate the destroyed fat cells, with optimal results usually seen at 12 weeks.
Treated fat cells are permanently destroyed during the treatment and will not regenerate.
There is no downtime with SculpSure, so you can have the treatment during your lunch hour and return to work immediately.
The number of fat cells stored in our bodies typically remain constant throughout adult life. After the SculpSure treatment, the destroyed fat cells will never return. However, as we lose weight, the size of fat cells become smaller, but typically do not decrease in number. Even with diet and exercise, many people have difficulty losing weight in these trouble areas.
Cellfina™ is the only FDA-cleared minimally invasive, one-time procedure clinically proven to improve the appearance of cellulite for at least two years—the longest FDA-cleared duration for a cellulite treatment. A straightforward solution to cellulite, Cellfina™, combines a proven approach with innovative, proprietary technology, to produce precise, long-lasting results.
The Cellfina™ System treats the primary structural cause of cellulite—the connective bands woven throughout fat in the thighs and buttocks. These tight bands pull down the skin, creating the puckering you see on the surface of the skin. Similar to a rubber band under tension, once released, the treated skin bounces back to smooth itself out.
Results can be seen in as little as three days. In the pivotal study, patient satisfaction was 85 percent at three months, 94 percent at one year and 96 percent at two years, surpassing the patient satisfaction rates of other leading cellulite treatments.
Cellfina™ does not involve an operating room or general anesthesia. It relies on a minimally invasive, small needle-sized device to treat the cellulite-causing bands just beneath the surface of the skin.
Patients in the pivotal study showed significant improvement shortly after the treatment, with results lasting at least two years—the longest FDA clearance for a cellulite treatment.
No serious adverse events were associated with Cellfina™ in the pivotal study. The most common side effects reported by patients in the FDA‑cleared pivotal study were soreness, tenderness and bruising. Just three days after treatment, patients rated their pain as minimal (2.7 on a scale of 0 to 10; 0=no pain, 10=extreme pain) and most (82 percent) felt pain only with touch or pressure to the area treated. This minimal pain improved quickly with time. More than 90 percent of patients had no bruising at four weeks.
There is limited downtime associated with Cellfina™. Some patients experience initial soreness and tenderness, but these side effects resolve quickly with time.
Smoother and healthier looking skin of the thighs and buttock are now easily achievable with Cellfina. Call us at 212-444-8204 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your customized Cellfina treatment. Or fill out the form below and our cosmetic coordinator, Alyssa, will contact you within one business day to setup your consultation.
Botox is different in use than fillers. Dermal fillers work to increase volume, replacing lost collagen and fat, and lifting wrinkles and folds up and out. Botulinum Toxin A, such as Botox, works to relax muscles that cause wrinkles and lines, releasing lines, and preventing further deepening of wrinkles.
Botulinum Toxin A, branded as Botox, provides a buffer to neurotransmitters within the injected muscles, lessening the signal to contract. This allows the muscle to lengthen, releasing wrinkles and folds. When Botox is injected properly, it only lessens, not eliminates these neurotransmitter signals. Correct use of Botox leads to reduced facial movement, not a complete paralysis, as is seen in “frozen faces.” We never like that look.
Botox is drawn into a syringe from a vial. We use fine gauge needles, to lessen the discomfort during injection. Botox is not mixed with lidocaine or any other numbing agent. Patients concerned with pain can use ice and/or numbing cream prior to injections.
The actual amount of Botox needed to achieve your individual goals will vary by patient. Our physicians can certainly give you an estimate of the units you might need, but as these numbers vary widely between patients, we price our Botox by area, not unit.
We price our Botox by area injected, with significant discounts given when multiple areas are injected in the same session. This allows us to generate a price that reflects the Doctor’s skill and expertise. Botox is a powerful drug, and can have some very serious side effects. For this reason, we suggest you always have your Botox injections from a board certified Dermatologist, well-trained in facial anatomy.
We generally inject Botox into 1 or more of the following 3 areas:
- Horizontal forehead “worry” lines
- 11’s, or vertical frown lines between the eyes, also called the glabella
- Crow’s feet, or horizontal and diagonal lines around the outer corners of the eyes
Botox can be injected into other locations, such as the neck to relax vertical bands. Our physicians can discuss which locations are suitable for Botox injection during your consultation.
You can save on your Botox injections by enrolling in the Brilliant Distinctions Loyalty Rewards Program, available at our office due to our unique relationship with Allergan, the manufacturers of Botox, Juvederm, Latisse, and other cosmetic products.
Start with a cosmetic consultation with one of our dermatologists.
If you wish to have injections the same day as your consultation, you can further prepare, starting a week before, by avoiding excess sun and stopping over the counter medications and vitamins that increase risk of bleeding (St. John’s Wort, Vitamin E, aspirin, ibuprofen, etc).
You’ll have to remove any makeup before Botox is injected, but it can be re-applied directly after the treatment. We stock makeup remover in the office, and have mirrors and cosmetics available in the room, for patient ease and comfort.
Botox’s full effects can take 2-14 days to develop. You should expect some immediate improvement, and further improvement for up to 14 days following treatment.
As with all injectable products, the most commonly reported side effects are swelling, stinging, bleeding, bruising, and itching at the injection site, with most resolving naturally in less than 24 hours. You should avoid strenuous exercise and alcoholic beverages the day of injection, as well as excessive sun or heat exposure.
Botox is not a permanent solution. You will need to continue to receive injections to continue to see results. One of the benefits of being consistent with injections of Botox, however, is that most patients can expect to see Botox’s effect last longer, the more frequently they’ve been getting injections.
Botox is a potent drug, and can have very serious side effects. It is extremely important to have your Botox injected by a board certified dermatologist, who understands facial anatomy, and has been properly trained in injection techniques.
To offset the price of future injections, our office is able to offer patients the Brilliant Distinctions Loyalty Rewards program through our unique partnership with Allergan.
Cellfina™ is the only FDA-cleared minimally invasive, one-time procedure clinically proven to improve the appearance of cellulite for at least two years—the longest FDA-cleared duration for a cellulite treatment. A straightforward solution to cellulite, Cellfina™, combines a proven approach with innovative, proprietary technology, to produce precise, long-lasting results.
The Cellfina™ System treats the primary structural cause of cellulite—the connective bands woven throughout fat in the thighs and buttocks. These tight bands pull down the skin, creating the puckering you see on the surface of the skin. Similar to a rubber band under tension, once released, the treated skin bounces back to smooth itself out.
Results can be seen in as little as three days. In the pivotal study, patient satisfaction was 85 percent at three months, 94 percent at one year and 96 percent at two years, surpassing the patient satisfaction rates of other leading cellulite treatments.
Cellfina™ does not involve an operating room or general anesthesia. It relies on a minimally invasive, small needle-sized device to treat the cellulite-causing bands just beneath the surface of the skin.
Patients in the pivotal study showed significant improvement shortly after the treatment, with results lasting at least two years—the longest FDA clearance for a cellulite treatment.
No serious adverse events were associated with Cellfina™ in the pivotal study. The most common side effects reported by patients in the FDA‑cleared pivotal study were soreness, tenderness and bruising. Just three days after treatment, patients rated their pain as minimal (2.7 on a scale of 0 to 10; 0=no pain, 10=extreme pain) and most (82 percent) felt pain only with touch or pressure to the area treated. This minimal pain improved quickly with time. More than 90 percent of patients had no bruising at four weeks.
There is limited downtime associated with Cellfina™. Some patients experience initial soreness and tenderness, but these side effects resolve quickly with time.
Smoother and healthier looking skin of the thighs and buttock are now easily achievable with Cellfina. Call us at 212-444-8204 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your customized Cellfina treatment. Or fill out the form below and our cosmetic coordinator, Alyssa, will contact you within one business day to setup your consultation.
Most patients are just fine to resume their normal daily routine after a chemical peel, but you can expect to be more red and sensitive than usual for 2-5 days. We recommend waiting 24-48 hours post-peel before applying make-up, and to treat the skin gently and keep it protected from the sun. Post-peel instructions are carefully reviewed with you before leaving our office.
Is there any downtime with a chemical peel?
Chemical peels are a little to no downtime procedure. Most, but not all, patients will experience some degree of peeling after a chemical peel. Approximately 48 hours after the treatment is when the skin starts to peel. This is considered a side effect of the procedure, and will generally last 2 to 5 days.
After the initial healing period, you will begin to see improvement in the texture and clarity of your skin. Depending on your skin concerns, we recommend a series of peels to achieve optimal results.
“Chemical Peel” does not necessarily denote one particular treatment or chemical, and many cosmo-ceuticals have adopted this term for their products. The chemicals used by The Dermatology & Laser Group to specially formulate your individual peel are prescription-grade acids, individually mixed by the very same board certified dermatologist that has examined your skin that very same day. You will not find a safer, more individualized, or more effective chemical peel anywhere else. There simply is no substitute for this level of customization in skin treatments, and the results prove it!
We perform allergy patch testing in our office in midtown Manhattan. There is no need to visit any outside laboratories or offices, providing a convenient and thorough analysis of allergens with as little disruption to your schedule as possible.
Allergy patch testing is a method for determining the substance that causes a skin rash. Dermatologists perform allergy patch testing, while allergists perform scratch and prick testing. Our patch testing does not involve any needles, poking, or prodding. Instead, allergy patch testing involves small patches of allergens being applied and secured to your body (we usually use the back, as it is a convenient, large, flat surface). Allergic reactions to these allergens are then read at specific intervals to determine what you react to, and how strong that reaction is.
During patch testing, we apply panels of allergens to your skin, which are left in place for two days. We perform an initial reading when the tapes are removed, and a subsequent reading 1-2 days later.
Allergy patch testing occurs over the course of one week, during which you will have 3 appointments (Monday, Wednesday, Friday). Your first 2 appointments will be quick as patches are placed and removed, and readings taken. Your final appointment on Friday will be longer, as the results of your test will be discussed, as well as treatment and prevention of skin allergies.
If you’re suffering from contact dermatitis, you surely want to know the cause, so you can prevent future reactions. It’s likely that you have come in contact with something to which you have developed an allergy. Sometimes allergens are easily determined, like most cases of poison ivy. In other cases, we need to do some tests to figure it out.
After your allergy patch test, we’ll provide you with a report explaining which products and substances are safe for you to use. You’ll take small steps to change your lifestyle and avoid your allergens. Within a few months, your skin rash should improve or subside completely.
For Voluma injections, more than with other fillers, it is very important that you select an injector that is knowledgeable, well-trained, and highly experienced with replacing facial volume. Replacing volume in the face requires a different skill level than smoothing wrinkles. Our physicians specialize in the three-dimensional art and science of facial proportions and volume.
Injected deep into the face, directly above the cheek bones, Voluma replaces volume lost due to bone absoprtion, connective tissue loss and flaccidity, and fatty deposit absorption and migration. By replacing volume in the cheek contours, Voluma firms, lifts, and smooths the skin in the lower and mid face, eliminating wrinkles and folds in the nasolabial and marionette line areas, replenishing hollows, lifting jowls and the chin.
You can expect long-lasting results,up to 2 years, according to clinical studies.
The entire Juvederm XC family comes in pre-filled syringes, which are used to inject the product. The injection of Voluma takes place in our private Manhattan offices, and the quick procedure allows for you to immediately return to work, or other normal activities.
Juvederm Voluma XC comes pre-mixed with lidocaine for patient comfort. Lidocaine will numb during and after the injections, minimizing discomfort.
Most patients use 2-3 syringes to achieve a lifted, full look. however, each individual is different and a consultation with one of our surgeons will give you a better idea of how much you might need to achieve your aesthetic goals.
Our practice prices fillers by syringe, with discounts given on additional syringes used at the same appointment. A specific quote will be provided at your cosmetic consultation, based upon your specific needs and goals.
Because of our partnership with Allergan, the manufacturers of Botox and Juvederm, we are able to offer our patients a loyalty rewards program, which can provide you with significant discounts on this product.
Start with a cosmetic consultation with one of our Board Certified Dermatologists.
If you wish to have injections the same day as your consultation, you can further prepare, starting a week before, by avoiding excess sun and stopping over the counter medications and vitamins that increase risk of bleeding (St. John’s Wort, Vitamin E, aspirin, ibuprofen, etc).
You’ll have to remove any makeup before Juvederm Voluma XC is injected, but it can be re-applied directly after the treatment. We stock makeup remover in the office, and have mirrors and makeup available in the room, for patient ease and comfort.
Voluma’s instant effects are not generally accompanied by any side effects. Most patients resume their normal activities immediately after their injection session.
As with all injectable fillers, the most commonly reported side effects are swelling, stinging, bleeding, bruising, and itching at the injection site, with most resolving naturally in less than 24 -48 hours. You should avoid strenuous exercise and alcoholic beverages the day of injection, as well as excessive sun or heat exposure.
Juvederm Voluma XC lasts 2 years, but it is not a permanent solution.
At The Dermatology and Laser Group we know our Manhattan patients well. We know that the great majority of our New York City patients have active work and social lives and can’t take weeks to recover from their laser procedure. That is why we offer the advantage of Fractional Non-Ablative Laser Skin Resurfacing. This allows for great results and a quick recovery. When other resurfacing devices such as CO2 lasers use the ablative method, removing the epidermis and some of the dermis, the drawbacks include red, raw skin, a risk of infection for several weeks after treatment, and prolonged downtime.
Virtually anywhere on the body can be safely and effectively treated from:
- Wrinkles and Fine Lines of the face, neck, and décolletage
- Acne scars on the face
- Stretch marks of the breasts, hips, buttocks, and thighs
- Scars anywhere on the body
- Skin discoloration of the face and body
The discomfort felt during the procedure is typically described by most of our patients as minor. Patients are also welcome to come in a bit early for their appointment to have a prescription topical numbing cream applied to the areas being treated.
Following the procedure most patients experience redness and swelling in treated areas for a few hours. Rarely, this can last as long as 2 days. The areas can be masked with a physician approved foundation 24 hours following the procedure. As your new skin tissue is generated in the treated area you will notice positive changes in your skin that continue to occur for several months following the procedure.
The best way to learn more about the procedures we offer at The Dermatology and Laser Group is to visit us for a consultation in our Manhattan office. If you prefer, you may also call and ask to speak to our Cosmetic Coordinator. Various sources on the web also offer valuable information including: WebMD, The Mayo Clinic, and The Cleveland Clinic.
Expect to see an improvement in both the tone and texture of your stretch marks.
The treatment can be performed in as little as 30 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.
Most people need four to eight treatment sessions for desired results.
You may experience a temporary redness and swelling of the stretch marks which could last a few days.
Typically you may resume your daily activities immediately following the treatment session.
It is ideal for smaller spider veins and reticular veins.
Expect to see some improvement in the appearance of your leg vein days following the treatment with maximal improvement at about 6 weeks.
The treatment takes less than 30 minutes – 60 minutes.
A few treatment sessions may be needed to fully clear blood vessels and reduce the appearance of the leg veins completely.
Patients describe a range of sensations from tingling to the snap of a rubber band during the procedure.
Typically, there is no downtime and you can return to your daily activities immediately following the procedure.
SculpSure is a non-invasive body contouring system for the reduction of stubborn fat in areas such as the abdomen and love handles. The 25 minute procedure destroys up to 24% of treated fat cells without surgery.
SculpSure is ideal for people with trouble spots, particularly those that seem resistant to diet and exercise.
Most patients see results with as little as one treatment. However, you may wish to have additional treatments based on your desired results. Ask your treatment provider about the best treatment plan for you.
Most patients feel a tingling sensation intermittently throughout the treatment which is generally well-tolerated.
Many patients start to see results as early as 6 weeks following treatment as the body begins to evacuate the destroyed fat cells, with optimal results usually seen at 12 weeks.
Treated fat cells are permanently destroyed during the treatment and will not regenerate.
There is no downtime with SculpSure, so you can have the treatment during your lunch hour and return to work immediately.
The number of fat cells stored in our bodies typically remain constant throughout adult life. After the SculpSure treatment, the destroyed fat cells will never return. However, as we lose weight, the size of fat cells become smaller, but typically do not decrease in number. Even with diet and exercise, many people have difficulty losing weight in these trouble areas.
Laser energy is delivered to the tattoo, targeting the ink and breaking it down into smaller particles. The particles are eliminated through the body’s natural processes resulting in a lightening of the tattoo ink.
For many patients, the feeling of laser tattoo removal has been compared to what it feels like when getting a tattoo, however it is very fast. Your practitioner will work with you on the best comfort option based on your individual situation.
The number of laser treatments needed for tattoo removal is dependent on a number of variables such as ink type, size of the tattoo, location on the body, type of laser used, lifestyle habits, etc. During your consultation, a practitioner will evaluate your tattoo and recommend a realistic treatment regime to help you achieve the best results.
While it typically takes 4-8 weeks for the body to absorb the ink particles, every patient and tattoo responds differently. Following the recommended post treatment protocol will likely improve the results and reduce the chance of small adverse events.
The ideal clinical endpoint for the tattoo treatment is an immediate slight whitening or “frosting” of the skin, however that will subside immediately after the treatment is complete. Other observable effects include mild swelling and redness. Your practitioner will direct you on how best to keep the area moist.
Until the launch of PicoSure, Q-Switched lasers had been considered the gold standard for removing tattoos. Q-Switched laser treatments use thermal energy to heat up and break apart the ink particles. Now with PicoSure, ultra-short pulses hit the ink particle with a pressure so great, the ink shatters into tiny dust-like particles. Because the particles are so small, they are more readily absorbed and eliminated by the body. PicoSure has been proven success in treating even dark, stubborn blue and green inks, as well as previously-treated, stubborn tattoos that were not successfully cleared in the past.
Tattoos can be lightened in preparation for a cover-up tattoo. Your practitioner may have you wait six weeks between your last treatment and when you have the new tattoo completed.
The cost of laser tattoo removal depends on several factors, including the size of tattoo and the number of treatments it will require. After your consultation, your practitioner will provide you a price estimate for the treatment series.
Ultherapy uses tried-and-true ultrasound technology, which has been FDA-cleared to lift the neck, under the chin, the brow, and the décolleté. By directing the ultrasound energy precisely at the areas in need of tightening, Ultherapy stimulates the growth of new collagen.
Collagen is a natural protein that provides the elasticity and tone in youthful skin. As we age, the collagen in our skin loses its strength and diminishes. Ultherapy works by jump-starting the collagen-production deep below the skin. Because your body builds collagen over the months following your Ultherapy treatment, your results appear naturally and slowly.
Ultherapy is the only FDA-cleared procedure that targets the deep foundation, below your skin, without cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin. Also, the only procedure to use ultrasound imaging, Ultherapy allows our surgeons to view the deeper layers and direct the ultrasound to the specific areas that need it the most. The level of precision and the degree of transformation seen from Ultherapy can only be surpassed by surgical intervention. So if you’re not ready for a facelift, an uplift with Ultherapy could be for you.
The lasers offered at The Dermatology & Laser Group address issues in the superficial layers of the skin (e.g. fine lines, wrinkles, pigment changes). Ultherapy addresses the deep skin layer and the foundational layer addressed in cosmetic surgery that lift and lend support to the skin. Therefore, the two technologies are quite complementary!
The procedure has been cleared by the FDA after demonstrating safety in clinical studies, and over 200,000 treatments have been performed safely worldwide. In addition, ultrasound energy has a proven track record, with use in the field of medicine for more than 50 years.
Ultherapy sessions usually last 60-90 minutes. You do not have to take downtime after your treatment, but as the process can leave you red, and there is the possibility that your surgeon will prescribe you medications to limit discomfort, we suggest taking the remainder of the evening to relax after your procedure.
Most patients note that they can feel the ultrasound working. However, comfort thresholds vary from patient to patient, and so it is difficult to say if you will experience this as discomfort. What you do feel during delivery of the ultrasound energy is temporary and a positive signal that the collagen-building process has been initiated. Patients typically leave comfortable and excited about the benefits to come!
Exciting advancements have recently been implemented, including a new-and-improved treatment approach and update to the procedure’s System, Ultherapy Amplify, which is proven to increase patient comfort of the procedure without impacting efficacy. Of course, your practitioner will consult with you prior to your skin treatment to make your experience as pleasant as possible.
Ultherapy works best on areas with moderate loose and sagging skin in the brows, neck, décolleté, and under the chin. While Ultherapy can certainly provide improvement for severe sagging and loose skin, the results will be less dramatic.
Patients may enjoy some initial effect but the ultimate lifting and toning will take place over 2-3 months, as tired collagen is replaced with new, more elastic collagen. As this collagen-building process continues, further improvements can appear up to 6 months following a procedure.
Results from Ultherapy have been shown to last for at least 2 years, with gradual aging beginning to show after the 2 year period. In order to prolong your results, you may wish to have another Ultherapy treatment at the end of the 2 year period. Remember that no procedure is able to stop the aging process, but Ultherapy can help you make significant progress towards turning back the effects of gravity.
The majority of patients only need one treatment; however, some may benefit from more than one treatment (depending on how much laxity you have and your body’s own biological response to the ultrasound and collagen-building process). Your physician will be able to recommend the right treatment plan for your needs during your cosmetic consultation.
Ultherapy is the only FDA-cleared procedure that targets the deep foundation, below your skin, without cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin. Also, the only procedure to use ultrasound imaging, Ultherapy allows our surgeons to view the deeper layers and direct the ultrasound to the specific areas that need it the most. The level of precision and the degree of transformation seen from Ultherapy can only be surpassed by surgical intervention. So if you’re not ready for a facelift, an uplift with Ultherapy could be for you.
Ultherapy uses tried-and-true ultrasound technology, which has been FDA-cleared to lift the neck, under the chin, the brow, and the décolleté. By directing the ultrasound energy precisely at the areas in need of tightening, Ultherapy stimulates the growth of new collagen.
Collagen is a natural protein that provides the elasticity and tone in youthful skin. As we age, the collagen in our skin loses its strength and diminishes. Ultherapy works by jump-starting the collagen-production deep below the skin. Because your body builds collagen over the months following your Ultherapy treatment, your results appear naturally and slowly
The lasers offered at The Dermatology & Laser Group address issues in the superficial layers of the skin (e.g. fine lines, wrinkles, pigment changes). Ultherapy addresses the deep skin layer and the foundational layer addressed in cosmetic surgery that lift and lend support to the skin. Therefore, the two technologies are quite complementary!
The procedure has been cleared by the FDA after demonstrating safety in clinical studies, and over 200,000 treatments have been performed safely worldwide. In addition, ultrasound energy has a proven track record, with use in the field of medicine for more than 50 years.
Ultherapy sessions usually last 60-90 minutes. You do not have to take downtime after your treatment, but as the process can leave you red, and there is the possibility that your surgeon will prescribe you medications to limit discomfort, we suggest taking the remainder of the evening to relax after your procedure.
Most patients note that they can feel the ultrasound working. However, comfort thresholds vary from patient to patient, and so it is difficult to say if you will experience this as discomfort. What you do feel during delivery of the ultrasound energy is temporary and a positive signal that the collagen-building process has been initiated. Patients typically leave comfortable and excited about the benefits to come!
Exciting advancements have recently been implemented, including a new-and-improved treatment approach and update to the procedure’s System, Ultherapy Amplify, which is proven to increase patient comfort of the procedure without impacting efficacy. Of course, your practitioner will consult with you prior to your skin treatment to make your experience as pleasant as possible.
Ultherapy works best on areas with moderate loose and sagging skin in the brows, neck, décolleté, and under the chin. While Ultherapy can certainly provide improvement for severe sagging and loose skin, the results will be less dramatic.
Patients may enjoy some initial effect but the ultimate lifting and toning will take place over 2-3 months, as tired collagen is replaced with new, more elastic collagen. As this collagen-building process continues, further improvements can appear up to 6 months following a procedure.
Results from Ultherapy have been shown to last for at least 2 years, with gradual aging beginning to show after the 2 year period. In order to prolong your results, you may wish to have another Ultherapy treatment at the end of the 2 year period. Remember that no procedure is able to stop the aging process, but Ultherapy can help you make significant progress towards turning back the effects of gravity.
The majority of patients only need one treatment; however, some may benefit from more than one treatment (depending on how much laxity you have and your body’s own biological response to the ultrasound and collagen-building process). Your physician will be able to recommend the right treatment plan for your needs during your cosmetic consultation.
Arash Akhavan, MD is founder and owner of The Dermatology and Laser Group, one of the top centers for cosmetic procedures in New York City for over a decade. Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD is a Board Certified Dermatologist and an Associate Professor at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Dr. Akhavan is a Castle Connolly Top Doc, New York Magazine Best Doctor, and Super Doctor featured in The New York Times. Dr. Akhavan is a key opinion leader that has been featured on hundreds of media publications including The New York Times, Allure, Marie Claire, Women’s Health, Cosmopolitan, ABC News, Fox News, Fox 5, NY1, WPIX, and more. He has been featured on nationally syndicated television programs such as The Doctors.
Dr. Akhavan serves as an educator and lecturer for multiple aesthetic device and injectable companies. This allows his office access to newer technologies at an earlier date than other offices, as well as a higher level of expertise in the use of these devices. This, in turn, translates to more effective and safer treatments for our patients.