Introduction
Fractional laser treatment has emerged as a revolutionary solution in the field of dermatology and cosmetic medicine. This innovative procedure addresses various skin concerns, from wrinkles and acne scars to sun damage and uneven skin texture. New York City, a global hub for medical excellence and cutting - edge technology, is home to several top - notch laser hospitals offering fractional laser treatments. In this article, we will take an in - depth look at the top five laser hospitals in New York City for fractional laser treatment.
What is Fractional Laser Treatment?
Fractional laser treatment is a non - invasive cosmetic procedure that uses laser technology to create controlled micro - injuries in the skin. According to the research, when the fractional laser's energy penetrates the skin, it creates tiny columns of thermal damage, leaving surrounding tissues intact. The body then initiates a repair process, stimulating fibroblast cells in the dermis to produce new collagen and, in some cases, elastin. As new collagen is formed, it gradually fills in the areas of damage, resulting in the reduction of wrinkles, acne scars, stretch marks, and other skin imperfections.
There are two main types of fractional lasers: ablative and non - ablative. Ablative fractional lasers, such as the fractional CO2 laser, remove the outer layer of the skin, promoting more significant and faster results but also requiring a longer recovery time. Non - ablative fractional lasers, like the Fraxel Restore Dual, heat the underlying skin tissue without removing the outer layer, leading to less downtime and a more gradual improvement in the skin.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Laser Hospital
Expertise of the Medical Staff
The experience and qualifications of the medical staff are crucial. A board - certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon with extensive experience in fractional laser treatments is more likely to provide safe and effective results. They should be well - versed in different types of fractional lasers and able to customize the treatment according to the patient's skin type and concerns.
Technology and Equipment
The hospital should be equipped with the latest and most advanced fractional laser devices. Newer technologies often offer better results, fewer side effects, and shorter recovery times. For example, the Picoway Resolve offers skin rejuvenation and improvement in pigmentation issues using ultrashort picosecond pulses, allowing powerful effects with very minimal downtime and discomfort.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an idea of the hospital's reputation and the quality of its services. Positive reviews about the results, the staff's professionalism, and the overall patient experience are good indicators.
Safety and Hygiene Standards
The hospital must adhere to strict safety and hygiene standards. This includes proper sterilization of equipment, the use of disposable supplies when necessary, and a clean and comfortable treatment environment.
Top Five Laser Hospitals for Fractional Laser Treatment in New York City
Dermatology and Laser Group
This clinic is highly regarded in New York City for its fractional laser skin resurfacing procedures. All procedures are performed by board - certified dermatologist Arash Akhavan, MD, who has over 15 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and is a key opinion leader and educator for multiple laser device companies.
Treatment Offerings
They offer a range of fractional laser treatments for various skin concerns, including wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars, skin laxity, and stretch marks. The clinic has multiple laser resurfacing devices, such as the Picoway Resolve, ResurFX, and Acupulse CO2 laser, allowing for customizable treatments based on the patient's needs and available downtime.
Patient Experience
Patients appreciate the personalized approach and the emphasis on safety and comfort. The clinic uses strong prescription - strength numbing creams, Zimmer coolers, vibrational distraction, and Pronox inhalation anesthesia when needed to manage discomfort during the procedure. After the treatment, detailed instructions are given to speed up recovery and maximize results.
Cost
The cost of laser skin resurfacing can vary depending on the area being treated, the number of sessions needed, and the laser being used. For example, the cost of a single session of fractional laser resurfacing for a small scar is $850, and in a package of multiple treatments of the face for rejuvenation, the cost per session will average around $1000 per session.
Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York
The physicians at this center are world leaders in fractional resurfacing of aging skin, sun damage, acne scars, surgical scars, and melasma. Their board - certified dermatologists have been involved in the development of most of the fractional laser devices currently available for skin treatment and have a wealth of research and published papers on these laser devices.
Treatment Offerings
They offer several fractional lasers, including Fraxel re:store dual®, Fraxel re:pair®, Halo, Profractional, Total FX, Scaar FX, LaseMD, Clear + Brilliant®, Clear + Brilliant Perméa®, and Clear + Brilliant Touch. These lasers can be used to treat a wide range of skin concerns, with customizable options based on the patient's skin type and the depth of treatment required.
Patient Experience
Most fractional laser treatments are made comfortable for patients with the application of topical numbing cream. Integrated cooling is used throughout the process to ease any discomfort. The center also provides clear information about side effects, recovery time, and follow - up care. After treatment, patients are typically given specific instructions on how to care for their skin to ensure optimal results.
Cost
The cost of fractional laser treatments at this center can vary based on the type of laser used, the area being treated, and the number of sessions required. Patients are advised to schedule a consultation to get an accurate quote.
Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's cosmetic and surgical dermatologists perform state - of - the - art care designed to meet individual needs. They offer a wide range of minimally invasive cosmetic and laser procedures, including fractionated laser resurfacing.
Treatment Offerings
In addition to fractionated laser resurfacing, the hospital provides other cosmetic injectable treatments, laser and light - based procedures, non - surgical body contouring and skin - tightening treatments, and other cosmetic procedures. This comprehensive approach allows patients to combine different treatments for more comprehensive results.
Patient Experience
As a leading medical institution, Mount Sinai emphasizes patient safety and satisfaction. The medical staff is highly trained and experienced, and patients can expect personalized treatment plans and attentive care throughout the process. The hospital also conducts clinical trials, offering patients access to the latest and most innovative treatments.
Cost
The cost of fractionated laser resurfacing at Mount Sinai depends on various factors such as the treatment area, the intensity of the treatment, and the number of sessions. A consultation with a dermatologist is necessary to determine the exact cost.
Cosmetic Laser Skin Surgery (Dr. Cameron Rokhsar)
Dr. Cameron Rokhsar is considered a world authority on laser resurfacing with fractional CO2 lasers. He was trained by the inventor of the CO2 laser resurfacing procedure and has extensive experience in laser resurfacing. He has performed more CO2 laser procedures than any other doctor in New York and Long Island.
Treatment Offerings
Dr. Rokhsar offers a variety of fractional CO2 laser treatments for different skin concerns, including wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars, and mole removal. He has multiple advanced lasers on - site, allowing him to combine several lasers at the same time for the best results, depending on the patient's skin's unique needs.
Patient Experience
Dr. Rokhsar is known for his expertise in numbing the face with local anesthetics, making the CO2 laser treatment as painless as possible. He provides clear instructions for after - treatment care and is attentive to patients' concerns during the recovery period. Many doctors in the New York area and around the country refer patients to him for fractional CO2 laser resurfacing.
Cost
The cost of fractional laser treatment at Dr. Rokhsar's clinic varies depending on several factors, including the type of laser treatment, the size of the area being treated, the provider's level of experience, and the number of treatments required. A consultation is needed to get a precise cost estimate.
Heights Aesthetic Laser Center
Heights Aesthetic Laser Center is a top - notch facility that offers laser fractional or rejuvenation treatment using the latest technology in laser equipment.
Treatment Offerings
The treatment involves using a laser to create microscopic columns in the skin, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. The laser can be adjusted to different depths depending on the patient's needs. It can help improve the texture and appearance of the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars.
Patient Experience
The procedure is simple and quick, taking about 30 minutes to complete, depending on the size of the area being treated. After the treatment, patients may experience some redness and swelling, which typically subsides within a few days. The center provides instructions on avoiding direct sunlight and using high - SPF sunscreen to protect the treated area.
Cost
While specific cost details are not widely available, the cost will depend on the area of treatment and the intensity of the laser treatment. Patients can contact the center for a consultation and cost estimate.
Benefits and Risks of Fractional Laser Treatment
Benefits
- Improved Skin Texture and Tone: Fractional laser treatment can smooth out rough skin, reduce the appearance of acne scars, and even out skin tone, giving the skin a more youthful and healthy appearance.
- Reduction of Wrinkles and Fine Lines: By stimulating collagen production, fractional lasers can help plump up the skin and reduce the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines.
- Treatment of Sun Damage: It can reverse the effects of sun damage, such as age spots, freckles, and uneven pigmentation.
- Minimal Downtime (in some cases): Non - ablative fractional lasers often have minimal downtime, allowing patients to return to their normal activities relatively quickly.
Risks
- Redness and Swelling: Immediately after the treatment, patients may experience redness and swelling, which usually subside within a few days.
- Scarring: Although rare, there is a risk of scarring, especially if the treatment is not performed correctly or if the patient does not follow the after - care instructions.
- Changes in Skin Pigmentation: There may be temporary or permanent changes in skin pigmentation, such as hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.
- Infection: If proper hygiene and after - care measures are not followed, there is a risk of infection at the treatment site.
Pre - treatment and Post - treatment Care
Pre - treatment Care
Before undergoing fractional laser treatment, patients should follow these guidelines:
- Avoid sun exposure for at least one week prior to treatment and wear a broad - spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 to protect the skin from further damage.
- Stop using retinoids and all skin rejuvenating products at least one week before the treatment.
- If using lightening creams, such as hydroquinone, patients may be instructed to continue using them before the treatment to reduce the risk of post - inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Avoid any tanning products or spray - tans before the treatment. If there are spray - tanning products on the skin, exfoliate the treatment area to remove the product.
- Avoid vitamin C or glycolic acid products for at least three days before the treatment.
Post - treatment Care
After the treatment, patients need to take the following steps:
- Follow the doctor's instructions for skin care, which may include applying a moisturizer, taking prescribed medications, and avoiding certain activities.
- Avoid direct sun exposure and wear a broad - spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 to protect the treated skin.
- Refrain from picking or scratching at any scabs or peeling skin to prevent scarring.
- If experiencing pain, itching, or any other unusual symptoms, contact the doctor immediately.
Conclusion
Fractional laser treatment is a highly effective way to address various skin concerns, and New York City offers a plethora of top - quality laser hospitals. The Dermatology and Laser Group, Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, Mount Sinai - New York, Cosmetic Laser Skin Surgery (Dr. Cameron Rokhsar), and Heights Aesthetic Laser Center are all excellent choices, each with its own unique strengths in terms of expertise, technology, and patient care. However, it's essential to consult with a qualified medical professional, understand the treatment process, and follow the pre - and post - treatment care instructions for the best results.
If you're considering fractional laser treatment, take the time to research these hospitals, read patient reviews, and schedule consultations. Don't hesitate to ask questions and discuss your concerns with the medical staff. By making an informed decision, you can achieve the smooth, youthful, and healthy skin you desire. Take the first step towards skin rejuvenation and explore the fractional laser treatment options available at these top New York City laser hospitals today!
