The skin is more than just an aesthetic feature. It serves as a perpetual guardian against the harshness of the world to ensure our body remains as healthy as possible. Unfortunately, the constant onslaught of chemicals, UV light, and microorganisms can wreak a heavy toll on this vital organ. Skin of all ages gradually loses its childhood radiance and smoothness, replacing it with battlescars of sunspots, wrinkles, and textural irregularities. Fortunately, advances in cosmetic medicine have led to the advent of laser energy treatments capable of restoring your skin’s armor to provide you with a glowing, even-toned complexion.
An area of constant study and research, modern laser resurfacing treatments harness the power of electromagnetic waves or plasma energy to provide optimal results to patients. Over the course of his decade-long career, Dr. Hooman Khorasani has helped improve the skin’s appearance for thousands of patients of all ages and skin types. Always pursuing the best possible treatment options for his patients, Dr. Khorasani consistently invests in the latest technology and mentors other professionals who have sought him out for his expertise in this area. As such, Dr. Khorasani will be able to provide you with a tailored therapy plan that addresses your individual needs and employs the latest therapeutic advances.
To find out whether laser skin resurfacing can give you a renewed and refreshed look, visit Dr. Hooman Khorasani at our New York City practice. To request a consultation, text message us securely, or contact our Manhattan office by phone at 212-230-3378.
Cutting-edge skin resurfacing utilizes the energy of electromagnetic waves or plasma energy to selectively remove damaged cells and stimulate the body to replace these losses with healthy tissue. This cycle of elimination and restoration renovates the skin to smooth and color-correct your complexion; however, the degree of impact for each of these beneficial effects is highly dependent on the device used. The most powerful lasers in Dr. Khorasani’s arsenal induce significant destruction and regeneration, resulting in dramatic skin remodeling in which fine wrinkles are erased, scars are obliterated, and discoloration is expunged. These substantial cosmetic gains, however, are associated with a more prolonged recovery compared to gentler lasers. Lower energy devices allow for decreased downtime, but the correction of texture and color abnormalities is less pronounced. As a general rule, the more energy used, the longer the downtime and therefore, more impressive results.
Dr. Khorasani has dedicated his medical career to cultivating an expertise in both high and low energy laser therapies to provide optimal skin restoration. Each laser treatment is individually selected to account for one’s pre-existing skin condition, overall aesthetic goals, and lifestyle constraints. As such, we will be able to find a treatment option that works best for you!
Clear & Brilliant is our most gentle laser that uses electromagnetic waves to create millions of microscopic treatment zones in the outermost layer of skin. As a fractional, non-ablative laser therapy, the energy emitted from this device selectively heats columns of skin and leaves behind a sheath of untouched tissue surrounding each treated area. This precise balance of stimulation and conservation triggers a controlled healing process in your skin, resulting in the removal of damaged cells and an increased production of healthy collagen. As with all low energy lasers, however, these cellular changes are limited in scope.
The macroscopic benefits of cellular damage control and manufacturing new collagen include mildly reduced pore size, decreased visibility of the early signs of aging, reduction in brown spots and enhanced skin tone. Overall, the skin appears smoother, fresher, and more radiant.
The glow induced by Clear & Brilliant renders this laser a favorite amongst individuals of all ages and skin types wanting to replicate the dewy skin often seen at red carpet events and in magazines. Other ideal candidates for this treatment are those seeking to prevent or mildly improve the appearance of fine lines, patches of discoloration, and texture abnormalities. The low level energy of this particular device ensures that this therapy is safe for use on darker complexions, allowing patients of all skin types to enjoy the benefits of Clear & Brilliant.
The results of Clear & Brilliant are progressive and additive, meaning that they improve over time and with multiple treatments. You will observe improvements in skin texture and radiance within seven days after treatment, but several weeks and repeat sessions are required to induce significant changes. Your complexion will continue to improve over the course of six months, as the body ramps up collagen production and remodels the skin. Following completion of your initial therapy plan of three to six treatments spaced six weeks apart, maintenance treatments every six months are recommended to optimize your aesthetic outcomes.
At first glance, this treatment schedule seems to require significant time and effort; however, each laser session requires just one hour to complete and is associated with little to no downtime. Consequently, the benefits of rejuvenated skin are achieved with minimal disruption to your busy professional and personal life.
The Fraxel Dual 1550/1927 is another fractional, non-ablative laser therapy that is the more powerful cousin of Clear & Brilliant. This resurfacing device delivers columns of electromagnetic energy into both the superficial and deep layers of the skin. The 1927 nm waves selectively destroy pigmented cells in the superficial skin to improve the discoloration wrought by chronic sun exposure. The deep range of the 1550 nm waves stimulate the body’s natural healing process to produce new collagen, resulting in improved skin elasticity and tone. Both the 1927 nm and 1550 nm electromagnetic waves preserve pillars of healthy skin between the treated locations. These untouched areas serve as a scaffold to facilitate rapid healing with optimal cosmetic results.
Harnessing the power of high and low frequency electromagnetic waves holistically remodels the skin to substantially soften fine wrinkles, diminish the appearance of scars, and lighten sun-induced discoloration. The result? A smooth, radiant complexion with a marked reduction in the physical markers associated with perpetual wear and tear.
The ability of Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 to significantly improve the appearance of fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and texture abnormalities has led to this device’s popularity amongst patients with mild to moderate signs of aging. Patients suffering from acne, surgical, or injury scars also benefit from Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927, as the remodeling properties of this laser help improve the appearance and texture of these skin irregularities. Please visit our Scar Revision page to determine which of our innovative therapies can best eliminate your unwanted physical reminder of a prior trauma.
The Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 is amongst the same family of lasers as Clear & Brilliant. Consequently, multiple treatments and several months are required to reap the full benefits of this particular laser therapy. However, as the stronger version of Clear & Brilliant, the Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 resurfacing results are more pronounced, survive for longer periods of time, and are obtained with fewer treatments. Therefore, we typically recommend initiating therapy with two Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 treatments spaced six weeks apart. Following completion of this regimen, maintenance sessions every two years are advised to prolong the rejuvenating effects of Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927.
Please note that the increased strength and associated cosmetic impact of Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 requires more downtime than the gentler Clear & Brilliant. Overall, expect the recovery from Fraxel DUAL 1550/192 to encompass five to seven days.
TotalFX is a powerful ablative fractional CO2 laser that induces extensive skin remodelling to provide the most effective reduction in unwanted signs of aging. The ActiveFX component selectively targets the outermost skin layer and systematically eliminates fine lines and pigmentation. Using a precise degree of heating, the DeepFX energy stimulates the deeper layer of the skin to produce new, healthy tissue and targets deeper wrinkles. These combined effects comprehensively resurface the skin to erase fine wrinkles, improve deep furrows, eliminate scars, and correct discoloration.
As with Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 and Clear & Brilliant, this fractional CO2 laser preserves cushions of healthy skin surrounding each treatment area, allowing for a speedier recovery and maximal cosmetic results.
The potency of CO2 laser energy substantially outpaces that of Clear & Brilliant and Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927. Consequently, the improvement in deep wrinkles, fine lines, texture abnormalities, dyspigmentation, and scarring is more significant with TotalFX. Dr. Khorasani typically uses the DeepFX laser for deep lines around the eyes, mouth and frown lines and ActiveFX for the remainder of the face. A single treatment with TotalFX can successfully wipe away decades of damage, resulting in smooth, unblemished skin that radiates youthfulness.
This high energy laser device is most appropriate for patients wishing to improve the appearance of more advanced signs of aging like heavy furrows, wide-spread fine lines, and numerous patches of discoloration. Other candidates for TotalFX include patients seeking to aggressively target early age-related changes and prevent the onset of irreversible damage. Furthermore, targeted administration of TotalFX may be beneficial for the correction of acne, surgical, and injury scars. Please visit our Scar Revision page to determine if this cutting-edge therapy can help alleviate the heavy emotional toll associated with your particular scar.
Unlike the Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 and Clear & Brilliant lasers, most patients require just one TotalFX session for optimal skin resurfacing. Improvement in deep and fine wrinkles, discoloration, scarring, and texture are first visible ten to fourteen days after treatment; however, maximal reduction in skin irregularities and the promotion of more youthful properties requires six months to fully appreciate. Additionally, the intensive skin remodelling induced by this CO2 laser lends itself to durable results that last for several years following treatment. Please note that the impressive resurfacing offered by TotalFX incurs a prolonged recovery period of six to fourteen days.
Dr. Khorasani has expertise in multiple laser therapy modalities that resurface the skin to varying degrees. Each device is individually selected to account for one’s particular skin tone, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle constraints. Together as a team, we will be able to craft a treatment plan that helps you achieve your ideal complexion!
Patients who should not consider laser therapy under any circumstances include those currently on isotretinoin (Accutane), have any conditions or are on any medications that cause photosensitivity, have severe inflammatory skin disease or are currently pregnant.
The skin resurfacing benefits vary from laser to laser; however, each recommended laser treatment capitalizes on Dr. Khorasani’s decade-long experience with skin rejuvenation and has been hand-picked for you to provide the best possible outcome. Please see the above Clear & Brilliant, Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927, TotalFX, and Renuvion (J-Plasma) sections for further details. Regardless of the therapy modality chosen, Dr. Khorasani will work with you every step of the way to transform your individual goals into reality.
Safety of our patients is always our primary concern. As such, we will provide you with special goggles or eye coverings to wear during your treatment to protect your retina from the laser or plasma energy. During treatment, you will feel the handpiece of the laser moving across the target areas. Depending on the laser used, you may also sense a constant stream of cold air. This cooling mechanism serves to disguise the heating effects of the laser to ensure maximal comfort.
Other than safety, your comfort is our number one priority; therefore, we will numb the treatment area prior to your procedure with a topical anesthetic cream or injections of lidocaine depending on the laser device used. After administering the numbing medication, you should not feel any pain during the procedure; however, each laser is associated with different sensations that may still be felt despite the anesthetization. Most patients perceive a warm and prickly feeling during treatment with Clear & Brilliant and Fraxel Dual 1550/1927. Treatment with either TotalFX or Renuvion (J-Plasma) usually generates warmth and more stinging in the targeted areas.
If at any time during the session these sensations become bothersome, please inform Dr. Khorasani and he will provide you with additional measures to ensure your comfort. One option is our in-office Pro-Nox system which employs nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) to reduce anxiety and the experience of pain. Pro-Nox can be self administered by you as needed, to address any discomfort.
The length of each session varies depending on the type of laser used and the degree of resurfacing desired. Based on the best treatment plan for you, Dr. Khorasani will discuss with you in detail the total amount of time you can expect to spend in the office for each session (including the time needed to numb the area before treatment).
Result onset and longevity depends on each laser modality and the characteristics of the individual patient. Please see the above Clear & Brilliant, Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927, Total FX, and Renuvion (J-Plasma) sections for further details. Rest assured that the treatment modality recommended for your skin adheres to the highest standards of medical care and is optimized to produce the greatest results possible.
The laser therapy used to resurface your skin dictates the recovery period. Clear & Brilliant, our most gentle resurfacing laser, can cause up to twenty-four hours of redness and swelling after treatment. Additionally, you may notice a sandpaper-like texture of your skin that is only visible upon very close inspection. Treatment with Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 will result in five to seven days of skin redness and may also cause swelling, peeling, and/or crusting of the skin. The TotalFX laser will inevitably generate swelling, peeling, and/or crusting of the skin and is associated with redness that lasts for approximately two weeks. In areas in which the laser is targeted deeper, redness or a “rosy glow” will persist much longer. Renuvion (J-Plasma) also induces skin swelling, peeling, and/or crusting; however, the resultant redness is more persistent and may last for three months. Many of our patients treat this redness with a vascular laser for a faster recovery.
On the day of treatment, we will verbally review with you detailed information regarding what to expect during your recovery and specific post-procedural instructions including how to clean, moisturize and (if relevant) bandage the treated area. Don't worry if you can't remember everything! You will be provided with a written copy of these instructions to take home.
We understand this recovery time can be difficult. Our office staff is available to you at any time during this process to discuss your concerns or review any instructions that may be unclear. We are always here for you!
To prepare for your laser treatment, avoid tanning or prolonged sun exposure for at least two weeks before and after your procedure. For seven days prior to treatment, abstain from using any topical retinoids or vitamin A compounds, exfoliating products, or bleaching creams unless otherwise instructed by Dr. Khorasani. You should not resume using these topical products until Dr. Khorasani indicates it is safe to do so, as premature application can cause irritation and redness of the skin. Additionally, if you have a history of cold sores, please mention this to Dr. Khorasani so that he can provide you with appropriate preventive medications prior to your treatment.
Dr. Hooman Khorasani is quadruple board-certified in Dermatology, Cosmetic Surgery, Facial Cosmetic Surgery and Mohs micrographic surgery. Additionally he led the Division of Dermatologic and Cosmetic Surgery at Mount Sinai for 10+ years. His passion for providing patients with cutting-edge treatments to facilitate their cosmetic goals has led to his involvement in multiple research projects investigating novel applications and advanced clinical techniques for laser-based skin resurfacing. Dr. Khorasani’s internationally recognized proficiency in cosmetic medicine has led many health professionals to seek his mentorship and learn from his best practices so that they too can provide their patients with optimal aesthetic outcomes.
Armed with this advanced clinical and academic competency, Dr. Khorasani carefully crafts a therapy plan for each individual patient that adheres to the highest standards of medical care and is optimized to produce the greatest results possible. Personalization is infused into every aspect of our practice, from the treatment itself to our highly-skilled office personnel that are available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns. Together as a team, we can help your skin shed years of damage so it appears as radiant and beautiful as you feel!
Dr. Khorasani and his highly-specialized team look forward to working with you to transform your medical or aesthetic goals into reality. To expedite a request for a consultation, message us securely, or contact Dr. Khorasani’s Manhattan office by phone at 212-230-3378. For more information about how to get in touch:
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