Procedures
ABLATIVE FRACTIONAL RESURFACING (ACUPULSE)
ACNE LASER & LIGHT TREATMENT
ANTI-AGING TREATMENTS
BOTOX®, DYSPORT®, JEUVEAU® and XEOMIN®
CSMD THREADLIFT
CHEMICAL PEELS
COOLTOUCH CTEV ENDOVENOUS LASER ABLATION
ELLACOR
EMSCULPT®
FILLERS & INJECTABLES
FRAXEL®
GENIUSTM RF MICRONEEDLING
KYBELLA
LASEMD
LASER HAIR REMOVAL
LEG VEIN TREATMENT
MOHS MICROGRAPHIC SURGERY
NON-ABLATIVE LASER RESURFACING
PRP (PLATELET RICH PLASMA)
PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY
PIGMENTED LESION REMOVAL
PRO-NOX
SCLEROTHERAPY
SCULPSURE
SCULPTRA
SKIN CANCER SCREENING
SKIN SURGERY
TATTOO REMOVAL
THERMAGE®
VASCULAR LESION REMOVAL
ABLATIVE FRACTIONAL RESURFACING (ACUPULSE)
The AcuPulse is an ablative fractional CO2 resurfacing laser which promotes skin rejuvenation and new collagen production through precisely controlled injury to the skin. This laser effectively treats deep wrinkles, acne scars, surgical scars, traumatic scars, sun damage, moderate laxity and some benign growths of the skin (i.e. syringomas, seborrheic keratoses). Relative to non-ablative fractional resurfacing, this laser has a more prolonged recovery time but achieves more significant results.
ACNE LASER & LIGHT TREATMENT
Acne is a very common disorder of the skin that affects individuals of all ages. Acne is characterized by comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), red papules and pustules, and sometimes cysts and nodules. These lesions may be painful and often affect the face, jawline, neck, chest, back and shoulders.
In addition to being cosmetically disfiguring, occasionally painful, and associated with emotional distress, acne lesions may lead to permanent scarring making early intervention of paramount importance. While many topical and oral medications can effectively control acne, for more severe cases or patients desiring more rapid or complete resolution, a variety of laser and light sources can be used. In our practice, we utilize blue light therapy and a long-pulse pulsed dye laser. Both devices can be used either alone or in combination with a topical photosensitizer (ALA, photodynamic therapy) to suppress inflammation, destroy the bacteria that is causative in acne and reduce the redness that characterizes active lesions, as well as residual marks left on the skin, known as post-inflammatory erythema.
Once your acne has subsided, depending upon the extent of scarring, you may be a candidate for fractional resurfacing in order to stimulate new collagen and blend in the appearance of acne scars.
ANTI-AGING TREATMENTS
Dr. Hale and Dr. Karen utilize a combination of lasers, injections, peels and topical treatments to help customize each individual patient's approach to skin aging.
BOTOX®, DYSPORT®, JEUVEAU® and XEOMIN®
Botox® Cosmetic, Dysport®, Jeuveau® and Xeomin® injections are among the most popular and sought-after treatments at CompleteSkinMD. The treatments are injected in minute amounts to prevent contraction of the targeted muscle, or to decrease sweating in the affected area, effectively treating both wrinkles and undesirable sweating. Injections are safe and convenient, and provide natural and reproducible results. Dr. Hale and Dr. Karen take pride in their ability to keep patients looking natural and not “frozen”.
CSMD THREADLIFT
Threadlift absorbable sutures work to provide immediate lifting of the mid face and a gradual production of new collagen that works over time. This procedure is ideal for men or women who want to treat mid-face or neck sagging without major surgery. The approximately hour-long procedure can help achieve a more youthful look with lifting and collagen regeneration.
CHEMICAL PEELS
Chemical peels address a variety of skin concerns, ranging from acne to photoaging (damage to the skin induced by sun exposure, including textural abnormalities, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation). Superficial peels can be divided into beta-hydroxy acids (i.e. salicylic acid) and alpha-hydroxy peels (i.e. glycolic acid). Superficial peels induce controlled injury to the outer layers of the skin, helping to provide a youthful, radiant complexion. Superficial peels are well tolerated with minimal downtime. In certain instances, we offer medium-depth peels, but depending on the individual problem, fractional lasers may offer more predictable and noticeable results.
COOLTOUCH CTEV ENDOVENOUS LASER ABLATION
Risk factors for the formation of varicose veins include genetics, female gender, pregnancy, age, occupations that involve prolonged standing, and obesity. These dilated veins are often bluish green or flesh colored, torturous in appearance and palpable beneath the skin's surface.
Varicose veins are often the result of an underlying leaky vessel, a condition known as superficial venous insufficiency (SVI). When valves within a vein cease to function properly, blood is permitted to reflux or flow in the opposite direction than it is intended to flow. Reflux leads to pressure buildup within the vein, causing the vein to distend further. When present, this condition is often associated with symptoms such as aching, burning, fatigue, pruritus, cramps, restless legs and swelling. These symptoms are typically aggravated by warmth and inactivity. If you have varicose veins or symptoms suggestive of underlying venous disease, a noninvasive imaging test (duplex ultrasound) can be performed to delineate the extent of your disease.
If you suffer from SVI, you may be a candidate for sclerotherapy injections performed under ultrasound guidance or endovenous laser ablation (EVLA). EVLA uses thermal energy to close the damaged vein from the inside out. Blood is then re-routed through your healthy veins and overall circulation improves. This procedure, which is generally covered by insurance, is minimally invasive and light exercise can be resumed immediately after.
At CompleteSkinMD, we employ the CoolTouch endovenous laser (CTEV), which is among the latest technology available to achieve the most effective and gentle closure of your varicose veins. CTEV™ results in less bruising and post-operative pain than other available devices. This procedure is over 95% successful and results in near immediate improvement in the appearance of your veins and associated symptoms.
ELLACOR
Ellacor is a breakthrough dermatological procedure designed to treat moderate and severe wrinkles, laxity, and crepiness in the mid to lower face.
Ellacor is a non surgical procedure that utilizes Micro-Coring Technology. This technique of using hollow tipped, precision needles to remove cores of skin achieves tightening, lifting and improved skin texture without scarring. Most patients will require 5 -7 days of downtime, which may include bruising, swelling, and prolonged redness.
By removing excess or sagging skin, Ellacor improves skin laxity and contour, leaving you with a smoother, more refreshed appearance.
EMSCULPT®
Emsculpt® is a completely new device that is in a body-contouring class of its own. It's the first FDA-cleared energy device approved to burn fat and build muscle mass. It's a no-downtime, pain-free, non-surgical way to define the abs and lift the buttocks.
FILLERS & INJECTABLES
Fillers are among the most popular procedures in our office because they offer patients a safe and effective method of rejuvenating the face. Fillers can provide outstanding cosmetic results without the downtime associated with traditional surgical procedures.
These products have become quite popular among younger individuals who prefer to intervene at an earlier stage of wrinkle development, and they continue to be popular alternatives to more invasive surgical procedures in older individuals. Fillers can be used to improve the appearance of fine lines, deeper wrinkles and folds, hollows, volume loss, and acne scarring. Additionally, fillers can be used to enhance the fullness of the lips and for facial contouring. Dr. Hale and Dr. Karen take a “less is more” approach and always strive to keep the patients looking like a refreshed version of themselves. We prefer to undertreat and have the patient come back to the office for additional treatment or touch-ups as necessary.
Depending on an individual patient's needs, Dr. Hale and Dr. Karen may choose a hyaluronic filler to fill in a wrinkle or a hollow, or we may choose one of the fillers that stimulate collagen production to provide more global volume replacement and rejuvenation.
Our list of available fillers and injectables continues to expand to better meet our individual patient’s needs. We offer Juvederm (Voluma, Ultra and Ultra Plus); Restylane (Refyne and Defyne); Revance (RHA2, RHA3 and RHA4), Sculptra, and Belotero Balance. We also offer PRP, platelet rich plasma, derived from the patient’s own blood to stimulate new collagen formation.
The newest fillers we offer are from Revance. This family of hyaluronic acid fillers are reported to last 15-18 months as opposed to other HA fillers which are reported to last 9-12 months.
The use of fillers is safe, effective, and convenient. Most of these fillers can be administered on the day of consultation. Make sure to discontinue any unnecessary blood thinners like aspirin, NSAIDs, Vitamin E and fish oil to minimize bruising. We usually recommend coming into the office at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time so that we can apply a topical anesthetic cream to minimize any discomfort associated with the injections.
FRAXEL
Fraxel lasers are characterized by delivery of energy in a fractionated manner. Fractionated refers to energy that is delivered through noncontiguous (interrupted) zones. Accordingly, normal skin is left intact which translates into lesser wounding and more rapid recovery. The Fraxel® Re:store Dual laser is a non-ablative fractionated device that stimulates collagen deposition leading to a more rejuvenated, youthful appearance to your skin over several months following treatment. The Fraxel laser has broad applications, including but not limited to photoaged skin (damage induced by UV exposure including wrinkling, abnormal texture, tone and pigment), acne scarring, surgical or traumatic scarring, stretch marks, and for people looking for overall rejuvenation.
GENIUSTM RF MICRONEEDLING
GeniusTM RF microneedling uses radiofrequency (RF) technology to address sagging skin, wrinkles, and skin textural changes. It uses a 3-dimensional approach of delivering RF energy through microneedles to stimulate the body’s own repair system and to stimulate collagen, leading to healthier tissue. Treatments can be optimized for age, skin type, sun exposure habits, anatomical area, tissue thickness and depth, and other variables.
KYBELLA
Kybella is a non-surgical injection for reducing moderate to severe fat on the upper neck, otherwise known as a "double chin." The injection contains a naturally occurring molecule which dissolves fat, leaving all other cells healthy and intact. We are proud to be one of the few centers in NYC offering this safe and innovative approach to rejuvenate the neck and jawline.
LASEMD
LaseMD can target hyperpigmentation and sun damage. Treatments are quick and gentle, with low downtime. LaseMD can reduce the signs of aging, improve the look of fine lines, improve skin tone and texture, improve skin’s overall appearance, and minimize the appearance of pores.
LASER HAIR REMOVAL
Excess or unwanted hair is a common cosmetic concern. Sometimes, excess hair can be a result of an underlying endocrine abnormality, a medication or disease. More commonly, it is the result of genetics. Laser hair removal is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures and can be safely and effectively performed on most body parts.
Permanent damage to the hair follicle is achieved when a pigmented hair beneath the skin’s surface absorbs laser energy. For this reason, ideal candidates are those individuals with coarse, darkly pigmented hairs on a background of lighter skin. That said, laser hair removal can be safely achieved with the proper device and proper settings on individuals with all skin types.
On any given day, only a portion (about 20%) of the hairs within a given treatment area will be actively growing and thus susceptible to permanent damage. Therefore, multiple treatments are necessary to achieve the desired effect. The ideal interval between successive treatments is 4-12 weeks (depending on the treatment area).
A thorough understanding of laser-tissue interactions is essential to achieve optimal results safely and efficiently. While this procedure is widely available at Medispas and non-dermatologist offices, at CompleteSkinMD, this procedure, like all procedures, is exclusively performed by board-certified dermatologists.
LEG VEIN TREATMENT
Tiny pink, red or purple vessels known as spider veins of the lower extremities are best treated with sclerotherapy, an essentially painless procedure whereby a sclerosant is injected into the unwanted vessel causing it to collapse so then the body can eventually resorb it. Compression stockings should be worn for between 72 hours to 2 weeks depending on the size and extent of the vessels. Multiple treatments are typically required, but this treatment is very effective. This procedure may sometimes be combined with one of our other vascular lasers to achieve optimal results.
MOHS MICROGRAPHIC SURGERY
Both Dr. Hale and Dr. Karen are fellowship-trained Mohs Micrographic surgeons and members of the American College of Mohs Surgery.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery is a highly specialized surgical technique named after Dr. Frederic Mohs who invented the technique in the 1930s. The procedure is performed in our office under local anesthesia. Mohs is appropriate for certain high-risk tumors, as well as for those tumors that have occurred in cosmetically and/or functionally sensitive areas.
Unlike traditional surgery, Mohs removes skin cancer in successive stages until clear margins have been attained. After local anesthesia is administered, the clinically apparent tumor is removed with a small margin of normal-appearing skin. This tissue is then processed in our on-site laboratory, bisected, stained with multiple colors to preserve orientation, and placed on a slide. Dr. Hale or Dr. Karen will then examine the slide and determine whether there is any residual tumor at any of the margins. If residual skin cancer is identified, the location of the residual tumor cells is determined and additional stages are removed. This procedure proceeds until clear margins have been attained in every direction. Because of the immediate feedback, the surgeon is able to spare as much normal tissue as possible minimizing the final extent of the defect. Additionally, because of the special way in which the tissue is processed, the procedure is very precise and achieves a cure rate of 98 to 99%.
Depending upon the extent of the defect and its location, Dr. Hale or Dr. Karen will then discuss with you options for repair, including granulation (whereby the tissue is permitted to heal itself without sutures), a simple linear closure, a skin flap (utilizing adjacent tissue to cover the defect) or graft (borrowing distant tissue to repair the wound). A second visit for suture removal is typically required 1 to 2 weeks later.
Dr. Hale and Dr. Karen take great care to minimize scarring which results from Mohs surgery. They both use meticulous techniques when designing and executing their skin closures, and when appropriate, they offer their Mohs surgery patients complimentary laser treatments to minimize the appearance of any resultant scarring.
NON-ABLATIVE LASER RESURFACING
Fraxel lasers are characterized by delivery of energy in a fractionated manner. Fractionated refers to energy that is delivered through noncontiguous (interrupted) zones. Accordingly, normal skin is left intact which translates into lesser wounding and more rapid recovery. The Fraxel® Re:store Dual laser is a non-ablative fractionated device that stimulates collagen deposition, leading to a more rejuvenated, youthful appearance over several months following treatment. The Fraxel laser has broad applications, including but not limited to photoaged skin (damage induced by UV exposure including wrinkling, abnormal texture, tone and pigment), acne scarring, surgical or traumatic scarring, stretch marks, and for people looking for overall rejuvenation.
PRP (PLATELET RICH PLASMA)
PRP is a natural product created from your own body that can be injected to improve the appearance of wrinkles or scars of the face, neck, chest and hands. A small amount of blood is drawn from you and placed in a sterile tube that is spun down in a centrifuge to separate the different components of the blood. Red and white blood cells are divided from the platelets and the plasma (the clear fluid). This plasma now contains a higher than normal number of platelets and is called platelet rich plasma, or PRP. PRP is a source of “growth factors” that can trigger production of new collagen and thereby naturally rejuvenate the skin.
PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) utilizes a photosensitizing agent and a light source in order to treat a wide range of skin conditions ranging from inflammatory acne and sebaceous hyperplasia to precancerous lesions (actinic keratoses). A topical photosensitizing agent (i.e. aminolevulinic acid, ALA) is applied to the skin and allowed to incubate for one to several hours. During that time, the ALA is selectively absorbed by precancerous cells as well as by the bacteria that inhabits the skin and can cause acne. A photochemical reaction occurs within these cells that whereby ALA is converted to protoporphyrin IX, a light sensitive agent. When a particular light source is applied to the skin, certain acne and sebaceous lesions, as well as precancerous cells, are selectively destroyed. Strict light avoidance is essential for 36 to 48 hours following treatment. A sunburn-like reaction often occurs and can last for two to ten days, depending upon the intensity of the treatment.
The effectiveness of PDT can be improved by combining the procedure with certain lasers, like the Fraxel laser , Clear + Brilliant Permea® or the V-beam laser, depending on the individual patient’s needs.
PIGMENTED LESION REMOVAL
Pigmented lesions encompass a wide range of skin lesions with different etiologies. Some pigmented lesions may be safely and effectively removed by laser therapy. In general, discrete lesions that are homogenous and stable can be safely eradicated with a single treatment with a Q-switched laser. These lasers deliver energy that is specifically absorbed by the pigment that is more concentrated within the undesired lesion than the background skin. A small scab will form for a few days and then flake off leaving normal skin. For more diffuse pigmentation or confluent pigmented lesions, the Clear + Brilliant Permea® or Fraxel® Re:store Dual lasers can be used to blend in imperfections and offer overall rejuvenation.
Any lesion that begins to change or appears distinct from your other lesions (“ugly duckling”) warrants prompt medical evaluation and may require a skin biopsy.
PRO-NOX
Pro-Nox is available for patient comfort.
SCLEROTHERAPY
Spider and varicose veins comprise a very common concern. Tiny pink, red or purple vessels known as spider veins of the lower extremities are best treated with sclerotherapy, an essentially painless procedure whereby a sclerosant is injected into the unwanted vessel causing it to collapse so then the body can eventually resorb it. Compression stockings should be worn for between 72 hours to 2 weeks depending on the size and extent of the vessels. Multiple treatments are typically required, but this treatment is very effective. This procedure may sometimes be combined with one of our other vascular lasers to achieve optimal results.
Risk factors for the formation of varicose veins include genetics, female gender, pregnancy, age, occupations that involve prolonged standing, and obesity. These dilated veins are often bluish green or flesh colored, torturous in appearance and palpable beneath the skin ’s surface. Oftentimes, varicose veins are the result of an underlying leaky vessel, a condition known as superficial venous insufficiency (SVI). When valves within a vein cease to function properly, blood is permitted to reflux or flow in the opposite direction than it is intended to flow. Reflux leads to pressure buildup within the vein, causing the vein to distend further. When present, this condition is often associated with symptoms such as aching, burning, fatigue, pruritus, cramps, restless legs and swelling. These symptoms are typically aggravated by warmth and inactivity. If you have varicose veins or symptoms suggestive of underlying venous disease, a noninvasive imaging test (duplex ultrasound) can be performed to delineate the extent of your disease.
If you suffer from SVI, you may be a candidate for sclerotherapy injections performed under ultrasound guidance or endovenous laser ablation (EVLA). EVLA uses thermal energy to close the damaged vein from the inside out. Blood is then re-routed through your healthy veins and overall circulation improves. This procedure, which is generally covered by insurance, is minimally invasive and light exercise can be resumed immediately after.
SCULPSURE
First FDA-cleared laser treatment for stubborn fat of the flanks and abdomen. A controlled, light-based, non-invasive technology that is performed in approximately 25 minutes with minimal discomfort. Results seen in as little as 6-12 weeks with no downtime. Often times only 1-2 treatments per area are needed.
Click here for answers to frequently asked questions about SculpSure.
SCULPTRA
As a poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) collagen stimulator, Sculptra helps restore the deep, underlying structure of the skin to diminish facial wrinkles. Sculptra works with your body within the deep dermis to help revitalize collagen production and help restore your skin’s inner structure and volume.
As the Sculptra PLLA microparticles are absorbed, they help stimulate collagen production. Rebuilt collagen strands begin gradually helping to restore facial volume and the look of fullness to wrinkles and folds.
If you want to appear more youthful-looking — without appearing like you’ve had work done — then Sculptra may be a good choice for you.
SKIN CANCER SCREENING
Dr. Hale is a Vice President of the Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF), a nonprofit organization devoted solely to education about the prevention and treatment of skin cancer. Dr. Karen is also a very active member of the SCF and is a frequent media expert. Both are passionate about the prevention and early detection of skin cancer. They firmly believe in the importance of an annual head-to-toe skin examination.
In preparation for your examination, you should remove all of your make-up as well as any nail polish. Your physician will check you from head-to-toe, utilizing a tool called a dermatoscope when necessary to better visualize your individual lesions. If any suspicious lesions are identified, Dr. Hale or Dr. Karen will likely perform a skin biopsy whereby the lesion is removed and then submitted to the laboratory to be examined by a dermatopathologist.
SKIN SURGERY
Dr. Hale and Dr. Karen both completed fellowships in Mohs micrographic surgery. In addition to Mohs surgery, they also perform standard excisions of melanoma, dysplastic nevi, and low-risk BCC and SCC, as well as excisions of benign lesions, including cysts, lipomas and benign nevi. They are expert surgeons who always seek to minimize the formation of scars. They also specialize in laser surgery to blend in scars.
TATTOO REMOVAL
Skin tattoos can be decorative or traumatic. No matter the cause, their removal is often desired. Tattoo removal can be challenging and results vary dramatically depending upon the tattoo age, density, color and location. A number of highly specialized lasers exist, each with specific wavelengths to target the different pigments that comprise tattoos. Multiple treatments are the norm. The procedure is performed under injections of local anesthesia. Successful and safe removal can substantially improve one’s quality of life. Dr. Hale and Dr. Karen are participating in the American Society of Laser Medicine Surgery New Beginnings program – a national campaign to provide free radiation tattoo removal for cancer patients via laser treatment.
THERMAGE®
Thermage® CPT uses radiofrequency energy to heat the deeper layers of the skin. This procedure strengthens existing collagen and helps stimulate the formation of new collagen. Thermage® CPT is frequently used to address laxity of the eyelids, jowls, cheeks, neck, abdomen and extremities. Although modest improvement is seen immediately post treatment, the treated area will continue to improve for up to 6 months following treatment. CPT stands for Comfort Pulse Technology™, which enables efficient energy delivery in a more gentle fashion than prior versions of the device. During the procedure, patients experience a sensation of warmth and discomfort. The intensity of the treatment is titrated based upon your particular pain tolerance. When treating certain areas, such as the face, the device incorporates vibration to make the procedure better tolerated.
Following treatment with Thermage® CPT, the treated area may appear pink or slightly swollen, although these effects almost always subside by 24 hours. The majority of patients benefit from a single treatment. Some patients do opt for subsequent treatment in order to achieve additional improvement in laxity. Patients with permanent pacemakers cannot undergo Thermage® CPT or other radiofrequency treatments.
Like all procedures we offer, Dr. Hale and Dr. Karen perform Thermage® CPT themselves.
VASCULAR LESION REMOVAL
Vascular lesions can be congenital (from birth or early childhood) or acquired. A variety of laser and light sources exist that are very effective at diminishing or altogether eliminating these lesions, which include hemangiomas, capillary vascular malformations, spider angiomas, broken blood vessels and scars, among others. These procedures are well tolerated and almost always performed without any anesthesia. Post-treatment, swelling or transient darkening of the lesion can occur. However, the dosage of laser energy delivered can be titrated so as to minimize down time.