Laser Skin Rejuvenation NYC

At Leong Facial Plastic Surgery in NYC, we use the advanced Cortex™ CO2/Erbium Yag Laser for skin rejuvenation. This non-invasive treatment improves wrinkles, acne scars, sun damage, and other signs of aging by resurfacing and stimulating healthy skin growth—leaving your complexion smoother, youthful, and radiant.

woman getting facial rejuvenation procedure done by Leong specialist

*Real Patient

Why Choose the Cortex™ Laser for Skin Rejuvenation?

The Cortex™ CO2/Erbium Yag Laser is particularly appealing to patients looking to improve their skin’s vitality due to its ability to combine the benefits of both ablative and non-ablative lasers. Let’s explore why this laser is considered an advanced option for skin rejuvenation.

woman with green eyes touching her face and chin

The Evolution of Cosmetic Lasers

Over the last two decades, full CO2 lasers were commonly used to remove the epidermis (top layer) and part of the dermis (inner layer) to promote skin regeneration. However, these treatments typically required extensive downtime (up to 4 weeks) and carried risks, such as infections, hyperpigmentation, and scarring.

In response to these issues, non-ablative lasers were introduced to provide rejuvenation with less intensity and no tissue vaporization. While these treatments offered less downtime, results were gradual, and multiple sessions were required.

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Enter the Fractionated Laser

The Cortex™ CO2/Erbium Yag Laser combines the best of both worlds. This fractionated laser delivers laser beams that create tiny spaces of vaporized skin, leaving surrounding healthy tissue intact. This approach allows for faster recovery with reduced risk of complications, making it a safe and effective way to resurface the skin.

How Does the Cortex™ CO2/Erbium Yag Laser Work?

The Cortex™ CO2/Erbium Yag Laser works by delivering focused energy deep into the dermis, stimulating the production of collagen and new skin cells. The body responds to the laser by improving the skin’s elasticity and strength, while also promoting the growth of fresh, youthful skin.

Because the laser is fractionated, it treats small, targeted areas of the skin, reducing downtime and speeding up the healing process. During your treatment, Dr. Paul Leong or our skilled staff will adjust the laser settings based on your specific needs, ensuring the treatment is customized for optimal results.

Testimonials “He makes you feel like you’re the only patient he has.”

My experience was quite positive. As a first time user of Botox, I received more than adeqaute education and information from Dr. Leong. The treatment was precise and effective! I am a believer. I trust his cautious eye and steady hand. ...

If you’re like me you wouldn’t trust your face with just anyone. Dr. Leong is extremely personable, knowledgeable, and a true master in his field! It has only been a few days post surgery but I can tell already I’m goin...

Dr. Leong gave injected me with filler around my nose and corners of each upper lip. Instantly I saw a positive difference. He also injected me with Botox, forehead, between and around my eyes for the second time. His results are extraor...

I am 52 and as most women my age, I am interested in staying as young looking as possible! I’ve always had a lot of “eyelid” (extra skin) and the older I got, the more my eye area looked “tired” and heavy. A...

Dr. Leong is the best at what he does. I would not trust anyone else. I have and will always visit Dr. Leong for Botox, fillers- Sculptra, Perlane, and Restylane when needed. He does not pressure you with treatments and spends a lot of t...

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I have never had any type of cosmetic procedure done, so naturally I was apprehensive. However, there is NO ONE I would trust more than Dr. Leong. At the appointment, he truly listened to me and discussed the best options for me. He is k...

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I had Botox and restylane dermal fillers with Dr Leong in Pittsburgh. I’ve been seeing Dr. Leong for about eight years. I used to say that if it sounds too good to be true, then it isn’t. However, this does not apply to Dr Le...

Julie

Dr. Leong is a true expert in his field. I had great experience from consultation through every post-op appointment. Dr. Leong took the time to fully explain my brow lift procedure, and I never felt rushed. The results of my brow lift ex...

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I was equally nervous and excited going into my journey of getting a rhinoplasty. I did my research on the best providers and ultimately decided on going to Dr. Leong. Not only did his work exceed the high expectations that I had going i...

Grace C.

Dr Leong is so great all around! He performed tear trough filler for my hollow under eyes and I’m beyond pleased with the results. I’ve wanted to get this treatment done for years, but I was hesitant due to the potential risk...

Alex M.

Professional, artistic, and compassionate are words I would use to describe Dr. Leong as well as his office staff. I had lived my whole life receiving comments from people regarding the dark circles under my eyes and how tired I always l...

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I cannot imagine a better outcome or experience! Dr. Leong and his staff are knowledgeable, transparent, kind and compassionate. The results of my upper blepharoplasty are very natural. The procedure and recovery were painless. My follow...

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Dr. Leong is wonderful! Kind, thorough, and truly cares. He performed an upper blepharoplasty for me a few months ago and the procedure and results were better than I could have imagined. The whole office is great and made the process fr...

Dr. Leong does an expert job on my tear trough filler. But I'm over 55, in my opinion my eyes needed surgical enhancement. I'm a veteran of multiple facial and body procedures. When you're young and foolish, you go by what you can afford...

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Melissa W.

Dr. Leong is absolutely wonderful! I have never met another doctor who is so patient and willing to spend time with his patients and get to know them. I was very nervous about my first visit to have tear trough correction and he spent ti...

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CO2 vs. Erbium Yag Laser: What’s the Difference?

The Cortex™ Laser can be used with either CO2 or Erbium Yag lasers, or a combination of both, depending on your skin concerns.

CO2 Laser

The CO2 Laser penetrates deeply into the dermis to resurface the skin and is effective for reducing moderate wrinkles, acne scars, and skin texture issues. It can also address dyschromias (pigmented lesions) and sun damage.

Erbium Yag Laser

The Erbium Yag Laser focuses on the epidermis (outer skin layer) and is ideal for treating shallow wrinkles, fine lines, and brown spots. It’s often used as an alternative to chemical peels for improving skin texture.

Am I a Good Candidate for the Cortex™ CO2/Erbium Yag Laser?

The Cortex™ CO2/Erbium Yag Laser is best suited for patients with fair to moderate skin types (Fitzpatrick scale I-III). If you have darker skin, there is a risk of hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin).

It’s important to note that patients should not be pregnant or nursing, nor should they have a blood clotting disorder, immunosuppressive condition, or active skin issues. If you're healthy with realistic expectations, this treatment could be an excellent option for you.

How Long Does Laser Skin Rejuvenation Take?

The length of your treatment will depend on the area being treated. Cortex™ Laser treatments can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the size of the area. Dr. Leong or our skilled team will determine the appropriate treatment time during your consultation.

How Do I Prepare for Laser Skin Rejuvenation?

Preparation for Cortex™ CO2/Erbium Yag Laser treatment is straightforward. Here are some important guidelines:

Avoid sun exposure for 3-4 weeks before your treatment.
Disclose all medications you are taking. Certain medications like Accutane, blood thinners, or anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Vitamin E) should be avoided prior to treatment.
Refrain from using Retinoids, chemical peels, or undergoing other laser treatments during this time.
Pre-treatment antiviral medications may be prescribed to reduce the chance of an outbreak.

Is the Treatment Painful?

Every patient experiences pain differently. Some describe the feeling as warm and sharp, but to ensure your comfort, we apply numbing cream with lidocaine to the treatment area approximately one hour prior to the procedure.

What Can I Expect During Recovery?

After your Laser Skin Rejuvenation treatment, you will experience 8 days of downtime. Here's a breakdown of what to expect:

Day 1

Skin may appear sunburned with tightness.

Day 2

The skin looks bronzed and may appear darker.

Day 3-5

Your skin will start to peel, and some itching may occur.

Day 6-7

Peeling subsides, and makeup can be worn (we recommend mineral makeup).

Day 8-9

Redness should fade, and you’ll notice smoother skin.

Note: The neck area may require up to 2-3 weeks for full recovery.

Post-Treatment Instructions

To ensure proper healing, follow these post-treatment instructions:

Moisturize the treated area with ointments like Vaseline or Aquaphor to retain moisture.
Gentle cleansers and quality SPF are essential for protecting the skin post-treatment.
Use cool compresses for relief from tightness and sunburn-like sensation.
Drink plenty of water, eat healthy, and avoid alcohol.
Avoid direct sun exposure, excessive heat, or dryness during the recovery period.

What Does Leong Facial Plastic Surgery Represent?

At Leong Facial Plastic Surgery, we prioritize transparency and a personalized approach to all treatments. Dr. Leong will openly discuss the pros and cons of each procedure, ensuring that you receive the best possible outcome. We want you to feel comfortable and well-informed at every step of your treatment journey.

How Long Do the Results Last?

The results of Laser Skin Rejuvenation depend on post-treatment care and the maintenance of a good skincare regimen. As you age, your skin will naturally continue to change, but with proper care, your results can last for months. Many patients opt for maintenance treatments to sustain their youthful glow.

For more information on Laser Skin Rejuvenation or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Paul Leong, contact Leong Facial Plastic Surgery today.