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Hi! I'm Dr. John Farella; a board certified plastic surgeon. The decision to undergo Laser Hair Reduction is an exciting one. It is my belief, that an educated patient allows you to determine your personal goals, and enables you to make an informed decision. I have developed this website as a patient information source. Hopefully, this site will prepare you for your consultation.

	Procedure

Unwanted hair is a common cosmetic problem for both men and women. Until recently, the only long lasting method of hair removal was Electrolysis. With new laser technology, long lasting hair reduction can be obtained from any area of the body. Dr. Farella uses the Alexandrite Laser that is safe and effective. The laser emits a beam of light that passes through the skin, to the hair follicle. The energy is transformed to heat, which then destroys the follicle. Several treatments are usually required to destroy hair follicles in different growth cycles. Since the laser targets the pigment of the hair follicle it is ineffective for gray or blonde hair. Full face, bikini line, and underarm treatments may take as little as fifteen minutes. Since no procedure can guarantee permanent hair removal, most patients can expect a sixty to seventy percent reduction in hair growth, leaving remaining hairs thinner and lighter in color. You should avoid sun tanning eight weeks prior to your treatments. Treatments are most effective on light skinned patients with dark hair. Popular areas to laser include the face, back, chest, underarms, arms, bikini area, and legs.

	Ideal Candidates

		Patients who are concerned about unwanted hair
		Patients who have realistic expectations
		Patients with light skin, dark hair (receive the greatest benefit from this procedure)
		Patients with in-grown or infected hair follicles (can undergo laser to improve the affected conditions)

	Risks and Complications

Risks and complications may include but are not limited to burns, changes in skin color, scarring, and in rare cases the ineffectiveness to destroy hairs. Remember, laser hair removal is a new technology and therefore results beyond several years are not yet available.

Keep in mind that although risks and complications may occur, they are rare.

Risks and potential complications of laser hair reduction are best discussed at the time of your consultation.

	Recovery

The area where laser was performed may become pink or red, lasting from a few hours to one day. A moisturizer or topical cream may be applied to soothe the area that underwent treatment. You may return to work or school immediately following the procedure.

	In/Out Patient

Laser hair removal is done in the surgeon's office and takes anywhere from ten to sixty minutes depending on the area being done.

Call for a complimentary consultation: (914) 241-7111 Lexington Avenue Suite 104 - Mount Kisco, NY 10549 (914) 997-9090 311 North Street Suite 408 - White Plains, NY 10605 (718) 548-5200 3333 Henry Hudson Parkway Suite 1-A - Riverdale, NY 10463