- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
SF Aesthetics and Laser Center
Categories: Beauty and Spas Skin Care Beauty and Spas Hair Removal Laser Hair Removal Beauty and Spas Medical Spas Health and Medical Medical Spas Skin Care, Laser Hair Removal, Medical Spas [Edit]
1818 Lombard St(between Laguna St & United States Highway 101)
San Francisco, CA 94123
Neighbourhood: Marina/Cow Hollow
(415) 885-2737
- Hours:
Mon, Wed, Fri 8:30 am - 6:30 pm
Tue, Thu 8:30 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
About This Business:
Piel Medical Aesthetics Inc. was founded in 2004 and has been dedicated to providing a high quality program of beauty and wellness. Our philosophy is to… read more »
80 reviews for SF Aesthetics and Laser Center
80 reviews in English
-
Review from Kay F.
San Francisco, CA
3/26/2012
Dr. Tsai rocks! Suck it you haters. I've been seeing Dr. Tsai for nearly a year now for laser hair removal. For people of color, Laser hair removal can turn out horribly in the wrong hands. Everything had gone better than expected with Dr. Tsai. I would (and have) recommended her to friends.
For those complaining about the cost, yes seeing Dr. Tsai costs more than some hole-in-wall medspa where the laser is done my an "assistant." I'd rather have the peace of mind that knowing a trained, laser specialist is providing the services. She's worth every penny. -
Review from Katie S.
San Francisco, CA
3/28/2012
I just came here today & was almost 100% satisfied. Nice staff, clean facility. I got an appt on Monday for Wednesday that week. Not bad. Good parking - but, I'm local and tend to have good luck.
I was there for an initial consultation which was fairly brief, and I mentioned I was interested in having a certain type of laser treatment. Dr. Tsai said she wanted to see which method she had would be best to use on my face. She took pictures of me, and then first tested the one, different than the one I had asked for, treatment on me which I visibly didn't like. She said it was working really well so even though it was sort of hard for me to see that it was making a very big change, she did almost the entire procedure. It really hurt. I wasn't expecting it to be so painful. I stuck it out because everytime she paused to show me with a mirro the change she was so excited and there was some visible change. And then at the end, without saying why, she switched to using the 2nd treatment on the last part which didn't hurt at all.
I'm home now hours later, still in significant pain looking much worse and guess I'm a little confused why she didn't use the first treatment since that was what I was there for instead of not even testing it as well and then going for the entire obviously extremely painful treatment procedure?
I can tell Dr. Tsai is a genuinely caring person, and I really appreciated the time she took with me - which is why I chose to use her facility. What I don't get is why use the painful treatment when I asked for something different that worked better in the first place? I want to believe it was for a REALLY good reason.
I'm more than happy to discuss this with her and plan on doing so. Either when she calls in 2 week to see how it's going or sooner.
UPDATE:
Dr. Tsai took the time to discuss her treatment plan with me over the phone and while I'm feeling better, I am still a little curious as to her methods as she herself did not accurately recall the procedure or her reasons. Also, I talked to a friend who had the same treatment and didn't have anywhere near the negative results I had.
I'm going back to see her for a check-up in a week and a half. If I ever get work done here again I'm going to be very specific about what I want and not let her do something different.
UPDATE!
I met with Dr. Tsai for the 3 week follow up visit. My cheek is still healing, but overall the treatment was very effective. It turns out that she had upped the intensity of the first treatment because it was apparent I was looking for really good results which is true. Dr. Tsai was very concerned with the reaction I had and really took the time to discuss everything with me until I felt a lot better about what had happened and why. She also was able to comp me some a quick laser treatment on the spot to make up for my being so uncomfortable over the last 3 weeks which was very kind and thoughtful! -
Review from Elizabeth W.
San Francisco, CA
12/13/2011
DO NOT GO HERE! I wish I could give them zero stars. Here is an open letter that I sent to the office:
Hi,
My name is Elizabeth Wittig and a little over a month ago I went in for a tattoo removal consulation which cost me $75. I left the consulation feeling really awful and depressed. I knew it would cost a lot of money, but I was quoted $350 a session, and told that it would probably take 3yrs and close to $3500+ total, and there was no garauntee it would even come completely off. I do not make a lot of money, and I really trusted the advice I was given. I'm glad I went for a second opinion, because I have been undergoing treatments for only $150 a session, and told that I will have it removed after only 5 sessions (I'm already seeing significant fading). I can't help but write an email in response to all this. I feel cheated out of the $75 consultation fee (which would have been applied to the grossly overpriced $350 treatment had I opted for it). Everywhere else I went for second opinions the consulation was free. I guess looking at how much I ended up saving long term- I got out cheaply. I will be sharing this information with others, and also writing reviews (including a yelp review). I will never forget how defeated I felt walking out of your office. It was such a bad feeling, and I'm glad I found somewhere else where they made me feel confident and positive about the overall process.
Thanks for absolutely nothing but a bad memory and $75 down the drain,
Liz WittigComment from Jeannie T. of SF Aesthetics and Laser Center 1/3/2012
Dr Tsai strongly recommends that anyone considering tattoo… More » -
Review from Mel H.
Oakland, CA
12/2/2011
Expensive. I got another recommendation for Accutane (sorry, can't take it), laser, and then no follow-up calls, which is just as well since my one-time treatment didn't do a whole lot, although it did sting quite a bit, both physically and otherwise. I left feeling really awful about my skin and the fact that there are so many remedies for the symptoms of acne (and not cheap ones) but not the cause. Honestly I feel like skin care/acne and other corrective treatments are so lucrative there may not be much incentive for prevention. Maybe their services just weren't a fit for my case, which is unfortunate, since I spent a good deal of money here. I'd rather someone just said, I'm sorry we can't help you....
Also, the office is a bit hard to get to and find (at the time, there was scaffolding, etc. and remodeling work being doing so it was hard to see); it would've been nice if someone had mentioned that on the phone when I was booking my appointment, as well as the fact that it's a house and not a traditional office building. -
Review from Babs M.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 5/7/2012
You could go to someone who charges less for tattoo removal but the decision can be costly. Dr. Tsai has the best equipment and could not be more caring, thoughtful and ethical in her approach. Before I met her I tried the other method. Called saline-removal one literally has salt rubbed in a wound. A large scab sits on the treated area for as long as two weeks Yes the tattoo fades. However, I am told by many doctors nothing can be done about the remaining scar. Before taking all my money the doctor did a test spot to insure additional treatment would not be a waste of money Like many doctor, she applies the cost of the consultation to a treatment. Bargain shopping for a belt is one thing. Bargain shopping for a someone to address your face is a little more dangerous.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
9/29/2011
So far, so excellent. I was referred to Dr. Tsai for cosmetic tattoo removal after saline left me… Read more »
-
-
Review from Martin C.
San Francisco, CA
7/15/2011
Initially saw Dr. Tsai last year, based on the Yelp reviews I read, to discuss removing deep furrows in my brow.
She made me aware that the problem was caused by my raising my eyebrows in order to lift my droopy eyelids. She suggested getting medically screened to see if I would quality for blepharoplasty (upper eyelid surgery). which I did.
Turns out that I am eligible for that procedure but I'm reluctant to get the work done even though it's covered by medical insurance, because of the risks inherent in messing w/the eyelids and because, even after the work is done, I'll still need to get quarterly botox injections and periodic restylane filler injections to try to remove the furrows, which is a very expensive and lengthy proposition, and the result is NOT guaranteed. So,. I'm not sure I'm ever going to get that done.
But, Dr. Tsai was very good at informing me about the cause of the problem and means of dealing w/it for the $75 consultation fee that I paid her. We also discussed some other minor facial problems at that time that I also deferred doing anything about.
About 6 months later, I recontacted Dr. Tsai's office to get some Restylane injections to fill my nasolabial folds. Cost was $1000 after a $100 rebate. Dr. Tsai performed the injections efficiently (but I would not say they were entirely painless) and I saw immediate improvement after the treatment, but there was some bruising and numbness (which I was warned about) on one side that went away after a week. I'm very happy w/the result and may have other "fill" work done when I am ready to spend the money again.
As others have commented, Dr Tsai is a very pleasant and congenial person who makes you feel at ease. She uses digital photography so that you can see the before and after effects of your treatment and can see how other procedures have been performed. She is very knowledgeable about all cosmetic dermatology procedures and will give you a suitable referral if she cannot do the work herself,
Parking near her office on Lombard can be a problem but the office itself is very pleasant, as is her staff. I've only been to Dr. Tsai for this service. So, I cannot compare her to others but I can't imagine anyone else being much better. I highly recommend her. -
Review from C C.
San Francisco, CA
3/26/2012
I found Dr. Tsai on Yelp four years ago and have been seeing her since, including my husband, mom, sister, and sister's boyfriend. Dr. Tsai is exceptional at what she does and such a genuine and good person. Even though there may be cheaper practices out there, I unquestionably am loyal to Dr. Tsai because I feel good about spending my money with her. Her office is clean and modern, and her staff is courteous and knowledgeable. I highly recommend Dr. Tsai if talent AND integrity are important to you.
-
Review from Kathy O.
Petaluma, CA
3/17/2012
Dr. Tsai and her staff are amazing!!This is the third med spa I have visited in the past few years and it is by far the best experience I have had. Don't be turned off by the SUV out front emblazoned with the huge SF BOTOX logo. The office is elegant, professional and pleasant. This staff is professional, courteous and helpful. Dr. Tsai is a comforting and soft spoken professional who takes a long term approach to treatment working with you to come up with the plan that best suits your needs and budget. She provides a thorough consultation and she does all of the work herself. I started with a little botox on my first visit, received a follow up call the next day which was unexpected, but appreciated, and went back yesterday for my follow up visit where I decided to get a little filler. The prices are in line with those at other med spas and their rewards program and specials are great. The results are amazing and not a bruise or mark on my face. I cannot recommend SFAALC strongly enough.
-
Review from Alison M.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 6/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
It's been a few weeks since my 5th session and my tattoo is very light, close to being gone... I would say it will be completely gone after 1 or 2 more sessions.
I can't help but repeat the lyrics of Oh La La by Rod Stewart over and over.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
1/12/2011
I am getting a tattoo removed, which from other reviews you can tell that it obviously sucks. It is… Read more »
-
-
Review from J P.
San Francisco, CA
11/26/2011
Went in for my first treatment of laser hair removal, and found Dr. Tsai to be extremely pleasant and kind, and she took the time to explain how things worked. I have only had one treatment, so I can't say too much yet, but I only wish all my experiences at the doctor's could compare.
-
Review from Jeanne C.
San Francisco, CA
1/14/2011
My previous doctor whom I loved so much moved to the east coast. I did some research and visited a couple other offices in the city. One doctor super sucked and she's lucky I"m nice enough not to name the practice. When I met Dr Tsai and her office staff, I knew I found my new doctor.
Good bedside manner means a lot these days when we have so many options, especially for elective procedures. I felt welcome and important even tho I was there for the special deal, which you can find on her website. There are new specials all the time.
I got my "#11" fixed which came with $100 off Latisse. How perfect is that?!!! I've experience no side effects and the Latisse really works. The other night my boyfriend asked, "why are you wearing your fake lashes to bed?" -
Review from Elaine L.
Oakland, CA
8/6/2010
I found Dr. Tsai after I deciding I had enough of waxing my upper lip. She was very honest when she told me the hair on my upper lip would not absorb the laser effectively therefore making the treatment futile. And though I was crestfallen, I appreciated her honesty. At that moment, I decided that umpteenth years of shaving and tweezing the pits was the straw that broker the camel's back. Can't laser the upper lip?! How 'bout the pits?! Glad I did. Two and half years later and the pits, yes armpits, remain hair-free.
I purchased a package of 5 treatments which covered both armpits. Prior to your treatment, Dr. Tsai provides you with numbing cream to make the process a little less painful; not entirely painless. My best mate bought a package at some laser spa in the Tri-Valley. She has yet to complete her treatment due to the pain. After two visits, she has yet to see results. I saw results after the first treatment.
Dr. Tsai was very thorough in explaining the process and what I could anticipate in results. During the procedure, she was very kind and personable. We talked kids and about running. After several visits, Dr. Tsai followed up with a phone call to see how I was doing; a true professional.
My treatment package was a pretty penny but in the end, I got meself some pretty pits. Thanks Dr. Tsai! -
Review from jeff c.
San Francisco, CA
9/15/2010
A perfect perfect perfect consumer experience - and they aren't even trying that hard. Went in last minute for (ssssssh I'll never tell) a little something something. I had never been but so many good things have been said so i thought why not?
The staff was not only nice and professional but fun to spend time around. Dr Tsai is great! Shes nice and personable and really loves what she does. We chatted about the procedure i went in for and she even took time to go over procedures I had interest in - going so far to discuss her own experiences and even give me a demo. I will be back.
Thumbs Up: Great staff. Easy going non-pretentious environment
Thumbs Down: Parking. But hey its in the Marina and if you can go during office hours it aint so bad. -
Review from Cake M.
Marin County, CA
5/3/2008
Dr. Tsai was recommended to me by my esthetician, London Elise (Soothe SF - go see her - she rocks). As a brunette with pale skin, I have been battling pesky extra fur all of my life, basically, and finally decided enough is enough and went to see Dr. Tsai for some laser hair removal.
During my initial consult, I let it slip that I'd once had a terrible sunburn due to an unfortunate visit with a tanning bed. She then gave me a lesson in the structure of the epidermis, various types of sunlight (UVB, UVA, etc.) and what the best sunscreens are. There was NEVER any pressure to purchase product from her - in fact, I have been given numbing cream as a courtesy to apply before our sessions.
She is amazing. She is attentive, informative, warm, professional and very thorough. And FAST! She makes what is understandably a mildly uncomfortable experience as painless as it can be. I have never had bruising, swelling, or even redness when she's done - she's THAT good. I could not be happier with both her style of work and the subsequent results.
As I sat there post-procedure icing my face a bit, I perused the binders of before and after photos. WOW! I've never had Restylane or Botox or Titan or any of the other services she offers, but once the time comes (with the big 4-0 looming, probably sooner rather than later) she'll be my go-to gal.
Also, you could not ASK for a more beautiful setting. Instead of scrambling to find parking near some soulless medical office or high-rise, you get to park right in front and visit her in a darling Presidio cottage. That's half the fun! I do understand what other posters are saying about it being difficult to access without a car - but I find that irrelevant to the service. My situation is the opposite - there are some businesses I can't go to because I can't park (sorry, car haters - I did 12+ years carless on Muni; done).
A few people commented on the higher-than-average prices; I never did comparison shop because if London says it's the way to go, her word is final. As I understand it, most of those $99 per session places have one laser, whilst Dr. Tsai has 4 so that she can individualize treatment. Now, reading my reviews, you will see that I am a budget-conscious girl - I just do not get this pay-$60-for-a-mani-pedi in SF thing - but when it comes to your FACE, do you really want to be a cheapskate? Um. No. Save the thriftiness for your nails, or groceries, or whatever else, but your FACE deserves the best care your dollars can buy. I will eat RAMEN to have Dr. Tsai do the work I need rather than go to a bargain basement clinic where a non-MD is doing the work. ~Shiver~
HIGHLY recommended! -
Review from Victoria B.
San Francisco, CA
9/1/2006
Hands down, the best Botox & Restylane work I've had done, this doctor did a great job.
This is the seventh time I've had Botox and the fifth time I've had Restylan, and this doctor is light years ahead of my previous doctor in the pain prevention department.
When my old doctor (a very nice but very old dermatologist) injected Restylane it felt like someone was plunging a white hot needle into the center of my eye. It was so painful around my upper lip, each time I vowed I would never have it done again.
But getting old sucks and as I was a smoker for just shy of a decade my upper lip looks like an accordian without Restylane twice a year.
Rock star parking, too. -
Review from Amy C.
San Francisco, CA
7/1/2010
What can I say that hasn't been said already? I was shopping around for a place that could treat my rosacea with IPL, and I came across Dr. Tsai through you Yelpers. Of the four places I compared, Dr. Tsai was the cheapest and most highly rated.
She's super kind, and a wonderful person. Another reviewer here mentioned her dedication to charity and volunteer work, and I'm just here to second that.
Her staff is also super nice and they actually remember you. They take the time to look over your file *before* your appointment.
But back to Dr. Tsai... She's punctual, has a gentle hand, and is an expert at what she does. I saw improvements in my skin after my first treatment. (People generally tend do not to have much until the 2nd or 3rd treatment.)
A+++++ all the way. Highly recommended. -
Review from Adrienne G.
San Francisco, CA
9/18/2007
Prissies of the world rejoice! Woohoo! I finally have the results I have been looking for!
For years, literally years, I had been going all the way down to Palo Alto - to my Doctor - for laser treatments but the hair never really went away....even after 8+ treatments. I thought slow & steady was just the way it was & I had to deal w/ it. Boy, was I proved wrong!
A friend recommended Dr Tsai & I am so glad I took the advice! She takes a more aggressive approach & the results are absolutely amazing! Different laser machines to get the 1 right for you & appts are scheduled more closely together to really attack those problem areas!
I've had a couple of touch-ups to the areas treated by Palo Alto & I also started a new area w/ Dr Tsai so I have been able to truly compare the overall experiences.
The pain is definitely manageable as Dr Tsai has all kinds of ices, goos, & cremes to help numb & soothe throughout the treatment - she also takes a completely hands-on approach & even personally calls a day or 2 afterwards to make sure you are still okay.....NONE of this was offered by my Palo Alto Doctor.
The fine hairs are now completely gone - NO MORE SHAVING....EVER! - & the newly treated area is practically hair-free after only 3 treatments......
***** But the prissiness doesn't stop there! *****
I have recently had the good fortune of discovering the wonderful world of Botox & I am totally hooked!
Goodbye crows feet! Hello gorgeous!!
Totally natural looking & no one has been able to tell....the wrinkles have just mysteriously disappeared. (muw-wah-hah-hah)
It may seem expensive but I can attest that at the end of the day, the total cost to be hair free was actually the same if not cheaper w/ Dr Tsai, than it was w/ Palo Alto.
Fewer treatments & better / faster results....totally worth it!Listed in: I'm So Vain.....
-
Review from Katharine D.
San Francisco, CA
10/3/2011
Love Dr. Tsai - her approach is very personalized and conservative... and I totally trust her excellent technique.
-
Review from Leanne M.
Fountain Valley, CA
9/24/2009
I've had a Yelp account for a while now, but have never been inclined to write any reviews....until now, that is! I HAD to write a review for Presidio Laser Medicine because both my mom & I had such an exceptional experience with Dr. Jeannie Tsai and her staff!
From the moment we walked in, the staff greeted us warmly and professionally. They promptly checked us in and offered us coffee/tea/water while we waited. There was also a small selection of granola & health bars in case you were hungry...how thoughtful :)
We browsed the displays of various products Dr. Tsai also carries during our short wait time. Example of products: Elta MD sunscreens (highly recommended!), Obagi, as well as Latisse for eyelashes....all at very reasonable prices. I ended up getting some Latisse to try.
Dr. Tsai greeted us with a pleasant smile and took us to the exam/treatment rooms. We had a thorough and informative consultation; everything was explained to us very clearly from the cause of our age spots, what to expect during and after the treatment, and what we can do to prevent further sun damage. We both felt very comfortable going into the treatment.
It's been almost two weeks since our visit. My mom's numerous age spots are completely gone; making her face looking sooo clear and youthful! My trouble spot is also gone...yay! We are SO pleased with the results and not to mention the fabulous customer service Presidio Laser Medicine offers!!! If we ever need anything done (which we probably will :P), we'll ONLY go to Dr. Jeannie Tsai...even if that means driving or flying 400+ miles from SoCal :)
As a side note: there is no parking lot, but there are plenty of street parking. -
Review from Katherine B.
San Francisco, CA
6/24/2009
I have been waiting for 2 years until I turned 30 to justify getting Botox for that pesky wrinkle between my brows forming. I am more than happy with the results and with Dr. Tsai herself. She is a platinum level certified Botox administrator and does over 1500 injections a year. She has never had anyone have a bad side effect which speaks for her skill and precision - something you definitely want when you are getting injections.
She is very warm, informative and also no-nonsense. She explained everything to me with patience and I did not feel rushed at all during the consult or procedure. She even has you come back for a recheck and after photo so you can see the change.
My headaches from squinting all the time have disappeared as well which is so great and I haven't felt prettier in years. My forehead is pretty smooth now. This is something I am definitely going to invest in so I can age gracefully ;)
All those people who didn't notice my wrinkle now say how lovely I look and are about to jump on the bandwagon! -
Review from Joshua G.
New York, NY
9/14/2007
Okay here is the skinny. I'm actually disappointed I have to give this place only 3 stars. Dr. Tsai basically runs it on her own and she is such a nice person.
All around everything is done really well here. The Dr and staff are competent and well meaning. You can tell the Dr really cares about the patients and her profession.
First complaint, the office is run out of a nice house in the Presideo; while a very charming place its so hard to get to if you don't have a car. Cab rides are expensive and they can only be relied on one way! First of all there are two Funston Avenues in the city. When you take a cab there you have to be specific and say Funston Ave IN THE PRESIDIO. Even then the driver might be confused. Forget about calling a cab to pick you up, they won't come out there. If they don't get mixed up on the two different roads, its too far for them to drive. Theres no reliable public transportation out of the Presidio. There used to be a free shuttle that now you have to pay to get a pass for and isn't worth it.
My next complaint would be the scheduling. Dr. Tsai actually says she doesn't make money off her endeavors. Whatever the case she doesn't seem to have permanent equipment. I scheduled a tattoo removal for next month and there was only a certain day she was doing all of her tattoo jobs. They were bringing in a laser machine that day and when I needed to reschedule they didn't know when they'd have the machine again.
Update: Dr. Tsai left me a vmail to reschedule and she has since purchased her own permanent laser.
So I guess if you have a car and can get around the scheduling then definitely go here. I wish I didn't have to but I needed to find another place to go and the new place was able to book me the next day. In my situation I can't overlook that. -
Review from alice b.
San Francisco, CA
6/17/2008
Dr. Tsai does run this place on her own, with the help of a receptionist, but this only adds to the appeal of this small practice. The doctor tends to call me back immediately, one time on a late Sunday evening, does your regular doctor ever do that? She never pressures to have anything done, and takes the time to explain all the procedures carefully, she even drew me a diagragm of my skin cells and sun damage, I wonder what else she can draw since she also has kids, and her other talent is marathons, this woman can do it all!
The procedure went great ( I had IPL) and there was no down time. She spent more of the session cooling my skin down so there would not be any red marks or burning. It was simple and done deftly and skillfully, no marks, no bruising, only beautiful skin. It was completely worth it, and my friends commented on how i suddenly have this "glow". Girls, its the laser. Now you know my secret.
I would highly recommend Dr. Tsai for her wonderful demeanor, patience, and honed skills. The office is a bit hard to find, but thankfully there are no parking headaches in the presidio. -
Review from Sarcastic T.
San Francisco, CA
9/6/2007
Dr. Tsai is a warm, wonderful person who truly seems to enjoy what she does. She does not pawn off the work to an assistant, but takes the time to do treatments herself and make adjustments, as needed, as she goes. I truly believe this is why her laser hair removal treatments WORK - unlike what I've heard from others who went someplace else.
I went in one day to ask about un-doing all the damage I did in college with tanning. She spent 45 minutes talking to me about sun damage, UVA vs. UVB and what makes a good sunscreen and what doesn't. None of this sold her services or her products - but she did it anyway. Only at the end did she talk about what could be done with lasers to help and provided some free samples of some things I could try to treat my skin.
It is so unusual to have a doctor spend time with you and take an interest in prevention, not just push treatments and pills. She is all around a wonderful person and a great doctor. I haven't even bothered to compare her prices - I frankly don't care. They seem reasonable to me and I'm happy to pay her for the care and attention she puts into her work.Listed in: People who stab me with…
-
Review from Jewels H.
San Francisco, CA
3/7/2007
Dr. Tsai is not only super educated and experienced, she is one of the nicest people you will come across. She takes the time to explain everything about each procedure and lets you know exactly what she is doing as she is doing it. I have already gone in for three laser hair removal treatments for my underarms and seeing tremendous results!!!! I don't know why I have waited this long.
She even accomodates weekend appointments, if you book in advance. She really is the best!! -
Review from Renee R.
San Francisco, CA
2/20/2009
My first appointment was this afternoon and I have already scheduled my next appointment!
I had a great experience today and feel confident about Dr. Tsai's advice and skills. I had Laser Genesis for skin maintenance and a few shots of Botox. There was a Botox promotion and the staff helped me with the paperwork which was nice. I look forward to a long and mutually rewarding relationship with Presidio Laser Medicine:)
Great Location! Abundant parking! -
Review from joelle b.
San Francisco, CA
5/25/2011
Dr. Tsai is a friendly, intelligent and talented woman. I went in to my appointment with a lot of apprehension and left feeling and looking wonderful. I would recommend her to all you ladies out there considering any sort of injectables, 100%. Her bedside manner, while professional, is also casual enough to make you feel at ease - just how a doctor should be. Her girls at the front desk are also really great. She's there to make you look your best and her slightly conservative approach to her practice not only makes her credible but honest. If you were going to spend your money anywhere for cosmetic procedures, I would spend it with Dr. Tsai!
-
Review from Amber H.
Oakland, CA
12/19/2011
Dr. Tsai and her staff are wonderful, I have gone to her three times now, not only did she fix the botched restalyn job of another provider but she has also done a fantastic job treating me with botox and walking me through the first time having filler placed into my nasolabial folds. I am elated by the instant natural looking results. Some people on here seem to be under the impression that aesthetics are cheap, they're not but this place is fair and the staff works hard to get you discounts as much as possible. You can't put a price on the proficiency of someone injecting products into your face but if you could I would put my money on Dr. Tsai. She genuinely cares about her patients. I'm one of those people who retain restalyn which looked terrible under my eyes but actually will work to my advantage in my nasolabial folds. Instead of suggesting another product so I would have to come back year after year, Dr. Tsai used restalyn and I will likely need few if any other treatments. I've been around, in CA and Manhattan and believe me this doctor is exceptional.
-
Review from Mike W.
Washington, DC
6/11/2011
Dr Tsai is such a nice person. I wish I could afford to go here more often.
-
Review from Lili G.
San Francisco, CA
5/14/2008
Dr Tsai is just great. No pain and bye bye unwanted hair!
Have a happy summer! -
Review from jozilla w.
New York, NY
10/11/2007
So far so good! one treatment in for a weird red spot on my nose and already I have a good feeling about Dr. Tsai. When she told me how much each session would cost I gasped, but she discounted it because my treatment was so small. Their office really is out in the middle of nowhere and is a bit of a pain to get to without a car I imagine, but otherwise I thought the office was very professional. My entire appointment was 15 minutes I think.
When you go there they have all sorts of binders chock full of before and after shots which are pretty impressive, even though I wasn't getting any of those treatments! -
Review from nico Z.
San Francisco, CA
5/11/2011
I am very grateful for Yelp, because without it, I never would have found Dr. Tsai. Another reviewer said, and I am paraphrasing, that Dr. Tsai is a master at injections. I second that-she is a real artist. She's very thorough, professional, I never feel like I'm being rushed, and I'm not sure how she does it, but the injections are virtually pain-free. Dr. Tsai is friendly, personable, and her staff are also welcoming and super-friendly. Honestly, it's a real pleasure to come here and not just because of the results.
-
Review from murray t.
Oakland, CA
9/30/2011
honesty over financial gain, what kind of business are they running? i'm 28 and just starting to see signs of aging, but of course, i'm freaking out over it. after a fair amount of research, i was willing to charge what seems like the most effective (and most expensive) laser treatment out there. i contacted several companies, a little nervous about what they would say regarding to my age, but all of them were ready to cash in on me - EXCEPT SF Aesthetics and Laser Center. they politely described why this isn't the proper treatment for me and were still willing to meet if i had any other questions.
it felt really good to see this sort of honesty. they are more costly than the other locations i contacted, but it seems clear that their integrity and skills are worth the price. -
Review from Ken H.
San Francisco, CA
4/11/2011
I confess that I came to Dr. Tsai based on the fantastic reviews posted on Yelp. I have to say that my expectations were met and far exceeded what I expected. She really helps you get clear about what YOU feel you need and want before she begins to make an assessment and then leads you through options that will serve you best. She has a conservative approach which is comforting, and I felt a sense of trust along with her highest intention to make me look my best.Personally, as everyone has said, you feel an instant rapport, and if I ever needed a face transplant, she'd be the one!! Awesome!
-
Review from Caren H.
1/21/2008
I must disagree with so many of these posts! I didn't have a good experience with laser hair removal. First of all, I scheduled a consult and felt pressured to have the treatment right then and there (and without numbing and it hurt!) Dr. Tsai promised she would call to check in following the procedure and never called. After 2 treatments, we weren't seeing good results and she promised to call some other doctors and then call me because I was such a good candidate and it was strange that it wasn't working and again, she never called me. The treatments are outrageously priced and I wouldn't recommend her....I'll be trying some other places and will let you know.
-
Review from Suyen L.
San Carlos, CA
5/10/2007
This review is long overdue.....
After all the waxing, shaving and depilatories... and being sick of all the ingrown hairs... I knew laser hair removal would be my savior... but I was also very choosy on where to go to have it done.. So it took me quite a while before I found Dr. Tsai... (Thanks a lot to Yelp!) I know there's a lot of med-spas that have cheaper offers on laser hair removal but I knew I wanted a doctor to do it... Even if that meant it was going to be more expensive....
So I went to see Dr. Tsai... She was very patient and carefully explained what the process will be... I also loved that she will be the one to do the actual laser-ing... So I got a package for my legs and underarms.. So far, I've had 3 sessions... and my legs are much, much smoother than ever! Sure, there are still some stray hairs.. but you barely notice them unless you look really close... and I still have 3 more sessions to go (which reminds me, I should go back soon...)
Anyway, Dr. Tsai was very patient and also very meticulous making sure she zapped all the hairs out... She would mark small areas to make sure she knows which places she's zapped through... She also has this machine that blows cold air onto your skin so it doesn't hurt that much... Of course it still hurts but not as much without it... I also really loved the fact that she would ask from time to time, if I need to take a break because laser does hurt a bit...
Her office at the Presidio is also very nice... Although I usually took a cab to get there, it had lots of free parking spaces... The place is very cozy and very clean... The first time I saw Dr. Tsai, she even gave me a ride to the BART station because we finished pretty late. :) Now, isn't that very sweet? :)
If you're looking for a great, caring and very knowledgeable doctor for laser hair removal, Dr. Tsai is the best. For the price, you can't beat it. Her service is impeccable. Sure you can find cheaper places, but would you risk burning your skin and saving money? My philosophy is spend a little more (especially if it is something you'll be doing to your skin!) and get the service you deserve... :)
After all, I found her here at Yelp! (Thanks to London E. for her first review!)
I used to have to shave every 2 days... every day if you're OC... but now I can go for weeks without it... :) -
Review from Cianne M.
San Mateo, CA
7/20/2009
I heart Dr. Tsai. She is my new favorite doctor. She's very easy to talk to and seems to genuinely care. Imagine that - a compassionate medical professional! As I was telling Dr. Tsai my past medical history, she made sure to take down accurate notes and even scanned some photos I brought in. You could tell she wanted to provide the treatment best suited for me. She was also concerned about cost and didn't want me to waste money on a treatment that would yield only minimal results.
I was pleasantly surprised at the length of the appointment. That is the longest amount of time I've ever spent with any doctor. I'm not sure if it's because no one was booked after me, but it was cool. At first I was spewing out all my questions rapidly because I'm used to being kicked out after 5 minutes. But Dr. Tsai actually told me to slow down so she could write down my questions/issues and address each one.
What I love is that Dr. Tsai understands ethnic skin. I've been doing Obagi for several years now (initially prescribed by Dr. Kathleen Welsh) and my skin never got used to it. I mean, my skin was clear and glowing only after 3 months of looking like a shedding reptile. It's just too hard to maintain. Well, turns out that Obagi is too harsh for Asian type skin. Actually, Dr. Vic Narurkar told me the same thing (he specializes in ethnic skin) but I didn't want to believe him at the time. So Dr. Tsai suggested a Glytone regimen and it's been working out great. No crazy peeling and redness. Oh - and so sweet, she left the bag of products out for me to pick up at the office after hours. Convenient. She also recommended the Clarisonic Skin Care Brush as something I might like, and I LOVE it. My skin has never felt so smooth and immaculately clean. I was given a discount on the Clarisonic Pro (cool!) and ordered additional brush head types online. I can't live without that system now.
After my visit, Dr. Tsai called a few weeks later to check in. What! What doctor does that these days?? So nice. At my re-check, there wasn't too much to talk about since all my issues were resolved. Anyways, the love affair has only just begun and there are stars in my eyes. I can't wait to find reason to see her again. -
Review from Megan L.
San Francisco, CA
2/5/2007
Dr. Tsai is the best! Seeing her is like spending time with one of your girl friends - assuming that your friends are super-smart, super-talented, UCLA/Harvard-educated physicians who just happen to make you look 100 times better every time you see them.
-
Review from Caitlin P.
San Francisco, CA
2/25/2011
I come here for tattoo removal, and although this process is painful and frustrating, I couldn't have a better doctor to work with. Dr. Tsai truly understands how difficult this process is, and is so supportive of me while I'm enduring a treatment. She will adjust the intensity to the level you can deal with, and will go at the pace that is preferable for you. Thanks so much, Dr. Tsai, for helping me through this!
My first piece of advice is don't get a lame tattoo. However, if you do, go see Dr. Tsai. -
Review from catherine c.
Emeryville, CA
5/9/2008
Nice place, although it seemed expensive. I might be wrong about this as I didn't do any comparison shopping. I went in to see about getting a tattoo removed. Caution anyone who wants to remove a tattoo: it is very expensive and will take way longer than you think it will. I have a very small tattoo on my forearm which I don't hate, but which I can't hide and I am incredibly tired of answering the same questions over and over again about. So I went in. The consultation cost $75. If you go ahead with the treatment, they apply the $75 to the cost. I ended up buying a package of 6 treatments for the price of five. Six treatments cost $1000, (this is a minimum cost. Larger tattoos cost more) and Dr. Tsai says I will most likely only be about half way through. That will be six months from now. My tattoo is small and black and professionally done, which apparently make it one of the easier tattoos to remove. Don't go if you're feeling wishy washy.I was pretty sure I wanted the thing gone, but had no idea how much of a commitment getting it removed was going to be. It also hurts. She applies a topical anesthesia and ices and it's still more painful than actually getting the tattoo, but a hell of a lot faster!
Overall, Dr. Tsai took a lot of time to explain everything to me. The office was pleasant and the receptionist was friendly. The has several different laser machines, including one that I read on the internet is the best and latest. I felt a little bit of pressure to decide right then and buy the package, but there's really no reason to feel pressured. If yo're ready for the commitment, this is probably a good place to do it. -
Review from Rachael F.
San Francisco, CA
9/18/2010
Went in for an IPL photofacial. Very professional and accommodating office with very friendly staff. Very straightforward and honest doctor. Will go there again. Pricey but worth it.
