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Meet the founder & CEO

Rashida S. Vassell, MD

Credentials at a Glance:

Medical Degree: SUNY Downstate College of Medicine
Residency: General Surgery (Chief Resident), University of Vermont Medical Center
Board Certifications: Wound Management, Anti-Aging Medicine
Academic Appointments: Assistant Professor of General Surgery, LECOM (Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine)
Clinical Research: Published author in the Journal of Surgical Oncology (focusing on cutaneous melanoma)

Dr. Rashida S. Vassell is an accomplished physician, entrepreneur, and double board-certified specialist dedicated to transforming the landscape of personal wellness and medical aesthetics. As the Founder and CEO of Safahla Medical PLLC—an integrative, cutaneous surgery, and medical aesthetics practice in Corning, NY—she seamlessly blends the rigorous standards of surgical medicine with a holistic, evidence-based approach to longevity health. With over 15 years of clinical experience, Dr. Vassell prioritizes shared decision-making, patient safety, and systemic well-being over superficial fixes.

Clinical Foundation & Executive Expertise

Dr. Vassell’s career is built on a robust foundation of clinical excellence and institutional leadership. After earning her medical degree from SUNY Downstate College of Medicine, she completed her General Surgery training at the University of Vermont (UVM) Medical Center, serving as Chief Resident in her final year. During a dedicated research year at UVM, she also obtained a graduate certification in Clinical and Translational Science.

She is double board-certified as a Wound Specialist and in Anti-Aging Medicine. Her executive experience includes serving as a Medical Director at the teaching institution Montefiore Mount Vernon in Westchester County, NY. She later served at Guthrie Corning Hospital, where she pioneered an award-winning Wound and Hyperbaric program that earned the prestigious "Center of Distinction" award, and she actively participated on multiple committees, including the Credentialing Committee. Furthermore, her tenure as a principal Medical Director in Utilization Management cemented her expertise in health informatics, quality assurance, and the development of evidence-based clinical guidelines.

The Genesis of Safahla and the Power of Purpose

The mission behind Safahla Medical is deeply personal. As a breast cancer survivor, Dr. Vassell experienced firsthand the profound impact that acute medical treatments can have on long-term wellness and self-image. This journey crystallized her why: to establish a physician-led practice specializing in women's health and wellness solutions that prioritizes dignity and safety. Today, the practice proudly maintains a 100% 5-star client rating, reflecting the profound trust patients place in her high-standard model of care.

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More about dr. Vassell

The Safahla Foundation: Our Commitment to the Community

Dr. Vassell’s dedication extends well beyond the walls of her clinic. Recognizing that access to restorative wellness and aesthetic care is a matter of equity, she founded The Safahla Foundation to formalize and expand her practice’s commitment to service. The Foundation works tirelessly to provide wellness resources and therapeutic care to marginalized communities, reinforcing her core belief that health, confidence, and dignity should be universally accessible.

Academic Contributions & Research

A passionate advocate for life-long learning and the ever-evolving practice of medicine, Dr. Vassell serves as an Assistant Professor of Surgery at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM). In this role, she helps mentor the next generation of physicians, sharing her expertise in surgical medicine and patient-centric care.

Dr. Vassell has also contributed significantly to oncological research. Her published work investigates the clinical impact of various biopsy methods on the quality of surgical management in cutaneous melanoma. Specifically, her research evaluated how partial biopsy techniques influence the accuracy of Breslow depth staging and how those methods affect subsequent surgical recommendations, providing highly valuable insights for dermatologists and surgeons alike.

Outside of her professional and philanthropic endeavors, Dr. Vassell has served as a Trustee on the Chemung Valley Montessori School Board and enjoys traveling with her husband and two daughters.

Meet the Team

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client services

Kristen

Kristen DeWert serves as our Client Services Concierge, welcoming every guest with genuine warmth and attentive care. She is committed to creating a positive, comfortable environment where each person feels supported and truly valued throughout their visit. Outside of the spa, Kristen enjoys immersing herself in a good book, exploring the outdoors through hiking and walks, and spending quality time with her family and dogs. She loves discovering new trails, enjoying quiet moments in nature, and creating special memories with loved ones, always finding joy in the simple pleasures of life.