This article was originally published on Franchising.com on September 14, 2026.
September 14, 2026 // Franchising.com // VIO Med Spa has signed its first New York City franchise agreement, paving the way for a new location in Queens.
Arjun Mehta, M.D., a triple board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist, will serve as medical director, with Amin Ashraf joining as a partner. They are establishing the leadership team and governance for the new venture.
“Signing our first agreement in New York City is a significant milestone for VIO, and Queens is a natural starting point for our growth in the market,” said Ryan Rao, Chief Development Officer at VIO Med Spa. “Dr. Mehta’s clinical expertise and Amin’s operational leadership create the kind of well-rounded ownership team we look for as we enter a new market. Their combined experience positions them to build a trusted destination for aesthetic and wellness care in one of the country’s most dynamic communities.”
The Queens agreement builds on a period of accelerated development for VIO Med Spa, which signed more than 18 new franchisees in 2026. Recent growth includes agreements to enter Richmond and Atlanta, along with a new deal for Prosper, Texas, following former Meta executive Joseph Luchenta’s acquisition of existing VIO locations in Richardson and McKinney. The brand currently operates 65 locations across 20 states, with more than 175 territories open, sold or in development.
Dr. Mehta brings advanced clinical training, international experience, and an extensive academic background to the new VIO Med Spa. A triple board-certified physician specializing in dermatology and dermatopathology, he has particular expertise in diagnosing and treating skin cancers, including melanoma, and holds medical board certifications in both the United States and Canada.
His path to dermatology began during his medical training in Europe and London, when a case involving a patient with undiagnosed leukemia sparked his interest in the specialty. Dr. Mehta later completed his residency and fellowship training at the University of Southern California, followed by additional subspecialty fellowship training at the University of Calgary. He practiced for five years in Vancouver before joining Northwell Health in New York in 2025.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Mehta has authored more than 20 peer-reviewed scientific articles and has been invited to speak internationally on dermatology and skin cancer. His expertise also includes cosmetic dermatology for skin of color and managing complications associated with fillers and laser treatments. As medical director, he plans to apply that experience to create a safe, inclusive, and clinically grounded guest experience at the new VIO Med Spa.
“I strongly considered opening an independent cosmetic dermatology practice, but many aesthetic patients search for a name they already trust,” said Dr. Mehta. “VIO offers that brand recognition, along with a proven model, a growing national footprint, and an established presence nearby in Patchogue and East Northport. The strength of that support system, including having a local area representative I can turn to, made VIO the clear choice as I take this next step into business ownership.”
Built on established clinical protocols and medical oversight, VIO Med Spa delivers a range of medical-grade aesthetic and wellness services including injectables, skin rejuvenation, laser treatments, and facials which are designed to prioritize safety, consistency, and results.
*Source: Item 19, VIO Med Spa 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document (issued March 13, 2026), reflecting average Gross Sales of Operational Franchise Outlets during the 2025 Calendar Year, based on a total of 51 Operational Franchise Outlets (16 operating as a Spa and 35 as a Spa Management Business); the total represents the cumulative average across all four quartiles. Some outlets have achieved this level of performance; there is no assurance a new franchisee will achieve similar results. Individual results may vary, and past performance does not guarantee future results.
