Best Hospitals for Liposuction and Cheek Augmentation in New York City in 2025
Introduction
New York City is a hub of cosmetic and plastic surgery, offering a plethora of options for individuals seeking liposuction and cheek augmentation procedures. Whether you want to remove stubborn fat through liposuction or enhance your facial features with cheek augmentation, choosing the right hospital and surgeon is crucial. This article will explore some of the top hospitals and clinics in New York City known for their excellence in these procedures, along with detailed information about the treatments, what to expect, and important considerations.
Understanding Liposuction
Liposuction is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess fat from specific areas of the body that do not respond to diet and exercise. It is performed by board - certified plastic surgeons using a suction device to contour the body and create a sleek, natural appearance. Let's take a look at some of the key aspects of liposuction:
Who is a Good Candidate for Liposuction?
Liposuction is most effective for patients near their ideal weight. However, it can also be suitable for those a few pounds above their ideal weight. Obese patients can have liposuction, but they should have realistic expectations as it is not a weight - loss cure. It is more of a body - contouring treatment. For example, Dr. David Rapaport, a well - known plastic surgeon in New York City, emphasizes that patients should understand the limitations of the procedure. If a patient is significantly overweight, liposuction alone may not achieve the desired results, and the doctor may suggest alternative treatments such as a tummy tuck for more comprehensive body reshaping.
Types of Liposuction
There are several types of liposuction techniques available in New York City hospitals. Here are some common ones:
- Power - Assisted Liposuction (PAL): This technique uses a gentle vibration of a cannula (a thin, hollow tube) to loosen the fat, making it easier to remove with suction. At Mount Sinai, this is one of the options offered to patients. The vibration helps in breaking up the fat cells, reducing the amount of force needed for suction and potentially minimizing trauma to the surrounding tissues.
- SmartLipo MPX™: It uses a laser to heat the fat, which aids in its removal and also helps the skin retract after the fat is removed. This is particularly useful for areas like the upper arms, neck, and inner thighs. The laser energy can also stimulate collagen production, which may contribute to better skin tightening in the treated area.
- Vaser Liposuction: Dr. David Rapaport often chooses to use Vaser technology when treating particularly dense tissues or areas that have previously undergone liposuction. Vaser (Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance) assisted liposuction is the third - generation of ultrasound - assisted liposuction device. Solid titanium probes deliver pulsed energy into the fatty tissue to break down the targeted fat. The use of Vaser helps to emulsify (or break down) fat before being aspirated with traditional or PAL cannulas.
Benefits of Liposuction
Liposuction offers several benefits to patients:
- It provides an alternative to traditional plastic surgery by eliminating fat from specific areas like the abdomen, thighs, chin, or enlarged male breasts (gynecomastia) without making large incisions.
- It can balance an out - of - proportion body type by reducing bulges on the thighs or a large abdominal girth in men.
- It enhances facial surgery procedures such as face lift by removing pockets of fat from under the chin.
- It adds to diet and exercise results by contouring the stubborn areas that do not respond to these efforts.
Understanding Cheek Augmentation
Cheek augmentation is a procedure aimed at enhancing the appearance of the cheeks, adding definition, and achieving better facial balance. It can be a great option for those who wish to restore lost cheek definition, enhance a weak jawline, or improve the overall aesthetic of their face. There are different methods of cheek augmentation:
Cheek Implants
Cheek implants come in different sizes and shapes and can be customized for any facial shape to provide a natural - looking enhancement. Materials commonly used for cheek implants include silicone and hydroxyapatite. Silicone implants do not integrate with the natural tissue and can be safely removed later, while hydroxyapatite implants will fuse with natural bone tissue and become a permanent part of the facial structure. For example, at Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg performs customized cheek augmentation procedures using cheek implants. If the procedure is performed alone, small incisions are made inside the mouth above the gum line to place and secure the implants. If it is done in conjunction with another surgery, the implants may be inserted through the incisions used for the other procedure.
Fat Transfer for Cheek Augmentation
For patients who desire more volume in their cheeks but are hesitant about using implants, fat transfer can be an option. This involves using liposuction to remove fat from one area of the body, usually the midsection, and injecting the purified fat cells into the cheeks. Dr. Greenberg at Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery offers this procedure as well. He typically administers local anesthesia for a fat transfer procedure. The advantage of fat transfer is that it uses the patient's own tissue, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
Top Hospitals and Clinics in New York City for Liposuction and Cheek Augmentation
Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai is a well - known medical institution in New York City. It offers a range of liposuction procedures, including power - assisted liposuction (PAL) and SmartLipo MPX™. The board - certified plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai are experienced in performing these procedures and can provide patients with detailed consultations to determine the best approach. They explain to patients that liposuction is not a treatment for cellulite or overly loose skin, and can suggest alternative procedures if liposuction is not appropriate. The hospital's focus on patient education and personalized care makes it a popular choice for liposuction patients.
New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital
The plastic surgeons at New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital perform a full range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including liposuction. All physicians at this hospital are on the faculty of Weill Cornell Medical College, ensuring a high level of expertise and access to the latest medical knowledge. The hospital offers a familiar community - hospital setting with the level of care found in a leading academic medical center. Patients can expect comprehensive care from consultation to post - operative follow - up.
ColumbiaDoctors - Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
ColumbiaDoctors is renowned for its facial plastic and reconstructive surgery services. In addition to liposuction for facial contouring, they offer a variety of cheek augmentation options. Their team of nationally recognized facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons are passionate about helping patients achieve their aesthetic and functional goals. For cheek augmentation, they can perform non - surgical procedures using dermal fillers as well as surgical procedures like chin and cheek implantation. Their facial paralysis/facial nerve program also demonstrates their comprehensive approach to facial treatments, as any facial nerve issues can impact the results and overall experience of cheek augmentation or liposuction procedures on the face.
Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery
Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery offers consultations at seven convenient locations in New York City and other areas. Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg is an expert in cheek augmentation procedures. He provides customized treatments, whether it's using cheek implants or fat transfer. He takes the time to discuss the patient's goals during the initial consultation and creates a personalized treatment plan. His experience and attention to detail ensure that patients achieve natural - looking results in cheek augmentation.
Cost Considerations
The cost of liposuction and cheek augmentation can vary significantly depending on several factors. For liposuction, the factors include the area or areas being treated, the type of liposuction technique used, the complexity of the procedure, and the surgeon's experience. For example, liposuction of a small area like under the chin may cost less than full - body liposuction. In the case of cheek augmentation, the cost depends on whether cheek implants or fat transfer is used. Cheek implants may have an additional cost for the implant material itself, and the cost of anesthesia and the surgical facility also contribute to the overall price. At Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg can explain the factors affecting cheek augmentation cost during the consultation. It's important for patients to have a clear understanding of the cost breakdown and whether any financing options are available.
What to Expect During and After the Procedures
Liposuction Procedure
At most New York City hospitals, liposuction is performed using the tumescent technique. This involves injecting a dilute solution of lidocaine as a local anesthetic and epinephrine to control bleeding prior to the actual suctioning of the fatty tissue. The suctioning is carefully performed using a cannula inserted via a tiny puncture in the skin. Most lipo procedures are performed under IV sedation, also called “twilight” anesthesia, which reduces the risks associated with general anesthesia. After the procedure, patients can expect some bruising, swelling, and soreness in the treated areas for the first few days. They may need to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and promote healing. Most patients can return to work within three days and return to the gym within a week. Final results are visible in a few months when all swelling has resolved.
Cheek Augmentation Procedure
If using cheek implants, the patient will typically receive general anesthesia, while fat transfer usually requires local anesthesia. For cheek implants, small incisions are made either inside the mouth or in other discreet locations to place the implants. In the case of fat transfer, the fat is first removed via liposuction from another part of the body and then injected into the cheeks. Immediately after the procedure, there may be some temporary numbness or tingling, which will gradually diminish. As the swelling subsides, the enhancements achieved with the cheek augmentation will become more apparent. It's important for patients to follow the post - operative instructions provided by their surgeon, which may include avoiding certain activities and taking prescribed medications.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
When choosing a hospital and surgeon for liposuction and cheek augmentation in New York City, there are several factors to consider:
- Credentials: Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified in plastic surgery. This indicates that they have met the high standards set by the relevant medical board and have the necessary training and experience.
- Experience: Look for a surgeon who has extensive experience in performing liposuction and cheek augmentation procedures. You can ask about the number of similar procedures they have performed and view before - and - after photos of their patients.
- Patient Reviews: Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of other patients' experiences with the hospital and surgeon. Positive reviews can give you confidence in your choice, while negative reviews may raise red flags.
- Communication: The surgeon should be able to communicate clearly with you, answer all your questions, and understand your goals and concerns. A good surgeon - patient relationship is crucial for a successful outcome.
- Facility: The hospital or clinic should have a well - equipped and accredited surgical facility. This ensures the safety and quality of the procedures performed.
Conclusion
New York City offers a wide range of options for liposuction and cheek augmentation procedures. With top - notch hospitals, experienced surgeons, and advanced techniques, patients can achieve their desired aesthetic results. Whether you are looking to contour your body through liposuction or enhance your facial features with cheek augmentation, it's important to do thorough research, choose the right hospital and surgeon, and have realistic expectations. By considering all the factors discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision and take a step towards achieving your ideal look. If you're interested in learning more about liposuction or cheek augmentation in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a reputable surgeon. Share this article with your friends and family who may also be considering these procedures to help them make an informed choice.