Best Hospitals for Zygomatic Arch Reduction in New York City in 2025

Zygomatic arch reduction is a specialized procedure that aims to reshape or correct issues related to the zygomatic arch, which is a significant part of the facial structure. In New York City, a hub of medical excellence, finding the best hospital for this procedure is crucial. This article will explore some of the top - notch medical institutions in the city that offer high - quality zygomatic arch reduction services.

Understanding Zygomatic Arch and Its Reduction

Facial Anatomy of the Zygomatic Arch

The zygomatic arch is a prominent bone structure in the face. It connects the under - bone of the eye to the area below the temple just before the ear. Along with the cheekbones (zygoma), maxilla, and the area around the orbit of the eye, it plays a vital role in the overall facial appearance and function. For example, it provides support for the muscles involved in chewing and facial expressions.

Reasons for Zygomatic Arch Reduction

There are several reasons why someone might need zygomatic arch reduction. Traumatic injuries such as those caused by falls, motor vehicle accidents, or assaults can lead to fractures of the zygomatic arch. These fractures can cause pain, affect facial symmetry, and interfere with normal jaw movement. Additionally, some individuals may opt for the procedure for cosmetic reasons, to achieve a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing facial contour.

Symptoms of Zygomatic Arch Issues

If the zygomatic arch is fractured or damaged, a person may experience various symptoms. Pain, especially when chewing, talking, or yawning, is common. There may also be numbness in the cheek area extending to the upper lip due to nerve involvement. In cases of significant displacement, the movement of the upper jaw may be impeded. Cheekbone fractures often cause visible swelling and bruising, and in severe cases, a change in the appearance of the face, such as a sunken or asymmetrical look, can occur.

Top Hospitals for Zygomatic Arch Reduction in New York City

New York Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell Medical Center

Expertise in Facial Trauma

Dr. John E. Sherman, a recognized expert in facial trauma, has been teaching the repair and treatment of maxillofacial trauma for over 35 years at this hospital. He is a member of the American Society of Maxillofacial Surgeons and a co - author of a recognized textbook for the treatment of facial injuries. His patients come from all over the country and around the world for facial bone reconstruction after fractures. The hospital has a multi - specialty team that can address all the issues and tissues involved in a simple or complex facial fracture related to the zygomatic arch.

Treatment Approaches

Over the years, the treatment at the hospital has evolved. It has moved from simple wire placement to rigid fixation with titanium screws and plates. Advanced imaging techniques such as CT scans and 3 - D reconstructions are used to help the surgeon visualize the injuries prior to surgery, ensuring more accurate and effective treatment. For example, in cases of zygomatic arch fractures, these imaging tools can precisely show the location and extent of the damage, allowing for a more targeted approach.

Patient Success Stories

There are numerous patient success stories. One such example is a 20 - year - old boy who was in a horrific snowmobiling accident in Canada with severe skull and facial fractures, including those of the zygomatic arch. After being air - lifted back to the New York Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell Medical Center, Dr. Sherman reconstructed his whole left side of the face. The patient's face was restored to a nearly perfect state after a 10.5 - hour surgery, with approximately 10 brackets holding the facial bones in place.

New York Center for Orthognathic and Maxillofacial Surgery (NYCOMS)

Comprehensive Oral and Maxillofacial Services

NYCOMS offers a complete range of oral surgeries, including zygoma and dental implants/jaw reconstruction. In cases where zygomatic arch reduction is needed in conjunction with dental issues or jaw reconstruction, the hospital's team of expert oral surgeons is well - equipped to handle the complex procedures. They follow a multi - stage process to carefully evaluate the patient's jaw issues and formulate a custom treatment plan, usually in conjunction with an orthodontist.

Zygoma Implants and Arch Reduction

Some patients with zygomatic arch problems may also require zygoma implants. NYCOMS has the expertise to handle such cases. Zygoma implants are immediate - load, allowing for the placement of a full fixed arch of upper teeth on the same day. The hospital's surgeons are experienced in performing these procedures, ensuring the best possible outcome for patients with both zygomatic arch and dental concerns.

Convenient Locations and Availability

The hospital has multiple locations in New York City, including in Manhattan, Lake Success, and West Islip. This makes it more accessible for patients from different parts of the city. The regular working hours also provide flexibility for patients to schedule their consultations and treatments. For instance, in Manhattan, the office is open from 9 am - 5 pm from Monday to Thursday and 9 am - 3 pm on Friday.

Weill Cornell Medicine Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Multidisciplinary Care

The department offers comprehensive, state - of - the - art cosmetic or reconstructive medical and surgical care for the face, head, and neck. When it comes to zygomatic arch reduction, the multidisciplinary team at Weill Cornell Medicine provides a personalized approach. The team may include plastic and reconstructive surgeons, neurologists, facial nerve physical therapists, and speech therapists. This collaborative effort ensures that all aspects of the patient's care are addressed, from the initial surgical procedure to post - operative rehabilitation.

Treatment for Diverse Conditions

In addition to treating zygomatic arch fractures caused by trauma, the department also deals with aesthetic issues related to the zygomatic arch. For patients who want to reshape their zygomatic arch for cosmetic reasons, the surgeons use the latest research and knowledge about facial surgical treatments. They tailor the treatment to the patient's specific condition, medical history, and lifestyle goals.

Patient - Centered Approach

The hospital understands that undergoing facial surgery can have a significant impact on a patient's physical and emotional well - being. As such, they work closely with patients to make the process as comfortable and successful as possible. In their state - of - the - art surgical suites, surgeons use the latest regional anesthetics and medications that allow for quick recovery and faster healing.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Zygomatic Arch Reduction

Surgeon's Expertise

The experience and expertise of the surgeon are of utmost importance. Look for surgeons who have extensive experience in zygomatic arch reduction procedures. Check their credentials, such as board certifications and memberships in professional organizations. Surgeons like Dr. John E. Sherman at New York Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell Medical Center, with decades of experience in facial trauma and reconstruction, are more likely to provide high - quality care.

Hospital Reputation

The reputation of the hospital matters a great deal. Hospitals with a long - standing reputation for excellence in facial surgery and maxillofacial treatments are more likely to offer reliable services. You can research patient reviews, testimonials, and national rankings. For example, the hospitals ranked highly in orthopedics and facial surgery by US News, such as the Hospital for Special Surgery, may also have a good track record in zygomatic arch reduction.

Available Technology

Advanced technology plays a crucial role in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Hospitals that use the latest imaging techniques like CT scans and 3 - D reconstructions can provide better - visualized treatment plans. For zygomatic arch reduction, the use of modern surgical tools and implants, such as titanium screws and plates for fixation, can improve the outcome of the procedure.

Cost and Insurance

Zygomatic arch reduction can be a costly procedure. It is important to understand the cost structure of the hospital and whether your insurance will cover the treatment. Some hospitals may offer financing options or work with your insurance provider to make the treatment more affordable. You should also be aware of any potential out - of - pocket expenses.

Pre - and Post - operative Care for Zygomatic Arch Reduction

Pre - operative Care

Before the zygomatic arch reduction procedure, a thorough medical evaluation is necessary. This includes a physical examination, imaging tests such as CT scans, and consultations with the surgeon. The surgeon will discuss the treatment plan, potential risks, and expected outcomes with the patient. Patients may also be required to stop taking certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as blood - thinners. They should also follow a healthy diet and lifestyle to prepare their bodies for the surgery.

Post - operative Care

After the surgery, patients need to follow a strict post - operative care plan. This may include taking prescribed medications such as painkillers and antibiotics to prevent infection. They will need to keep the surgical area clean and dry. The patient may experience swelling and bruising, which can be managed with cold compresses. A soft diet may be recommended initially to avoid putting too much pressure on the jaw. Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are essential to monitor the healing process and address any complications that may arise.

Potential Risks and Complications of Zygomatic Arch Reduction

Infection

As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection. This can occur at the surgical site or in the surrounding tissues. To minimize this risk, the hospital should follow strict sterilization protocols during the surgery, and patients are usually prescribed antibiotics post - operatively. Signs of infection include fever, increased pain, redness, and swelling at the surgical site.

Nerve Damage

The zygomatic arch area is close to several nerves, and there is a risk of nerve damage during the procedure. This can result in numbness, tingling, or altered sensation in the face. The extent of nerve damage can vary from temporary to permanent. Experienced surgeons take precautions to avoid nerve injury, but in some cases, it may still occur.

Facial Asymmetry

Although the goal of zygomatic arch reduction is to achieve a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing facial appearance, there is a risk of facial asymmetry. This can be due to factors such as uneven healing, differences in bone density, or inaccurate surgical techniques. In most cases, minor asymmetries can be corrected with additional treatments or minor adjustments.

Conclusion

In New York City, patients seeking zygomatic arch reduction have access to some of the best hospitals and medical experts in the world. Hospitals like New York Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York Center for Orthognathic and Maxillofacial Surgery, and Weill Cornell Medicine Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery offer specialized expertise, advanced technology, and comprehensive care. When choosing a hospital, patients should consider factors such as surgeon expertise, hospital reputation, available technology, and cost. With proper pre - and post - operative care, most patients can expect a successful outcome from their zygomatic arch reduction procedure.

If you or someone you know is considering zygomatic arch reduction, it is highly recommended to schedule a consultation with one of these top hospitals in New York City. Research your options thoroughly, ask questions, and make an informed decision about your healthcare. Take the first step towards achieving the desired facial appearance and improved quality of life.