Introduction

Autologous fat cheek augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that can enhance the appearance of the cheeks, giving a more youthful and refreshed look. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals and clinics offering this service. This article will introduce you to the top 5 institutions that provide excellent autologous fat cheek augmentation, including their procedures, expertise, and what you can expect from the treatment.

What is Autologous Fat Cheek Augmentation?

Autologous fat cheek augmentation, also known as fat grafting to the cheeks, involves taking fat from one area of the patient's body (such as the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks) using liposuction. The fat is then processed and purified before being injected into the cheeks to add volume. This method uses the patient's own tissue, which reduces the risk of allergic reactions and rejection. It can also provide natural - looking and long - lasting results.

Top 5 Hospitals for Autologous Fat Cheek Augmentation in New York City

1. Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC

Expertise

Dr. Elie Levine and Dr. Jody Levine at Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC have a multidisciplinary approach. With expertise in both plastic surgery and dermatology, they can provide comprehensive pre - and post - operative care. They customize skin care regimens to optimize the skin before surgery and promote faster healing after the procedure.

Procedure

During the autologous fat grafting procedure, excess fat is gently removed from targeted areas of the body using a very small tube called a cannula. The fat is then prepared and carefully re - injected into the cheeks. The procedure usually takes about 1 - 2 hours. It is performed on an outpatient basis in their state - of - the - art, in - office operating suite, which is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF).

Recovery

Most patients can go home the same day. Swelling is common after the procedure and may last for several weeks. Patients can return to light activities within 3 - 5 days and resume more strenuous exercise in about 1 week. The doctors will provide detailed post - operative instructions and follow - up care to ensure a smooth recovery.

Benefits

• The use of a multidisciplinary approach to optimize results, including customized skin care.
• Experienced doctors with expertise in both plastic surgery and dermatology.
• Accredited in - office operating suite, ensuring a high - standard surgical environment.

2. Dr. Kolker's Office

Expertise

Dr. Adam Kolker has a reputation for providing natural - looking results. He carefully assesses each patient's skin and soft tissue relationships, paying attention to details such as skin tone, texture, and elasticity. He plans the autologous fat grafting techniques to achieve the most natural and desired result.

Procedure

Fat cells are removed using a very small cannula from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks. The fat is prepared as fat grafts and then transferred to the cheeks using a small needle. The procedure can take between 30 minutes (for very mild corrections) and 3 hours (for more substantial volume restorations), depending on the patient's needs. It can be performed under local anesthesia when done as an isolated procedure, or under light sedation or general anesthesia when combined with other cosmetic surgery procedures.

Recovery

Patients can go home on the same day. If the fat grafts are performed as an isolated procedure under local anesthesia, they may take two or three days off work, while many can return the following day. Swelling is common and usually resolves after two weeks, but it may take up to 12 weeks for the final results to be evident. Light aerobic activity can be resumed as early as four to five days following the fat grafts, and more strenuous activity can begin at two to three weeks.

Benefits

• Natural - looking results due to careful planning and assessment.
• A variety of anesthesia options depending on the complexity of the procedure.
• Ongoing support and advice during the recovery process.

3. Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice

Expertise

Dr. Barry Weintraub is a board - certified plastic surgeon with a unique blend of medical science and artistic skills. He has extensive knowledge of the deep anatomy of the body and its natural proportions, which allows him to achieve harmonious and natural - looking results in cheek augmentation. He offers multiple options for cheekbone augmentation, including fat transfer.

Procedure

In fat transfer for cheek augmentation, fat is collected via liposuction from an area with excess fat cells. About 70% of the fat survives on average after transplantation, leaving healthy fat cells to enhance the cheekbone angularity. Dr. Weintraub prefers his patients to be in a comfortable state of twilight sleep during the procedure. He ensures the most sterile conditions in the operating room with board - certified anesthesiologists and state - of - the - art monitoring equipment.

Recovery

There will be a short period of minimal swelling and sometimes bruising after surgery. Patients must follow all instructions provided by Dr. Weintraub to achieve the best results. He will advise on when they can return to their normal lifestyle and exercise routine. The exact recovery time can vary depending on the individual patient and the extent of the procedure.

Benefits

• Artistic approach to surgery, resulting in aesthetically pleasing results.
• Use of twilight sleep for patient comfort during the procedure.
• High - standard surgical environment with experienced medical staff.

4. Dr. Frank LaLezar's Clinic

Expertise

Dr. Frank LaLezar is a board - certified facial plastic surgeon specializing in cutting - edge cheek augmentation techniques. He curates personalized treatment plans based on each patient's needs, evaluating the cheeks, measuring the degree of volume loss, and discussing the goals to determine the most suitable method, including autologous fat injection.

Procedure

The fat grafting procedure at Dr. LaLezar's clinic involves taking fat from another area of the body, such as the thighs or abdomen, under general or local anesthesia with intravenous sedation. The surgeon uses liposuction to harvest excess fat cells, purifies them, and then injects them into the cheeks. The procedure usually takes an hour or two.

Recovery

Fat grafting has a longer recovery period compared to some other methods. The area may be swollen and bruised for several weeks, and it may be difficult to move the facial muscles for a few days. Strenuous activities and exposure to sunlight should be avoided for several weeks. Dr. LaLezar will provide clear aftercare instructions to ensure optimal recovery.

Benefits

• Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific situation.
• Specialization in facial plastic surgery, providing in - depth knowledge of cheek augmentation.
• Clear aftercare instructions to facilitate a smooth recovery.

5. Mount Sinai's Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Expertise

The cosmetic surgeons at Mount Sinai are highly skilled in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. They recognize that every case is unique and work closely with each patient to individualize the treatment plan. While they also perform other facial implant procedures, they have the expertise to carry out autologous fat cheek augmentation effectively.

Procedure

Although specific details about their autologous fat cheek augmentation procedure may not be as extensively detailed in the given sources as some of the other clinics, it is likely to follow the standard process of liposuction to harvest fat and injection into the cheeks. The surgery is typically done on an outpatient basis at their private, ambulatory surgery center.

Recovery

After the procedure, some mild discomfort and bruising may occur. Swelling around the implant area may take several weeks to disappear. The full effect of the surgery could take a few months post - surgery, but patients will notice subtle changes shortly after the procedure. They should expect to return to work and social activities within one to two weeks after surgery.

Benefits

• Individualized treatment approach, considering each patient's unique needs and goals.
• Use of an accredited private, ambulatory surgery center for patient convenience and safety.
• Surgeons with high - level expertise in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Comparing the Top 5 Hospitals

Preparing for Autologous Fat Cheek Augmentation

Before undergoing autologous fat cheek augmentation, there are several steps you should take:

• Consultation: Schedule a consultation with the chosen surgeon. During this consultation, discuss your goals, expectations, medical history, and any concerns you may have. The surgeon will examine your face, assess your skin and soft tissue, and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
• Medical Clearance: Provide medical clearance from your family physician. This ensures that you are in good general health to undergo the surgery.
• Pre - operative Instructions: Follow the pre - operative instructions provided by the surgeon. This may include avoiding certain medications (such as aspirin and blood thinners) that can increase the risk of bleeding, and adjusting your diet and lifestyle habits.
• Arrange for Support: Arrange for someone to accompany you to and from the surgery and to help you during the initial recovery period.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery and aftercare are crucial for achieving the best results from autologous fat cheek augmentation:

• Swelling and Bruising: Expect some swelling and bruising in the treated area. This is normal and will gradually subside over time. Your surgeon may recommend applying cold packs to reduce swelling.
• Medications: Take any prescribed medications as directed by your surgeon. This may include painkillers, antibiotics, or medications to reduce swelling.
• Rest and Activity: Rest as much as possible during the initial recovery period. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exposure to direct sunlight. Follow your surgeon's advice on when you can resume normal activities.
• Follow - up Appointments: Attend all follow - up appointments with your surgeon. These appointments are important for monitoring your recovery, checking the results of the surgery, and addressing any concerns or complications.

Potential Risks and Complications

While autologous fat cheek augmentation is generally considered a safe procedure, there are some potential risks and complications:

• Swelling and Bruising: As mentioned earlier, swelling and bruising are common side effects. They usually resolve within a few weeks, but in some cases, they may last longer.
• Asymmetry: There is a small risk of the cheeks not looking symmetrical after the procedure. This may be due to uneven fat absorption or improper injection technique.
• Fat Resorption: Some of the transferred fat may be resorbed by the body over time. This can affect the final results and may require additional touch - up procedures.
• Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of infection at the donor site or the injection site. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pain, and fever.
• Numbness: Temporary numbness in the cheeks or the donor area may occur. In most cases, this resolves on its own, but in some rare instances, it may be permanent.

Conclusion

Autologous fat cheek augmentation is a great option for those looking to enhance the appearance of their cheeks and achieve a more youthful look. The top 5 hospitals in New York City mentioned in this article - Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC, Dr. Kolker's Office, Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice, Dr. Frank LaLezar's Clinic, and Mount Sinai's Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery - all offer high - quality services with experienced surgeons and advanced techniques. Each hospital has its own unique benefits, whether it's a multidisciplinary approach, a focus on natural - looking results, or personalized treatment plans.

If you're considering autologous fat cheek augmentation, take the time to research these hospitals, schedule consultations, and discuss your options with the surgeons. This will help you make an informed decision and choose the hospital that best suits your needs and expectations. Don't hesitate to reach out and start your journey towards a more confident and beautiful you.

Take the first step today and schedule a consultation with one of these top hospitals in New York City. Explore your options for autologous fat cheek augmentation and discover the difference it can make in your appearance and self - confidence!