Introduction
The appearance of the under - eye area can significantly impact one's overall look, often making people seem tired or older than they are. Tear trough deformities, characterized by the sunken area beneath the lower eyelids, are a common cosmetic concern. Tear trough filling is a popular solution to address this issue, and New York City has several top - notch hospitals and plastic institutions offering this service. In this article, we'll explore the top 4 powerful plastic institutions for eye tear trough filling in NYC and also provide in - depth information about tear trough fillers.
Understanding Tear Trough Deformities
As we age, the skin under the eyes undergoes various changes. The skin becomes thinner, and there is a loss of subcutaneous fat volume. This, combined with factors such as genetics, loss of skin elasticity, and laxity of facial ligaments, can cause the tear trough area to become more prominent. Some individuals may even be born with a congenital lack of facial fat volume in the tear trough area, resulting in under - eye hollows.
The tear trough refers to the sunken area that forms beneath the lower eyelids, just below the under - eye bags and extending towards the cheeks. It can create a shadow, giving the appearance of dark circles and making a person look tired or older. This is a common cosmetic concern and is particularly noticeable as the under - eye skin is thinner and more delicate than other parts of the face.
Tear Trough Fillers: An Overview
What are Tear Trough Fillers?
Tear trough fillers are a non - surgical cosmetic procedure involving the injection of a hyaluronic acid - based filler (HA) into the area under the eyes. These fillers aim to reduce the appearance of dark circles, hollows, and bags in the lower eyelid, providing a more youthful and refreshed look. Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally produced by the body, which helps plump the skin and increase collagen production.
Benefits of Tear Trough Fillers
- Reduced Appearance of Dark Circles: By filling the tear trough area, the shadow that causes the appearance of dark circles is minimized.
- Camouflages Under - Eye Bags: Filling the depression below the under - eye bags helps the lower eyelid blend more seamlessly with the cheek.
- Restores Volume: Replenishes the lost volume in the under - eye area, resulting in a more youthful appearance.
- Non - Surgical: A non - invasive alternative to surgery, with little to no downtime.
- Quick Results: Results are typically visible immediately after the procedure.
- Long - Lasting: The effects can last for several months, usually around 6 - 12 months.
Candidates for Tear Trough Fillers
Good candidates for tear trough fillers are generally individuals who are bothered by the appearance of under - eye hollows or dark circles and are seeking a non - surgical solution. They should have healthy skin and no underlying medical conditions that could increase the risk of complications. Realistic expectations are also crucial, as the treatment can improve but not completely eliminate the issue. However, tear trough fillers are only effective for dark circles caused by volume loss in the tear trough area. Dark under - eye circles due to skin pigmentation or blood vessels beneath the skin may require laser treatment. Those with severe skin laxity, excess skin, or fat in the under - eye area may be better suited for surgical options like eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty).
Top 4 Plastic Institutions in NYC for Tear Trough Filling
1. New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell
This institution is highly regarded in the field of ophthalmology. It is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties. With its high - performing status in ophthalmology, it has the expertise and resources to provide top - quality tear trough filling procedures. The hospital's experienced medical staff, including plastic surgeons and dermatologists, are well - versed in the latest techniques and can customize treatment plans based on each patient's specific needs. Their commitment to patient care and safety, along with access to advanced medical technologies, makes it a reliable choice for tear trough filling.
2. New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai
Another leading institution in New York City, the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai is high - performing in ophthalmology. Nationally ranked in 1 adult specialty, it has a team of specialists who are experts in treating various eye - related cosmetic concerns, including tear trough deformities. The hospital offers a range of filler options and follows strict safety protocols. They take a comprehensive approach to patient treatment, considering factors such as the patient's facial anatomy, skin type, and cosmetic goals to ensure natural - looking and long - lasting results.
3. Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital
This hospital is nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties. With its long - standing reputation in the eye care field, it provides high - quality tear trough filling services. The medical professionals at Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital have extensive experience in facial aesthetics and use advanced injection techniques to minimize discomfort and achieve optimal results. They offer personalized consultations to discuss each patient's concerns and develop a suitable treatment plan.
4. NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals are nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties. It is a well - known institution that offers a multidisciplinary approach to tear trough filling. The hospital has a team of plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and ophthalmologists who work together to provide comprehensive care. They stay updated with the latest research and technological advancements in the field of facial aesthetics, ensuring that patients receive the best possible treatment. The hospital also emphasizes patient education and after - care to enhance the overall treatment experience.
Popular Filler Types for Tear Troughs
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Hyaluronic acid fillers are the most commonly used type for tear trough filling. They are safe, effective, and provide natural - looking results. Some popular hyaluronic acid fillers include:
| Filler Name | Features |
|---|---|
| Restylane | It has the right balance of stiffness, cohesivity, and duration of effect (about a year under the eyes). It can also be adjusted for deep or shallow injections through hydration and causes relatively low swelling. |
| Belotero Balance | It is very forgiving for the injector, not very stiff, and less likely to lump up or cause discoloration. However, it may not provide great lift for deep tear troughs. |
| Juvederm Volbella | A newer filler in the Juvederm family, it is softer and causes less swelling. It is suitable for shallow injections under the eyes, but there is a low risk of inflammatory nodules after 4 months. |
| Juvederm Vollure | Stiffer than Volbella, it is a good option for deeper injections under the eyes and also causes less swelling compared to older Juvederm products. |
Other Filler Considerations
Some doctors may also consider fat transfer or fat grafting as an option for tear trough filling. Fat transfer uses the patient's own fat cells to add volume. However, it is less predictable than filler injections as some of the injected fat cells may not survive. Surgeons who perform fat transfer for the under - eye area need to use a precise technique to ensure successful results. Permanent or semi - permanent injectable fillers like BelaFill, Radiesse, silicone, and Sculptra are generally not recommended for the under - eye area due to the difficulty in correcting lumps and bumps and the potential for permanent problems.
Preparing for Tear Trough Filler Treatment
Proper preparation is essential for a successful tear trough filler procedure. Before the appointment, patients should discuss their medical history, including any medications they are taking, allergies, or sensitivities, with their doctor. In the days leading up to the treatment, they should avoid taking blood - thinning medications or supplements such as NSAIDs (non - steroidal anti - inflammatory medications, anything containing ibuprofen, aspirin, or fish oil) as these can increase the risk of bruising. Alcohol and caffeine should also be avoided during this time. On the day of the appointment, it is recommended to arrive with a clean and makeup - free face.
The Tear Trough Filler Procedure
The tear trough filler procedure typically involves injecting the filler into the under - eye area using a small cannula or an ultrafine needle, depending on the doctor's preference. Before the injection, a local anesthetic may be applied to the treatment area to minimize discomfort. The doctor will carefully inject the filler into specific areas of the tear trough to achieve the desired results. The procedure usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the individual and the amount of filler used.
Recovery and Aftercare
After the tear trough filler treatment, it is normal to experience some mild swelling, bruising, and redness around the injection site. These symptoms usually subside within a few days to a week. Patients can manage these symptoms with ice packs or over - the - counter pain medications such as ibuprofen. It is important to avoid rubbing or massaging the area for at least 24 hours after the procedure to prevent the filler from shifting. Strenuous exercise, alcohol, and blood - thinning medications or supplements should also be avoided for at least 24 hours. Although the results are immediate, it may take a few days for the full effects to be visible as any swelling or bruising subsides. Following the aftercare instructions provided by the doctor is crucial to ensure optimal results and reduce the risk of complications.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
While tear trough filler treatment is generally considered safe, there are some potential side effects and risks. These may include swelling, bruising, redness, itching, and infection. The tyndall effect, which causes a bluish discoloration, is a rare side effect that can occur if the hyaluronic acid filler is injected too superficially. Other rare but more serious side effects include changes in vision, vascular occlusion, signs of infection at injection sites, allergic reaction to the dermal filler product, worsening bruising or swelling, numbness, and persistent pain. To minimize these risks, it is essential to have the treatment performed by an experienced and board - certified medical professional.
Cost Considerations
The cost of tear trough filler injections can vary depending on several factors, such as the type and amount of filler used, the medical professional performing the procedure, and the geographic location of the office. Typically, fillers cost $1000 or more per syringe. Multiple syringes may be needed to achieve the desired results, and the number of syringes required will depend on the patient's specific needs and goals. It is important to have a consultation with the doctor to determine the appropriate filler, the number of syringes, and the total cost of the treatment.
Conclusion
Tear trough filling is a popular and effective non - surgical option for improving the appearance of the under - eye area. New York City is home to several top - rated plastic institutions that offer high - quality tear trough filling procedures. The top 4 institutions mentioned in this article - New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai, Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital, and NYU Langone Hospitals - have the expertise, experience, and resources to provide safe and effective treatments. However, it is important for patients to carefully consider their options, have realistic expectations, and choose a qualified medical professional. By understanding the tear trough filling process, including preparation, procedure, recovery, and potential risks, patients can make an informed decision about this cosmetic treatment.
If you are interested in tear trough filling, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a board - certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist at one of these top institutions. They can assess your individual needs and goals and provide you with personalized advice and a treatment plan. Don't miss the opportunity to rejuvenate your under - eye area and achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance!
