Exploring Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Gulou Hospital for Facial Lifting in New York City in 2025

Introduction

In New York City in 2025, the pursuit of a youthful and rejuvenated appearance through facial lifting has gained significant popularity. There is a growing interest in the offerings of Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (although the specific provincial affiliation may need more context), along with other medical institutions like Gulou Hospital (assuming a well - known entity in the relevant field). This article will comprehensively explore the various aspects of facial lifting in these contexts, including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) approaches, Western surgical methods, and the unique contributions these institutions can make.

Facial Lifting - An Overview

Facial lifting, known technically as a rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at reversing the effects of gravity and aging on the face. As people age, gravity and decreased collagen production cause facial tissues to sag, resulting in a less youthful appearance. A facelift can lift the descended facial tissue and remove excess skin, making a person look 10 to 20 years younger. At boutique practices on 5th Avenue in NYC, facelift surgery is extremely popular. Different techniques and approaches can be used to address specific areas such as the lower face, mid - face, and cheek areas. Combining facelift with forehead lifts can effectively rejuvenate the entire face.

Types of Facelifts

1. Deep Plane Facelift: This type of facelift addresses the connective tissue and muscle layer beneath the facial skin. Instead of just pulling on the skin, it elevates the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) layer from underneath and releases the main ligaments that anchor the SMAS. This technique helps prevent the overdone or “pulled” appearance that can come from a traditional facelift. It can also last longer than most traditional facelifts as it adds less tension to the skin layer.
2. Asian Facelift: Specifically designed for Asian patients, the Asian facelift aims to reverse the signs of aging while maintaining ethnic identity. Asian faces have unique characteristics such as a flatter facial skeleton with heavy soft tissue, more fat accumulation in the face and neck area, thicker skin, and prominent drooping cheek fat pads. Similar to the deep plane facelift, it supports the thicker and heavier tissues and provides better access to the buccal fat pads in the cheeks for reduction if needed. This approach leaves less tension on the skin incision lines, resulting in more imperceptible fine lines and less risk of hypertrophic or keloid scarring.
3. Mini Facelift: Ideal for those with subtler facial concerns concentrated in the lower face and neck. It is a less - invasive treatment compared to a full facelift. Patients have a shorter recovery time while still achieving a more youthful facial profile and improved neck and jawline contours. It can be performed using local anesthesia with sedation instead of general anesthesia.

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Facial Rejuvenation

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a long - standing history of over two thousand years, based on empirical knowledge and practical experience. In the context of facial rejuvenation, TCM offers a holistic approach that focuses on addressing the underlying imbalances in the body that contribute to the aging process.

Acupuncture for Facial Rejuvenation

According to TCM, wrinkles begin internally from a constitutional imbalance and fundamental weakness of qi. Qi is the energy that circulates throughout the body within a series of pathways to different organs. Acupuncture for facial rejuvenation can tighten pores, improve muscle tone and dermal contraction, and enhance the elasticity of the skin. It strengthens and stimulates the body's energy circulation, especially to the face. Through a succession of treatments, patients can look and feel more energetic, vibrant, and healthy. The results are achieved gradually, with the skin showing a glow and beginning to tighten after 1 - 5 treatments, fine lines and wrinkles starting to fill in after 5 - 7 treatments, and distinct change in the skin and adjusted muscles after 12 treatments. Acupuncture is a virtually painless, non - surgical method to reduce the signs of aging.

Other TCM Modalities for Facial Beauty

• Tui - na / Acupressure: A form of Chinese bodywork therapy that dates back more than 4,000 years. It is used to relax muscles, relieve pain, and enhance body energy. By stimulating the body's own restorative powers, it can indirectly contribute to a healthier - looking complexion.
• Herbal Medicine: TCM herbal medicine uses herbs' four natures and five flavors. Each herb or combination of herbs is specifically selected to target a particular organ system to achieve the desired adjustment. Some herbs can be used topically or taken internally to nourish the skin, improve blood circulation, and support overall health, which in turn can have a positive impact on the appearance of the face.
• Moxibustion: A core TCM treatment method using the burning moxa or other herbs on carefully selected “acu - points” or meridian channels to apply thermal therapy. It can enhance the body's energy and blood circulation, which may also be beneficial for the face.
• Cupping Method: Using suction cups or fire cups to create a vacuum on the skin, the cupping method can trigger channels connecting to deep organ systems to balance and achieve healing results. In the context of the face, it can improve blood circulation and reduce puffiness.

New York's TCM Institutions and Their Role

New York has several institutions related to TCM that can play a role in facial rejuvenation.

New York College of Traditional Chinese Medicine (NYCTCM)

The NYCTCM is a vibrant educational community that integrates ancient traditions of the healing arts into the modern healthcare system. It offers three fully accredited programs in acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, including a Bachelor of Professional Studies in Health Science / Master of Science in Acupuncture, a Bachelor of Professional Studies in Health Science / Master of Science in Acupuncture with Chinese Herbal Medicine, and a Certificate in Chinese Herbal Medicine. Students at NYCTCM learn how to successfully apply authentic acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine to the evolving practice of integrative medicine. The college's community teaching clinic offers the community affordable acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, which can potentially be used for facial rejuvenation treatments. In 2025, the college has a series of upcoming seminars and info sessions, such as the “seminar 2025 - 6: microscopic perspective unveils acupoint anatomy, precision positioning enhances acupuncture practice” and “seminar 2025 - 3: modern tongue diagnostics (MTD) and clinical application”, which can further enhance the knowledge and skills related to TCM treatments.

Traditional Chinese Medicine of New York

Under the guidance of Dr. Sumin Wen, this institution offers a variety of TCM treatment methods. Dr. Wen has decades of experience and family knowledge passed down through three generations of TCM doctors. The treatment methods include TCM acupuncture, moxibustion, herbal medicine, and cupping method. These methods can be used to treat a wide variety of symptoms and illnesses, including those related to facial health. For example, acupuncture can improve facial muscle tone, and herbal medicine can be used to address internal imbalances that may affect the appearance of the face. The office hours are Monday - Friday from 10.00 am - 7.00 pm and Saturday from 9.00 am - 1.00 pm, making it accessible for patients to receive treatment.

Western - Style Facial Lifting in New York City

New York City is also well - known for its Western - style plastic surgery clinics, especially for facial lifting procedures.

William Lao, MD Plastic Surgery

Dr. William Lao is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon who is highly respected both in the United States and internationally. He has over 10 years of experience and has performed over 1,000 successful facial plastic surgeries. His practice on the 32nd floor in a 5th Avenue suite combines science and art to create an atmosphere where aesthetic possibilities are endless. Dr. Lao specializes in facelifts, rhinoplasty, Asian eyelid surgery, and more. He understands the anatomy of the face and has mastered the artistic capabilities that come with plastic surgery, making him one of the best facial plastic surgeons in New York. His facelift surgeries can address various concerns such as sagging cheeks, nasolabial folds, loose neck skin, and a poorly contoured jawline. The surgery time for a facelift is typically 3 - 6 hours, and the cost ranges from approximately $20,000 - $30,000, although an accurate cost can be determined during a consultation. Most patients return home on the day of surgery and can return to normal social activities within a month, but it can take up to a year for minor swelling, bruising, tightness, and numbness to subside. The results of a facelift usually last an average of 5 to 10 years as the face continues to age.

Preparing for a Facial Lifting Procedure

Whether it's a TCM - based facial rejuvenation treatment or a Western - style facelift, proper preparation is essential for a successful procedure and a smooth recovery.

For Western - Style Facelifts

• Initial Consultation: This is the first step where the patient can discuss their goals, concerns, and medical history with the surgeon. The surgeon will evaluate the patient's facial condition and determine the most suitable procedure. For example, Dr. William Lao will take into account the degree of sagginess, volume distribution, the need for a neck lift, and the condition of the skin to tailor the facelift for each individual.
• Get Prescriptions Filled: The surgeon may prescribe temporary pain medication for an easier recovery period. It is important to have these prescriptions filled before surgery to avoid additional stress after the procedure.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking constricts blood flow, which can complicate the procedure and recovery. Patients should avoid smoking for at least a month before surgery.
• Stop Taking Certain Medications: Certain medications such as anti - inflammatories and herbal supplements can increase the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery. Patients should discuss their current medications with the surgeon and, if necessary, their personal physician.
• Fast Before Surgery: Patients are typically informed to avoid food or liquids at least 8 hours prior to surgery for safety reasons, regardless of the type of anesthesia administered.

For TCM - Based Facial Rejuvenation

• Understand the Treatment: Patients should have a clear understanding of how TCM treatments such as acupuncture or herbal medicine work for facial rejuvenation. They can ask the TCM practitioner about the expected results, the number of treatments required, and any possible side effects.
• Follow Dietary and Lifestyle Advice: TCM emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Patients may be advised to avoid certain foods that are considered “heating” or “damp” according to TCM theory, and to get enough rest and exercise.
• Disclose Medical History: It is crucial to disclose any existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications being taken to the TCM practitioner. This information can help the practitioner tailor the treatment to the patient's specific needs.

Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery process is an important part of any facial lifting procedure, and proper aftercare can significantly affect the final results.

Recovery from Western - Style Facelifts

Facelift surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to go home soon after it is completed. Patients need to take time off to rest and recover. They should give themselves about two weeks before returning to normal daily activities. During the recovery period, they may experience swelling, bruising, tightness, and numbness, which are normal side effects. The surgeon will provide instructions on how to take care of the dressings, when to make follow - up appointments, and how to manage any discomfort. For example, patients may be advised to apply ice packs gently to reduce swelling and to take the prescribed pain medication as needed. It can take up to a year for all the minor side effects to completely subside, and the final results will become more apparent as the swelling diminishes. Patients can also enhance the results by following a skin care regimen that includes daily moisturizing and sun protection.

Recovery from TCM - Based Facial Rejuvenation

TCM - based facial rejuvenation treatments are generally less invasive compared to Western - style facelifts. After an acupuncture session, patients may feel slightly tired or have minor soreness at the acupuncture points, which usually resolves quickly. For herbal medicine treatments, patients need to follow the dosage instructions carefully and be aware of any potential interactions with other medications. They may also be advised to continue with a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to maintain the results of the treatment. The effects of TCM treatments are often cumulative, so patients may need to undergo multiple sessions to achieve the desired level of facial rejuvenation.

Benefits and Risks

Benefits of Facial Lifting

Both Western - style facelifts and TCM - based facial rejuvenation offer significant benefits.

• Improved Appearance: A well - done facelift can restore lifted cheeks, improve the appearance of nasolabial folds, eliminate loose neck skin, and contour the jawline. TCM - based treatments can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and give the face a more youthful glow.
• Boosted Confidence: When people are satisfied with their appearance, it can have a positive impact on their self - confidence and self - esteem. They may feel more comfortable in social situations and more motivated to pursue their goals.
• Holistic Approach (TCM): TCM treatments not only address the external appearance but also focus on the internal balance of the body. By treating the underlying imbalances, they can have a long - term positive effect on overall health and well - being.

Risks of Facial Lifting

As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with facial lifting.

• For Western - Style Facelifts: Risks include bleeding, deep vein thrombosis (cardiac and pulmonary complications), negative anesthesia reactions, scarring, swelling, and unsatisfactory results. Although experienced surgeons like Dr. William Lao take steps to minimize these risks, there is always a possibility that patients may experience some of these side effects. In case of any concerning or long - lasting reactions, patients should contact the surgeon immediately.
• For TCM - Based Facial Rejuvenation: In general, TCM treatments are considered safe. However, there may be minor side effects such as bruising or soreness at the acupuncture points, or allergic reactions to herbal medicine in rare cases. Patients should inform the TCM practitioner if they experience any unexpected symptoms.

Choosing the Right Approach

When considering facial lifting, patients need to choose the approach that is right for them based on various factors.

1. Personal Preferences: Some patients may prefer a non - surgical approach like TCM - based treatments, while others may be more willing to undergo a surgical facelift for more immediate and dramatic results.
2. Facial Condition: The degree of facial sagging, skin elasticity, and other facial features can influence the choice of treatment. For example, patients with severe sagging may be better candidates for a surgical facelift, while those with milder signs of aging may benefit from TCM - based rejuvenation.
3. Medical History: Certain medical conditions may make a patient more suitable for one type of treatment over the other. For example, patients with a history of bleeding disorders may need to be more cautious with surgical procedures.
4. Recovery Time: Those with a busy schedule may prefer TCM - based treatments, which generally have a shorter recovery time compared to surgical facelifts.

Conclusion

In 2025, New York City offers a wide range of options for facial lifting, whether through Western - style plastic surgery or TCM - based approaches. Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine and institutions like Gulou Hospital (if relevant) may play important roles in providing these services. Western - style facelifts can offer immediate and significant results, while TCM - based facial rejuvenation provides a holistic approach that focuses on internal balance. Both approaches have their benefits and risks, and patients should carefully consider their personal preferences, facial condition, medical history, and recovery time when choosing the right option. By making an informed decision and following the appropriate preparation and aftercare procedures, patients can achieve a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.

Are you considering a facial lifting procedure? Reach out to a qualified professional, whether it's a plastic surgeon like Dr. William Lao or a TCM practitioner at a local TCM institution, to schedule a consultation. They can provide you with more personalized information and guidance to help