Introduction to Hospitals for Apple Cheek Prosthetic Filling in New York City
Prosthetic filling of apple cheeks has become a popular cosmetic procedure for many people looking to enhance their facial appearance. In New York City, a bustling hub of medical expertise and innovation, there are several hospitals highly recommended by those who have undergone this procedure. This article will delve into these hospitals, exploring their services, expertise, and patient experiences.
Understanding Apple Cheek Prosthetic Filling
As people age, the tissues of the face can become thinner and less firm, leading to a loss of volume in the cheek area. Apple cheek prosthetic filling is a cosmetic procedure that aims to add volume to the cheek areas or the middle of the face below the eyes. This can improve facial contours and impart a more youthful appearance. The implants can be made of various materials, such as medical silicon, and are intended to be permanent, although they can be removed if desired. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, there are three general shapes of cheek implants: malar (placed directly on the cheekbones for higher projection), submalar (for fuller cheeks to round out a gaunt appearance), and combined (augmenting both the cheekbones and the cheeks). Scarring is seldom an issue as the surgeon typically inserts the implant through an incision inside the mouth or lower eyelid.
Top Recommended Hospitals in New York City
Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Columbia University's plastic surgery department is one of the leading institutions in New York City. As one of the world's top medical centers, it has the experience and resources to deliver high - quality care for both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Their plastic surgeons are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, ranging from routine non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations and body contouring surgery after significant weight loss.
In the context of apple cheek prosthetic filling, the team at Columbia would approach the procedure with a holistic view, looking for balance and harmony between each area of the face and its proportions. The plastic surgery research laboratory at Columbia is also at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery. They are conducting numerous studies related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and the study of bone substitutes, which could potentially have implications for the development of better cheek implant materials in the future. Some of the well - known surgeons at Columbia include Christine Rohde, MD, who is trained in the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, and Jeffrey A. Ascherman, MD, an experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon with multiple publications and inclusions in lists of top doctors.
Contact information: Call (212) 305 - 3103 or request an appointment online.
Johns Hopkins Medicine
Johns Hopkins Medicine, although widely known for its medical excellence across the board, also offers top - notch services for cheek implant procedures. Their team of plastic surgeons is well - versed in the nuances of facial aesthetics. They understand that adding volume to the cheek area is not just about physical enhancement but also about restoring a patient's confidence and sense of self - worth.
When it comes to cheek implants, Johns Hopkins provides detailed pre - operative consultations to ensure that patients fully understand the procedure, what to expect during and after surgery, and the potential risks and benefits. After surgery, they offer comprehensive follow - up care, which is vital for monitoring healing. Unusual swelling, bleeding, fever, or other symptoms are promptly addressed. Patients are encouraged to keep all follow - up appointments to ensure that the healing process is taking place normally.
Contact details: To find a doctor, call 410 - 955 - 5000 (Maryland), 855 - 695 - 4872 (outside of Maryland), or + 1 - 410 - 502 - 7683 (international).
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
While Memorial Sloan Kettering is well - known for its cancer treatment, its dental service also plays a significant role in facial reconstruction and prosthetics. Their team of dental oncologists and maxillofacial prosthodontists is specialized in treating patients with dental issues and those with severe problems of the eyes, ears, nose, and other soft tissues of the face. In cases where facial cancer treatment has affected the cheek area, they can create stunningly lifelike prostheses to help patients regain a more natural appearance.
For example, they have created prostheses for patients like Frank Castagna, who had a hole in his soft palate after cancer surgery. The prostheses are individually created for each patient to match their features. Medical artist Marjorie Golden and dental service chief Joseph Huryn work together to create these realistic prosthetics. Although the focus here may be more on reconstructive cases, the expertise in facial prosthetics can also be relevant for those seeking apple cheek prosthetic filling, especially in cases where there has been prior trauma or surgery to the face.
The process at Memorial Sloan Kettering involves working closely with other departments, such as the surgery service and oncologists, to plan dental procedures and ensure patients are in good dental health before treatment. They use x - rays and CT scans to build models for areas like palates and jawbones and make adjustments as needed. Then, the final prostheses are made out of materials like soft or hard silicone.
Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's dental implant program offers similar surgical expertise that can be relevant for apple cheek prosthetic filling. Their oral and maxillofacial surgeons have vast experience with outpatient procedures. In the context of cheek implants, the pre - operative consultation and evaluation process at Mount Sinai is crucial. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon will perform a physical exam, obtain a panoramic x - ray and a 3D cone beam CT to determine if a patient is a good candidate for the procedure.
If there is a lack of bone to accept the implants, bone grafting may be performed to add bone to deficient areas. Once the graft has healed, which can take four to six months, an implant can be placed for future dental restoration. In the case of cheek implants, the same attention to detail in surgical planning and patient evaluation can ensure a successful outcome. After the procedure, patients are educated about post - operative care, including factors that can affect the success of the implant, such as smoking, diabetes, immunodeficiency, bisphosphonate use, radiation therapy, and poor oral hygiene.
For more information on their services, patients can explore their official website or contact the hospital directly.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital
When selecting a hospital for apple cheek prosthetic filling, several factors should be taken into account:
- Expertise of Surgeons: Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have extensive experience in facial cosmetic procedures, particularly cheek implants. Surgeons with a good track record are more likely to deliver satisfactory results. For example, the surgeons at Columbia and Johns Hopkins have a long history of performing various plastic and reconstructive surgeries, which gives them the skills and knowledge needed for apple cheek prosthetic filling.
- Patient Reviews and Testimonials: Reading about the experiences of other patients can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, the patient - doctor relationship, and the overall satisfaction with the procedure. Online review platforms and word - of - mouth recommendations from those who have had the procedure can be very helpful.
- Technology and Resources: Hospitals that invest in the latest technology and research are more likely to offer advanced treatment options. For instance, Columbia's research on stem cells and tissue engineering could potentially lead to better implant materials and techniques in the future.
- Follow - up Care: Adequate follow - up care is essential for ensuring proper healing and addressing any post - operative complications. Hospitals like Johns Hopkins emphasize the importance of follow - up appointments and prompt reporting of any unusual symptoms.
- Cost and Insurance: Understand the cost of the procedure and whether your insurance will cover any part of it. It's important to have a clear understanding of the financial aspects before proceeding with the surgery.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, apple cheek prosthetic filling comes with potential risks and complications. These can include:
- Infection: An infection can occur at the surgical site, which may require antibiotic treatment. In some cases, severe infections can lead to implant removal. According to a study on silicone cosmetic procedures, infections were a common complication among medical tourists who had undergone similar surgeries. Although the context is different, it highlights the importance of proper surgical technique and post - operative care to prevent infections.
- Implant Rupture or Migration: The implant may rupture or migrate from its original position, which can affect the appearance and function of the implant. This can require additional surgery to correct.
- Scarring: While scarring is usually minimal with cheek implants, there is still a risk of visible scarring, especially if there are complications during the healing process.
- Adverse Reactions to the Implant Material: Some patients may have an adverse reaction to the implant material, such as an allergic reaction or an immune response. This can cause swelling, pain, or other symptoms.
Preparing for Apple Cheek Prosthetic Filling
Before undergoing apple cheek prosthetic filling, patients should:
- Have a Consultation: Schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon to discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have. The surgeon will assess your suitability for the procedure and explain the details of the surgery.
- Undergo Medical Tests: The surgeon may require you to undergo certain medical tests, such as blood tests or imaging studies, to ensure that you are in good health for the surgery.
- Stop Certain Medications: Some medications, such as blood thinners, may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. Your surgeon will advise you on which medications to stop and when to stop them.
- Arrange for After - Care: Make arrangements for someone to drive you home after the surgery and to help you with daily activities during the recovery period.
Recovery Process
The recovery process after apple cheek prosthetic filling typically involves the following:
- Immediate Post - Surgery: The surgeon will put a dressing on the face immediately after surgery, which will remain in place for two to three days. The patient will experience some tenderness, and post - operative discomfort can be controlled with prescribed medications.
- Initial Days: Most people feel a stretched, tight sensation in the cheek area, which usually subsides in a week. There may also be some swelling and bruising, which can be minimized with cold compresses.
- Longer - Term Recovery: After about six weeks, most swelling goes down, and people can start to see the results of the surgery. The doctor may recommend avoiding rigorous activity for the first few weeks after surgery, but most people can resume normal activities after about 10 days.
Conclusion
In New York City, there are several excellent hospitals that are highly recommended by those who have had apple cheek prosthetic filling. Columbia University's plastic surgery department, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Mount Sinai - New York all offer unique expertise and services in the field of facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. When considering this procedure, it is crucial to choose a hospital based on the expertise of the surgeons, patient reviews, available technology, follow - up care, and cost. Understanding the potential risks and complications, as well as the preparation and recovery process, is also essential for a successful outcome. If you are interested in apple cheek prosthetic filling, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with surgeons at these hospitals, and make an informed decision. Take the first step towards enhancing your facial appearance and boosting your confidence by exploring the options available in New York City.