Introduction to the Well - Reputed Hospitals for Fat Filling of the Cheeks in New York City

Understanding Cheek Fat Filling

As we age, the face often experiences a loss of subcutaneous fat. This can lead to a hollowed - out look, with areas like the temples, under - eyes, and cheeks losing their once - full appearance. Fat filling of the cheeks, also known as facial fat grafting or autologous fat transfer, is an effective solution to restore this lost volume. It involves using the patient's own fat, which is removed from one part of the body, processed, and then injected into the cheeks. Since no synthetic materials are used, there is no risk of the body rejecting the fat, making it an appealing option for many patients.

Facial fat loss occurs due to a combination of factors. Genetic predisposition plays a role, as some individuals may have a faster rate of fat loss in the face as they age. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive sun exposure, and poor diet can also accelerate the process. Additionally, significant weight fluctuations can cause the face to lose its natural fullness.

Benefits of Cheek Fat Filling

1. Natural Look and Feel: Using the patient's own fat ensures that the results look and feel natural. The fat integrates with the existing facial tissues, providing a seamless enhancement to the cheeks.
2. Long - Lasting Results: Once the transferred fat cells have established a blood supply and survived in the cheek area, they can provide long - lasting volume. Unlike some temporary dermal fillers, the fat can remain in the cheeks for years.
3. Minimal Risk of Allergic Reaction: Since the fat is sourced from the patient's own body, the risk of an allergic reaction is virtually eliminated. This makes it a safe option for most patients.
4. Improved Facial Contours: Fat filling can restore high, full cheeks, which helps to define youthful facial contours. It can also reduce the appearance of cheek “jowls” and improve overall facial balance.

Well - Reputed Hospitals and Specialists in New York City

Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC

Located at 35a East 84th Street, New York, NY 10028, and with a contact telephone number of 212.988.1800, this clinic offers comprehensive services related to cheek augmentation, including fat filling. Dr. Elie Levine and Dr. Jody Levine, who work here, are highly experienced in plastic surgery and dermatology. They take a multidisciplinary approach to optimize results, offering pre - and post - surgical skin care packages as part of the treatment plan.

For cheek fat filling, they use a careful process. During the consultation, Dr. Levine examines the patient's facial structure to evaluate the bony and soft tissue architecture. He then thoroughly discusses the patient's goals and expectations. The procedure is performed in their accredited in - office surgical facility. Local or twilight anesthesia is used, and patients can usually go home the same day. The fat is harvested from areas such as the abdomen, hips, or thighs using a small cannula and then carefully re - injected into the cheeks. The recovery time is relatively manageable, with patients being able to resume light exercise within a week and more strenuous exercise in 1 - 2 weeks.

Dr. David Cangello's Practice

Dr. Cangello is a renowned expert in fat grafting to the face. He had the privilege of being mentored by Dr. Sydney Coleman, one of the pioneers of the fat grafting method. His practice offers facial fat transfer procedures for New York City patients. Ideal candidates for his services include men and women who have noticed a hollow or shallow appearance in their cheeks or other areas of the face.

The fat transfer to the face procedure at Dr. Cangello's practice typically has three steps. First, the fat is harvested from donor sites such as the hips, thighs, or flanks. A small incision is made, and an anesthetic is injected before the fat is gently suctioned out using a specialized cannula. Next, the fat is processed using a centrifuge to separate it from fluids and oils, ensuring that only healthy, viable fat cells are used. Finally, the processed fat is transferred to the cheeks through a tiny incision using a cannula. Dr. Cangello can be contacted at (212) 644 - 4416 to schedule a consultation.

Gotham Plastic Surgery

This New York City - based practice offers fat injection procedures as an alternative to artificial dermal filler materials. Fat injection at Gotham Plastic Surgery can reduce wrinkles and creases and fill in areas of lost volume in the face, including the cheeks. Dr. Miller and the other doctors here perform these procedures on an outpatient basis at their JCAHO - accredited office - based surgery facility.

The procedure is usually completed in under an hour and may be performed with local anesthesia. Fat is harvested from an area of excess on the body, such as the outside of the leg or the stomach, using gentle liposuction techniques. There is minimal downtime or recovery associated with fat injection, with some minor swelling or bruising that typically resolves within 48 hours. Most patients can resume work and other normal activities the same or next day.

Procedure Details

Pre - Procedure Preparation

Before undergoing cheek fat filling, patients typically need to have an initial consultation with the surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will examine the patient's facial structure, including the bony and soft tissue architecture. They will also discuss the patient's goals and expectations, as well as possible risks associated with the procedure. The patient may be asked to avoid certain medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, for a period before the surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding. In some cases, a skin care regimen may be recommended to prepare the skin for the procedure.

For patients with more advanced signs of age, the surgeon may also discuss the possibility of combining cheek fat filling with other procedures, such as a facelift, neck lift, or eyelid surgery for optimal rejuvenation.

Anesthesia

Local or twilight anesthesia is commonly used for cheek fat filling procedures. Local anesthesia numbs the area where the fat is being harvested and injected, while twilight anesthesia provides a state of relaxation and pain relief. The choice of anesthesia depends on the patient's preferences and the surgeon's recommendation. The patient will have a thorough discussion with both the surgeon and a board - certified anesthesiologist to determine the best type of anesthesia for their needs.

Harvesting the Fat

The first step in the cheek fat filling procedure is to harvest the fat from a donor site on the patient's body. Common donor sites include the abdomen, hips, thighs, or flanks. The surgeon will make a small incision at the donor site and inject an anesthetic. A small cannula is then used to gently suction out the excess fat. The amount of fat harvested depends on the patient's needs and the area to be treated.

Processing the Fat

Once the fat is harvested, it needs to be processed before it can be injected into the cheeks. This usually involves using a centrifuge to separate the fat from fluids and oils that were removed from the body. The goal is to obtain healthy, viable fat cells that have the best chance of surviving in the cheek area. Some surgeons may also use other techniques, such as filtering or washing the fat, to further purify it.

Injection into the Cheeks

After the fat is processed, it is carefully injected into the cheeks using a small cannula. The surgeon will make tiny incisions in the cheeks and gradually place small amounts of fat into the treatment site until the desired fullness is achieved. The fat is distributed in multiple layers to ensure a natural - looking result and to maximize the survival of the fat cells.

Recovery and Aftercare

Immediate Post - Procedure

After the cheek fat filling procedure, patients are typically taken to a recovery suite where they are monitored by a licensed, registered nurse. They may experience mild to moderate swelling and bruising in the cheeks and at the donor site. Cold compresses can be used to help alleviate the swelling. Patients can usually go home the same day, but they will need to have someone drive them.

First Few Days

In the first few days after the procedure, patients should rest and avoid strenuous activities. They may need to take pain medication as prescribed by the surgeon to manage any discomfort. It is important to follow the surgeon's instructions regarding wound care, such as keeping the incisions clean and dry. Some patients may also be advised to sleep with their head elevated to reduce swelling.

Return to Normal Activities

Most patients can return to work within a few days to a week, depending on the type of work and their individual recovery. Light exercise can usually be resumed within a week, but more strenuous exercise should be avoided for 1 - 2 weeks. It is important to avoid direct sun exposure to the treated areas for a few weeks to prevent damage to the skin and to allow the fat cells to settle properly.

Long - Term Aftercare

Long - term aftercare may include follow - up appointments with the surgeon to monitor the results and ensure proper healing. Patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to help maintain the results of the cheek fat filling. It is also important to protect the skin from sun damage by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing.

Potential Risks and Complications

While cheek fat filling is generally a safe procedure, there are some potential risks and complications. These can include:

• Asymmetry: There is a risk that the results may not be perfectly symmetrical. This can usually be corrected with additional treatments if necessary.
• Fat Absorption: Not all of the transferred fat cells will survive. Some of the fat may be absorbed by the body over time, which may require additional fat filling procedures to maintain the desired results.
• Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of infection at the donor site or in the cheeks. Patients should follow the surgeon's instructions regarding wound care to reduce this risk.
• Bruising and Swelling: Bruising and swelling are common after the procedure but usually resolve within a few days to a week. In some cases, the swelling may take longer to subside.
• Scarring: The incisions made for harvesting and injecting the fat are usually very small and located within natural creases of the body, so scarring is usually minimal. However, there is still a small risk of visible scarring.

Cost Considerations

The cost of cheek fat filling in New York City can vary depending on several factors. These include the surgeon's experience and reputation, the location of the practice, the complexity of the procedure, and the amount of fat that needs to be harvested and injected. On average, the cost can range from a few thousand dollars to over ten thousand dollars. It is important to have a detailed discussion with the surgeon during the consultation to understand the total cost and what is included in the price.

Some practices may offer financing options to help patients manage the cost of the procedure. Additionally, insurance usually does not cover cosmetic procedures like cheek fat filling, but it is always a good idea to check with your insurance provider to be sure.

Choosing the Right Surgeon

Choosing the right surgeon is crucial for a successful cheek fat filling procedure. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Board Certification: Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified in plastic surgery. This indicates that they have met the rigorous standards set by the relevant professional organization.
2. Experience: Look for a surgeon who has extensive experience in performing cheek fat filling procedures. You can ask about the number of procedures they have performed and see before - and - after photos of their patients.
3. Reputation: Check online reviews and testimonials from other patients. You can also ask for referrals from friends, family, or your primary care doctor.
4. Communication Skills: A good surgeon should be able to communicate clearly with you, listen to your concerns and goals, and answer all of your questions. They should also provide you with realistic expectations about the results of the procedure.
5. Multidisciplinary Approach: Surgeons who take a multidisciplinary approach, such as combining plastic surgery with dermatology, may be able to provide better overall results and a more comprehensive treatment plan.

Conclusion

Cheek fat filling is a popular and effective cosmetic procedure for restoring lost volume in the cheeks and achieving a more youthful appearance. In New York City, there are several well - reputed hospitals and specialists who offer high - quality cheek fat filling services. These professionals use advanced techniques and take a personalized approach to meet the individual needs of each patient.

Before undergoing the procedure, it is important to thoroughly research the surgeon and the practice, understand the procedure details, and have realistic expectations about the results. By choosing the right surgeon and following the recommended pre - and post - procedure care, patients can achieve natural - looking and long - lasting results. If you are considering cheek fat filling, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon to learn more about your options and determine if this procedure is right for you.