Introduction
The appearance of tear troughs can make individuals look tired and older than they actually are. As people age, factors such as the loss of facial fat, decreased skin elasticity, and laxity of facial ligaments can lead to the formation of tear trough deformities. Fat filling to remove tear troughs is a popular cosmetic procedure that offers a natural - looking solution. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals that excel in this treatment. Here is an in - depth look at the top 5 hospitals for fat filling to remove tear troughs in New York City in 2025.
Understanding Tear Troughs and Fat Filling
What are Tear Troughs?
The tear trough refers to the sunken area that forms beneath the lower eyelids, directly below the under - eye bags, and extends towards the cheeks. It can be caused by a combination of factors like aging, genetics, loss of facial fat, and reduced skin elasticity. As the subcutaneous fat volume in this area decreases, the skin can start to sag, creating a hollow or trough - like appearance. Some individuals are born with a congenital lack of facial fat volume in the tear trough area, leading to under - eye hollows.
How Fat Filling Works for Tear Troughs
Fat filling, also known as fat transfer or autologous fat grafting, involves harvesting fat cells from the patient's own body, usually from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks. The harvested fat is then carefully processed and prepared as fat grafts. These fat grafts are injected into the tear trough area to plump up the skin and restore the lost volume. Since the fat is from the patient's own body, there is a lower risk of rejection, and the results can be more natural - looking compared to some other fillers.
Top 5 Hospitals for Fat Filling to Remove Tear Troughs in New York City
1. Dr. Kolker's Practice
Dr. Adam Kolker is well - known for his expertise in facial fat transfer in New York City. He has a unique approach to the procedure. During the initial consultation, he conducts a thorough examination of the patient's skin and soft tissue relationships, paying attention to details like skin tone, texture, elasticity, depth of folds, and underlying bone or cartilage support.
**Procedure and Results**
- The fat cells are removed using a very small cannula and then carefully prepared as fat grafts. The grafts are transferred to the tear trough area using a small needle. Since the fat is the patient's own, it will not be rejected, and although some resorption is possible, fat grafts last considerably longer than most fillers. Patients can expect a natural - looking rejuvenation of the under - eye area with a reduction in the appearance of tear troughs and a more youthful look.
- The fat grafting procedure in his office - based surgical suite, which is accredited by the American Association for the Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF). Depending on the patient's needs, the procedure can take between 30 minutes (for very mild corrections) and 3 hours (for more substantial volume restorations).
**Recovery**
- If the fat grafts are performed as an isolated procedure under local anesthesia, patients can go home on the same day. Dr. Kolker suggests taking two or three days before returning to work, though many are able to return the following day. When the procedure is used to correct moderate or substantial issues or in conjunction with other facial or body contouring procedures, the return to work may range from seven to fourteen days.
- Swelling is very common after fat transfer and often 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.
2. Dr. David Cangello's Clinic
Dr. David Cangello is a plastic surgeon with extensive experience in tear trough filler treatments, including fat filling. He understands that the tear trough deformity can occur due to multiple factors such as aging, genetics, loss of facial fat, and loss of skin elasticity.
**Treatment Approach**
- During the consultation, Dr. Cangello determines the best treatment approach for each patient. He will take into account the patient's specific needs, goals, and medical history. If fat filling is the chosen method, he ensures that the harvested fat is processed and injected in a way that will achieve beautiful and natural results.
- He uses a combination of careful assessment and skillful injection techniques to restore volume to the under - eye area. For example, he is well - versed in injecting the fat at the right depth to avoid any surface lumpiness and to blend the injected fat seamlessly with the surrounding tissues.
**Aftercare**
- After the fat filling procedure, it is normal for patients to experience some mild swelling, bruising, and redness around the injection site. Dr. Cangello provides detailed aftercare instructions to manage these symptoms. Patients are advised to avoid rubbing or massaging the area for at least 24 hours after the procedure to prevent the fat from shifting. They should also avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and blood - thinning medications or supplements for at least 24 hours.
- Following these instructions helps to ensure optimal results and reduces the risk of complications. The full effects of the fat filling may take a few days to become visible as any swelling or bruising subsides.
3. Dr. Michele Green's Office
Dr. Michele Green is a world - renowned expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology. Although she is well - known for using hyaluronic acid fillers for tear troughs, she also offers fat filling treatments. She has over 25 years of experience treating patients from around the globe for various skin concerns, including dark under - eyes, sun damage, and fine lines.
**Selection of Candidates**
- Dr. Green carefully evaluates patients to determine if they are good candidates for fat filling to remove tear troughs. She looks for patients with healthy skin and no underlying medical conditions that could increase the risk of complications. Patients with realistic expectations about the results are also preferred. For example, patients should understand that while fat filling can improve the appearance of tear troughs, it may not achieve perfection.
- If a patient has excessive skin laxity, excess skin, or fat in the under - eye area, she may recommend alternative treatments or a combination of procedures to achieve the best results.
**Procedure and Filler Compatibility**
- When performing fat filling, Dr. Green ensures that the fat is harvested and prepared with the highest standards. She combines her knowledge of facial anatomy with the latest techniques to inject the fat precisely into the tear trough area. She also has the expertise to determine if a combination of fat filling and other dermal fillers might be beneficial for some patients.
- For example, she might use a small amount of hyaluronic acid filler in conjunction with fat filling to fine - tune the results and achieve a more precise correction of the tear trough deformity.
4. Dr. Darren M. Smith's Facility
Dr. Darren M. Smith is a board - certified plastic surgeon with an artistic eye for aesthetics. He is considered one of the leading specialists in enhancing and rejuvenating the delicate eye region, including using fat filling to treat tear troughs.
**Tailored Treatment**
- Dr. Smith takes a personalized approach to each patient. He first assesses the patient's tear troughs and overall facial appearance to create a customized treatment plan. He understands that the tear trough region is delicate, with distinct anatomical features, and requires precision and specialized techniques.
- When it comes to fat filling, he ensures that the harvested fat is of high quality and injects it in a way that provides a well - rested, youthful appearance. He is also skilled at reducing the chances of complications such as bruising. For instance, he may use advanced techniques like small injection amounts and cannulas to minimize trauma during the injection process.
**Expected Results and Maintenance**
- Patients can expect dramatic yet natural - looking results after fat filling with Dr. Smith. The results typically include brighter, rested eyes, a reduction in dark circles and discoloration, less noticeable bags and puffiness, and improved skin smoothness and tone. The effects can last for a relatively long time, but periodic maintenance treatments may be advised to maintain the rejuvenated look.
- Dr. Smith will provide a personalized treatment plan during the consultation, helping patients achieve lasting facial rejuvenation in the under - eye area.
5. Dr. Neal Goldberg's Practice
Dr. Neal Goldberg is an extensively trained aesthetic plastic surgeon. He offers tear trough filler treatment with Restylane - L®, but he also has expertise in fat filling procedures for tear troughs. He understands the importance of providing patients with effective and natural - looking results of the highest quality.
**Treatment Process**
- Before the fat filling procedure, Dr. Goldberg evaluates the patient's tear troughs to determine if fat filling is the right option. He takes into account factors such as the patient's skin type, the depth of the tear troughs, and the patient's overall health. If fat filling is chosen, he carefully harvests the fat from the patient's body and prepares it for injection.
- During the injection, an ultra - fine needle is used to deliver the fat into the tear troughs to plump the skin. He uses a local anesthesia known as lidocaine, which is included in the injection process to help increase patient comfort. Swelling and redness may occur after the procedure, but they should subside naturally.
**Cost and Recovery**
- The cost of tear trough correction with fat filling depends on various factors such as the amount of fat needed to achieve the desired goals and the extent of the concerns. Dr. Goldberg's team will be able to provide a cost estimate once the patient's needs and goals are assessed.
- Rejuvenation can be visible soon after injections, but it can take two to four weeks to realize the full results. Patients are advised to avoid anti - inflammatory pain relievers and certain other medications to reduce the risk of bruising. They should also follow the aftercare instructions provided by Dr. Goldberg to ensure a smooth recovery.
Comparing the Hospitals
| Hospital | Expertise and Specialization | Procedure Techniques | Recovery and Aftercare | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Kolker's Practice | Extensive experience in facial fat transfer. Focus on natural - looking results and personalized treatment plans. | Harvesting fat with small cannulas and injecting with small needles. Procedures can be done under local anesthesia or combined with other surgeries. | Return to work time varies based on the procedure. Swelling resolves in 2 - 12 weeks. Light activity can resume in 4 - 5 days, strenuous in 2 - 3 weeks. | Not specified; depends on the complexity of the case. |
| Dr. David Cangello's Clinic | Plastic surgeon with experience in tear trough treatments. Can customize treatment based on patient needs. | Determines the best injection approach. Takes into account various factors causing tear trough deformity. | Avoid rubbing, strenuous activities, and blood - thinners for 24 hours. Swelling and bruising subside in a few days to a week. | Cost varies depending on the type and amount of filler (if fat filling cost details are not specified, likely based on case - by - case). |
| Dr. Michele Green's Office | World - renowned cosmetic dermatologist. Can evaluate if fat filling is suitable and combine with other treatments. | Precise injection based on facial anatomy. May combine fat filling with hyaluronic acid fillers. | Normal post - injection side effects. Follow instructions to minimize swelling and bruising. Results settle in a few days to weeks. | Cost depends on the medical professional, filler type, and amount needed. Specifics provided during consultation. |
| Dr. Darren M. Smith's Facility | Board - certified plastic surgeon with an artistic eye for the eye region. Personalized treatment plans. | Uses advanced techniques to reduce bruising. Injects fat to achieve natural - looking, youthful results. | Most patients can resume daily activities immediately. Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours. Minor swelling and bruising manage with ice packs. | Cost depends on the type and amount of filler. Office staff provides an accurate quote during consultation. |
| Dr. Neal Goldberg's Practice | Extensively trained aesthetic plastic surgeon. Provides high - quality natural - looking results. | Uses ultra - fine needles and local anesthesia for injection. Evaluates patient suitability before treatment. | Rejuvenation visible soon after, full results in 2 - 4 weeks. Avoid anti - inflammatory drugs. Follow aftercare instructions. | Approximately $950 per injection depending on factors like filler amount and patient needs. Team provides an estimate. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital
Surgeon's Expertise
The expertise of the surgeon is crucial. Look for surgeons who have extensive experience in fat filling to remove tear troughs. Surgeons with a good track record are more likely to achieve natural - looking results and handle any potential complications effectively. Check their credentials, years of experience, and patient testimonials.
Hospital Reputation
A hospital's reputation can be a good indicator of the quality of care. Research online reviews, patient feedback, and industry rankings. Hospitals with a positive reputation are more likely to have a professional and experienced team, as well as a clean and well - equipped facility.
Treatment Options
Some hospitals may offer a variety of treatment options for tear troughs. Consider whether they can customize the treatment based on your specific needs. For example, if you have other facial concerns, a hospital that can combine fat filling with other procedures may be more suitable.
Cost
Cost is an important factor. Compare the costs of fat filling procedures at different hospitals. However, don't solely base your decision on cost. A lower - cost option may not necessarily provide the best results or the highest level of safety. Make sure to understand what is included in the cost, such as pre - and post - operative care.
Aftercare and Follow - up
Good aftercare is essential for a successful recovery. Find out what kind of aftercare the hospital provides, including instructions on managing swelling, bruising, and any potential complications. Follow - up appointments are also important to ensure that the results are as expected and to address any concerns that may arise.
Conclusion
In New York City, there are several excellent hospitals for fat filling to remove tear troughs. Dr. Kolker's Practice, Dr. David Cangello's Clinic, Dr. Michele Green's Office, Dr. Darren M. Smith's Facility, and Dr. Neal Goldberg's Practice all offer high - quality services in this area. Each hospital has its own unique strengths, whether it's the surgeon's expertise, the treatment techniques, or the aftercare services. When considering this procedure, it's important to thoroughly research these hospitals, take into account the factors mentioned above, and choose the one that best meets your needs and expectations.
If you're interested in fat filling to remove tear troughs, we encourage you to schedule consultations with the hospitals on this list. During these consultations, you can ask detailed questions, learn more about the procedure, and get a better sense of which hospital is the right fit for you. Don't hesitate to take the first step towards achieving a more youthful and refreshed appearance in the under - eye area.
