Introduction
Nasolabial folds, often referred to as smile lines or laugh lines, are a common sign of aging that many people in New York City wish to address. Hyaluronic acid fillers have emerged as a popular and effective treatment option for smoothing these folds. In this article, we will explore the medical skills of three prominent doctors in New York City who specialize in hyaluronic acid removal of nasolabial folds and provide detailed information about each doctor.
Understanding Nasolabial Folds and Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
What are Nasolabial Folds?
The nasolabial fold is the indent between the cheeks and nose that becomes more pronounced when you smile. As you age, the skin loses elasticity, and these folds become etched into the skin, making them more noticeable even when the face is relaxed. Collagen in the skin starts to wane as early as the 20s, allowing the skin to lose its firmness and contributing to the development of nasolabial folds. These lines are very common and are often one of the first signs of aging on the face.
How Hyaluronic Acid Fillers Work
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that adds volume and hydration to the skin. As we age, our bodies produce less hyaluronic acid, resulting in wrinkles, folds, and a loss of facial fullness. Hyaluronic acid fillers are designed to replenish this lost hyaluronic acid, providing a smoother, more youthful appearance. The trick to smoothing smile lines with hyaluronic acid injections is finding the right dermal filler. The formula should be dense and firm enough to add volume to fill the nasolabial fold while still allowing natural movement when you smile and talk.
Doctor 1: Dr. Yoon - Soo Cindy Bae
Background and Credentials
Dr. Yoon - Soo Cindy Bae is a board - certified dermatologist. She received her bachelor in science degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, graduating as a UC presidential scholar. She earned her medical degree from Boston University School of Medicine and completed a surgical internship at Weill Cornell New York Presbyterian Hospital and Memorial Sloan - Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Bae completed her residency training in dermatology at Boston University School of Medicine and her laser, cosmetic and Mohs surgery fellowship at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York.
She has also been named a Castle Connolly top doctor every year since 2018, and an exceptional mentor by the American Women’s Association. In 2024, she won a Castle Connolly Exceptional Women in Medicine award. Dr. Bae has appeared on the Today show as well as Harper’s Bazaars “Go to Bed with Me” series on skincare and has been quoted by various media outlets.
Skills in Hyaluronic Acid Removal of Nasolabial Folds
Dr. Bae is an Allergan national trainer for all aesthetic injectables and educates other physicians about how to properly and safely inject neuromodulators like Botox and fillers. Her patients have reported excellent results when it comes to reducing nasolabial folds. For example, one patient stated, “I had full correction of my cheek area which included reducing my nasolabial folds, the sagginess under my eyes and lifting the heaviness in my cheeks. Like an artist she placed the filler in various areas with a beautiful natural outcome. I am 100% satisfied!”
Her extensive training and experience make her highly skilled in choosing the right hyaluronic acid filler for each patient’s unique needs. She understands the delicate balance between adding enough volume to smooth the folds while maintaining a natural look.
Treatment Approach
Dr. Bae takes a personalized approach to each patient. She takes the time to understand the patient's aesthetic goals and medical history. Before treatment, she may conduct a detailed facial analysis to determine the best injection sites and the appropriate amount of filler. During the injection process, she uses precise techniques to minimize discomfort and ensure optimal results. After treatment, she provides comprehensive aftercare instructions to help the patient achieve the best possible outcome and minimize any potential side effects.
Doctor 2: Dr. Michele S. Green
Background and Credentials
Dr. Michele S. Green is a world - renowned board - certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience. She was one of the first dermatologists in NYC to incorporate the Restylane® line of fillers for her patients in her boutique New York practice. She is consistently identified as one of New York’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and the New York Times for her dedication to her patients and expertise.
Skills in Hyaluronic Acid Removal of Nasolabial Folds
Dr. Green has in - depth knowledge of the various hyaluronic acid fillers available in the market. The Restylane family of products, which she frequently uses, has several distinct formulas designed to treat different levels of nasolabial folds. For example, Restylane Defyne is formulated to reduce moderate to severe deep nasolabial folds or smile lines, while Restylane Refyne is also FDA - approved to treat moderate to severe nasolabial folds.
She takes a holistic approach to facial rejuvenation, customizing each patient’s treatment plan to suit their particular skin concerns and aesthetic goals best. Her artistry as an expert injector draws patients from around the globe to her private, boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s upper east side neighborhood.
Treatment Process
At the initial consultation, Dr. Green will discuss the patient's aesthetic concerns and assess their facial anatomy to develop an individualized treatment plan with the best hyaluronic acid filler. She will review the patient's complete medical record and discuss any medical conditions or a history of bleeding disorders that might prevent treatment. Before the injection, patients are asked to discontinue any blood thinners to minimize bruising. On the day of the procedure, a topical numbing cream containing lidocaine is applied to the treatment area to lessen discomfort during the injections. After the injection, she provides aftercare instructions, including avoiding blood thinners for one more week and minimizing strenuous exercise and sun exposure for 48 hours.
Doctor 3: Dr. Zuckerman
Background and Skills
Dr. Zuckerman is well - versed in the latest techniques to perform nasolabial folds filler injections. Informally known as the “parentheses” around the mouth, these lines are most prominent while smiling or performing other facial animations and grow deeper over time. He effectively treats them using hyaluronic acid dermal fillers such as Juvederm Ultra Plus XC or Vollure XC.
Key Aspects of Treatment
- Recommended Regimen: Most patients require two treatments per year to maintain a continual effect.
- Longevity: Treatment is visible immediately and finalizes within one week. It lasts up to six months. Results will vary depending on how much product Dr. Zuckerman injects and how quickly the patient metabolizes hyaluronic acid. Dermal fillers in this area last a slightly shorter amount of time than in other less mobile and heavily animated facial areas.
- Procedure Time: 10 – 20 minutes per treatment.
- Pretreatment Guidelines: Dr. Zuckerman recommends patients take the following precautions before undergoing nasolabial folds rejuvenation to minimize bruising: no NSAIDs such as aspirin or ibuprofen within a couple of days before and a day after, don’t drink alcohol to excess a day before and a day after, and refrain from lying flat or working out within 2 hours after injection.
- Recovery (Downtime): Some patients experience slight redness near the injection sites along the lines of the nasolabial folds immediately post - treatment. There may be minimal bruising as well, but both of these effects generally resolve within 24 - 48 hours. Most often, Dr. Zuckerman is able to minimize or eliminate such side effects with his techniques, and his patients often go straight back to work after a daytime treatment.
Medical Skills Ranking
It's challenging to provide a definitive ranking of these three doctors as their skills are all at a high level, and the best doctor for a patient depends on individual needs and preferences. However, here is a general comparison based on various factors:
| Doctor | Training and Credentials | Patient Reviews | Experience with Hyaluronic Acid Fillers | Personalized Approach |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Yoon - Soo Cindy Bae | Extensive education, multiple awards, and training as an Allergan national trainer. | Highly positive reviews, with patients praising her natural - looking results. | Well - trained in aesthetic injectables, including hyaluronic acid fillers. | Takes a personalized approach, understanding each patient's unique goals. |
| Dr. Michele S. Green | Over two and a half decades of experience, recognized as one of New York’s best dermatologists. | Draws patients from around the globe, indicating high patient satisfaction. | Expert in using the Restylane family of hyaluronic acid fillers. | Holistic and personalized treatment plans. |
| Dr. Zuckerman | Skilled in the latest techniques for nasolabial fold filler injections. | Positive patient experiences, especially regarding the efficiency and effectiveness of the treatment. | Experienced in using Juvederm Ultra Plus XC and Vollure XC for nasolabial fold treatment. | Provides clear treatment guidelines and aftercare instructions. |
Conclusion
In summary, Dr. Yoon - Soo Cindy Bae, Dr. Michele S. Green, and Dr. Zuckerman are all highly skilled doctors in New York City when it comes to hyaluronic acid removal of nasolabial folds. Each doctor brings unique strengths to the table, including their training, experience, patient - centered approach, and choice of fillers. Whether you are looking for a doctor with extensive educational credentials, a long - standing reputation in the industry, or a doctor who specializes in a particular type of filler, these three doctors are excellent options to consider.
If you are bothered by nasolabial folds and are considering hyaluronic acid filler treatment, we encourage you to schedule consultations with these doctors. During the consultations, you can discuss your goals, ask questions, and make an informed decision about which doctor is the best fit for you. Remember, a well - informed decision is the first step towards achieving the natural, youthful look you desire.
