Introduction
Nasolabial folds, often referred to as “smile lines,” are a common concern for many individuals as they age. These lines run from the bottom of the nose to the corners of the mouth and can become more prominent over time due to factors such as collagen loss, skin elasticity reduction, and facial volume changes. In New York City, a hub of beauty and plastic surgery, there are numerous doctors who specialize in treating nasolabial folds. This article will provide an in - depth review of the top 5 beauty and plastic surgery doctors in New York City for nasolabial fold improvement.
Understanding Nasolabial Folds
What are Nasolabial Folds?
The nasolabial fold is the indent between the cheeks and the nose that becomes more noticeable when you smile. In younger individuals, the skin bounces back after each smile, and the fold is less prominent when the face is relaxed. However, as people age, the skin loses its elasticity, and the nasolabial fold becomes more deeply etched into the skin. Collagen in the skin begins to wane as early as the 20s, which allows the skin to lose its firmness and resilience.
Causes of Nasolabial Folds
- Aging: As mentioned, the natural aging process leads to a decrease in collagen and elastin production, which are essential for maintaining skin elasticity. The cheekbones may also flatten over time, causing the skin to sag and the nasolabial folds to deepen.
- Sun Damage: Prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can break down collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, accelerating the formation of nasolabial folds.
- Smoking: Smoking is another major factor that can contribute to premature aging of the skin. It reduces blood flow to the skin, which deprives it of essential nutrients and oxygen, leading to the breakdown of collagen and elastin and the development of deeper nasolabial folds.
- Weight Changes: Significant weight loss can result in looser skin in the face and neck, while significant weight gain can plump up the face and accentuate the creases of the nasolabial folds.
- Genetic Factors: Some people may be genetically predisposed to developing deeper nasolabial folds at a younger age. For example, genetic factors can cause deepened nasolabial folds in people as young as 25.
- Facial Expressions: Repeated facial expressions such as smiling, laughing, and frowning can contribute to the formation of nasolabial folds over time.
Treatment Options for Nasolabial Folds
Non - Surgical Treatments
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are one of the most popular non - surgical treatments for nasolabial folds. Hyaluronic acid fillers are commonly used as they offer a quick and effective way to smooth mild to severe nasolabial folds. These fillers work by adding volume to the folds, which helps to smooth them out and rejuvenate the mouth and nose area. The best filler formula depends on the severity of the lines and other factors. Results can last from several months to over a year, depending on the product used. Some popular fillers for nasolabial folds include Juvederm Vollure, which has a smooth consistency, balanced elasticity, and can last up to 18 months; Restylane Refyne, which offers firmness and flexibility and moves naturally with facial expressions; and RHA (Resilient Hyaluronic Acid), which is designed to adapt to facial dynamics for a natural look.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing uses a laser to remove the outer layer of skin and stimulate the production of new collagen. This can help to improve the appearance of nasolabial folds by reducing the depth of the wrinkles and improving skin texture. However, it may require multiple sessions, and there is a recovery period during which the skin may be red, swollen, and sensitive.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a non - invasive procedure that uses a special device to exfoliate the outer layer of skin. It can help to improve the appearance of nasolabial folds by removing dead skin cells and stimulating cell turnover. This treatment is less intense than laser skin resurfacing and has a shorter recovery time, but the results may be less dramatic.
Surgical Treatments
Nasolabial Fold Excision
For deep nasolabial folds that do not respond well to non - surgical treatments, nasolabial fold excision may be recommended. This surgical procedure involves making an incision in the natural crease line of the fold and removing excess skin and tissue. Under local anesthesia, the procedure takes about an hour, and the stitches are removed within five to seven days. It may take several weeks for the full recovery to occur.
Facelift
While a full facelift or mid - facelift cannot completely solve the problem of severe nasolabial folds on its own, it can sometimes be combined with other procedures to improve the overall appearance of the face. A facelift can help to lift and tighten the facial skin, which may have an impact on the appearance of nasolabial folds. However, it is a more invasive procedure with a longer recovery time compared to non - surgical treatments.
Top 5 Beauty and Plastic Surgery Doctors in New York City for Nasolabial Fold Improvement
Dr. Thomas W. Loeb
Background and Expertise
Dr. Thomas W. Loeb is a renowned New York plastic surgeon. He completed his formal education at Washington University School of Medicine of St. Louis in 1980, his general surgery chief residency at New York University and its affiliates in 1984, and his plastic surgery residency at Baylor College of Medicine in 1986. He obtained his board certification in plastic surgery from the American Board of Plastic Surgeons in 1988 and has been in private practice in New York City for more than two decades. Dr. Loeb is a clinical instructor at Cornell University Medical College and participates in numerous teaching programs at hospitals throughout NYC and Long Island.
Treatment Approach for Nasolabial Folds
For deep nasolabial folds that will not respond to dermal fillers, Dr. Loeb recommends nasolabial fold surgery. His innovative work has been featured in mainstream media, college textbooks, and medical journals. The nasolabial fold incisions heal well due to his skillful technique and careful incision placement within the natural crease line. He also offers a wide range of other plastic surgery procedures, including breast augmentation, rhinoplasty, and facelifts.
Patient Reviews
Patients praise Dr. Loeb for his expertise and the natural - looking results of his procedures. His office is well - accredited, and the staff is known for being courteous and friendly. The wait time is often minimized, and patients feel that they receive high - quality care throughout the entire process.
Dr. Andrew Jacono
Background and Expertise
Dr. Andrew Jacono, MD, FACS is a world - leading expert in facial plastic surgery, an innovator, and a philanthropist. He is one of the best facelift surgeons in America, as voted by his patients and peers. He has extensive experience in the latest advanced techniques in facial plastic surgery and is an innovator in facelift surgery and facial rejuvenation. He is a double - board - certified specialist in both facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and head and neck surgery, a clinical professor in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at two New York City medical schools, and the head of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery at the North Shore University Hospital.
Treatment Approach for Nasolabial Folds
Dr. Jacono's approach to facelift procedures is to maintain the patient's natural look with long - lasting results. He often combines multiple procedures to address various aspects of facial aging, including the nasolabial folds. He specializes in techniques such as growth factor fat transplantation, short scar facelifts, and high - definition endoscopic surgery. He customizes his facelift procedures to meet the specific needs of each patient.
Patient Reviews
Many patients travel from all over the world to have Dr. Jacono perform their facelift surgery. His patients report dramatic yet natural - looking results. He has a reputation for being thorough in his consultations and for providing detailed explanations of the procedures and expected outcomes. The before - and - after photos of his patients showcase his ability to effectively reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds and rejuvenate the face.
Dr. Schwarzburg
Background and Expertise
Dr. Schwarzburg is a renowned board - certified cosmetic dermatologist and wellness expert at Skinly Aesthetics in NYC. He has over a decade of experience and has performed thousands of successful procedures. His expertise is frequently featured in leading beauty magazines and publications.
Treatment Approach for Nasolabial Folds
Dr. Schwarzburg specializes in nasolabial fold filler treatments. He uses advanced injection techniques, including linear threading, fanning, and serial puncture, to precisely place the filler into the nasolabial folds, ensuring a smooth, natural look. He offers a variety of filler options, such as Juvederm and Restylane, and tailors the treatment to each patient's specific needs. He also provides complementary treatments such as cheek filler injections, neurotoxins, skin resurfacing techniques, and secret RF skin - tightening microneedling treatment for a holistic approach to anti - aging and aesthetic enhancement.
Patient Reviews
Patients appreciate Dr. Schwarzburg's professionalism, precision, and personalized care. The nasolabial fold filler procedures are quick, and there is minimal downtime. Patients report immediate visible results and are satisfied with the overall improvement in the appearance of their nasolabial folds and the rejuvenation of their facial aesthetics.
Dr. David L. Abramson
Background and Expertise
Dr. David L. Abramson is a plastic surgeon in New York, NY, and is affiliated with Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health. He has been in practice for more than 20 years and specializes in aesthetic/cosmetic plastic surgery, breast reconstruction, and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Treatment Approach for Nasolabial Folds
Dr. Abramson has the expertise to offer both surgical and non - surgical solutions for nasolabial folds. He can use dermal fillers to add volume and smooth out the folds, or he may recommend surgical procedures such as nasolabial fold excision or a combination of procedures for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Patient Reviews
Patients speak highly of Dr. Abramson's skill and bedside manner. He takes the time to understand each patient's concerns and goals and provides clear explanations of the treatment options. His patients are satisfied with the results of their nasolabial fold treatments and the overall improvement in their appearance.
Dr. Tal Dagan
Background and Expertise
Dr. Tal Dagan, MD, FACS is a board - certified surgeon. He provides patients with exceptional care and natural - looking cosmetic outcomes by blending his artistic vision with the latest techniques. He is able to listen and understand patient anatomy and lifestyle, which leads to balanced, stunning transformations.
Treatment Approach for Nasolabial Folds
Dr. Dagan can address nasolabial folds through a variety of methods. He may use dermal fillers to achieve a more youthful appearance or recommend surgical procedures if necessary. His customized approach ensures that each patient receives the most appropriate treatment for their specific needs.
Patient Reviews
Patients praise Dr. Dagan for his ability to understand their aesthetic goals and deliver results that exceed their expectations. He has a reputation for providing high - quality care and creating natural - looking results when treating nasolabial folds.
Comparing the Doctors
Doctor | Background and Specialties | Treatment Approach for Nasolabial Folds | Patient Reviews |
---|---|---|---|
Dr. Thomas W. Loeb | Over two - decade private practice, extensive training, involved in teaching, known for various plastic surgery procedures | Recommends surgery for deep nasolabial folds, careful incision placement | Positive reviews for expertise, natural results, and good office experience |
Dr. Andrew Jacono | World - leading in facial plastic surgery, double - board - certified, clinical professor | Customized facelift and combination procedures for natural and long - lasting results | Highly regarded, patients travel globally for his services, great before - and - after results |
Dr. Schwarzburg | Board - certified cosmetic dermatologist, extensive experience in filler treatments | Advanced filler injection techniques, offers complementary treatments | Positive for precision, personalized care, and quick, visible results |
Dr. David L. Abramson | Over 20 years of practice, affiliated with hospital, specializes in multiple areas of plastic surgery | Offers both surgical and non - surgical options | Good reviews for skill and bedside manner |
Dr. Tal Dagan | Board - certified surgeon, blends artistry with modern techniques | Customized approach for optimal treatment | Praised for understanding patient goals and delivering natural results |
Choosing the Right Doctor
When choosing a doctor for nasolabial fold improvement in New York City, several factors should be considered:
- Credentials: Ensure that the doctor is board - certified in plastic surgery or a relevant specialty. Board certification indicates that the doctor has met the rigorous standards of training and experience set by the certifying organization.
- Experience: Look for a doctor with extensive experience in treating nasolabial folds. Ask about the number of procedures they have performed and the success rate of their treatments.
- Patient Reviews: Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the doctor's reputation and the quality of care they provide. Look for reviews that specifically mention nasolabial fold treatments.
- Treatment Options: Consider the doctor's approach to treating nasolabial folds. Do they offer a variety of treatment options, including both non - surgical and surgical methods? A doctor who can provide personalized treatment plans based on your specific needs is ideal.
- Communication and Bedside Manner: A good doctor should be able to communicate effectively with you, listen to your concerns and goals, and provide clear explanations of the treatment options and expected outcomes. They should also have a good bedside manner and make you feel comfortable throughout the process.
- Cost: While cost should not be the only factor, it is important to consider the cost of the treatment. Make sure to discuss the cost with the doctor during the consultation and understand what is included in the price.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New York City is home to some of the best beauty and plastic surgery doctors for nasolabial fold improvement. Dr. Thomas W. Loeb, Dr. Andrew Jacono, Dr. Schwarzburg, Dr. David L. Abramson, and Dr. Tal Dagan are all highly qualified professionals with unique expertise and treatment approaches. Whether you are considering non - surgical treatments such as dermal fillers or surgical procedures like nasolabial fold excision, these doctors can provide personalized solutions to help you achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance. When choosing a doctor, take the time to research and compare their credentials, experience, patient reviews, treatment options, communication skills, and cost. By making an informed decision, you can increase the likelihood of a successful nasolabial fold treatment and achieve the results you desire. If you are considering nasolabial fold improvement, we encourage you to schedule consultations with one or more of these top doctors in New York City. During the consultations, ask questions, discuss your goals, and get a feel for the doctor's approach