Introduction
The appearance of the under - eye area, specifically the tear troughs, can significantly impact one's overall look. As we age, the skin under the eyes becomes thinner, subcutaneous fat volume is lost, and the tear trough area may become more prominent, leading to a tired or older appearance. Hyaluronic acid filling of the tear troughs has emerged as a popular non - surgical solution to address these concerns. In New York City, several hospitals have built a strong reputation for their expertise in this procedure. Here, we will introduce the top 5 hospitals selected based on word - of - mouth.
What are Tear Troughs and Why Fill Them?
Understanding Tear Troughs
The tear trough is the sunken area that forms beneath the lower eyelids, directly below the under - eye bags, and extends towards the cheeks. It can be a congenital condition, or it can develop over time due to factors such as aging, genetics, loss of facial fat, loss of skin elasticity, and laxity of facial ligaments. As the volume in this area decreases, the skin starts to sag, creating a hollow or trough - like appearance, which can cast shadows and result in the appearance of dark circles and a tired look.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid Filling
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a substance that occurs naturally in the body. When used as a filler in the tear trough area, it can provide several benefits. Firstly, it restores lost volume, reducing the appearance of dark circles and under - eye bags. It camouflages the under - eye puffiness by filling out the depression below the lower eyelid, allowing it to blend more seamlessly with the cheek. The procedure is non - surgical, requires little to no downtime, provides quick results, and the effects can last for several months. Additionally, HA helps plump the skin and increase collagen production, resulting in a more youthful - looking complexion.
Top 5 Hospitals for Hyaluronic Acid Filling of the Tear Troughs in New York City
1. Cangello Plastic Surgery
Expertise and Doctor
Dr. David Cangello is a plastic surgeon with extensive experience in tear trough filler treatments. He can recommend the best option for tear trough filler based on individual needs, goals, and medical history, and will work with patients to develop a customized treatment plan.
Treatment Process
Before the procedure, patients need to discuss their medical history, medications, allergies, and sensitivities with Dr. Cangello. In the days leading up to the appointment, they should avoid taking blood - thinning medications, alcohol, and caffeine to reduce the risk of bruising. On the day of the appointment, patients should arrive with a clean and makeup - free face. The procedure involves injecting the filler into the under - eye area using a small cannula, and results can typically be seen immediately. After the treatment, mild swelling, bruising, and redness around the injection site are normal, and these symptoms usually subside within a few days to a week. Patients should follow the aftercare instructions provided by Dr. Cangello, such as avoiding rubbing or massaging the area for at least 24 hours, and avoiding strenuous exercise, alcohol, and blood - thinning medications or supplements for at least 24 hours.
Patient Experience
One patient said, “He is amazing! Made me feel super comfortable as soon as I met him. He is got a lot of patience, explains every little detail and is a great listener. Not to mention his work is absolutely amazing. Got fillers and I can tell he was very experienced and made the effort to make me feel good and look fantastic!”
2. Michele Green, MD
Expertise and Doctor
Dr. Michele Green is a world - renowned expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology, with over 25 years of experience treating patients from around the globe for various skin concerns. She is consistently rated as a top NYC dermatologist by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times. Dr. Green can determine the best filler for tear troughs based on a patient's facial anatomy, skin concerns, and cosmetic goals and develop a customized treatment plan.
Treatment Process
The first step is a consultation in her office on the upper east side of Manhattan. Dr. Green will evaluate the targeted treatment area and the skin’s elasticity, confirm the patient is a good candidate for tear trough fillers, and determine the appropriate dermal filler product and the number of syringes required. A local anesthetic will be applied to the entire treatment area one hour before the injections. Dr. Green uses an ultrafine needle to inject the dermal fillers directly into the skin in tiny amounts. Immediately after the procedure, ice will be applied to the treatment area, and aftercare instructions will be provided. Two weeks after the initial treatment, Dr. Green will see the patient for a follow - up to ensure the treatment was satisfactory and determine if any touch - up is needed.
Safety and Side Effects
There typically are no major side effects associated with the treatment, but mild swelling, bruising, or redness at or around the injection sites may occur. The Tyndall effect, a rare side effect that leads to a bluish discoloration, can be reversed with hyaluronidase. To prevent serious side effects, it is important to have the tear trough filler injections performed by an expert like Dr. Green.
3. Zuckerman Plastic Surgery
Expertise and Doctor
Dr. Zuckerman can help patients reduce dark circles with under - eye dermal filler injections. He uses Restylane - L, a hyaluronic acid filler with lidocaine, which is FDA - approved for treating the under - eye area. This filler is the least hydrophilic among hyaluronic acid fillers, minimizing swelling.
Treatment Process
Most patients require one treatment per year to maintain a continual effect. The procedure takes 10 - 20 minutes per treatment. Dr. Zuckerman recommends that patients avoid ibuprofen/aspirin two days before and after treatment, avoid excess alcohol one day before and after, and skip intensive physical activity the day of treatment if possible. After the treatment, there may be mild bruising or swelling, which in some cases can last up to a week, but more often, these post - treatment effects resolve within a few days. Dr. Zuckerman can minimize bruising using his techniques and by icing the affected area post - treatment. Makeup can be applied if needed after treatment, but it is recommended to avoid it the day of treatment if possible.
Risks
Although the treatment is safe in the hands of an expert like Dr. Zuckerman, there are some rare risks, such as swelling, bruising, and lumps. The risk of blindness is very rare, especially in the hands of an experienced injector like Dr. Zuckerman.
4. Neinstein Plastic Surgery
Expertise and Treatment Approach
Tear trough fillers at Neinstein Plastic Surgery are an ideal alternative to surgery for many patients. The goal is to blend the eyelid with the cheek to give a rested and youthful appearance. The practice uses a technique of injecting very deep (almost directly on the cheek bone starting about half - way up the nose) and slowly moving a small wave of the hyaluronic acid up towards the tear trough area, which is safe, predictable, and dramatically reduces the risk of bruising.
Treatment Process
Before the procedure, patients are asked not to use blood thinners like aspirin for 5 days. On the day of the injections, makeup is removed, and the skin is numbed for 20 minutes. Only cannulas are used (no needles under the skin) to reduce trauma to the tissues. After the injections, ice is placed on the eyes for 5 minutes, and the patient takes a one - time dose of steroids to reduce swelling.
Recovery and Aftercare
Patients should not rub or massage the treated area immediately following the treatment. They should wait 24 hours before resuming strenuous activities. Bruising at the treatment site may occur, and temporary, minimal to moderate swelling may be expected. Cool compresses can be applied to the area treated. Mild tenderness at the treatment site may last for a few hours or a couple of days, and patients can take acetaminophen/Tylenol if needed. They should wait a minimum of four weeks before receiving any laser treatments. The clinic has led light therapy devices available for patients to bring home to speed healing and incorporation of the product into the skin.
5. Darren M. Smith, MD
Expertise and Doctor
Dr. Darren M. Smith is a board - certified plastic surgeon with an artistic eye for aesthetics and over 18 years of experience. He is considered one of the leading specialists in enhancing and rejuvenating the delicate eye region. Dr. Smith stays on the cutting edge of the latest treatments and techniques to optimize the patient experience and results.
Treatment Process
The tear trough filler treatment involves injecting a hyaluronic acid gel beneath the thin skin under the eyes with a very fine needle or cannula. A numbing cream is first applied to maximize comfort. The procedure takes 15 - 30 minutes to complete. Some temporary redness, swelling, or bruising may occur after the treatment, but these mild side effects typically resolve within a few days.
Results and Aftercare
Patients can expect dramatic yet natural - looking results, such as brighter, rested eyes, reduction in dark circles and discoloration, less noticeable bags and puffiness, improved skin smoothness and tone, and a more youthful contour. To maintain the rejuvenated look, periodic maintenance treatments are advised. Dr. Smith will provide a personalized treatment plan during the consultation.
Choosing the Right Hospital for Tear Trough Filler
Experience and Expertise of the Doctor
It is crucial to choose a doctor with extensive experience in tear trough filler treatments. Look for board - certified plastic surgeons or dermatologists who have a proven track record of successful procedures and positive patient reviews. For example, Dr. David Cangello at Cangello Plastic Surgery and Dr. Michele Green at her practice have many years of experience in treating the under - eye area.
Type of Filler Used
Different fillers have different properties, and the choice of filler depends on various factors such as the patient's facial anatomy, skin concerns, and cosmetic goals. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane, Juvederm, and Belotero are commonly used for tear trough filling. Some fillers, like Restylane - L used by Dr. Zuckerman, are less hydrophilic and cause less swelling, which is ideal for the sensitive under - eye area.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an idea of the quality of service and the results achieved by a particular hospital or doctor. Positive reviews about comfort during the procedure, minimal side effects, and natural - looking results are good indicators.
Safety Measures
Ensure that the hospital or doctor follows strict safety protocols. This includes using FDA - approved fillers, taking precautions to prevent complications such as bruising and infections, and being prepared to handle any potential side effects. For instance, doctors should advise patients on pre - and post - treatment care to minimize risks.
FAQs about Hyaluronic Acid Filling of the Tear Troughs
How long does the tear trough filler procedure take?
The procedure typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the individual and the amount of filler used. However, at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery, the tear trough rejuvenation & fillers procedure takes 10 - 20 minutes per treatment.
Is the tear trough filler procedure painful?
The level of discomfort experienced during a tear trough filler treatment can vary depending on pain tolerance and the technique used by the injector. Most doctors apply a numbing agent before the procedure. For example, Dr. Michele Green applies a local anesthetic one hour before the injections, and the dermal fillers she uses are compounded with lidocaine, making the process relatively painless. Dr. Zuckerman's Restylane - L filler also contains lidocaine, and he applies a second topical anesthetic before treatment.
What is the recovery time for tear trough filler?
There is usually little to no downtime associated with tear trough filler. Patients can typically resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure. Some mild swelling, bruising, or redness around the injection site may occur but usually subsides within a few days to a week. However, patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and blood - thinning medications or supplements for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
How long do the results of tear trough filler last?
The results of tear trough filler can last for several months, typically around 6 - 12 months. The duration of the results can vary depending on the individual, the type of filler used, and other factors such as lifestyle, genetics, and age. For example, at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery, the treatment with Restylane - L lasts up to one year, while the effects at Darren M. Smith, MD can last between 6 to 18 months.
Does tear trough filler have any side effects?
While tear trough filler treatment is considered safe, it can carry some potential risks and side effects. These may include swelling, bruising, redness, itching, and infection. The Tyndall effect, a bluish discoloration, is a rare side effect that can occur if the filler is injected too superficially. Some rare but more serious side effects include changes in vision, vascular occlusion, signs of infection at injection sites, allergic reaction to the dermal filler product, worsening bruising or swelling, numbness, and persistent pain. It is important to have the treatment performed by an experienced professional to minimize these risks.
How much does tear trough filler cost?
The cost of tear trough filler injections can vary depending on several factors, including the type and amount of filler used, the medical professional performing the procedure, and the geographic location of the office. Multiple syringes may be needed to achieve the desired results, and the number of syringes required will depend on specific needs and goals. Typically, fillers cost $1000 or more per syringe. During the consultation, the doctor will be able to recommend the total number of syringes needed and the cost of treatment.
Conclusion
Hyaluronic acid filling of the tear troughs is a popular non - surgical solution for enhancing the appearance of the under - eye area. In New York City, the top 5 hospitals - Cangello Plastic Surgery, Michele Green, MD, Zuckerman Plastic Surgery, Neinstein Plastic Surgery, and Darren M. Smith, MD - have demonstrated their strength in this procedure through the expertise of their doctors, the quality of their treatments, and positive patient feedback. When considering this treatment, it is important to choose the right hospital based on factors such as doctor experience, type of filler used, patient reviews, and safety measures.
If you are bothered by the appearance of dark circles, under - eye hollows, or bags, we encourage you to explore these top - rated hospitals in New York City. Contact them for a consultation to discuss your concerns and goals, and take the first step towards a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
