Introduction to Hyaluronic Acid Tear Trough Filling
As we age, the area under our eyes often undergoes visible changes. The skin becomes thinner, subcutaneous fat volume is lost, and this can lead to the prominence of the tear trough area, causing an under - eye hollow. The tear trough refers to the sunken area beneath the lower eyelids, below the under - eye bags, and extending towards the cheeks. It is a common cosmetic concern as it can make individuals look tired or older than they actually are. This condition can be caused by a combination of factors such as aging, genetics, loss of facial fat, loss of skin elasticity, and laxity of facial ligaments.
Hyaluronic acid tear trough filling is a cosmetic procedure that involves injecting a hyaluronic acid - based filler (HA) into the area under the eyes. The goal is to reduce the appearance of dark circles, hollows, and bags in the lower eyelid, achieving a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid Tear Trough Filling
- Reduction of dark circles: By filling the trough, the shadowing effect that causes dark circles is minimized.
- Camouflaging under - eye bags: It fills out the depression below the under - eye bags, allowing the lower eyelid to blend more seamlessly with the cheek.
- Volume restoration: Restores lost volume in the under - eye area, giving a plumper and more youthful look.
- Non - surgical: Avoids the need for invasive surgery, with little to no downtime.
- Quick results: Results can typically be seen immediately after the procedure.
- Long - lasting: The effects can last for several months, usually around 6 - 12 months, depending on various factors.
Candidates for Hyaluronic Acid Tear Trough Filling
Good candidates for this procedure are individuals who are bothered by the appearance of under - eye hollows or dark circles and are seeking a non - surgical solution. They should have healthy skin and no underlying medical conditions that could increase the risk of complications. It's also important for candidates to have realistic expectations, understanding that the treatment can provide improvement but not perfection. Filler is only effective for dark circles caused by the shadowing effect of volume loss in the tear trough area. Dark under - eye circles due to skin pigmentation or blood vessels beneath the skin may require other treatments like laser therapy.
People with good skin elasticity are more suitable for this treatment. Those with severe skin laxity, excess skin, or fat in the under - eye area may be better candidates for surgical options like eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty).
Preparing for the Procedure
Preparing for a hyaluronic acid tear trough filling appointment is crucial for a smooth and successful procedure. Before the treatment, patients should discuss their medical history, any medications they are taking, and any allergies or sensitivities with their doctor. In the days leading up to the appointment, it is advisable to avoid taking blood - thinning medications or supplements such as NSAIDs (non - steroidal anti - inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, aspirin, or fish oil) as they can increase the risk of bruising. Alcohol and caffeine should also be avoided as they may have a similar effect. On the day of the appointment, it is best to arrive with a clean and makeup - free face.
The Filler Procedure
This cosmetic procedure typically involves injecting the filler into the under - eye area using a small cannula. Results can usually be seen immediately. The type of filler used depends on the patient's specific needs, goals, skin type, and anatomy. Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Restylane®, Belotero, Juvederm Volbella, or Restylane Eye Light, are commonly used as they are safe, effective, and provide natural - looking results.
Recovery Process
After getting hyaluronic acid tear trough filler, it is normal to experience some mild swelling, bruising, and redness around the injection site. These symptoms usually subside within a few days to a week and can be managed with ice packs or over - the - counter pain medications such as ibuprofen. Patients should avoid rubbing or massaging the area for at least 24 hours after the procedure to prevent the filler from shifting or becoming dislodged. It is also recommended to avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and blood - thinning medications or supplements for at least 24 hours. While the results are immediate, it may take a few days for the full effects to be visible as any swelling or bruising subsides.
Top Hospitals in New York City for Hyaluronic Acid Tear Trough Filling
When it comes to hyaluronic acid tear trough filling in New York City, choosing the right hospital is crucial. Here are some of the top hospitals known for their expertise in this area:
1. Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties. It has a high - performing reputation in 20 procedures/conditions. With its extensive experience and expertise in various medical fields, it is likely to have a team of skilled doctors who are well - versed in cosmetic procedures such as hyaluronic acid tear trough filling. The hospital's comprehensive approach to patient care, combined with its advanced facilities, makes it a reliable choice for those seeking this treatment.
2. New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell
This hospital is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties. It is high - performing in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions. The hospital's long - standing reputation for excellence in healthcare, along with its state - of - the - art technology and a team of highly qualified medical professionals, positions it as a top choice for hyaluronic acid tear trough filling. The doctors at New York - Presbyterian are likely to have the knowledge and skills to provide personalized treatment plans for each patient.
3. NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals are nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties and high - performing in 1 specialty and 21 procedures/conditions. The hospital offers a wide range of cosmetic and medical services, and its team of experts in the field of aesthetic medicine can ensure a high - quality hyaluronic acid tear trough filling procedure. Their research - based approach and access to the latest medical advancements contribute to the effectiveness of their treatments.
4. Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health
Lenox Hill Hospital is nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties and high - performing in 1 specialty and 16 procedures/conditions. It has a reputation for providing excellent patient care and has a team of experienced doctors who can perform hyaluronic acid tear trough filling with precision. The hospital's focus on patient satisfaction and safety makes it a popular choice among patients in New York City.
Comparison of Top Doctors and Their Approaches in New York City
There are several well - known doctors in New York City who are experts in hyaluronic acid tear trough filling. Let's take a look at some of them and their approaches:
Dr. David Cangello
Dr. David Cangello is a plastic surgeon with extensive experience in tear trough filler treatments. He will determine the best treatment approach based on the patient's individual needs, goals, and medical history. He uses a small cannula for the injection, which is reported to cause little to no pain. Dr. Cangello also provides comprehensive aftercare instructions to ensure optimal results and reduce the risk of complications. He has received positive patient feedback, with patients praising his patience, attention to detail, and the natural - looking results of his treatments.
Dr. Michele Green
Dr. Michele Green is a world - renowned expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology. She has over 25 years of experience treating a wide range of skin concerns, including dark under - eyes. Dr. Green offers a host of non - invasive cosmetic procedures for rejuvenation, including under - eye fillers. She uses an ultrafine needle for precision in the tear trough injections and applies a local anesthetic one hour before the procedure to minimize discomfort. She will assess the patient's under - eye area to choose the most appropriate dermal filler and the number of syringes required. Dr. Green is also skilled in addressing any potential side effects and offers follow - up appointments to ensure the best results.
Dr. Brett Kotlus
Dr. Brett Kotlus is a cosmetic oculoplastic surgeon. He has specialized training in this area and uses his extensive experience to select the best filler or combination of fillers for each patient. He is against using permanent or semi - permanent injectable fillers under the eyes due to the potential for irreversible lumps and bumps. Instead, he recommends cross - linked hyaluronic acid (HA) gel fillers, with Restylane - L being his top choice for under - eye filling. Dr. Kotlus is also proficient in correcting any issues that may arise from previous under - eye filler treatments.
Dr. Zuckerman
Dr. Zuckerman uses Restylane - L, a hyaluronic acid filler with lidocaine, for tear trough rejuvenation. It is the least hydrophilic of hyaluronic acid fillers, which minimizes swelling. He injects deep into the tissues, near the bone, and can inject up to 1 cc + of filler per eye. His treatments are known to help patients appear rested and refreshed both at rest and during facial animation. Dr. Zuckerman also takes measures to minimize bruising, such as using his techniques and icing the affected area post - treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hyaluronic Acid Tear Trough Filling
1. 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.
2. Is the tear trough filler procedure painful?
The level of discomfort can vary depending on the patient's pain tolerance and the technique used by the injector. However, since the skin is usually prepped with a numbing agent, most people describe the procedure as relatively comfortable with only minor discomfort. Some doctors, like Dr. Cangello, use a cannula for injection, which can result in little to no pain.
3. 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.
4. How long do the results of tear trough filler last?
The results 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.
5. Does tear trough filler have any side effects?
While tear trough filler treatment is considered safe, it can have some potential risks and side effects. These may include swelling, bruising, redness, itching, and infection. The tyndall effect, which causes 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. To prevent these, it is important to have the procedure performed by an experienced and board - certified injector.
6. What is the cost of tear trough filler?
The cost of tear trough filler injections can vary depending on several factors, including the type and amount of filler used. Multiple syringes may be needed to achieve the desired results, and the number of syringes required will depend on the patient's specific needs and goals. Typically, fillers cost $1000 or more per syringe.
7. Can I combine other treatments with tear trough filler?
Yes, many patients choose to combine tear trough filler with other injectables such as Botox® for more comprehensive non - surgical facial rejuvenation. Other complementary treatments can include microneedling, platelet - rich plasma (PRP) therapy, thermage, chemical peels, and non - ablative laser resurfacing treatments.
Conclusion
Hyaluronic acid tear trough filling is a popular and effective non - surgical cosmetic procedure in New York City for rejuvenating the under - eye area. It offers numerous benefits, including reducing the appearance of dark circles and under - eye hollows, restoring volume, and providing a more youthful appearance with little downtime. However, it is crucial to choose the right hospital and doctor for the procedure. Hospitals like Mount Sinai Hospital, New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell, NYU Langone Hospitals, and Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health have the expertise and facilities to provide high - quality treatments. Doctors such as Dr. David Cangello, Dr. Michele Green, Dr. Brett Kotlus, and Dr. Zuckerman are known for their skills and personalized approaches to tear trough filling.
If you are considering hyaluronic acid tear trough filling, take the time to research and consult with different doctors to find the one that best suits your needs and goals. Don't hesitate to ask questions about the procedure, the expected results, and the potential risks. By making an informed decision, you can achieve the desired rejuvenation of your under - eye area and enhance your overall appearance.
So, if you've been bothered by the signs of aging under your eyes, now is the time to take action. Contact one of the top hospitals or doctors in New York City mentioned in this article to schedule a consultation and start your journey towards a more refreshed and youthful look!