Introduction
The appearance of the under - eye area can significantly impact a person's overall look. Tear troughs, the hollows between the lower eyelid and the upper cheek, can make one look tired, older, and less vibrant. In New York City, a hub of cosmetic procedures, tear trough filling has become a popular non - surgical option to address this concern. This article will explore the top institutions for tear trough filling in NYC, including an in - depth analysis of the treatment, relevant doctors, and more.
Understanding Tear Troughs and Tear Trough Filling
What are Tear Troughs?
Tear troughs are natural contours that exist between the under - eye area and the top of the cheekbone. Some people may have more prominent tear troughs from birth, while for others, they become more noticeable with age. As we age, the skin loses its elasticity, and there is a loss of fat and volume underneath the skin. This can lead to the tear troughs appearing deeper, causing dark circles, under - eye bags, and a tired appearance. A study from the Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology journal (Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol) has shown that facial aging in the under - eye area is a complex process involving multiple factors such as genetic predisposition and environmental influences.
How Tear Trough Filling Works
Tear trough filling is a non - surgical cosmetic procedure that involves injecting dermal fillers into the under - eye area to restore lost volume, smooth out the hollows, and reduce the appearance of dark circles and eye bags. The most commonly used fillers are hyaluronic acid (HA) based. HA is a substance that occurs naturally in the body and helps to plump the skin and increase collagen production. When injected into the tear trough area, it binds to water, softening and plumping the skin to produce a more youthful appearance.
The benefits of tear trough filling are numerous. Firstly, it provides instant results, allowing patients to see an improvement in the under - eye area immediately after the procedure. Secondly, it is a non - surgical option, which means there is no need for anesthesia or a long recovery period. Most patients can return to their normal activities right away. Thirdly, the results can last for several months, typically around 6 - 18 months depending on the type of filler used.
Top Institutions for Tear Trough Filling in New York City
Smooth Synergy Medical Spa & Laser Center
Smooth Synergy is known for being one of the best spas in NYC for tear trough filling. Their medical director, Dr. George Liakeas, MD, has extensive experience in cosmetic procedures. The spa offers a variety of dermal fillers, including Restylane, Juvederm, and Belotero.
The procedure at Smooth Synergy usually takes between 15 minutes to an hour. Dr. George will first evaluate the patient's face and mark strategic injection points. Then, using a super - fine needle, he will inject the filler along these predetermined sites. After the injection, he will assess whether additional filler is needed for maximum benefit. Patients can expect some mild swelling or bruising, which usually resolves within a few days. According to the center, their clients appreciate the natural - looking results and the personalized treatment plans.
Dr. Michele Green's Private Dermatology Office
Dr. Michele Green is a world - renowned expert in cosmetic dermatology, with over 25 years of experience treating patients from around the globe. She is consistently rated as a top NYC dermatologist by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and the New York Times.
Dr. Green offers a host of non - invasive cosmetic procedures for under - eye rejuvenation, including tear trough fillers. She uses hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm Volbella, Restylane, Restylane Eye Light, and Belotero Balance. Before the procedure, Dr. Green will assess the patient's under - eye hollows to choose the most appropriate filler. She will also determine the number of syringes required. One hour before the injection, a local anesthetic is applied to the treatment area, and the fillers used are compounded with lidocaine to minimize pain. After the injection, ice is applied to the area, and patients are given aftercare instructions. Dr. Green also schedules a two - week follow - up to ensure the treatment was satisfactory and to determine if any touch - up is needed.
Dr. David Cangello's Plastic Surgery Office
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 the patient's individual needs, goals, and medical history and develop a customized treatment plan.
Before the procedure, patients need to discuss their medical history and medications with Dr. Cangello. They should also avoid blood - thinning medications and supplements, alcohol, and caffeine in the days leading up to the appointment. The filler is injected into the under - eye area using a small cannula, and results are usually visible immediately. After the procedure, it is normal to experience mild swelling, bruising, and redness, which usually subside within a few days to a week. Patients are advised to avoid rubbing or massaging the area for at least 24 hours and to avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and blood - thinning medications for the same period.
Dr. Mesa's Cosmetic Plastic Surgery
Dr. Mesa is a board - certified plastic surgeon with a practice focused on cosmetic procedures of the face, neck, breast, and body. He has extensive training at Harvard University and other top institutions and is known for achieving exceptional results.
For tear trough filling, Dr. Mesa uses hyaluronic acid - based dermal fillers. A topical anesthetic may be applied to the skin before treatment to increase patient comfort. He injects the filler into the skin beneath the lower eyelid and lightly massages the area to distribute the filler. The procedure is then repeated below the other eyelid. There is minimal downtime after the treatment, with most people able to return to work in two to three days. Patients may experience some swelling, bruising, and redness, which should subside in a few days. Applying ice to the treatment areas during the first 48 hours and avoiding strenuous activity for two days after the procedure is recommended.
Neinstein Plastic Surgery
Neinstein Plastic Surgery offers tear trough filler injections as an alternative to surgery. Their approach is to inject the hyaluronic acid gel very deep, almost directly on the cheekbone starting about half - way up the nose, and slowly move it up towards the tear trough area. This technique is said to be safe, predictable, and significantly reduces the risk of bruising.
Before the injections, patients are asked not to use blood thinners like aspirin for 5 days. On the day of the procedure, makeup is removed, and the skin is numbed for 20 minutes. Only cannulas are used (no needles under the skin) to reduce tissue trauma. After the injections, ice is placed on the eyes for 5 minutes, and patients take a one - time dose of steroids to reduce swelling. Recovery involves avoiding rubbing or massaging the treated area, waiting 24 hours before resuming strenuous activities, and applying cool compresses to the area. Temporary swelling and bruising may occur, and mild tenderness at the treatment site can last for a few hours or a couple of days.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Institution for Tear Trough Filling
Doctor's Experience and Expertise
The experience and expertise of the doctor performing the tear trough filling are crucial. Look for doctors who are board - certified in relevant fields such as dermatology or plastic surgery. They should have extensive experience in performing tear trough filling procedures and a good understanding of facial anatomy. Doctors like Dr. Michele Green, with over 25 years of experience, are more likely to be able to provide safe and effective treatments. They can accurately assess the patient's needs, choose the right filler, and perform the injection with precision to achieve natural - looking results.
Type of Fillers Used
Different institutions may use different types of fillers. As mentioned earlier, hyaluronic acid fillers are the most commonly used for tear trough filling. However, there are various brands and formulations within the HA category. For example, Juvederm Volbella is the first FDA - approved dermal filler for treating tear troughs and has a thin formulation. Restylane Eyelight is a newer filler that was FDA - approved in 2023 for use under the eyes. The choice of filler depends on factors such as the patient's facial anatomy, skin concerns, and cosmetic goals. A good institution will have a variety of fillers available and a doctor who can select the most appropriate one for each patient.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an idea of the quality of service and results provided by an institution. Look for reviews on trusted platforms such as Google, Yelp, or the institution's official website. Positive reviews often mention natural - looking results, minimal pain and discomfort during the procedure, and good after - care. On the other hand, negative reviews may highlight issues such as uneven results, excessive swelling or bruising, or poor communication with the staff. By considering these reviews, you can make a more informed decision about which institution to choose.
Cost
The cost of tear trough filling can vary depending on several factors, including the type and amount of filler used, the doctor's experience, and the location of the institution. While it is important to find a treatment that fits your budget, do not solely base your decision on cost. Cheaper options may not always provide the best results or the same level of safety. It is recommended to consult with multiple institutions to get a clear understanding of the pricing and what is included in the cost.
Potential Risks and Side Effects of Tear Trough Filling
Common Side Effects
Most tear trough filling procedures are associated with mild side effects. These can include swelling, bruising, redness, and itching at the injection site. Swelling and redness are common immediately after the injection and usually resolve within a few days. Bruising may take a bit longer to fade, typically around a week. Applying ice to the area can help reduce swelling and bruising. Some patients may also experience a mild amount of pain or discomfort during the injection, but this can be minimized with the use of local anesthetics.
Rare but Serious Side Effects
Although rare, there are some more serious side effects that can occur. These include the Tyndall effect, which is a bluish discoloration in the injected area that can occur if the hyaluronic acid filler is injected too superficially. This can last for several months but can be reversed with hyaluronidase. Other rare side effects include changes in vision, vascular occlusion (blockage of blood vessels), signs of infection at the injection sites, allergic reaction to the dermal filler product, worsening bruising or swelling, numbness, and persistent pain. To minimize the risk of these serious side effects, it is essential to have the procedure performed by an experienced and qualified doctor.
Conclusion
Tear trough filling is an effective non - surgical option for rejuvenating the under - eye area and reducing the appearance of dark circles and eye bags. In New York City, there are several top - notch institutions such as Smooth Synergy Medical Spa & Laser Center, Dr. Michele Green's Private Dermatology Office, Dr. David Cangello's Plastic Surgery Office, Dr. Mesa's Cosmetic Plastic Surgery, and Neinstein Plastic Surgery that offer high - quality tear trough filling services. When choosing an institution, it is important to consider factors such as the doctor's experience, the type of fillers used, patient reviews, and cost.
If you are considering tear trough filling, we encourage you to do thorough research, schedule consultations with different institutions, and ask plenty of questions. By making an informed decision, you can achieve the natural - looking and rejuvenated under - eye appearance you desire. Share this article with your friends and family who may also be interested in tear trough filling, and explore our other related articles for more in - depth information on cosmetic procedures.
