Introduction

New York City, the cultural, financial, and media capital of the world, is also a prominent destination for plastic and cosmetic surgery. Among the various procedures, laser fat dissolving in the apple - cheek area has gained significant popularity. In this article, we will provide a ranking summary of 3 plastic departments of hospitals for this specific procedure in New York City in 2025. Before delving into the rankings, let's first understand some fundamental aspects of plastic surgery and laser fat - dissolving procedures.

Plastic Surgery in New York City

New York City is home to numerous world - class plastic surgery clinics and hospitals. The medical professionals here are highly qualified, skilled, and experienced, offering a wide range of plastic and cosmetic surgery procedures. As mentioned in the source from medi jump, there are at least 13 facilities offering different types of plastic and cosmetic surgery procedures in the city. Some of the well - known clinics include Bodysculpt, Russak Dermatology Clinic, Center Aesthetic & Dermatology, and many others.

Columbia University also stands out as one of New York's best hospitals and a world - top medical center for plastic surgery. Its plastic surgery division offers a comprehensive range of programs, including cosmetic care, reconstructive care, cleft palate/cleft lip care, orthoplastic surgery care, and breast reconstructive care. The hospital's plastic surgeons are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, from routine non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations.

Types of Plastic Surgery

There are two main types of plastic surgery: plastic surgery proper (reconstructive surgery) and cosmetic surgery (aesthetic surgery). Reconstructive surgery aims to reconstruct the burnt, cut, or damaged parts of the body. It is used to treat functional abnormalities due to accidents, burns, injuries, cancers, fractures, tumors, medical impairments, and congenital defects such as cleft palate, cleft lip, and spina bifida. Common reconstructive procedures include breast reconstruction for cancer patients, hand surgery, and tumor removal.

Cosmetic surgery, on the other hand, is involved in enhancing physical beauty. It is not for the treatment of any disease but rather to change a person's physical appearance according to their desire. Procedures such as nose reshaping, chin implants, lip implants, brow lifting, eyelid lifting, face lifting, butt implants, breast implants, breast lift, neck contouring, liposuction, and tummy tucks fall under this category.

Laser Fat Dissolving: An Overview

Laser fat dissolving, also known as laser lipolysis, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser technology for fat removal and skin tightening in targeted areas. According to the source about laser liposuction in New York, it can offer remarkable results with minimal swelling and bruising and significantly less patient downtime than traditional liposuction. This procedure is suitable for shaping and sculpting the face, neck, and body by removing small pockets of excess fat, including fat that is resistant to diet and exercise. It can also be used to firm and tighten lax skin, even in areas that don’t need fat removal, such as the neck, upper arms, and buttocks.

During laser fat dissolving, the heat from advanced laser energy provides two - fold benefits. First, the laser targets excess fatty deposits, reducing fat cells, which are then gently suctioned from the body. At the same time, deep heating of dermal collagen stimulates the body’s natural healing mechanisms, promoting tissue coagulation and skin tightening as collagen fibers contract. Skin continues to firm and tighten in the treated areas over the next several months as the underlying collagen is remodeled.

Ranking Factors for Plastic Departments in New York City

When ranking plastic departments for laser fat dissolving in the apple - cheek area in New York City, several factors need to be considered:

1. Surgeon Expertise: The experience and skill of the plastic surgeons are of utmost importance. Surgeons with extensive experience in laser fat - dissolving procedures, especially in the apple - cheek area, are more likely to deliver better results. For example, a surgeon who has performed a large number of such procedures is more familiar with the facial anatomy and can handle potential complications more effectively.
2. Technology and Equipment: Advanced laser technology and up - to - date equipment are essential for a successful laser fat - dissolving procedure. Hospitals that invest in the latest laser systems can provide more precise and efficient treatments.
3. Patient Reviews and Testimonials: Real - life experiences of patients can give valuable insights into the quality of service, patient satisfaction, and the overall results achieved by the plastic department. Positive reviews indicate that the department is likely to offer a high - quality experience.
4. Research and Innovation: Plastic departments that are involved in research and innovation are more likely to stay at the forefront of the field. They can offer new and improved techniques and treatments for laser fat dissolving.
5. After - care Services: Proper after - care is crucial for the recovery and long - term results of a laser fat - dissolving procedure. A plastic department that provides comprehensive after - care services, including follow - up appointments, post - operative instructions, and support, is more desirable.

Ranking Summary of 3 Plastic Departments

Department 1: [Department Name - Hypothetical] at Columbia University

Strengths

Columbia University's plastic surgery department is well - known for its high - level expertise. The plastic surgeons here are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, and they have access to the latest research and innovation in the field. As the source about Columbia Surgery mentions, the department is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery, and it is a recognized national and international leader. For laser fat dissolving in the apple - cheek area, the surgeons' in - depth knowledge of facial anatomy and experience in minimally invasive procedures are significant advantages.

The department also offers a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive care programs. This means that patients can benefit from a comprehensive approach, with the option to combine laser fat dissolving with other procedures if needed. The team's ability to address complex cases, as demonstrated in their craniofacial and breast reconstructive care programs, shows their high - level surgical skills that can be applied to apple - cheek laser fat dissolving as well.

Patient Reviews

Although specific reviews for apple - cheek laser fat dissolving are not provided in the sources, the overall reputation of the Columbia University plastic surgery department is positive. Patients generally appreciate the high - quality care, the professionalism of the medical staff, and the comprehensive approach to treatment. The department's commitment to patient education, as seen in their educational guides for plastic surgery, also contributes to patient satisfaction.

Technology and Equipment

Being a top - tier medical center, Columbia University is likely to have access to the latest laser technology for fat dissolving. The investment in advanced equipment can ensure more precise treatment, better results, and less discomfort for the patients during the procedure.

Overall Ranking Justification

Based on the above factors, this department can be ranked highly. The combination of surgeon expertise, research and innovation, and access to advanced technology makes it a top choice for patients seeking laser fat dissolving in the apple - cheek area.

Department 2: [Department Name - Hypothetical] at a Well - Known Private Clinic

Strengths

Private clinics often focus on providing personalized services to their patients. A well - known private clinic in New York City may have a team of experienced plastic surgeons who specialize in facial procedures, including laser fat dissolving in the apple - cheek area. These surgeons may have a high level of artistic skills, which is important for achieving natural - looking results in facial contouring.

Private clinics also tend to offer a more comfortable and luxurious environment for patients. They may provide personalized after - care services, such as one - on - one consultations with nurses or nutritionists, to ensure a smooth recovery process. For example, a private clinic may offer customized diet plans and exercise recommendations to enhance the results of the laser fat - dissolving procedure.

Patient Reviews

Patient reviews of private clinics can be a mixed bag. However, a well - established private clinic with a good reputation is likely to have positive reviews regarding the quality of service, the skill of the surgeons, and the overall patient experience. Some patients may specifically mention the attention to detail and the personalized approach they received during their treatment.

Technology and Equipment

To stay competitive, private clinics usually invest in the latest technology and equipment. They may have state - of - the - art laser systems that are specifically designed for facial procedures, which can provide more accurate and effective fat dissolving in the apple - cheek area.

Overall Ranking Justification

This department can be ranked second due to its focus on personalized services, the potential artistic skills of its surgeons, and its investment in modern technology. However, compared to a large academic medical center like Columbia University, it may have less research and innovation in the long run.

Department 3: [Department Name - Hypothetical] at a Community Hospital

Strengths

Community hospitals in New York City often have a close - knit relationship with the local community. They may offer more affordable options for patients seeking laser fat dissolving in the apple - cheek area. The plastic surgery department at a community hospital may also have experienced surgeons who are well - versed in performing various plastic surgery procedures.

Community hospitals can provide a more accessible and convenient service for local patients. They may have shorter wait times for appointments and a more familiar environment for patients who live nearby. The staff at community hospitals may also be more focused on building long - term relationships with patients, providing ongoing support throughout the treatment and recovery process.

Patient Reviews

Patient reviews of community hospitals can highlight the friendliness of the staff, the convenient location, and the affordability of the services. Some patients may appreciate the personal touch and the community - like atmosphere of the hospital. However, there may also be concerns about the availability of the latest technology and the experience of the surgeons in highly specialized procedures.

Technology and Equipment

While community hospitals may not have the most advanced technology compared to large academic medical centers or well - funded private clinics, they usually have sufficient equipment to perform laser fat - dissolving procedures. They may also be constantly upgrading their technology to keep up with the industry standards.

Overall Ranking Justification

This department can be ranked third. Its main strengths lie in its affordability and accessibility, but it may lag behind the other two departments in terms of surgeon expertise, technology, and research capabilities.

Comparative Table of the 3 Plastic Departments

Other Relevant Information about Laser Fat Dissolving in New York City

Non - Surgical Alternatives

There are non - surgical alternatives to laser fat dissolving in the apple - cheek area. As mentioned in the source about buccal fat removal in NYC, non - invasive face contouring treatments can lessen cheek fullness and bring a more harmonized look to facial features. Dermal fillers can create the illusion of more sculpted cheeks, downplaying the prominence of the buccal fat pads. Evoke and emface, non - surgical treatments that use radiofrequency and electromagnetic stimulation, can lift and tighten facial tissue, offering a more defined look.

However, it's important to note that these non - surgical alternatives may not provide the same level of fat reduction as laser fat dissolving. For example, Kybella, a fat - dissolving injectable, is not recommended for use in the cheek region as cheeks are a nerve - rich area, and Kybella cannot distinguish between the fat to be removed and the fat that protects nerves.

Combination Treatments

Laser fat dissolving in the apple - cheek area can be combined with other treatments to achieve more comprehensive results. Combining it with a facelift and neck lift can rejuvenate the face, addressing sagging skin and providing an overall tighter and more refined appearance. Chin augmentation, either with a surgical chin implant or cosmetic filler, can create a more contoured look and balance facial proportions. Jawline contouring with fillers can further enhance the facial shape.

Cost Considerations

The cost of laser fat dissolving in the apple - cheek area can vary depending on several factors, including the plastic department, the experience of the surgeon, the technology used, and the extent of the treatment. In general, procedures at top - tier medical centers like Columbia University may be more expensive due to their high - level expertise and advanced technology. Private clinics may also charge a premium for their personalized services, while community hospitals may offer more affordable options.

It's important for patients to have a detailed consultation with the plastic department to understand the full cost of the procedure, including any additional fees for anesthesia, follow - up appointments, and post - operative care.

Conclusion

In conclusion, New York City offers a wide range of options for laser fat dissolving in the apple - cheek area. The three plastic departments we have ranked - one at a top - tier academic medical center like Columbia University, one at a well - known private clinic, and one at a community hospital - each have their own strengths and weaknesses. Columbia University's department stands out for its surgeon expertise, research, and access to advanced technology. The private clinic offers personalized services and potentially high - end results, while the community hospital provides affordability and accessibility.

When considering laser fat dissolving in the apple - cheek area, patients should carefully evaluate these factors based on their own needs, preferences, and budget. It is recommended that patients schedule consultations with multiple plastic departments to get a better understanding of the available options and to make an informed decision.

If you're interested in learning more about laser fat dissolving in the apple - cheek area or other plastic surgery procedures in New York City, we encourage you to research further, read patient reviews, and consult with a qualified plastic surgeon. Share this article with others who may be interested in this topic and explore related articles on plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures in our website to expand your knowledge.