Introduction
When it comes to surgical removal of nasolabial folds in New York City, finding the right hospital is of utmost importance. Nasolabial folds, also known as "smile lines," can become more prominent with age, sun damage, smoking, and other factors. While non - surgical options like dermal fillers exist, some individuals may opt for surgical removal for more long - lasting results. In this article, we will explore various hospitals in New York City and related rankings that can be relevant to this procedure. We will also delve into the causes of nasolabial folds, the different treatment options, and why certain hospitals might be preferred for this type of surgery.
Understanding Nasolabial Folds
What are Nasolabial Folds?
Nasolabial folds are the lines that run from the bottom of the nose to the corners of the mouth. These structures in the face support the buccal fat pad and separate the cheeks from the upper lip. Everyone has nasolabial folds, but their prominence can vary greatly among individuals.
Causes of Deep Nasolabial Folds
- Age: As we age, the collagen and elastin fibers in our skin break down. This leads to a loss of skin elasticity and firmness. The cheekbones also tend to flatten, causing the skin to sag and the nasolabial folds to become more pronounced.
- Sun Damage: Prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin's structure. UV rays break down collagen and elastin, accelerating the aging process and making the nasolabial folds more visible.
- Smoking: Smoking is known to have a negative impact on the skin. It reduces blood flow to the skin, which can lead to a decrease in the production of collagen and elastin. This can cause the skin to age prematurely and deepen the nasolabial folds.
- Weight Changes: Significant weight loss can result in looser skin in the face and neck area, accentuating the nasolabial folds. On the other hand, rapid weight gain can plump up the face in a way that also makes the creases more noticeable.
- Genetic Factors: Some people may be genetically predisposed to having deeper nasolabial folds. Even at a relatively young age, such as 25, genetic factors can cause these folds to be more prominent.
- Sleeping Position: Side sleeping can put pressure on one or both sides of the face, causing the nasolabial folds to deepen over time.
Preventive Measures for Nasolabial Folds
While it's not possible to completely prevent nasolabial folds, there are some steps you can take to minimize their appearance. Abstaining from smoking is crucial, as it has a significant impact on skin health. Using sunscreen regularly can protect the skin from sun damage. Moisturizing skin care products containing vitamin C and retinol can help keep the skin supple and smooth, reducing the rate at which nasolabial folds develop.
Treatment Options for Nasolabial Folds
Non - Surgical Options
- Dermal Fillers: Dermal fillers such as Restylane and Juvederm are commonly used to reduce the appearance of nasolabial folds. These fillers work by adding volume to the area, smoothing out the folds. The procedure is relatively quick, and patients can usually resume their daily activities immediately after treatment. However, the results are temporary, typically lasting up to 18 months.
- Laser Skin Resurfacing: This treatment uses laser technology to remove the outer layer of skin and stimulate the production of new collagen. It can improve the texture and appearance of the skin, including the nasolabial folds.
- Microdermabrasion: Microdermabrasion involves exfoliating the outer layer of the skin using tiny crystals. It can help improve the appearance of nasolabial folds by removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover.
Surgical Options
When the nasolabial folds are deep and non - surgical options are not sufficient, surgical removal may be recommended. Nasolabial fold excision is the most effective surgical procedure for removing deep nasolabial folds. It is usually performed under local anesthesia and takes about an hour. The stitches are removed within five to seven days, and it may take several weeks for the full recovery to occur.
It's important to note that a facelift is not always the best solution for severe nasolabial folds. While a mid - facelift or full facelift can address some aspects of facial aging, direct incision for nasolabial fold removal may be necessary. Sometimes, a mid - facelift may be combined with nasolabial fold excision to correct drooping cheeks, or a small cheek implant may be used to provide definition to the upper part of the face.
Relevant Hospital Rankings in New York City
U.S. News & World Report Rankings
U.S. News & World Report is a global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders, and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. In their “Best Hospitals 2024–2025” list, several NYC Health + Hospitals' facilities were recognized for excellence in treating various conditions, though not specifically for nasolabial fold surgery. However, these rankings can give an indication of the overall quality of care at these hospitals.
Hospital | Procedures & Conditions |
---|---|
NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue | Heart failure, heart attack |
NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst | Heart failure, heart attack, hip fracture, kidney failure |
NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem | Heart failure |
NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi | Heart failure, diabetes, kidney failure |
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | Heart failure, kidney failure |
NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln | Heart failure, COPD, kidney failure |
NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan | Heart failure |
NYC Health + Hospitals/South Brooklyn Health | Heart failure |
NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens | Heart failure, diabetes |
NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull | COPD, diabetes |
Healthgrades Rankings for Surgical Care
Healthgrades has recognized several hospitals in New York for their surgical care excellence. These rankings can be useful when considering a hospital for nasolabial fold surgery as they reflect the overall surgical performance of the facilities.
Hospital | Awards |
---|---|
Our Lady of Lourdes Memorial Hospital | Surgical Care Excellence Award™ (2023, 2022); America's 100 Best Orthopedic Surgery™ (2023, 2022, 2021); Joint Replacement Excellence Award™ (2023) |
Maimonides Medical Center | America's 50 Best Surgical Care™ (2023, 2022); America's 50 Best Cardiac Surgery™ (2023, 2022, 2021); America's 100 Best Orthopedic Surgery™ (2023, 2022) |
New York - Presbyterian Queens | Surgical Care Excellence Award™ (2023, 2022); America's 100 Best Gastrointestinal Surgery™ (2023, 2022, 2021); America's 100 Best Stroke Care™ (2023, 2021) |
Jamaica Hospital Medical Center | Surgical Care Excellence Award™ (2023); America's 250 Best Hospitals Award™ (2023, 2022, 2021); State Ranking Award - Surgical Care (2023) |
Kenmore Mercy Hospital | Surgical Care Excellence Award™ (2023); America's 100 Best Spine Surgery™ (2023, 2022, 2021); State Ranking Award - Surgical Care (2023) |
Mount Sinai South Nassau | Surgical Care Excellence Award™ (2023, 2022); Coronary Intervention Excellence Award™ (2023); Orthopedic Surgery Excellence Award™ (2023, 2022, 2021) |
Phelps Hospital | Surgical Care Excellence Award™ (2023, 2022); Patient Safety Excellence Award™ (2023, 2022); Gastrointestinal Care Excellence Award™ (2023) |
Saint Elizabeth Medical Center | Surgical Care Excellence Award™ (2023, 2022); Coronary Intervention Excellence Award™ (2023); Outpatient Joint Replacement Award™ (2023) |
Newsweek Rankings for Ambulatory Surgery Centers
Ambulatory surgery centers offer the convenience of quicker procedures, with the patient typically returning home on the same day. Newsweek, in partnership with Statista, has ranked America's best ambulatory surgery centers in 2024. In New York, the following centers are highly ranked:
Rank | Center | Score | City |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Gramercy Surgery Center - New York | 86.72% | New York |
2 | Gramercy Surgery Center - Queens | 82.22% | Flushing |
3 | East Side Endoscopy | 81.86% | New York |
4 | Upstate Orthopedics Ambulatory Surgery Center | 79.27% | East Syracuse |
5 | Northwell Health - Endoscopy Center of Long Island | 78.28% | Garden City |
6 | Brighton Surgery Center | 78.21% | Rochester |
7 | Buffalo Surgery Center | 78.18% | Amherst |
8 | Brooklyn Surgery Center | 77.72% | Brooklyn |
9 | Advanced Endoscopy Center - Bronx | 77.70% | Bronx |
10 | Dutchess Ambulatory Surgical Center | 77.54% | Poughkeepsie |
Specific Hospitals for Consideration
New York - Presbyterian Hospital
New York - Presbyterian is ranked #1 in the NY metro area according to U.S. News & World Report's first - ever best metro - area hospitals rankings. It is the only hospital that is highly rated in all 16 clinical specialties. This hospital has a team of world - class clinicians, cutting - edge treatment options, and a strong focus on patient safety and quality of care. Their diverse team of specialists, including nurse - Ph.D.s, Pharm.D.s, and social workers, work together to provide comprehensive care. The hospital also has advanced facilities and technologies, such as the Ronald O. Perelman Heart Institute and the Vivian and Seymour Milstein Family Heart Center. While not specifically ranked for nasolabial fold surgery, its overall excellence in patient care and surgical services makes it a strong candidate for consideration.
Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS)
HSS is recognized internationally as a leader in orthopedics and is ranked #1 in the US for orthopedics. Their spine center is also highly regarded, with experts who treat all types of spine conditions. Although not directly related to nasolabial fold surgery, a hospital with such high - quality surgical and medical expertise in general may have skilled plastic surgeons on staff who can perform nasolabial fold excision procedures. HSS has exceptional patient care, rigorous infection control protocols, and leading - edge research, which contribute to better patient outcomes.
NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals in New York are nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties. They are also ranked #5 in gastroenterology & GI surgery hospitals according to U.S. News. This hospital's wide range of specialties and high - quality medical services suggest that it may have well - trained plastic surgeons who can perform nasolabial fold surgery. The hospital is likely to have access to the latest surgical techniques and technologies, which can enhance the results of the procedure.
Cost of Nasolabial Fold Surgery
The cost of nasolabial fold surgery can vary depending on several factors. These include the facility where the surgery is performed, the geographic location, the type of anesthesia used, and the expertise of the surgeon. Generally, nasolabial fold surgery is 50 - 75% cheaper than a facelift and is less invasive. However, it's important to note that this cosmetic procedure is not typically covered by health insurance providers. If cost is a concern, patients should discuss payment plans and financing options with the hospital or the surgeon's office.
Choosing the Right Hospital for Nasolabial Fold Surgery
When choosing a hospital for nasolabial fold surgery in New York City, several factors should be considered:
- Surgeon's Expertise: Look for a plastic surgeon who has experience and a good track record in performing nasolabial fold surgery. Ask to see before - and - after photos of previous patients to get an idea of the surgeon's skills.
- Hospital Reputation