Introduction

The area under the eyes, specifically the tear trough, is a common cosmetic concern for many individuals. As people age, the skin under the eyes becomes thinner, subcutaneous fat volume is lost, and the tear trough area can appear more prominent. This can make a person look tired or older than they actually are. Fat removal and related treatments in the tear trough area are sought after to achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals that offer high - quality services for tear trough fat removal. In this article, we will explore the top five hospitals in the city that excel in this area.

Understanding Tear Trough Deformity

Tear trough deformity can occur due to a combination of factors. Aging is a major contributor, as with age, there is a loss of facial fat, skin elasticity, and the laxity of facial ligaments. Genetics also play a role, and some individuals are born with a lack of facial fat volume in the tear trough area, resulting in an under - eye hollow. The tear trough is the sunken area beneath the lower eyelids, below the under - eye bags, and extending towards the cheeks.

As the fat that normally covers the tear trough area descends with aging, a hollow is created. The skin under the eyes is thinner and more delicate than other parts of the face, making it particularly prone to volume loss. As the volume decreases, the skin starts to sag, creating a hollow or trough - like appearance. Common signs of tear trough deformity include dark circles, under - eye hollows, and puffiness in the lower eyelid area.

Treatment Options for Tear Trough Deformity

There are several treatment options available for tear trough deformity. The two main approaches are non - surgical and surgical.

Non - surgical Treatments

• Dermal Fillers: This is a popular non - surgical option. Tear trough filler involves injecting a hyaluronic acid - based filler (HA) into the area under the eyes. Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Restylane® or Belotero, are commonly used as they are safe, effective, and provide natural - looking results. They can reduce the appearance of dark circles, camouflage under - eye bags and puffiness, and restore volume to the under - eye area. The procedure is relatively quick, with results visible immediately, and requires little to no downtime. However, the effects typically last for several months, usually around 6 - 12 months, depending on the individual and the type of filler used.
• Fat Transfer: Autologous fat transfer, also known as fat grafting, uses the patient's own fat as filler. Fat is harvested from areas like the abdomen, hips, inner thighs, or buttocks through liposuction or syringe aspiration. The fat cells are then processed and injected into the tear trough area. One of the advantages of fat transfer is that it is a natural filler, with a low risk of allergic reaction or rejection. Depending on the location, 50 - 75% of the transferred fat can remain in place as a permanent natural filler.

Surgical Treatments

• Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty: If the under - eye hollows are accompanied by under - eye bags, this procedure can be used. The fat causing the bags can be transposed into the under - eye hollow during the lower eyelid blepharoplasty. It is a more invasive option compared to non - surgical treatments and requires a longer recovery time.

The Top Five Hospitals for Fat Removal of Tear Troughs in New York City

1. Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

Columbia University is one of New York's best hospitals and a world - class medical center. Its plastic surgery division has a team of highly proficient plastic surgeons who are experts in multiple areas of specialization, including procedures related to the tear trough area.

Expertise and Services

• Cosmetic Procedures: They offer a wide range of cosmetic procedures that can address tear trough deformity. Liposuction can be used in conjunction with other techniques for overall facial contouring. For tear trough treatment, they can provide dermal filler injections or fat transfer. Their surgeons have extensive experience in choosing the most appropriate treatment based on the patient's individual needs and goals.
• Reconstructive Care: In cases where tear trough deformity is a result of trauma or other underlying conditions, their reconstructive plastic surgeons can provide comprehensive care. They are leaders in this field, with a focus on achieving natural - looking results and restoring the patient's physical and emotional well - being.
• Research and Innovation: The hospital is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery. Their research in areas such as stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy can potentially lead to new and improved treatment options for tear trough fat removal and related issues in the future.

Surgeon Profiles

• Christine Rohde, MD: A highly skilled clinician, researcher, and teacher. She is trained in the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, with a specialization in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, body contouring, and cosmetic surgery, including procedures related to the face.
• Jeffrey A. Ascherman, MD: An experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over 75 scientific publications and multiple appearances on lists of top doctors. His extensive experience and expertise make him well - qualified to handle tear trough fat removal procedures.

2. Weill Cornell Medicine

Weill Cornell Medicine partners with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S. Their plastic and reconstructive surgery department is known for providing high - quality care for body contouring, including tear trough fat removal.

Expertise and Services

• Personalized Care: From the initial consultation, the team at Weill Cornell Medicine takes the time to understand the patient's unique concerns and needs. They design personalized treatment plans for tear trough fat removal, whether it's through dermal fillers, fat transfer, or other procedures. Their goal is to help patients achieve the natural appearance they desire.
• Advanced Surgical Options: Their surgeons are highly skilled in performing the most advanced surgical options for body contouring. For tear trough treatment, they can use precise techniques to ensure optimal results with minimal scarring and downtime.
• Focus on Comfort: The hospital prioritizes the patient's comfort at every step of the process. Before surgery, patients have the opportunity to ask questions and feel confident about the procedure. In the state - of - the - art surgical suites, the latest anesthetics and medications are used to help patients recover more quickly and heal faster.

Body Contouring Options

3. Mount Sinai - New York

Mount Sinai offers a range of plastic surgery services, including liposuction, which can be relevant for tear trough fat removal when combined with other techniques.

Expertise and Services

• Liposuction Options: They offer different types of liposuction, such as power - assisted liposuction (PAL) and Smartlipo MPX™. PAL uses a gentle vibration of a cannula to loosen the fat for easier removal with suction. Smartlipo MPX™ uses a laser to heat the fat, which helps with its removal and can also help the skin retract after removal, especially useful for areas like the upper arms, neck, and inner thighs. These techniques can be adjusted for more precise fat removal in the tear trough area.
• Comprehensive Consultation: During the consultation, their board - certified plastic surgeons assess the patient's needs and determine if liposuction or other related procedures are appropriate for tear trough fat removal. They also provide information about the expected results, potential risks, and aftercare instructions.
• Long - term Results: The goal of the liposuction procedures at Mount Sinai is to provide long - term results. However, patients are also educated on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle after surgery to help keep the contoured appearance.

4. Dr. Gerald Imber's Practice

Dr. Gerald Imber is an internationally renowned plastic surgeon with extensive experience in fat transfer procedures, which are highly relevant for tear trough fat removal and volume restoration.

Expertise and Services

• Fat Transfer Specialization: Dr. Imber firmly believes that fat transfer is the best option for volume restoration in the face, including the tear trough area. He has performed over 25,000 surgical procedures and is well - versed in the techniques required for successful fat transfer. He carefully selects the donor sites, harvests the fat, and injects it into the tear trough with precision to achieve natural - looking results.
• Minimally Invasive Approach: Fat transfer is a minimally invasive procedure, and Dr. Imber's approach minimizes downtime and recovery time. Most patients can resume their daily routine with some restrictions within 24 hours, although slight bruising and swelling may occur.
• Concierge Services: To ensure the patient's comfort throughout the process, his practice offers concierge services. These include accommodation coordination in New York City for out - of - town patients, medical photography, medical clearance, private duty nurses and escorts post - surgery, and transportation post - surgery.

Fat Transfer Details

5. Cangello Plastic Surgery

Cangello Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. David Cangello, is well - known for its expertise in tear trough filler treatments.

Expertise and Services

• Tear Trough Filler Specialization: Dr. Cangello has extensive experience in tear trough filler treatments. He can recommend the best type of filler based on the patient's individual needs, goals, and medical history. Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Restylane® or Belotero, are commonly used in his practice for their safety, effectiveness, and natural - looking results.
• Comprehensive Consultation: During the consultation, Dr. Cangello evaluates the patient's tear trough deformity and determines the best treatment approach. He explains the procedure in detail, including the expected results, potential side effects, and aftercare instructions.
• Patient - centered Care: Patient reviews highlight Dr. Cangello's patience, his ability to explain every detail, and his focus on making the patient feel comfortable. His goal is to achieve beautiful and natural results for each patient.

Tear Trough Filler Procedure Details

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Tear Trough Fat Removal

When deciding on a hospital for tear trough fat removal, several factors should be taken into account:

Surgeon Expertise

The experience and expertise of the surgeon are crucial. Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have a proven track record in performing tear trough fat removal procedures. Check their credentials, patient reviews, and before - and - after photos to assess their skills.

Treatment Options

Choose a hospital that offers a variety of treatment options for tear trough deformity. This allows you to discuss different approaches with the surgeon and select the one that is most suitable for your specific needs and goals.

Patient Care

Consider the level of patient care provided by the hospital. This includes the quality of the consultation, the communication with the medical staff, and the aftercare services. A hospital that prioritizes patient comfort and well - being will make your treatment experience more positive.

Cost

Understand the cost of the tear trough fat removal procedure. The cost can vary depending on the type of treatment, the amount of filler or fat used, and the hospital's location. Make sure to discuss all potential costs with the hospital and ask about any available payment options.

Reputation

Research the hospital's reputation. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous patients. A hospital with a good reputation is more likely to provide high - quality care and achieve satisfactory results.

Conclusion

In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals that offer excellent services for tear trough fat removal. Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, Mount Sinai - New York, Dr. Gerald Imber's Practice, and Cangello Plastic Surgery each have their own unique strengths and areas of expertise. Whether you are interested in non - surgical options like dermal fillers or fat transfer, or surgical procedures such as lower eyelid blepharoplasty, these hospitals have the knowledge and experience to provide high - quality care.

When considering tear trough fat removal, it is important to carefully evaluate the factors mentioned above and choose a hospital that best meets your needs. Consult with the surgeons at these hospitals to discuss your concerns, goals, and the most appropriate treatment option for you. By making an informed decision, you can achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance in the tear trough area.

If you are interested in learning more about tear trough fat removal or any of the hospitals mentioned in this article, we encourage you to reach out to them directly for a consultation. You can also share this article with others who may be interested in this topic to spread the valuable information.