Introduction to the Top 10 Beauty Plastic Surgery Hospitals for Fat Filling to Remove Tear Troughs in New York City in 2025
Understanding Tear Troughs and Fat Filling
A tear trough is an anatomical area of the face, the hollow located between the upper cheek and the lower eyelid region. Tear troughs can cast a shadow and create the appearance of a darkened under - eye area, making one look tired or prematurely aged. Tear troughs can be genetic, but they may also present due to the natural loss of collagen that occurs as we age. Reduced collagen levels in the under - eye area lead to transparent, thin skin, increasing the visibility of underlying blood vessels and creating a darkened under - eye area.
Fat filling to remove tear troughs is a cosmetic procedure that aims to replenish the lost volume in the under - eye area. It uses the patient's own fat, which is harvested from an area of excess on the body, such as the outside of the leg or the stomach, and then injected into the tear trough area. This procedure can provide a natural - looking and long - lasting solution for tear troughs.
Top 10 Beauty Plastic Surgery Hospitals in New York City
1. Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
As one of New York’s best hospitals and the world’s top medical centers, Columbia University has the experience that few other programs can match. Their plastic surgery division is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery and is a recognized national and international leader. The plastic surgeons on their clinical staff are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, including non - surgical cosmetic procedures and complex reconstructive operations. For tear trough fat filling, they have the expertise to provide high - quality care and achieve excellent results. The division offers a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, and their approach is personalized to each patient's needs.
Contact Information
- Call: (212) 305 - 3103
- Request an appointment online
2. Gotham Plastic Surgery
Gotham Plastic Surgery offers fat injection (fat grafting or fat transplant) as an alternative to artificial dermal filler materials. When used for volume enhancement for the face, fat injection can reduce wrinkles and creases and fill in areas of lost volume resulting from age, injury, surgery or other causes. Their doctors perform fat injection procedures on an outpatient basis at their JCAHO - accredited office - based surgery facility. The procedure is typically completed in under an hour and may be performed with local anesthesia. There is minimal downtime or recovery associated with fat injection, and most patients experience little discomfort.
Contact Information
More information can be found on their official website: Gotham Plastic Surgery (Note: links are not allowed in the output but shown here conceptually)
3. Mount Sinai - New York Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Mount Sinai's plastic surgery practice offers a full range of options in both aesthetic (cosmetic) and reconstructive (restorative) plastic surgery. Their board - certified plastic surgeons have the depth of experience to create beautiful results. Starting with the first consultation, they understand the patient's desire to improve an aspect of their body for cosmetic or medical reasons. They also offer an array of non - invasive enhancing treatments. For tear trough fat filling, their surgeons can use their skills and the latest techniques to achieve natural - looking improvements.
Contact Information
For more details, visit their official website: Mount Sinai Plastic Surgery (conceptual link)
4. Park Avenue Plastic Surgeon - Dr. David Rapaport
Dr. David Rapaport has over 27 years of experience performing liposuctions and body contouring procedures. He is a specialist with the most advanced training in cosmetic surgery from Harvard and NYU and is a board - certified plastic surgeon considered to be among the best in his field. Although his focus is more on liposuction and body contouring, his expertise in handling fat can be applied to fat filling procedures. He uses advanced techniques such as the tumescent technique for liposuction, which could potentially be beneficial in fat harvesting for tear trough filling.
Contact Information
- Call: 212 - 249 - 9955
- Email: office@drrapaport.com
5. Dr. Antell - Plastic Surgery NYC
Dr. Darrick Antell is a top plastic surgeon in NYC who specializes in cosmetic and aesthetic surgery. He is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has repeatedly appeared on the “top doctors” lists of prominent publications. He offers a range of facial procedures, including advanced fat transfer techniques. His combination of meticulous surgical skills, the latest and safest medical technologies, and the distinct eye of an artist allows him to create natural - looking results in facial rejuvenation, including tear trough fat filling.
Contact Information
- Call: 212 - 988 - 4040
- Available for in - office & virtual consultations
6. Dr. Michele Green's Dermatology Office
Dr. Michele Green is a world - renowned expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology. While her focus is more on non - surgical cosmetic procedures such as tear trough fillers using hyaluronic acid, she has over 25 years of experience treating a myriad of skin concerns. Her expertise in the under - eye area and understanding of facial aesthetics can be valuable in guiding patients through the decision - making process of whether fat filling is the right option for them or in combination with other non - surgical treatments.
Contact Information
- Call: 212 - 535 - 3088
- Contact online
7. Dr. David Cangello - Cangello Plastic Surgery
Dr. David Cangello is a plastic surgeon with extensive experience in tear trough filler treatments. He can recommend the best option for tear trough treatment based on the patient's individual needs, goals, and medical history and work with them to develop a customized treatment plan. Although his information mainly focuses on tear trough fillers using hyaluronic acid, his knowledge of the under - eye area can be relevant when considering fat filling as well.
Contact Information
For more details, visit their website: Cangello Plastic Surgery (conceptual link)
8. Other Reputable Surgeons from US News List
US News lists several plastic surgeons in New York who have significant experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Surgeons like Dr. Ernest S. Chiu, who has been in practice for more than 20 years in general plastic surgery, facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, etc., could potentially offer fat filling for tear troughs. Dr. Jarrod T. Bogue, affiliated with New York - Presbyterian hospital - Columbia and Cornell, with experience in burn, plastic & reconstructive microsurgery, breast reconstruction, etc., also has the surgical skills that might be applicable to this procedure. However, more in - depth research on their specific fat filling procedures for tear troughs would be needed.
Contact Information
Contact details can be found on the US News website: US News Plastic Surgeons in New York (conceptual link)
9. Surgeons Specializing in Facial Rejuvenation
There are many surgeons in New York City who specialize in facial rejuvenation. These surgeons often have a deep understanding of the facial anatomy and the techniques required to achieve natural - looking results in the under - eye area. They may offer fat filling for tear troughs as part of their comprehensive facial rejuvenation packages. For example, some surgeons who focus on procedures like facelifts, brow lifts, and eyelid surgeries are likely to be well - versed in treating the delicate under - eye area.
Contact Information
One can search for these surgeons through local directories, patient reviews, or professional medical associations. Some directories might be available on American Society of Plastic Surgeons website (conceptual link).
10. Hospitals with Advanced Technology
Some hospitals in New York City are equipped with advanced technology that can enhance the fat filling procedure for tear troughs. For instance, hospitals that have the latest imaging technology can accurately assess the patient's under - eye area and plan the fat injection more precisely. Additionally, those with advanced surgical tools and equipment can perform the procedure more safely and effectively.
Contact Information
Contact these hospitals directly through their official websites or by phone. A few well - known hospitals like NYU Langone Health or Weill Cornell Medicine can be considered for further research.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plastic Surgery Hospital for Tear Trough Fat Filling
Surgeon's Experience and Expertise
The experience and expertise of the surgeon are crucial factors. Look for surgeons who have a proven track record in performing fat filling procedures for tear troughs or related facial rejuvenation procedures. Check their credentials, years of experience, and patient testimonials. For example, a surgeon like Dr. Michele Green, with over 25 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology, may have a deep understanding of the under - eye area, while a plastic surgeon like Dr. Darrick Antell, with over twenty years and more than ten thousand procedures under his belt, has the skills and artistry to achieve excellent results.
Hospital Reputation and Accreditation
Choose a hospital with a good reputation for providing high - quality plastic surgery services. Accreditation is also important as it ensures that the hospital meets certain standards of safety and quality. For example, Gotham Plastic Surgery has a JCAHO - accredited office - based surgery facility, which is a sign of their commitment to safety and quality.
Range of Services and Treatment Options
A hospital that offers a wide range of services and treatment options can be beneficial. This allows the patient to have a more comprehensive approach to their cosmetic concerns. For instance, Columbia University offers both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, and they can combine different treatments to achieve the best results for the patient.
Technology and Facilities
Advanced technology and modern facilities can enhance the safety and effectiveness of the fat filling procedure. Hospitals with the latest imaging technology, surgical tools, and recovery facilities are more likely to provide a better patient experience. For example, Mount Sinai's plastic surgery consultation suites combine comforting accommodations with the most advanced technology, allowing patients to visualize their anticipated results and review before and after possibilities.
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of the tear trough fat filling procedure can vary depending on several factors, such as the surgeon's fee, the location of the hospital, and the amount of fat needed. It is important to get a clear understanding of the cost and also explore financing options if needed. Some hospitals may offer payment plans or accept insurance for certain reconstructive procedures.
Benefits of Fat Filling to Remove Tear Troughs
Natural - Looking Results
Since fat filling uses the patient's own fat, the results are often more natural - looking compared to some other filler materials. The fat integrates well with the surrounding tissue, providing a smooth and subtle improvement in the under - eye area.
Long - Lasting Effects
While the exact duration of the results can vary from patient to patient, fat filling can provide relatively long - lasting effects. Once the fat has settled and survived in the tear trough area, it can continue to provide volume and improve the appearance for an extended period.
Reduced Risk of Allergic Reaction
Using the patient's own fat eliminates the risk of allergic reaction or rejection that may occur with some synthetic filler materials. This makes fat filling a safer option for many patients.
Preparing for Tear Trough Fat Filling
Consultation with the Surgeon
The first step is to schedule a consultation with the surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will assess the patient's under - eye area, discuss their goals and expectations, and determine if fat filling is the right option for them. They will also explain the procedure in detail, including the risks, benefits, and recovery process.
Medical History and Examination
The patient will need to provide a detailed medical history, including any medications they are taking, allergies, and previous surgeries. The surgeon may also perform a physical examination to ensure the patient is in good health for the procedure.
Pre - operative Instructions
The surgeon will provide pre - operative instructions, which may include avoiding certain medications such as blood thinners, alcohol, and caffeine in the days leading up to the procedure. The patient may also be asked to stop smoking, as smoking can affect the healing process.
The Tear Trough Fat Filling Procedure
Fat Harvesting
The first step of the fat filling procedure is to harvest the fat from an area of excess on the body. This is typically done using a very small cannula and gentle liposuction techniques. The most common areas for fat harvesting are the outside of the leg or the stomach.
Fat Preparation
Once the fat is harvested, it is prepared for injection. This may involve separating the fat from other tissues and purifying it to ensure the best quality fat is used for injection.
Fat Injection
The prepared fat is then injected into the tear trough area using a thin needle. The surgeon will carefully place the fat to achieve a smooth and natural - looking result. They will also ensure that the right amount of fat is injected to avoid over - or under - correction.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post - operative Care
After the procedure, the patient may experience some mild swelling, bruising, and redness around the injection site. Ice packs may be applied to reduce swelling, and the patient will be given specific aftercare instructions, such as avoiding rubbing or massaging the area for a certain period.
Recovery Time
The recovery time can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. Most patients can expect some minor swelling and bruising to resolve within a few days to a week. However, it may take up to two weeks for the fat to fully settle in the treatment area and for the final results to be observed.
Follow - up Appointments
The surgeon will schedule follow - up appointments to monitor the patient's recovery and ensure that the results are satisfactory. During these appointments, the surgeon may recommend any necessary touch - up treatments.
Potential Risks and Complications
Swelling and Bruising
Swelling and bruising are common side effects after the tear trough fat filling procedure. They are usually mild and temporary and can be managed with ice packs and over - the - counter pain medications. However, in some cases, the swelling and bruising may be more severe and last longer.
Asymmetry
There is a risk of asymmetry in the under - eye area after the procedure. This can occur if the fat is not injected evenly or if the body absorbs the fat unevenly. In some cases, touch - up treatments may be needed to correct the asymmetry.
Fat Absorption
Some of the injected fat may be absorbed by the body over time. The rate of fat absorption can vary from patient to patient. In some cases, multiple sessions of fat filling may be required to achieve the desired results.
Conclusion
In 2025, New York City offers a wide range of top - notch beauty plastic surgery hospitals for fat filling to remove tear troughs. From well - established institutions like Columbia University and Mount Sinai to experienced surgeons such as Dr. Darrick Antell and Dr. Michele Green, patients have numerous options to choose from. When considering a plastic surgery hospital for this procedure, it is important to consider factors such as the surgeon's experience, the hospital's reputation, the range of services, and the cost. Fat filling to remove tear troughs can provide natural - looking, long - lasting results, but it also comes with potential risks and complications. By carefully researching and choosing the right hospital and surgeon, patients can increase their chances of achieving the desired outcome.