The Ranking List of Hospitals for Autologous Fat Filling of

Introduction

The appearance of the under - eye area can significantly impact one's overall look. Tear troughs, the hollows between the upper cheek and lower eyelid, can make a person look tired or prematurely aged. Autologous fat filling of the tear trough has emerged as a popular cosmetic solution in New York City. In this article, we will not only explore the concept of autologous fat filling for the tear trough but also look into the top hospitals in New York City known for this procedure.

The Ranking List of Hospitals for Autologous Fat Filling of the Tear Trough in New York City is Released!

Understanding Tear Troughs and Autologous Fat Filling

What are Tear Troughs?

A tear trough is an anatomic 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 (Source: Tear Trough Fillers NYC - Restylane Fillers For Under Eye Area).

What is Autologous Fat Filling?

Autologous fat filling, also known as autologous fat transplantation or fat grafting, involves removing fat from one area of the patient's body (such as the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks) through liposuction, processing it, and then injecting it into the tear trough area to restore volume and reduce the appearance of hollows. Fat has the potential to be the ideal soft - tissue filler because it is abundant, easily accessible, inexpensive, host compatible and because it can be harvested repeatedly. It also offers a similar long - term durability with a low - cost compared to dermal fillers (Source: Fat Ful‘fill’ment: A Review of Autologous Fat Grafting).

Benefits of Autologous Fat Filling for Tear Troughs

Natural Results: Since the fat used is from the patient's own body, the results look and feel more natural compared to synthetic fillers.
Long - lasting: Unlike some dermal fillers that may last only a few months to a year, autologous fat can provide more long - term volume restoration. Once the fat cells are established in the tear trough area, they can remain there for a significant period, although some absorption may occur initially.
Low Risk of Allergic Reaction: As the fat is autologous, there is little to no risk of an allergic reaction, which is a concern with some synthetic fillers.

The Procedure of Autologous Fat Filling for Tear Troughs

Pre - operative Planning

Pre - operative planning is critical when performing fat transplantation. During the pre - operative consultation, medications and allergies are reviewed, with specific concern given to medications that interfere with lidocaine metabolism. The patient is instructed to stop all medications that interfere with the platelet function, 2 weeks prior to surgery and can restart them 1 week after the procedure. Contraindications to fat transplantation should be noted and the procedure avoided in certain patients. Appropriate laboratory tests are obtained approximately 1 week before the procedure. The patient is instructed to take 500 mg of cefadroxil the evening before and continue twice daily to 1 week after the procedure. In cases with a history of previous herpes labialis infection, 400 mg of acyclovir was given in the morning of the procedure and then twice daily for 1 week. Diazepam may be given to any anxious patient, approximately, 1 hr before the procedure (Source: Fat Ful‘fill’ment: A Review of Autologous Fat Grafting).

Donor Site Selection

Studies have shown that there is no evidence of a favourable donor site for the harvest of fat grafts. However, adipose tissue has recently been identified as a source of processed lipo aspirate cells or adipose - derived stem cells (ADSCs). The lower abdomen and inner thigh have higher concentrations of these processed lipo aspirate cells, and the inner thigh and lower abdomen may be the better donor sites of adult ADSCs compared with other common donor sites. Once the donor site is decided, the surgeon should also estimate approximate amounts that will be transplanted into each area so that the appropriate amount of fat is harvested (Source: Fat Ful‘fill’ment: A Review of Autologous Fat Grafting).

Harvesting the Fat

In many cases, all patients are given short general anaesthesia as this helps to reduce anxiety and pain. Then the area to be suctioned is infiltrated with 500 ml of Ringer lactate with 0.5cc of adrenaline. Once the area is infused, it is best to wait 15 min in order to allow epinephrine to take full effect and for the anaesthesia to infuse evenly through the tissues. The atraumatic technique for the harvest of fat grafts is superior to conventional liposuction. A 2 mm diameter cannula with a blunt tip and several side holes connected to a 10cc syringe is preferred as it gives better viability of fat grafts compared to a 3 mm diameter blunt - tipped cannula connected to a 60cc syringe (Source: Fat Ful‘fill’ment: A Review of Autologous Fat Grafting).

Processing the Fat

Most surgeons believe that fat grafts harvested with syringe aspiration or conventional liposuction need to be processed in some way to limit the blood or oil within the lipo aspirates. Three primary methods (sedimentation by gravity, filtering technique and centrifugation) have been used clinically to process fat grafts. Centrifugation at 3000 rpm (about 1289 g) for 3 min appears to offer more benefits and should be a better method of choice for processing fat grafts as it clears the fat from most blood remnants and can possibly maintain the highest concentration of stem cells within the processed lipo aspirates (Source: Fat Ful‘fill’ment: A Review of Autologous Fat Grafting).

Injecting the Fat into the Tear Trough

For recipient site anaesthesia, the entry sites are anaesthetised and a regional nerve block is given. A standard 18 gauge needle is used to create the entry site and local anaesthesia is infiltrated with a blunt cannula. Then, a 10cc syringe full of adipose tissue is used and the injection begins. Approximately, 0.1 cc is injected with every pass. This is carried out in an intermittent retrograde pattern while constantly verifying the evacuation of the syringes contents by its graduated scale. This fan - shaped reinjection should be carried out at various different levels to obtain a harmonious result and restore the previous anatomy of the site (Source: Fat Ful‘fill’ment: A Review of Autologous Fat Grafting).

Potential Risks and Complications

Absorption of Fat

The most common complication of fat transplantation is absorption of fat. This can be avoided by some overcorrection as per the surgeon's preference. However, unintentional overcorrection is also frequently encountered, which is particularly problematic in the infra - orbital area where visible nodules may develop (Source: Fat Ful‘fill’ment: A Review of Autologous Fat Grafting).

Superficial Nodules

Superficial nodules can result from the injection of an extremely large bolus of fat too superficially.

Infection

Infections following augmentation have been reported. During the pre - operative period, the physician needs to screen for and if necessary, treat active, chronic or recurrent infections, particularly of adjacent facial areas such as sinus, dental or ocular regions. There are reports of the centrifuge serving as a source of infection with pseudomonas, so it is recommended that sterile centrifuge sleeves be utilized to decrease the chance of transmission (Source: Fat Ful‘fill’ment: A Review of Autologous Fat Grafting).

Vascular Complications

Vascular occlusion or the development of emboli is the most serious complication associated with fat transplantation. A case of blindness following transplantation in the glabellar region was reported. In addition, occlusion of the middle cerebral artery and ocular fat embolism has occurred following transplantation of fat in the face. There was also a report of an acute fatal stroke immediately following autologous fat transplantation in the face. Vascular compromise is often indicated by dramatic blanching of the skin. In the rare event that this does occur, it is suggested that the patient be placed in the trendelenburg position, apply nitroglycerin paste and massage the area until blanching resolves (Source: Fat Ful‘fill’ment: A Review of Autologous Fat Grafting).

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Autologous Fat Filling of the Tear Trough

Surgeon's Experience and Expertise

The experience and expertise of the surgeon performing the autologous fat filling procedure are of utmost importance. A surgeon with a long - standing track record in performing fat grafting for tear troughs is more likely to achieve optimal results and handle any potential complications. For example, Dr. Michele Green, a world - renowned expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology with over 25 years of experience, has the knowledge and skill to provide excellent results for non - surgical cosmetic procedures related to the under - eye area. When it comes to autologous fat filling, a surgeon with similar extensive experience and specific knowledge of the tear trough anatomy is crucial (Source: Tear Trough Fillers NYC - Restylane Fillers For Under Eye Area).

Hospital's Reputation

A hospital's reputation can be judged by patient reviews, its standing in the medical community, and any awards or recognitions it has received. For instance, Mount Sinai Hospital in New York is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties. A hospital with a good reputation in general is more likely to have high - quality medical staff, advanced facilities, and strict safety protocols for cosmetic procedures like autologous fat filling of the tear trough (Source: Best Hospitals for Hip Replacement in New York, NY Rankings | US News Best Hospitals).

Available Technology and Facilities

Advanced technology for fat harvesting, processing, and injection can improve the success rate of the autologous fat filling procedure. Hospitals that invest in state - of - the - art equipment are more likely to offer better results. For example, having high - quality centrifuges for fat processing can ensure a higher concentration of viable fat cells for injection. Also, a hospital with well - equipped operating rooms and post - operative care facilities can enhance the patient's overall experience and recovery process.

Cost and Insurance

The cost of the autologous fat filling procedure can vary widely depending on the hospital, the surgeon, and the amount of fat needed. It is important to have a clear understanding of the total cost, including pre - operative consultations, the procedure itself, and post - operative care. Additionally, check if the hospital accepts insurance for any part of the procedure, although most cosmetic procedures are usually not covered by insurance.

The Ranking List of Hospitals for Autologous Fat Filling of the Tear Trough in New York City

Mount Sinai Hospital

Mount Sinai Hospital is a well - known medical institution in New York City. It is nationally ranked in multiple specialties, which indicates its high - quality medical care. While there may not be specific data solely on autologous fat filling of the tear trough, its overall reputation for excellence in patient care, advanced technology, and a team of experienced surgeons make it a strong candidate for this procedure. The hospital's comprehensive approach to medicine means that patients can benefit from a wide range of support services before, during, and after the procedure. Their doctors are likely to be well - versed in the latest techniques for autologous fat grafting, ensuring a high chance of success and minimizing potential complications.

New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell

This hospital is also highly regarded, being nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties. With such a broad range of expertise, the medical staff at New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell are likely to have in - depth knowledge of facial anatomy and the intricacies of autologous fat filling for the tear trough. The hospital has a long - standing history of innovation in medical procedures and research, which could translate into better outcomes for patients undergoing this cosmetic treatment. They are also likely to have access to the latest research and techniques in the field of autologous fat grafting.

NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital

Although it is named an orthopedic hospital, NYU Langone is a comprehensive medical center with a strong reputation in multiple areas of medicine. It is nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties. The hospital's expertise in handling complex medical cases may also extend to cosmetic procedures like autologous fat filling of the tear trough. Their doctors are trained to approach procedures with a high level of precision, which is crucial for achieving natural - looking results in the delicate under - eye area.

Comparing Autologous Fat Filling with Other Tear Trough Treatment Options

Versus Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

Aspect	Autologous Fat Filling	Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Results	More natural - looking and potentially long - lasting once the fat cells are established. Can provide more volume and contouring.	Provide quick results and can effectively reduce the appearance of tear troughs. However, the results are usually temporary, lasting from 6 - 12 months.
Risk of Allergic Reaction	Very low as the fat is from the patient's own body.	Low, but there is still a small risk of an allergic reaction to the hyaluronic acid or other components in the filler.
Procedure Complexity	More complex as it involves harvesting fat from one area and processing it before injection.	Relatively simple, usually involving just an injection of the filler into the tear trough area.

Versus Surgical Options (e.g., Blepharoplasty)

Aspect	Autologous Fat Filling	Blepharoplasty
Recovery Time	Generally, there is less downtime compared to blepharoplasty. Swelling and bruising usually subside within a few days to a week, but it may take up to 12 weeks for the final results to be evident.	Associated with long recovery times, including surgical scars and severe side effects. Patients may need several weeks to fully recover and resume normal activities.
Results	Restores volume in the tear trough area and can give a more youthful appearance. Results may not be as dramatic as blepharoplasty but are more natural - looking.	Can correct excess skin, droopy eyelids, under - eye bags, puffiness, and dark circles. It provides a more comprehensive solution for the under - eye area but is a more invasive procedure.
Risk	Has risks such as fat absorption, infection, and vascular complications, but these are generally less severe compared to the risks associated with major surgery like blepharoplasty.	As a surgical procedure, it carries risks such as bleeding, infection, adverse reactions to anaesthesia, and potential damage to the eye or surrounding tissues.

Patient Testimonials and Success Stories

Many patients who have undergone autologous fat filling of the tear trough in New York City have reported positive results. Some patients have mentioned that the procedure has given them a more rested and youthful appearance, reducing the dark circles and hollows under their eyes. For example, a patient with deep - set eyes who previously looked tired even after a full night's sleep may see a significant improvement in the appearance of their under - eye area after the procedure. These success stories not only highlight the effectiveness of the treatment but also the skill of the surgeons and the quality of care provided by the hospitals in New York City.

Conclusion

Autologous fat filling of the tear trough is an effective cosmetic procedure that can significantly improve the appearance of the under - eye area. When considering this procedure in New York City, it is essential to choose a hospital that meets the criteria of having experienced surgeons, a good reputation, advanced technology, and reasonable costs. Hospitals like Mount Sinai Hospital, New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell, and NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital are among the top choices due to their overall medical excellence. If you are considering autologous fat filling of the tear trough, we encourage you to research further, schedule