Introduction
New York City, a global metropolis known for its cultural, financial, and media influence, is also a hub for high - quality medical care, especially in the field of cosmetic surgery like cheek augmentation. This procedure, which is a plastic/cosmetic surgery, can enhance the appearance of the cheekbones and mid - face, bringing back a more youthful and balanced look. In this article, we will explore the top hospitals and clinics in New York City that offer cheek augmentation services, and also provide useful information about the procedure itself.
What is Cheek Augmentation?
Cheek augmentation is a procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the cheekbones and mid - face. Over time, factors such as aging, gravity, and sun exposure can cause the loss of volume and the flattening of the cheeks. Cheek augmentation aims to reverse these effects by adding volume to the targeted areas.
Methods of Cheek Augmentation
- Cheek Implants: These are placed over the cheekbones and come in various sizes and shapes to match each patient's facial structure. Implants are often made of materials like silastic or polythene and can provide long - lasting results. For example, at Mount Sinai, surgeons use FDA - approved implants for cheek augmentation. The surgical incision is typically made inside the mouth to avoid visible scarring, and the implant is inserted into a pocket - like area over the cheekbone.
- Fat Transfer: Also known as fat transplantation, this technique involves collecting the patient's own natural fat via liposuction from an area with excess fat cells. The fat is then injected into the cheekbones to add volume. On average, about 70% of the fat survives the transplantation, creating more prominent cheekbone angularity.
- Dermal Fillers: Injectable options such as Restylane, Juvederm, Bellafill, Radiesse, Sculptra, and Voluma can plump flat cheekbones and enhance contouring. These fillers work by attracting water molecules to the injected area, augmenting and plumping the cheekbones. They are a non - invasive option that can provide a quick facial - rejuvenation solution, with results lasting from one to two years or more.
Top Hospitals and Clinics for Cheek Augmentation in New York City
1. Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital is highly regarded in New York City. Its division of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery offers cheek augmentation procedures using facial implants. The cosmetic surgeons here are skilled in creating safe, long - lasting, and natural - looking results. They use FDA - approved implants and work closely with each patient to individualize the treatment plan. Mount Sinai is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties, and is high - performing in 20 procedures/conditions, which reflects its high - quality medical services. Their surgeons are also experienced in combined procedures, such as performing cheek implants along with face and neck lifts or eye lifts to reduce recovery time and operating costs.
2. New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell
This hospital is another top - tier institution in New York City. Nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties, and high - performing in 1 specialty & 20 procedures/conditions, it offers comprehensive medical care. In the field of cheek augmentation, patients can expect a high level of expertise from the medical staff. The hospital has a team of board - certified plastic surgeons who are well - versed in the latest techniques and technologies in cosmetic surgery. They can provide personalized advice and treatment options based on the patient's specific needs and facial structure.
3. NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals are nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties, and high - performing in 1 specialty & 21 procedures/conditions. Their facial plastic surgery department offers a range of cheek augmentation procedures. The surgeons here are committed to using the latest research and technology to achieve the best possible results for their patients. They have a strong focus on patient safety and satisfaction, and provide detailed pre - operative and post - operative care instructions.
4. Leonard Grossman, M.D.
Located in Brooklyn, Leonard Grossman, M.D. offers patients cheek augmentation procedures among its total of 36 available procedures across 3 different specialties. While currently there is no pricing information available for cheek augmentation procedures (prices are available on request only), patients can expect to receive treatment from the lead specialist at the clinic. The provider aims to provide high - quality cosmetic surgery services, but it's important to note that it is not accredited by any recognized accreditations institutes.
5. New York Center for Facial Plastic & Laser Surgery
This clinic in Manhattan offers cheek augmentation procedures as part of its 39 available procedures across 4 different specialties. Similar to Leonard Grossman, M.D., pricing information for cheek augmentation is available on request only. All procedures and treatments are carried out by the lead specialist. Although not accredited by recognized accreditation institutes, it may be a viable option for patients seeking cheek augmentation in the city.
6. Skinly Aesthetics
At Skinly Aesthetics in NYC, Dr. Schwarzburg offers top - tier cheek filler injections. Known for his precision and personalized approach, he has helped numerous clients, including celebrities and everyday New Yorkers, achieve stunning results. Cheek filler injections at Skinly Aesthetics involve injecting a hyaluronic acid - based gel filler into targeted areas of the cheeks. The treatment is relatively quick, taking 30 to 45 minutes, and has minimal to no downtime. Dr. Schwarzburg tailors the treatment plan to each patient's aesthetic goals and ensures precise placement of the fillers for natural - looking enhancement.
7. Dr. Barry Weintraub
Board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Barry Weintraub performs cheekbone augmentation at his NYC and East Hampton locations. He offers multiple methods of cheek augmentation, including cheek - implant surgery, fat transfer, and dermal - filler treatment. Dr. Weintraub prefers to perform procedures in a safe, secure, and private operating room attached to his office at 800a Fifth Avenue. He takes great care in ensuring patient safety during the surgery, using state - of - the - art monitoring equipment and board - certified anesthesiologists. His aesthetic is sophisticated, aiming for understated elegance in the results.
8. Dr. Joel Kopelman
Dr. Joel Kopelman offers cheek augmentation in Manhattan. He focuses on finding the right - sized and - shaped cheek implant for each patient based on their unique facial features. The ideal candidates for his cheek implant procedures are those with significant flattening and hollowing of the mid - face and cheeks, or those who want a permanent solution to mid - facial atrophy. Dr. Kopelman makes a small concealed incision inside the mouth to insert the cheek implant, and the recovery process is relatively quick, with the mouth incision healing within 7 to 10 days and residual swelling lasting up to three weeks in most cases.
Cost of Cheek Augmentation in New York City
The cost of cheek augmentation in New York City can vary widely depending on the method used, the complexity of the procedure, and the reputation and experience of the surgeon or clinic. For cheek implants, the cost can range from $6500 to $8500, which usually includes the anesthesia performed by an anesthesiologist. However, this is just an estimate, and the actual cost may be higher or lower. Dermal fillers typically cost between $800 and $2000 per syringe, depending on the type of filler used and the expertise of the injector. At Skinly Aesthetics, new patients can get an exclusive 20% discount on their first cheek augmentation treatment using fillers. It's important to note that most insurance companies do not cover cosmetic procedures like cheek augmentation, as they are considered elective surgeries.
Recovery Process after Cheek Augmentation
The recovery process after cheek augmentation can vary depending on the method used. For cheek implant surgery, there will be some swelling and discomfort in the immediate post - operative period. The face will remain swollen for approximately one week, and the mouth incision (if used) will heal within 7 to 10 days. Residual swelling may last for up to three weeks, and temporary numbness of the cheek may occur, which can last up to three months in some cases. Patients are usually placed on oral antibiotics and mouthwash for a few days to prevent infection. They should also follow the surgeon's advice on rest, avoiding strenuous activities, and caring for the surgical site.
After fat transfer, patients may experience some bruising and swelling at the donor and injection sites. The swelling usually subsides within a few days to a week. The body needs time to adjust to the transferred fat, and patients may notice a gradual improvement in the appearance of their cheeks over time. The overall recovery time is relatively shorter compared to cheek implant surgery, but patients still need to follow post - operative care instructions.
For dermal filler injections, there is minimal to no downtime. Most patients can resume their normal activities almost immediately. However, they may experience some swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection site, which usually resolves within a few hours to a few days. Applying ice packs to the treated area can help reduce swelling, and patients should avoid high - intensity activities and applying pressure to the treated area for the first 24 - 48 hours.
Benefits and Risks of Cheek Augmentation
Benefits
- Enhanced Appearance: Cheek augmentation can improve the facial contour, making the face look more youthful, balanced, and attractive. It can reduce the appearance of sunken cheeks and create a more defined look.
- Boost in Confidence: A more appealing facial appearance can have a positive impact on a person's self - esteem and confidence. Patients who are satisfied with the results of cheek augmentation often feel better about themselves and may be more comfortable in social and professional situations.
- Long - lasting Results: Depending on the method used, such as cheek implants or fat transfer, the results can be long - lasting. This means that patients can enjoy the benefits of the procedure for an extended period of time.
Risks
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the surgical site, especially after cheek implant surgery or fat transfer. To reduce this risk, patients are usually given antibiotics and are advised to follow proper post - operative care instructions.
- Bleeding: Bleeding can occur during or after the procedure. Surgeons take precautions to minimize this risk, but in some cases, it may still happen. If significant bleeding occurs, medical attention may be required.
- Numbness: Temporary or permanent numbness of the cheek may occur, especially after cheek implant surgery. In most cases, the numbness is temporary and resolves over time, but in rare cases, it may be permanent.
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are common side effects after cheek augmentation, regardless of the method used. They usually subside within a few days to a few weeks, but the extent and duration can vary from person to person.
- Unsatisfactory Results: There is a possibility that the patient may not be satisfied with the results of the cheek augmentation. This could be due to factors such as incorrect sizing of the implant, uneven distribution of the filler, or a different appearance than expected. In some cases, additional procedures may be required to correct the issues.
Choosing the Right Hospital or Clinic for Cheek Augmentation
Selecting the right hospital or clinic for cheek augmentation is a crucial decision. Here are some factors to consider:
Surgeon's Experience and Credentials
Look for a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in performing cheek augmentation procedures. Check their credentials, such as their training, certifications, and any awards or recognition they have received. You can also read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of their reputation and the quality of their work.
Hospital or Clinic Reputation
Research the reputation of the hospital or clinic. Consider factors such as its accreditation, patient satisfaction rates, and the overall quality of its medical services. You can look at rankings from organizations like U.S. News & World Report, which provides information on the best hospitals in various specialties.
Treatment Options
Choose a hospital or clinic that offers a variety of treatment options for cheek augmentation. This allows you to discuss different methods with the surgeon and choose the one that is most suitable for your needs, preferences, and budget.
Cost
While cost should not be the only factor in your decision, it is important to consider. Get a clear understanding of the total cost of the procedure, including any additional fees for anesthesia, post - operative care, and follow - up appointments. Compare the costs of different hospitals and clinics, but also keep in mind that quality should not be compromised for a lower price.
Location and Accessibility
Consider the location of the hospital or clinic and its accessibility. You may need to visit the facility multiple times for pre - operative consultations, the procedure itself, and post - operative follow - up. Choosing a location that is convenient for you can make the process more manageable.
Conclusion
New York City offers a wide range of options for cheek augmentation, with both top - tier public and private hospitals and clinics. Whether you are looking for a long - lasting solution like cheek implants or a non - invasive option like dermal fillers, there are experienced surgeons and medical professionals who can help you achieve your desired results. However, it's important to do thorough research, consider all the factors involved, and have realistic expectations about the procedure. Before making a decision, schedule consultations with multiple providers to discuss your goals, ask questions, and get a better understanding of the treatment process.
Are you considering cheek augmentation in New York City? Don't hesitate to take the next step. Research the hospitals and clinics mentioned in this article, schedule consultations, and find the provider that is right for you. Share this article with your friends and family who may also be interested in learning about cheek augmentation, and explore related topics to make an informed decision about your cosmetic surgery journey.
