The Top 5 Hospitals and Institutions for Hyaluronic Acid Filling of Tear Troughs in New York City
As people age, the area under the eyes often becomes a concern. The tear trough, the sunken area beneath the lower eyelids, can cause individuals to look tired or older than they actually are. Hyaluronic acid filling of the tear troughs has emerged as a popular non - surgical solution to address this issue. In New York City, several hospitals and institutions stand out for their expertise in this procedure. Here is a detailed look at the top 5:
1. Cangello Plastic Surgery
Overview
Dr. David Cangello at Cangello Plastic Surgery is highly experienced in tear trough filler treatments. Tear trough deformity can occur due to a combination of factors such as aging, genetics, loss of facial fat, loss of skin elasticity, and laxity of facial ligaments. Dr. Cangello has in - depth knowledge of these causes and how to effectively treat them using hyaluronic acid fillers.
Tear Trough Filler Procedure
- What is tear trough filler? It involves injecting a hyaluronic acid - based filler into the area under the eyes to reduce the appearance of dark circles, hollows, and bags in the lower eyelid. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane® or Belotero are commonly used as they are safe, effective, and provide natural - looking results.
- Benefits: This non - surgical procedure has many benefits. It can reduce the appearance of dark circles, camouflage under - eye bags and puffiness by filling out the depression below (the tear trough), restore volume to the under - eye area, requires little to no downtime, provides quick results, and is long - lasting.
- Candidates: Good candidates are typically individuals bothered by under - eye hollows or dark circles who seek a non - surgical solution. They should have healthy skin, no underlying medical conditions that increase the risk of complications, and realistic expectations about the results.
- Preparing for the procedure: Before the procedure, patients should discuss their medical history, medications, allergies, or sensitivities with Dr. Cangello. They should avoid blood - thinning medications, alcohol, and caffeine in the days leading up to the appointment. On the day of the appointment, a clean and makeup - free face is recommended.
- The procedure itself: The filler is injected into the under - eye area using a small cannula, and results can typically be seen immediately. The effects can last for several months, varying depending on the individual and the type of filler used.
- Recovery: After the treatment, mild swelling, bruising, and redness around the injection site are normal. These symptoms usually subside within a few days to a week and can be managed with ice packs or over - the - counter pain medications. Patients should avoid rubbing or massaging the area for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
2. Neinstein Plastic Surgery
Overview
Neinstein Plastic Surgery offers tear trough fillers as an ideal alternative to surgery for many patients. Tear troughs are a common area where volume loss occurs, and fillers can effectively restore that volume, giving patients a more rested and youthful appearance.
Tear Trough Filler Process
- Preparing for injections: Patients are asked not to use blood thinners like aspirin for 5 days before the procedure. On the day of the injections, makeup is removed, and the skin is numbed for 20 minutes.
- Injection process: The approach at Neinstein Plastic Surgery is to inject very deep (almost directly on the cheek bone starting about half - way up the nose) and slowly move a small wave of the hyaluronic acid up towards the tear trough area. This technique is safe, predictable, and dramatically reduces the risk of bruising. After the injections, ice is placed on the eyes for 5 minutes, and the patient takes a one - time dose of steroids to reduce swelling. Only cannulas are used, which means less trauma to the tissues.
- Recovery & Aftercare: Patients should not rub or massage the treated area immediately after the treatment. When cleansing the face or applying makeup, gentle, sweeping motions should be used. Strenuous activities should be avoided for 24 hours. Bruising at the treatment site may occur, and temporary, minimal to moderate swelling may be expected. Cool compresses can be applied to the area. Tenderness at the treatment site may last for a few hours or a couple of days, and patients can take acetaminophen/ Tylenol for mild discomfort. A minimum of four weeks should be waited before receiving any laser treatments.
3. Dr. Michele Green's Private Dermatology Office
Overview
Dr. Michele Green is a world - renowned expert in cosmetic dermatology, with over 25 years of experience treating patients from around the globe for various skin concerns, including dark under - eyes. At her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s upper east side neighborhood, she offers a host of non - invasive cosmetic procedures for rejuvenation, with a particular focus on tear trough fillers.
Tear Trough Filler Details
- What are tear troughs? A tear trough is an anatomic area, the hollow located between the upper cheek and the lower eyelid region. It can cast a shadow and create the appearance of a darkened under - eye area, which may be genetic or due to the natural loss of collagen as we age.
- What does tear - trough filler do? It restores lost volume in the crease below the eye and improves the appearance of dark circles and under - eye bags. Hyaluronic dermal fillers like Belotero, Restylane, and Juvederm are used to correct the tear trough deformity, reduce the appearance of dark circles and shadowing under the eyes, and deliver natural - looking volume restoration.
- Best fillers for tear troughs: Dr. Green often uses hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm Volbella, Restylane, Restylane Eye Light, and Belotero Balance. Each filler has its unique properties. For example, Juvederm Volbella has a thin formulation and patented Vycross technology for smooth distribution. Restylane Eyelight uses crosslinking and patented Nasha technology to erase under - eye hollowing and dark circles. Belotero Balance has an ultra - thin and flexible formulation that eliminates the risk of the Tyndall effect.
- Candidates: The best candidates are healthy individuals with noted volume loss in the under - eye area. Dr. Green will physically evaluate the under - eye area to determine if tear trough fillers are the correct treatment or if another cosmetic procedure is better suited.
- Procedure: The first step is a consultation with Dr. Green. A local anesthetic is applied to the entire treatment area one hour before the injections, and the dermal fillers used are compounded with lidocaine. Dr. Green uses an ultrafine needle for precision in the tear trough injections. Immediately after the procedure, ice is applied to the treatment area, and aftercare instructions are provided. A two - week follow - up is scheduled to ensure satisfactory treatment and determine if any touch - up is needed.
- Safety: There typically are no major side effects, but mild swelling, bruising, or redness at or around the injection sites may occur. Rare side effects include the Tyndall effect, changes in vision, vascular occlusion, signs of infection, allergic reaction, worsening bruising or swelling, numbness, and persistent pain. Having the injections performed by an expert like Dr. Green is crucial to prevent serious side effects.
4. Zuckerman Plastic Surgery
Overview
Dr. Zuckerman at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery can help patients reduce dark circles with under - eye dermal filler injections. His approach to tear trough rejuvenation is well - regarded in New York City.
Tear Trough Rejuvenation Treatment
- Treatment product: Dr. Zuckerman uses Restylane - L, a hyaluronic acid filler with lidocaine, which is FDA - approved for treating the under - eye area. It is the least hydrophilic of hyaluronic acid fillers, minimizing swelling.
- Key aspects of treatment: He injects deep into the tissues, near the bone, and can inject up to 1 cc + of filler per eye. This treatment helps patients appear rested and refreshed when the face is at rest and during facial animation.
- Recommended regimen: Most patients require one treatment per year to maintain a continual effect.
- Longevity: Treatment is visible immediately, but it takes approximately one week to ten days to set in and lasts up to one year. Results vary depending on the amount of product injected and the patient's metabolism of hyaluronic acid.
- Procedure time: 10 – 20 minutes per treatment.
- Pretreatment guidelines: Ideally, patients should avoid ibuprofen/aspirin two days before and after treatment, avoid excess alcohol one day before and after, and skip intensive physical activity the day of treatment if possible.
- Recovery (downtime): Most patients can return to work immediately after a daytime appointment. There may be mild bruising or swelling, which in some cases can last up to a week but more often resolves within a few days. Dr. Zuckerman can minimize bruising using his techniques and icing the affected area post - treatment. Makeup can be applied if needed after treatment, but it's recommended to avoid it the day of treatment if possible.
- Associated risks: While the treatment is overwhelmingly safe in the hands of an expert like Dr. Zuckerman, some rare risks include swelling, bruising, and lumps.
5. Dr. Darren M. Smith's Practice
Overview
Dr. Darren M. Smith is a board - certified plastic surgeon with an artistic eye for aesthetics and over 18 years of experience, especially in enhancing and rejuvenating the delicate eye region. His practice offers tear trough fillers as a targeted solution for revitalizing the under - eye area.
Tear Trough Filler Treatment
- What are tear troughs? The tear trough is the hollow area under the lower eyelid between the lower lash line and cheekbone. It loses volume as we age, casting shadows and creating a darkened look under the eyes. Genetics, aging, sleep deprivation, allergies, and sun damage can all contribute to this.
- Why choose tear trough fillers? They can minimize the look of dark circles, reduce the appearance of bags and puffiness, provide a well - rested, youthful appearance, boost collagen production for longer - lasting results, and require little to no downtime after treatment. Unlike lasers and peels, they replace lost volume to lift and sculpt the under - eye area with natural - looking results.
- Procedure: The treatment involves injecting a hyaluronic acid gel beneath the thin skin under the eyes with a very fine needle or cannula. A numbing cream is first applied. The procedure takes 15 – 30 minutes, and most patients report little to no discomfort during the injections. Some temporary redness, swelling, or bruising may occur but typically resolves within a few days.
- Ideal candidates: Tear trough fillers can be effective for both men and women who want to address dark circles or discoloration under the eyes, under - eye bags and puffiness, hollowness or sunken eyes from fat loss, mild lower eyelid sagging, or a tired, aged appearance. Good candidates should be in overall good health without any eye infections or injuries.
- Benefits and expected results: Patients can expect brighter, rested eyes, a reduction in dark circles and discoloration, less noticeable bags and puffiness, improved skin smoothness and tone, and a positive lift resulting in a more youthful contour. They may look 5 – 10 years younger after treatment.
- Best dermal fillers: Hyaluronic acid gel fillers like Juvederm and Restylane are commonly used. Dr. Smith will determine the ideal filler based on individual needs. For example, Restylane Lyft can address fine lines and under - eye hollows, and Juvederm Volbella XC is the first and only FDA - approved hyaluronic acid filler for the under - eye hollows.
- Safety and side effects: When performed by an experienced provider like Dr. Smith, tear trough fillers are safe with minimal risks. Minor bruising or swelling is common but usually resolves quickly. The average cost depends on the type of filler used and the amount needed. Dr. Smith's office staff will provide an accurate quote during the consultation.
Comparing the Top 5 Institutions
Institution | Specialist | Preferred Filler | Procedure Time | Recovery Time | Unique Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cangello Plastic Surgery | Dr. David Cangello | Restylane®, Belotero | Typically 15 - 30 minutes | Mild swelling and bruising may last a few days to a week | Extensive experience in tear trough filler treatments, customized treatment plans |
Neinstein Plastic Surgery | Neinstein Plastic Surgery Team | Hyaluronic acid gel | N/A | Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours, swelling and bruising may last a few days | Deep - injection technique to reduce bruising, uses cannulas |
Dr. Michele Green's Private Dermatology Office | Dr. Michele Green | Juvederm Volbella, Restylane, Restylane Eye Light, Belotero Balance | N/A | Mild swelling and bruising may last a few days | World - renowned expert, customized treatment based on facial anatomy |
Zuckerman Plastic Surgery | Dr. Zuckerman | Restylane - L | 10 - 20 minutes | Mild bruising or swelling may last up to a week, usually resolves in a few days | FDA - approved filler, deep - tissue injection |
Dr. Darren M. Smith's Practice | Dr. Darren M. Smith | Juvederm, Restylane | 15 - 30 minutes | Temporary redness, swelling, or bruising may resolve within a few days | Board - certified plastic surgeon with 18+ years of experience in eye region |
Frequently Asked Questions about Hyaluronic Acid Filling of Tear Troughs
1. What are the side effects of hyaluronic acid tear trough fillers?
Common side effects include mild swelling, bruising, and redness around the injection site. These usually subside within a few days to a week. Rare side effects may include the Tyndall effect (a bluish discoloration), changes in vision, vascular occlusion, signs of infection, allergic reaction, worsening bruising or swelling, numbness, and persistent pain. Having the procedure done by an experienced professional can significantly reduce the risk of serious side effects.
2. How long do the results of hyaluronic acid tear trough fillers last?
The results typically last between 6 to 18 months, depending on the individual, the type of filler used, lifestyle, genetics, and age. Some people may need maintenance treatments to maintain the rejuvenated look.
3. Are there any age restrictions for hyaluronic acid tear trough fillers?
There is no strict age limit. Tear trough fillers are an appropriate treatment option for anyone with noticeable hollows in the under - eye area. Patients are typically between the ages of 20 and 60, but a consultation with an expert can determine if the treatment is suitable.