Top 5 Doctors in New York City for Improving Facial Sagging
Facial sagging is a common concern that many individuals face as they age. It can make one look older and tired. In New York City, there are numerous highly skilled doctors who specialize in procedures to address facial sagging. This article carefully selects the top 5 doctors based on their expertise, patient reviews, and successful outcomes.
Understanding Facial Sagging
As we age, our skin loses elasticity due to a decrease in collagen and elastin production. Gravity also takes its toll, causing the skin to droop. Common signs of facial sagging include jowls, loose skin around the neck, and deepening of nasolabial folds. These changes can significantly impact one's appearance and self - confidence.
Non - surgical treatments such as dermal fillers and Botox can provide temporary improvements, but for more significant and long - lasting results, surgical facelift procedures are often recommended.
Top 5 Doctors in New York City for Facial Sagging
1. Dr. Andrew Jacono, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Dr. Andrew Jacono is widely regarded as one of the pioneers in the field of facial plastic surgery. He has an esteemed reputation as one of the best facelift surgeons in New York City and even globally. He is rated 4.6 on Google, which is a testament to his high - quality services and patient satisfaction.
Dr. Jacono's innovative techniques and artistic approach set him apart. His deep - plane facelift technique is revolutionary. Unlike other facelifts that simply lift superficial skin and muscle tissue, his deep - plane technique goes deeper, lifting the drooping muscles in the cheeks, jowls, and neck without separating the skin from underlying musculature. This results in a natural - looking and refreshed appearance, and the face never looks too tight or stretched.
He has also published scientific studies in the aesthetic surgery journal and lectured around the world, coaching thousands of professionals on facial plastic surgery techniques. Some of his satisfied patients include a 59 - year - old who underwent a mini facelift along with other procedures and looked at least 20 years younger, and a 67 - year - old who was still satisfied with the amazing and natural results 5 years after a full facial rejuvenation.
2. Dr. Adam Kolker
Dr. Adam Kolker believes that any facial rejuvenation plan should be carefully formulated based on the patient's particular anatomy and unique desires. He offers a comprehensive approach to facelift procedures, considering non - invasive and minimally invasive techniques as well as more invasive options.
A facelift with Dr. Kolker can address a variety of age - related concerns such as loose jowls, sagging facial skin, poor chin and jawline definition, slackness in the upper neck region, and laxity, wrinkles, and fine lines on the lower two - thirds of the face. He uses a step - wise approach, selecting the safest and most effective facial rejuvenation techniques from the lowest "rungs" appropriate for the patient's goals.
Patients like Kristen Foodim had a full facial rejuvenation surgery plan with Dr. Kolker, including a facelift, neck lift, blepharoplasty, brow lift, facial fat grafting, and a lip lift. After the surgery, she reported looking as good as she felt. Many patients praise Dr. Kolker and his professional staff for delivering excellent results and providing a high level of care.
3. Dr. William Lao, MD
Dr. William Lao is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon with over a decade of experience. He has performed over 1,000 successful facial plastic surgeries over the last 10 years and is a winner of the 2020, 2021, and 2022 top doctor awards from New Beauty magazine.
He uses his understanding of both eastern and western aesthetic ideals to provide a look that not only meets the patient's desires but also helps maintain their cultural identity. His deep plane facelift addresses the connective tissue and muscle layer beneath the facial skin, preventing the overdone or “pulled” appearance. He also offers an Asian facelift, specifically designed to cater to Asian patients, which supports the thicker and heavier tissues and reduces the risk of hypertrophic or keloid scarring.
Dr. Lao's patients report significant improvements in their facial appearance. For example, a 57 - year - old female who had her eyelids and face lifted by Dr. Lao looked 10 years younger, and her confidence level soared. The recovery time for a facelift with Dr. Lao is relatively reasonable, with most patients returning home on the day of surgery and resuming normal social activities within a month.
4. Dr. John E. Sherman, MD, FACS
Dr. John E. Sherman has over 35 years of experience performing thousands of procedures. He is recognized by Castle Connolly Top Doctors, New York Magazine Best Doctors, and the New York Times Super Doctors, among other publications.
He specializes in multiple facelift methods, including the mini facelift, short - scar facelift, neck lift, coronal forehead lift, and endoscopic forehead lift. The mini facelift is ideal for younger patients looking to correct moderate signs of aging, while the short - scar facelift uses small incisions to access and reposition fat deposits and underlying structures without leaving obvious surgical marks. The neck lift helps smooth and tighten the skin under the chin and across the neck.
Dr. Sherman's patients appreciate his personalized approach. During the consultation, he carefully examines the patient's face and neck and recommends the best approach based on their specific needs. The recovery process is also well - managed, with most patients able to return to normal activities within 1 - 2 weeks.
5. Dr. Philipp Franck
Dr. Philipp Franck is a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He has been named New York Magazine’s rising star surgeon and is listed as Castle Connolly’s top doctors.
He combines advanced surgical techniques with an artist’s eye for natural - looking results. His facelift and neck - lift procedure involves carefully repositioning underlying tissues and smoothing the skin. He uses strategically placed incisions around the hairline and behind the ears to minimize visible scarring. In some cases, facial fat grafting is incorporated to restore lost volume and enhance the overall contour.
Dr. Franck offers different facelift techniques such as the mini facelift, deep plane facelift, SMAS lift, MACS lift, short scar facelift, and subperiosteal facelift. He tailors each procedure to the patient's unique facial anatomy, ensuring minimal scarring, quick recovery, and long - lasting improvements. Patients who undergo facelift procedures with Dr. Franck can expect to see a rejuvenated appearance and enhanced self - confidence.
Comparison of the Top 5 Doctors
| Doctor | Specialty | Years of Experience | Patient Ratings | Signature Procedure | Recovery Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Andrew Jacono | Facial plastic surgery | Long - standing experience | 4.6 on Google | Deep - plane facelift | Varies based on procedure |
| Dr. Adam Kolker | Facial rejuvenation | Not specified but experienced | High patient satisfaction (testimonials) | Comprehensive facelift approach | Swelling and bruising for 7 - 10 days, return to work in about 2 weeks |
| Dr. William Lao | Facial plastic surgery | Over 10 years | High patient satisfaction (testimonials) | Deep plane facelift, Asian facelift | Most patients return home on the day of surgery, return to normal social activities within a month |
| Dr. John E. Sherman | Facial plastic surgery | Over 35 years | Recognized by multiple top doctor lists | Multiple facelift methods (mini, short - scar, etc.) | Return to normal activities within 1 - 2 weeks |
| Dr. Philipp Franck | Facial plastic surgery | Not specified but well - trained | Named as a rising star and top doctor | Tailored facelift based on facial anatomy | Swelling and bruising for 1 - 2 weeks, return to light activities after symptoms subside |
Preparing for a Facelift Procedure
Regardless of which doctor you choose, preparing for a facelift is an important step to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery. Here are some general guidelines:
- Medical Consultation: Have a detailed consultation with your chosen doctor. Discuss your medical history, any medications you are taking, and your aesthetic goals. The doctor will perform a physical examination of your face and neck to determine the best approach for you.
- Stop Smoking: Smoking can constrict blood flow and complicate the procedure and recovery process. It is recommended to stop smoking at least a month before surgery and refrain from smoking during the recovery period.
- Medication Adjustment: Certain medications such as anti - inflammatories and herbal supplements can increase the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery. Your doctor will advise you on which medications to stop taking before the procedure.
- Skincare: Maximize skin "fitness" prior to surgery. This may involve using a skincare regimen that includes a retinol or retin - A product. In some cases, the doctor may recommend other preoperative treatments such as chemical peels, fraxel, or laser to enhance the postoperative results.
- Pre - operative Tests: You may need to undergo routine blood tests and obtain medical clearance from your primary care physician or other specialists, if necessary.
- Arrange for Support: Since you will need time to recover after the surgery, arrange for someone to help you at home, especially during the first few days. You may also need someone to drive you to and from the surgery and during the initial recovery period.
Recovery After a Facelift
The recovery process after a facelift can vary depending on the individual and the specific procedure performed. However, here are some common aspects of the recovery:
- Initial Recovery: After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery room. Small drain tubes may be in place, which are usually removed on the first morning after surgery. You may experience bruising and swelling, which is normal and generally lasts for 7 - 10 days. You may also have a private duty nurse to care for you overnight.
- Bandages and Compression Garments: You will have bandages on the incision sites, and in some cases, a compression garment may be given to wear around the lower face and neck for about a week to help reduce swelling and support the healing process.
- Medication: Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort during the recovery period. It is important to take the medication as prescribed.
- Activity Restrictions: You will need to avoid strenuous activities for several weeks. Most patients can return to work and light activities within 2 weeks, but it may take up to a year for minor swelling, bruising, tightness, and numbness to completely subside. You should also avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen to protect the healing skin.
- Follow - up Appointments: Regular follow - up appointments with your doctor are essential to monitor your recovery and ensure that everything is healing properly. The doctor will remove sutures at the appropriate time (usually around 7 days) and address any concerns you may have.
Conclusion
Improving facial sagging is a significant decision, and choosing the right doctor is crucial. The top 5 doctors in New York City - Dr. Andrew Jacono, Dr. Adam Kolker, Dr. William Lao, Dr. John E. Sherman, and Dr. Philipp Franck - all have the expertise, experience, and patient - centric approach to provide excellent results. Whether you are looking for a specific technique or a personalized treatment plan, these doctors can offer the solutions you need.
If you are considering a facelift or any procedure to address facial sagging, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of these top doctors. Discuss your concerns, goals, and expectations, and they will guide you through the process to help you achieve a more youthful and confident appearance. Don't let facial sagging hold you back; take the first step towards a rejuvenated you today!
