Top 5 hospitals for autologous fat augmentation of apple cheeks in New York City!
Introduction
Autologous fat augmentation of apple cheeks has become a popular cosmetic procedure in New York City. It offers a natural - looking way to enhance the cheeks, giving a more youthful and vibrant appearance. Many hospitals in the city are well - known for their expertise in this field. In this article, we will explore the top 5 hospitals for autologous fat augmentation of apple cheeks in New York City, including their features, services, and what makes them stand out.
What is Autologous Fat Augmentation of Apple Cheeks?
Autologous fat augmentation, also known as fat grafting or fat transfer, involves harvesting healthy fat cells from one area of the patient's body (such as the abdomen, thighs, or hips) through liposuction. The harvested fat is then purified and prepared for injection. Subsequently, the fat is carefully injected into the apple cheek area to add volume, smooth out wrinkles, and create a more contoured and youthful appearance.
This procedure has several advantages. Firstly, since it uses the patient's own fat, there is a low risk of allergic reactions or rejection by the body. Secondly, it can provide long - lasting results compared to some temporary dermal fillers. Lastly, it not only enhances the cheeks but also helps to contour the area from where the fat is harvested, offering a two - in - one cosmetic benefit.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Hospital
Selecting the right hospital for autologous fat augmentation of apple cheeks is crucial. A good hospital should have experienced and board - certified plastic surgeons who are skilled in performing this delicate procedure. They should also have state - of - the - art facilities and adhere to strict safety and hygiene standards. Additionally, the hospital's after - care services are important for a smooth recovery and optimal results.
When patients choose an unqualified or inexperienced provider, they may face various risks such as uneven fat distribution, excessive swelling, infection, or suboptimal results. Therefore, it is essential to do thorough research and choose a reputable hospital.
Top 5 Hospitals for Autologous Fat Augmentation of Apple Cheeks in New York City
1. Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC
- Surgeon Expertise: Dr. Elie Levine and Dr. Jody Levine are well - known in the field. They have a multidisciplinary approach, combining expertise in plastic surgery and dermatology. Dr. Levine has a wealth of experience in cheek augmentation procedures, including autologous fat grafting. He carefully evaluates each patient's facial structure and goals to create a personalized treatment plan.
- Procedure Details: The fat grafting procedure at this hospital usually takes about 1 - 2 hours. Excess fat is gently removed from targeted areas of the body using a small cannula. After purification, the fat is carefully re - injected into the apple cheek area. The use of local or twilight anesthesia ensures patient comfort during the procedure.
- Recovery and After - care: Patients can expect mild to moderate swelling in the days after the procedure. Most patients report minimal to no discomfort. The hospital provides detailed post - operative instructions, and Dr. Levine will see patients for post - operative visits. They also offer unique pre - and post - surgery skin care packages, including lymphatic massage and laser treatments to enhance healing and improve results.
- Patient Satisfaction: Many patients have been satisfied with the natural - looking results and the comprehensive care provided by the team at Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC. The hospital's attention to detail and patient - centered approach have contributed to its positive reputation.
2. Dr. Antell's Practice
- Surgeon Reputation: Dr. Darrick Antell is one of the world's most respected and sought - after plastic surgeons. He has been trained at Stanford and Cornell University and has been named a “top plastic surgeon” by Harper’s Bazaar, Town and Country, Vogue, and New York Magazine. His goal is to achieve subtle, beautiful results that naturally enhance facial features.
- Procedure Process: The facial fat transfer procedure at Dr. Antell's practice involves harvesting fat from an appropriate donor site, such as the buttocks or thighs, using specialized and gentle techniques. The fat is then purified and injected at a specific depth in the apple cheek skin tissue. The procedure is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or “twilight” sedation, with a board - certified anesthesiologist monitoring the patient's safety.
- Facility and Privacy: Most patients prefer to have the procedure in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery facility is fully accredited, designed for patient comfort, and equipped with the latest technology. The private back entrance ensures total discretion.
- Recovery Expectations: After the surgery, patients recover in Dr. Antell's state - of - the - art recovery suite. They can return home the same day but should have an escort as they cannot drive for 24 hours after anesthesia. Swelling and bruising are common but will mostly subside within the first two weeks. Applying ice can help reduce swelling, and many patients can return to their usual daily activities within a day.
3. Dr. Koch's Practice
- Specialized Approach: Dr. Michael Koch is experienced in autologous fat transfer to the face. He uses a two - part process that includes harvesting the fat and placement. Since only a small amount of fat is required, he typically uses local or twilight anesthesia. Dr. Koch is meticulous in his technique, using different injection angles and techniques to ensure ideal immersion rates and symmetry.
- Customized Treatment: Before the procedure, Dr. Koch creates a custom treatment plan based on the patient's concerns and goals. He will discuss with the patient which areas of the face, including the apple cheeks, need volume enhancement. Fat may be transferred to the cheeks, lips, and/or beneath the eyes to correct fine lines, wrinkles, and facial depressions.
- Recovery and Follow - up: After the facial fat transfer, patients are sent to a recovery area where incisions are stitched and cleaned. Dressings and compression garments are applied. Patients should plan to take a couple of weeks to rest and heal. Follow - up appointments are scheduled so Dr. Koch can evaluate the recovery and progress. Although some fat may be reabsorbed by the body, with appropriate care, the results should last for many years.
- Cost and Payment: The cost for a fat transfer includes liposuction and is based on the amount of fat being extracted and the size of the area that needs volume. Dr. Koch will estimate costs after a thorough assessment. The practice accepts many payment methods, including low - interest medical financing to make the procedure more affordable.
4. Luxurgery
- Surgeon Qualifications: Dr. Sachin Shridharani is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He has been serving Manhattan for years and is known for his personalized treatment plans and high - quality care. Dr. Shridharani has extensive experience in fat transfer procedures.
- Procedure Flexibility: Patients at Luxurgery have the option to have their autologous fat augmentation of apple cheeks performed at the office or at area hospitals and “surgicenters” in New York City. The office operating room and facility are certified and accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF), ensuring a safe and comfortable environment.
- Results and Longevity: It takes the body six months to one year to see the final results of the fat transfer procedure. However, patients will see an overall change in contour and fullness within days. The transferred fat cells will settle into the skin, and the results can be permanent. Some patients may choose to schedule follow - up treatments over time to maintain their desired look.
- Pre - and Post - operative Tips: Dr. Shridharani provides patients with tips to maximize the chances of fat survival both before and after surgery. Before surgery, patients are advised to be overall healthy and avoid tobacco/nicotine for several months. After surgery, patients should expect swelling and bruising, which will gradually improve in the weeks to months following the procedure.
5. Dr. Cangello's Practice
- Expert in Fat Grafting: Dr. David Cangello is an expert in fat grafting to the face techniques. He was mentored by and shared a practice with one of the pioneers of the fat grafting method, Dr. Sydney Coleman. Dr. Cangello co - authored the chapter on fat grafting of liposuction deformities in the latest edition of Dr. Coleman's textbook.
- Procedure Steps: The fat transfer to the face procedure at Dr. Cangello's practice has three main steps: harvest, process, and transfer. Fat is harvested from donor sites such as the hips, thighs, or flanks, processed using a centrifuge to ensure only healthy fat cells are used, and then transferred to the apple cheek area through a tiny incision.
- Customized Treatment Plan: During the consultation, Dr. Cangello creates a completely customized treatment plan based on the patient's goals and cosmetic tastes. He may recommend additional procedures that can complement the effects of the fat transfer, such as a facelift or eyelid surgery for patients with more advanced signs of age.
- Recovery and Risks: Recovery from the fat grafting procedure usually involves about one to two weeks of puffiness and bruising. Mild discomfort may be experienced during the first week, but Dr. Cangello prescribes appropriate pain medication. The majority of swelling should disappear within a month, and bruising will subside in about 10 - 14 days. The procedure carries few risks when performed on appropriately selected patients and when following the surgeon's guidelines.
Comparison of the Top 5 Hospitals
Hospital | Surgeon Expertise | Procedure Time | Anesthesia | Recovery Time | Unique Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC | Dr. Elie Levine and Dr. Jody Levine with multidisciplinary approach | 1 - 2 hours for fat grafting | Local or twilight anesthesia | Back to work immediately for dermal fillers; 3 - 5 days for fat grafting | Unique pre - and post - surgery skin care packages |
Dr. Antell's Practice | Dr. Darrick Antell, world - renowned plastic surgeon | Procedure time depends on amount of fat transfer | Local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or “twilight” sedation | Same - day discharge, swelling and bruising subside in 1 - 2 weeks | Discreet private operating room, high - tech facility |
Dr. Koch's Practice | Dr. Michael Koch, experienced in facial fat transfer | Varies based on amount of fat and areas treated | Local or twilight anesthesia | A couple of weeks of rest and healing | Customized treatment plan, low - interest medical financing |
Luxurgery | Dr. Sachin Shridharani, board - certified plastic surgeon | Overall results take 6 months - 1 year, initial changes seen within days | Details based on patient's condition | Patients can go home same day, swelling and bruising improve over weeks - months | Procedure options at office or hospitals, pre - and post - operative tips |
Dr. Cangello's Practice | Dr. David Cangello, expert in fat grafting to the face | Based on harvest, process, and transfer steps | Details discussed with patient | 1 - 2 weeks of puffiness and bruising, swelling gone in 1 month | Customized treatment plan with possible additional procedures |
Pre - operative Considerations for Autologous Fat Augmentation of Apple Cheeks
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation with the chosen surgeon. During this time, be open about your expectations, medical history, and any concerns you may have. The surgeon will evaluate your facial structure and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
- Medical Evaluation: You may need to undergo a medical evaluation, including blood tests and other diagnostic procedures, to ensure you are in good health for the surgery. This is important for minimizing risks during the procedure.
- Lifestyle Changes: If you smoke, it is recommended to quit smoking several weeks before the surgery as smoking can interfere with the healing process and reduce the survival rate of the transferred fat. Additionally, avoid taking aspirin or aspirin - containing compounds for a week prior to injection as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Arrangements: Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and stay with you during the initial recovery period. You may also need to make adjustments to your work and daily schedule to allow for proper rest and recovery.
Post - operative Care and Recovery
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are common after autologous fat augmentation of apple cheeks. Applying cold packs to the face can help reduce swelling in the early days. Most swelling and bruising will subside within a few weeks.
- Medication: Take any prescribed medications, such as painkillers or antibiotics, as directed by your surgeon. This will help manage pain and prevent infection.
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks after the surgery to allow your body to heal. Gradually increase your activity level as advised by your surgeon.
- Follow - up Appointments: Attend all follow - up appointments with your surgeon. These appointments are crucial for monitoring your recovery and ensuring the best possible results. Your surgeon may make adjustments or provide additional advice based on your progress.
Conclusion
Autologous fat augmentation of apple cheeks is a popular and effective cosmetic procedure in New York City. The top 5 hospitals we have discussed - Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC, Dr. Antell's Practice, Dr. Koch's Practice, Luxurgery, and Dr. Cangello's Practice - all offer high - quality services, experienced surgeons, and state - of - the - art facilities. When considering this procedure, it is important to do thorough research, have a detailed consultation with the surgeon, and follow all pre - and post - operative instructions.
If you are interested in autologous fat augmentation of apple cheeks, we encourage you to reach out to these hospitals for a consultation. Discover which one is the best fit for your needs and start your journey towards a more youthful and contoured appearance.