Introduction
The tear trough area, which is the sunken area beneath the lower eyelids, is a common cosmetic concern. As we age, the skin under the eyes becomes thinner, subcutaneous fat volume is lost, and the tear trough can become more prominent, making people look tired or older. Autologous fat removal and transfer to the tear trough is an effective way to address this issue, as it uses the patient's own fat as a natural filler. In New York City, there are several excellent hospitals and clinics that offer this procedure. This article will introduce the top 5 hospitals for autologous fat removal of tear troughs in New York City.
Understanding Tear Trough Deformity
The tear trough deformity can occur due to a combination of factors. Aging is a major contributor, as it leads to a loss of facial fat, skin elasticity, and the laxity of facial ligaments. As a result, the fat that normally covers the tear trough area may descend, creating a hollow. Genetics also play a role, as some individuals are born with a lack of facial fat volume in the tear trough area, resulting in under - eye hollows. The area beneath the eyes is more prone to volume loss because the skin there is thinner and more delicate compared to other parts of the face. When the volume decreases, the skin starts to sag, giving a hollow or trough - like appearance.
Common symptoms of tear trough deformity include dark circles, hollows, and puffiness under the eyes. This can make people look perpetually tired, even when they are well - rested. It can also affect one's self - confidence, as it is a visible sign of aging.
Benefits of Autologous Fat Removal for Tear Troughs
Autologous fat removal and transfer for tear troughs offer several benefits. Firstly, it uses the patient's own fat, which means there is a very low risk of allergic reactions or rejection. Unlike synthetic fillers, the body does not recognize the fat as a foreign substance and will readily accept it. Secondly, the results are more natural - looking compared to some other treatments. The fat blends well with the surrounding tissue, giving a smoother and more youthful appearance. Thirdly, it can be a long - lasting solution. A significant portion of the transferred fat can survive and provide permanent correction, unlike some dermal fillers that may need to be replenished every few months.
Top 5 Hospitals for Autologous Fat Removal of Tear Troughs in New York City
1. Cangello Plastic Surgery
Dr. David Cangello at Cangello Plastic Surgery is highly experienced in tear trough filler treatments and fat grafting procedures. He was one of only two surgeons in the world mentored by the pioneer of fat grafting techniques, Dr. Sydney Coleman. This extensive training and experience allow him to deliver long - lasting and natural - looking fat transfer results.
During the consultation, Dr. Cangello will carefully assess the patient's situation, including the degree of tear trough deformity, skin quality, and overall facial proportions. He will then develop a customized treatment plan to achieve the most natural and desired result. The procedure at his clinic is performed in a fully accredited surgical facility onsite in his NYC office, or for patients who prefer a hospital setting, he has operating privileges at Lenox Hill Hospital and Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital.
Patient testimonials rave about Dr. Cangello's skills and bedside manner. One patient, C.M., said, “I just recently had an autologous fat transfer procedure done by dr. Cangello, & I am extremely pleased with my result. Dr. Cangello is both an excellent artist & medical doctor, & he & his staff are so pleasant! Highly recommend going to him for any cosmetic procedures!”
2. Dr. Kolker
Dr. Adam Kolker offers facial fat transfer procedures in New York City. He understands that as we age, we lose volume in areas such as the tear trough, and restoring this volume can have a significant impact on one's appearance. During the initial consultation, Dr. Kolker will conduct a thorough examination of the patient's skin and soft tissue relationships, paying close attention to factors like skin tone, texture, elasticity, and the depth of the tear trough.
He will then plan the autologous fat graft or fat transfer techniques that are most suitable for the patient. The fat cells are gently removed from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks, prepared as fat grafts, and then transferred to the tear trough area. Dr. Kolker's goal is to achieve the most natural and desired result, minimizing the effects of age and restoring youth and beauty.
Many patients have shared positive experiences. One patient said, “My sole stipulation was that I look ‘natural’ and the fact that I had cosmetic surgery should not be obvious. Dr Kolker recommended fat transfer to give me a ‘softer’ and more natural appearance. I accepted his professional opinion and agreed to his recommendations without hesitation... now not only do I receive many compliments on my appearance, I finally look the way I feel.”
3. Dr. Gerald Imber
Dr. Gerald Imber is an internationally renowned plastic surgeon who has performed over 25,000 surgical procedures. He firmly believes that fat transfer is the best of all available fillers for facial rejuvenation, including treating the tear trough area. He performs a full range of cosmetic surgery procedures in his New York City practice.
For autologous fat transfer to the tear trough, Dr. Imber will first assess the patient's overall fat percentage to determine the best donor site, which could be the abdomen, hips, inner thighs, or buttocks. The required fat is harvested through liposuction or syringe aspiration and then processed in a centrifuge to purify the fat cells. The purified fat is then injected into the tear trough area.
One of the advantages of choosing Dr. Imber is his commitment to achieving natural results. He has dedicated his career to helping his patients look as good as they feel. He also offers concierge services to make sure patients are comfortable every step of the way, from managing their stay in New York City if they are out - of - town to post - surgical care.
4. Haideh Hirmand, MD
At Haideh Hirmand, MD, micro - fat transfers are used for eyelid and peri - orbital rejuvenation, including treating the tear trough. The “Hirmand technique” involves using stem cell enriched fat cells. Fat is harvested fresh using custom - made small cannulas, processed to purify and concentrate the stem cell enriched portion, and then injected through access holes in very small quantities with special small caliber blunt cannulas.
This technique is especially suitable for the delicate area around the eyes. The harvesting and injecting technique must deliver extremely small fat particles for the best results. The scars associated with the harvest and injection sites are tiny and often invisible as they heal very well. There is very little “over - correction,” and most of the fat injected with this technique survives despite a small degree of reabsorption that occurs after transfer.
Good candidates for fat transfers around the eyes are those with volume loss and skin tone that can support fat injections. Dr. Hirmand takes into account the “aesthetic vision” relative to each person's age, overall facial proportions, and skin quality to ensure natural - looking results.
5. Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists (Dr. Ran Rubinstein)
Dr. Ran Rubinstein at Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists offers facial fat transfer procedures in Newburgh, NY. He is double board certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, with over 20 years of experience in both private and academic practice.
For tear trough treatment, Dr. Rubinstein will discuss the areas of the face that require increased volume with the patient. The fat transfer procedure is performed under local anesthesia and typically takes two to four hours to complete. Fat cells are extracted from the donor area (such as the abdomen, buttocks, or thighs), purified, and then injected into the tear trough tissues with precision using lipoinjection or micro lipoinjection to ensure natural - looking results.
The long - lasting results of the procedure can be seen over time as the body reabsorbs some of the transferred fat and the facial features take on a more refreshed look. Many patients have praised Dr. Rubinstein for his professionalism and the natural - looking results he achieves. One patient said, “I’m a perfectionist. I do my research before doing anything to my face or body. He is the best. Educated, experienced, professional. I’ve been going to him for years and never had any problems. He will keep your face looking naturally beautiful.”
What to Consider When Choosing a Hospital or Clinic
When choosing a hospital or clinic for autologous fat removal of tear troughs in New York City, there are several factors to consider.
- Surgeon's Experience and Expertise: Look for a surgeon who has extensive experience in fat transfer procedures, especially in treating the tear trough area. Check their training, certifications, and the number of similar procedures they have performed.
- Reputation and Patient Testimonials: Read reviews and testimonials from previous patients to get an idea of the quality of service and the results achieved. A good reputation is a strong indicator of a reliable and skilled provider.
- Facility Accreditation: Ensure that the hospital or clinic has proper accreditation. This guarantees that the facility meets certain standards of safety and quality.
- Treatment Plan Customization: A good surgeon will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs, facial anatomy, and cosmetic goals. Avoid providers who offer a one - size - fits - all approach.
- After - Care Services: Find out what kind of after - care services are provided. This includes follow - up appointments, instructions for post - operative care, and support in case of any complications.
Preparing for Autologous Fat Removal of Tear Troughs
Before the procedure, it is important to follow certain steps to ensure a smooth and successful outcome.
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation with the surgeon. During this meeting, discuss your medical history, any medications you are taking, allergies, and your expectations for the procedure. The surgeon will also examine your face and tear trough area to determine the best approach.
- Medication and Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoid taking blood - thinning medications or supplements such as NSAIDs (non - steroidal anti - inflammatory medications, anything containing ibuprofen, aspirin, or fish oil) for at least a week before the procedure, as this can increase the risk of bruising. Also, stop smoking and avoid alcohol and caffeine in the days leading up to the appointment.
- Arrival Preparation: On the day of the appointment, arrive with a clean and makeup - free face.
Recovery Process
After autologous fat removal and transfer to the tear trough, the recovery process varies from person to person.
Most patients can expect some mild swelling, bruising, and redness around the injection site. These symptoms usually subside within a few days to a week. Ice packs or over - the - counter pain medications such as ibuprofen can be used to manage discomfort.
It is important to avoid rubbing or massaging the area for at least 24 hours after the procedure to prevent the filler from shifting or becoming dislodged. Strenuous exercise, alcohol, and blood - thinning medications or supplements should also be avoided for at least 24 hours.
While the results are immediate to some extent, it may take a few days for the full effects to be visible as any swelling or bruising subsides. The final results can take several months to become fully apparent, as the body reabsorbs some of the transferred fat and the fat cells settle in.
Conclusion
Autologous fat removal and transfer to the tear trough is an effective and natural - looking solution for treating tear trough deformity. In New York City, there are many excellent hospitals and clinics that offer this procedure, such as Cangello Plastic Surgery, Dr. Kolker, Dr. Gerald Imber, Haideh Hirmand, MD, and Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists. When choosing a provider, it is important to consider factors such as the surgeon's experience, reputation, facility accreditation, and the quality of after - care services. By making an informed decision and following the pre - and post - operative instructions, patients can achieve beautiful and natural - looking results.
If you are considering autologous fat removal of tear troughs, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top providers mentioned in this article. Take the first step towards a more youthful and refreshed appearance today!
