Top 3 Hospitals for Fat Filling of Apple Cheeks in New York City in 2025!

Introduction

The desire for full and youthful apple cheeks has become increasingly popular in recent years. Fat filling of apple cheeks is a cosmetic procedure that can help achieve a more youthful and attractive appearance. In New York City, there are several hospitals and clinics that offer this procedure. In this article, we will explore the top 3 hospitals for fat filling of apple cheeks in New York City, considering factors such as the expertise of the surgeons, the quality of the services, and patient reviews. But first, let's understand the basics of fat filling for apple cheeks.

Understanding Fat Filling of Apple Cheeks

What is Fat Filling of Apple Cheeks?

Fat filling of apple cheeks, also known as facial fat transfer or autologous fat grafting, is a procedure where fat cells are gently removed from the patient's own body, usually from the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks. These fat cells are then prepared as fat grafts and transferred to the cheeks to add volume, smooth out wrinkles, and create a more youthful and plump appearance. Since the fat used is from the patient's own body, there is a lower risk of rejection compared to using synthetic fillers.

Benefits of Fat Filling for Apple Cheeks

• Natural Look and Feel: The use of the patient's own fat provides a more natural look and feel compared to artificial fillers. The fat integrates with the surrounding tissue, resulting in a more seamless and long - lasting outcome.
• Long - Lasting Results: While some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body in the initial months, the fat that survives can provide long - lasting results. This means that patients can enjoy the benefits of the procedure for several years.
• Minimal Risk of Allergic Reaction: Since the fat is from the patient's own body, there is a very low risk of allergic reactions or immune responses, making it a safer option for many patients.
• Multiple Areas of Improvement: In addition to enhancing the apple cheeks, facial fat transfer can also be used to fill in other areas of the face, such as under - eye hollows, nasolabial folds, and lips.

Top 3 Hospitals for Fat Filling of Apple Cheeks in New York City

1. Gotham Plastic Surgery

Gotham Plastic Surgery is a well - known facility in New York City that offers fat injection procedures for volume enhancement of the face, including fat filling of apple cheeks. The doctors at Gotham Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Miller, have extensive experience in performing fat injection procedures.

Expertise and Techniques

• They perform fat injection procedures on an outpatient basis at their JCAHO - accredited office - based surgery facility. This ensures a high level of safety and quality of care for the patients.
• The procedure is typically completed in under an hour and may be performed with local anesthesia. Fat is first harvested from an area of excess on the body, such as the outside of the leg or the stomach, using a very small cannula and gentle liposuction techniques. The harvested fat is then prepared and re - injected into the cheeks.
• Dr. Miller and the team at Gotham Plastic Surgery have a natra face™ approach that addresses both restorative and transformative changes. This means that they can create custom treatment plans for each patient, taking into account their unique facial features and aesthetic goals.

Patient Experience

Patients who have undergone fat filling procedures at Gotham Plastic Surgery report minimal downtime or recovery. Some minor swelling or bruising may occur, which typically resolves within 48 hours. Most patients experience little discomfort and can resume work and other normal activities the same or next day. The results are often reported to be natural - looking and long - lasting.

2. Dr. Cangello's Plastic Surgery

Dr. David Cangello is an expert in fat grafting to the face in New York City. His practice offers facial fat transfer procedures to address the loss of volume in the face, including filling the apple cheeks.

Expertise and Techniques

• Dr. Cangello had the privilege of being mentored by and sharing a practice with one of the pioneers of the fat grafting method, Dr. Sydney Coleman. He has mastered the techniques necessary to deliver long - lasting and natural - looking fat transfer results.
• The fat transfer to the face procedure at Dr. Cangello's practice generally has three steps: harvest, process, and transfer. During the harvest step, fat is removed from donor sites such as the hips, thighs, or flanks. The fat is then processed using a centrifuge to separate it from fluids and oils, ensuring that only healthy, viable fat cells are injected. Finally, the processed fat is transferred to the cheeks using a cannula.
• Dr. Cangello creates completely customized treatment plans based on each patient's goals and cosmetic tastes. He also offers consultations to help patients understand the procedure and determine if it is right for them.

Patient Experience

Recovery from fat transfer at Dr. Cangello's practice usually isn't overly burdensome. Patients should expect to look puffy and a bit bruised for about one to two weeks. The majority of swelling should disappear within a month, and bruising will subside in about 10 - 14 days. Dr. Cangello prescribes appropriate pain medication to help reduce pain during the initial recovery period. The transferred fat cells that survive in the treatment area will generally stay there indefinitely, providing long - term results.

3. Dr. Kolker's Practice

Dr. Adam Kolker is a well - respected plastic surgeon in New York City who offers facial fat transfer and fat grafting procedures, including fat filling of apple cheeks.

Expertise and Techniques

• During the initial consultation, Dr. Kolker thoroughly discusses the patient's desires and expectations for the facial fat transfer procedure. He conducts a detailed examination of the skin and soft tissue relationships, paying attention to factors such as skin tone, texture, elasticity, and the depth of folds and wrinkles.
• Dr. Kolker carefully helps the patient plan the autologous fat graft or fat transfer techniques, as well as the combination of cosmetic surgery and fat graft techniques, to achieve the most natural and desired result. He reviews the facial fat transfer procedure and other plastic surgery procedures that may be suitable for the patient and answers all of the patient's questions regarding the fat grafting process.
• The fat grafting procedure at Dr. Kolker's practice is performed in his office - based surgical suite, which is accredited by the American Association for the Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF). Depending on the patient's needs, the procedure takes between 30 minutes (for very mild corrections) and 3 hours (for more substantial volume restorations).

Patient Experience

Following facial fat transfer, patients can go home on the same day with a friend or family member. If the fat grafts are performed as an isolated procedure under local anesthesia, Dr. Kolker suggests taking two or three days before returning to work, although many patients are able to return the following day. Swelling is common after the procedure and often resolves after two weeks, but it may take up to 12 weeks for the final results to be evident. Dr. Kolker continues to see patients through the first weeks and months following the fat grafts to advise them on their recovery.

Comparison of the Top 3 Hospitals

Choosing the Right Hospital for Fat Filling of Apple Cheeks

Consider the Surgeon's Expertise

It is crucial to choose a surgeon who has extensive experience in facial fat transfer procedures. Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have a proven track record of delivering successful results. Surgeons with specialized training in fat grafting techniques are more likely to provide natural - looking and long - lasting outcomes.

Evaluate the Hospital's Reputation

Research the hospital's reputation by reading patient reviews and testimonials. A hospital with a positive reputation is more likely to provide high - quality care and a better overall experience. You can also check if the hospital is accredited by recognized organizations, which ensures that it meets certain standards of safety and quality.

Assess the Quality of the Services

Consider the range of services offered by the hospital, including pre - operative consultations, post - operative care, and follow - up appointments. A comprehensive approach to patient care is essential for a successful fat filling procedure. The hospital should also have state - of - the - art facilities and use the latest techniques and technologies.

Understand the Cost and Insurance Coverage

Fat filling of apple cheeks is a cosmetic procedure, and in most cases, it is not covered by insurance. Before choosing a hospital, make sure you understand the cost of the procedure, including all associated fees such as surgeon's fees, anesthesia fees, and facility fees. You can also ask if the hospital offers any financing options to help you manage the cost.

Preparing for Fat Filling of Apple Cheeks

Consultation with the Surgeon

Schedule a consultation with the surgeon to discuss your goals, expectations, and medical history. The surgeon will conduct a physical examination of your face and may take photographs for reference. This is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about the procedure, recovery, and potential risks.

Medical Evaluation

The surgeon may require you to undergo a medical evaluation, including blood tests and other diagnostic procedures, to ensure that you are in good health and a suitable candidate for the fat filling procedure. If you have any pre - existing medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, make sure to inform the surgeon.

Lifestyle Changes

Before the procedure, your surgeon may advise you to make certain lifestyle changes. This may include avoiding smoking and alcohol, as they can affect the healing process. You may also be asked to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, to reduce the risk of bleeding during and after the procedure.

Recovery after Fat Filling of Apple Cheeks

Immediate Post - operative Period

After the fat filling procedure, you will be monitored in the recovery area for a few hours to ensure that there are no immediate complications. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in the treated area. The surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for the treated area, including how to clean it and what medications to take.

Swelling and Bruising

Swelling and bruising are common after fat filling of apple cheeks and usually peak within the first few days after the procedure. Applying ice packs to the treated area can help reduce swelling. Most of the swelling and bruising will resolve within a few weeks, but it may take up to 12 weeks for the final results to be fully visible.

Return to Normal Activities

The recovery time varies depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. In general, you can expect to return to work and normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure. However, you should avoid strenuous exercise and activities that may put pressure on the treated area for a few weeks. Your surgeon will provide you with specific guidelines on when you can resume your normal activities.

Potential Risks and Complications

General Risks

Like any surgical procedure, fat filling of apple cheeks carries some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, allergic reactions, and scarring. However, the risk of these complications is relatively low when the procedure is performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon.

Specific Risks

Some specific risks associated with fat filling of apple cheeks include uneven distribution of the transferred fat, which can result in an uneven appearance. There is also a risk that some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body, which may require additional procedures to achieve the desired results. In rare cases, the fat may form lumps or bumps under the skin.

Conclusion

Fat filling of apple cheeks is a popular cosmetic procedure that can help achieve a more youthful and attractive appearance. In New York City, Gotham Plastic Surgery, Dr. Cangello's Plastic Surgery, and Dr. Kolker's Practice are among the top hospitals for this procedure. When choosing a hospital, it is important to consider the surgeon's expertise, the hospital's reputation, the quality of the services, and the cost. By carefully preparing for the procedure and following the post - operative instructions, patients can achieve natural - looking and long - lasting results. If you are considering fat filling of apple cheeks, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon to learn more about the procedure and determine if it is right for you.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about fat filling of apple cheeks in New York City, please leave a comment below or contact one of the hospitals mentioned in this article. Share this article with your friends and family who may be interested in this procedure.