Introduction
The appearance of the under - eye area can significantly impact one's overall look, and the tear trough is a common cosmetic concern. As people age, the skin under the eyes becomes thinner, subcutaneous fat volume is lost, and the tear trough area can become more prominent. Hyaluronic acid filler injections have emerged as a popular and effective non - surgical solution for filling tear troughs. In New York City, there are several hospitals and medical facilities that offer high - quality tear trough filler treatments. This article will explore some of the top places in the city for this procedure and provide comprehensive information about tear trough filling with hyaluronic acid.
Understanding Tear Troughs
The tear trough refers to the sunken area that forms beneath the lower eyelids, directly below the under - eye bags, and extends towards the cheeks. It can be a congenital issue or occur due to a combination of factors related to aging. As we age, we experience a loss of facial fat, a decrease in skin elasticity, and laxity of facial ligaments. These changes cause the fat that normally covers the tear trough area to descend, creating a hollow. The area beneath the eyes is particularly vulnerable to volume loss because the skin there is thinner and more delicate than other parts of the face. When the volume decreases, the skin sags, resulting in a hollow or trough - like appearance.
Having prominent tear troughs can make individuals look tired or older than they actually are. Dark circles, under - eye hollows, and bags in the lower eyelid are common signs associated with tear trough deformity. Many people seek cosmetic solutions to address these concerns and achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Tear Trough Filler: An Overview
What is Tear Trough Filler?
Tear trough filler is a cosmetic procedure that involves injecting a hyaluronic acid - based filler (HA) into the area under the eyes. Hyaluronic acid is a substance that occurs naturally in the body and is known for its ability to retain water, providing hydration and volume to the skin. When injected into the tear trough area, it plumps up the skin and restores the lost volume, reducing the appearance of dark circles, hollows, and bags in the lower eyelid.
There are several types of hyaluronic acid fillers available, such as Restylane®, Belotero, Juvederm Volbella, and Restylane Eyelight. The choice of filler depends on the patient's specific needs, goals, skin type, and anatomy. A skilled doctor will recommend the most suitable filler based on a thorough evaluation of the patient's condition.
Benefits of Tear Trough Filler
- Reduces the appearance of dark circles: By filling in the hollows, the shadows that cause dark circles are minimized.
- Camouflages under - eye bags and puffiness: Filling the depression below the eye (the tear trough) helps the lower eyelid blend more seamlessly with the cheek.
- Restores volume to the under - eye area: It addresses the volume loss that occurs with aging, resulting in a more youthful appearance.
- Non - surgical: Compared to surgical options like eyelid surgery, tear trough filler is a non - invasive procedure.
- Little to no downtime: Most patients can resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure, with only minor side effects that subside quickly.
- Quick results: The effects of the filler are visible immediately after the injection.
- Long - lasting: The results can last for several months, typically around 6 - 18 months, depending on the type of filler used and individual factors.
Candidates for Tear Trough Filler
Good candidates for tear trough filler are individuals who are bothered by the appearance of under - eye hollows or dark circles and are seeking a non - surgical solution. They should have healthy skin and no underlying medical conditions that could increase the risk of complications. It is also important for candidates to have realistic expectations about the results. Filler is most effective for dark circles caused by volume loss in the tear trough area. Dark under - eye circles due to skin pigmentation or blood vessels beneath the skin may require other treatments such as laser therapy. Those with severe skin laxity, excess skin, or a large amount of fat in the under - eye area may be better suited for surgical options like eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty).
Top Hospitals and Clinics in New York City for Tear Trough Filling
Cangello Plastic Surgery
Dr. David Cangello at Cangello Plastic Surgery is a plastic surgeon with extensive experience in tear trough filler treatments. He understands the complex anatomy of the under - eye area and can recommend the best option for tear trough filler based on the patient's individual needs, goals, and medical history. He will work with the patient to develop a customized treatment plan to achieve the desired results.
Before the procedure, patients need to discuss their medical history, medications, allergies, and sensitivities with Dr. Cangello. In the days leading up to the appointment, they should avoid taking blood - thinning medications or supplements, as well as alcohol and caffeine, to reduce the risk of bruising. On the day of the appointment, patients should arrive with a clean and makeup - free face.
The tear trough filler procedure at Cangello Plastic Surgery involves injecting the filler into the under - eye area using a small cannula. Results can typically be seen immediately, and the effects can last for several months. After the treatment, patients may experience some mild swelling, bruising, and redness around the injection site, which usually subside within a few days to a week. They should follow Dr. Cangello's aftercare instructions, such as avoiding rubbing or massaging the area for at least 24 hours and refraining from strenuous exercise, alcohol, and blood - thinning medications or supplements for the same period.
Smooth Synergy Medical Spa & Laser Center
Smooth Synergy offers the best dermal filler treatment in NYC for tear troughs. Their medical director, Dr. George Liakeas, MD, is experienced in administering tear trough filler treatments. He will evaluate the patient's face, mark strategic injection points, and use a super - fine needle to inject the hyaluronic acid filler into the under - eye area.
The benefits of getting tear trough filler at Smooth Synergy include no surgery or anesthesia, instant results, filling in or smoothing areas of volume loss under the eyes, and using a filler sourced from naturally - occurring hyaluronic acid. The procedure usually takes between 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the treatment area. After the injection, there is usually little to no downtime, and most patients can return to normal activity immediately. Bruising, redness, and/or swelling at the injection site are possible but typically minimal and resolve within a few days.
It is important to note that tear trough treatment is an off - label use for dermal fillers, so it is crucial to ensure that the doctor is properly vetted and has the medical expertise and experience to safely and properly administer injectables. Smooth Synergy prides itself on being one of the best spas in NYC and offers a complete line of non - surgical facial treatments.
Neinstein Plastic Surgery
At Neinstein Plastic Surgery, tear trough fillers are an ideal alternative to surgery for many patients. The goal of the injections is to blend the eyelid with the cheek to give a rested and youthful appearance. Before the injections, patients are asked not to use blood thinners like aspirin for 5 days. On the day of the procedure, any makeup is removed, and the skin is numbed for 20 minutes.
The injection process at Neinstein Plastic Surgery involves injecting the hyaluronic acid very deep, almost directly on the cheek bone starting about half - way up the nose, and slowly moving a small wave of the filler 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. Since the skin is numbed and the injections have some numbing material, patients should only experience mild discomfort. Only cannulas are used (no needles under the skin), which means less trauma to the tissues.
After the treatment, patients should not rub or massage the treated area immediately. When cleansing their face or applying makeup, they should use gentle, sweeping motions. They should wait 24 hours before resuming strenuous activities that raise their heart rate and blood pressure. Bruising at the treatment site may occur, and temporary, minimal to moderate swelling can be expected. Applying cool compresses to the area treated (avoiding pressure) can help. Some tenderness at the treatment site may last for a few hours or a couple of days, and patients can take acetaminophen/tylenol if needed.
Dr. Michele Green's Private Dermatology Office
Dr. Michele Green is a world - renowned expert in the field of cosmetic dermatology. With over 25 years of experience, she has treated patients from around the globe for a variety of skin concerns, including dark under - eyes, sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne, and acne scars. She is consistently rated as a top NYC dermatologist by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times.
Dr. Green offers tear trough filler treatments at her private dermatology office in Manhattan's upper east side neighborhood. She uses a host of non - invasive cosmetic procedures for rejuvenation, including under - eye fillers, Botox, laser treatments, microneedling, other various dermal fillers, chemical peels, and more. She often uses hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm Volbella, Restylane, Restylane Eyelight, and Belotero Balance for tear troughs. These fillers have a soft formulation to enhance the natural appearance and provide a rejuvenated look.
The first step for having under - eye dermal fillers with Dr. Green is to consult with her in her office. She will evaluate the targeted treatment area and the skin's elasticity, confirm the patient is a good candidate for tear trough fillers, and determine the appropriate dermal filler product and the number of syringes required. A local anesthetic is applied to the entire treatment area one hour before the injections, and the dermal fillers are compounded with lidocaine to minimize pain. Dr. Green uses an ultrafine needle to inject the dermal fillers directly into the skin in tiny amounts for precision. After the procedure, ice is applied to the treatment area, and aftercare instructions are provided. A two - week follow - up appointment is scheduled to ensure that the treatment was satisfactory and determine if any touch - up of the hyaluronic acid dermal filler is needed.
LM Medical NYC
LM Medical NYC offers non - surgical eyelid treatment at their clinics in Manhattan. Their aesthetic team understands the importance of the lower eyelids in the overall appearance of the eyes. When fat is lost or the delicate eyelid skin loses elasticity with age, deep tear troughs, dark circles, wrinkles, and hollows under the eyes can appear. Filler injections using hyaluronic acid filler can immediately improve the appearance of tear troughs, dark circles, and eye bags.
The dermal filler at LM Medical NYC smooths the transition between the lower eyelid and upper cheek for a more rested, youthful appearance. If patients have tear troughs under their lower eyelids, a non - surgical eyelid treatment with dermal fillers can give their eyes a refreshed appearance. To learn more about tear trough filler treatment and other cosmetic services they offer, patients can contact them at their Greenwich Village or the upper east side locations.
Zuckerman Plastic Surgery
Dr. Zuckerman at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery can help patients reduce dark circles with under - eye dermal filler injections. He uses Restylane - L, a hyaluronic acid filler with lidocaine, which is FDA - approved for treating the under - eye area. It is also the least hydrophilic of hyaluronic acid fillers, minimizing swelling.
Dr. Zuckerman injects deep into the tissues, near the bone, and can inject up to 1 cc + of filler per eye. The treatment helps patients appear rested and refreshed when the face is at rest and while smiling or otherwise facially animating. Most patients require one treatment per year to maintain a continual effect. The treatment is visible immediately but takes approximately one week to ten days to set in and lasts up to one year. Results may vary depending on how much product is injected and how quickly the patient metabolizes hyaluronic acid.
Before the treatment, Dr. Zuckerman recommends that patients 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. After the treatment, 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 by icing the affected area post - treatment.
Dr. Darren M. Smith's Practice
Dr. Darren M. Smith is a board - certified plastic surgeon with an artistic eye for aesthetics and over 18 years of experience. He is considered one of the leading specialists in enhancing and rejuvenating the delicate eye region. He offers tear trough fillers as a targeted solution for revitalizing the under - eye area.
The tear trough filler procedure at Dr. Smith's practice 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 to maximize comfort, and most patients report little to no discomfort during the injections. Some temporary redness, swelling, or bruising may occur after the procedure, but these mild side effects typically resolve within a few days.
Dr. Smith uses hyaluronic acid gel fillers like Juvederm and Restylane for tear troughs. He will determine the ideal filler to meet the individual needs of each patient. The results of tear trough fillers are dramatic yet natural - looking, with patients reporting looking 5 - 10 years younger after treatment. The benefits of the treatment typically last between 6 to 18 months, and periodic maintenance treatments are advised to maintain the rejuvenated look.
Dr. Casian Monaco's Practice
Dr. Casian Monaco's new york city practice, located in the prestigious upper east side, specializes in under - eye filler treatments. He uses hyaluronic acid fillers to rejuvenate the under - eye area, effectively reducing the appearance of dark circles and hollows, leading to a fresher, more rested appearance.
The tear trough filler procedure at Dr. Monaco's clinic is performed with the utmost precision and care. He chooses the right type of filler and employs advanced techniques to ensure results that are both beautiful and harmonious with the patient's overall facial structure. Each treatment is customized to the individual's facial anatomy and aesthetic goals, ensuring personalized and effective results. Patients can expect a thorough consultation and a comfortable, welcoming environment at his clinic.
Preparing for Tear Trough Filler Treatment
Preparing for a tear trough filler treatment is crucial to ensure a smooth and successful procedure. Here are some general tips:
- Medical consultation: Schedule a consultation with the doctor to discuss your medical history, including any allergies, sensitivities, medications you are taking, and previous cosmetic treatments. The doctor will evaluate your under - eye area to determine if tear trough filler is the right treatment for you.
- Medication and supplement avoidance: In the days leading up to the appointment, avoid taking blood - thinning medications or supplements such as NSAIDs (non - steroidal anti - inflammatory medications, including ibuprofen, aspirin), and fish oil. These can increase the risk of bruising. Also, avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can have a similar effect.
- Clean face: On the day of the appointment, arrive with a clean and makeup - free face to reduce the risk of infection.
The Tear Trough Filler Procedure
The tear trough filler procedure generally follows these steps:
- Consultation and evaluation: The doctor will assess your under - eye area, discuss your goals, and determine the appropriate filler and the amount needed.
- Anesthesia: A numbing cream or local anesthetic may be applied to the treatment area to minimize discomfort during the injection.
- Injection: The doctor will use a fine needle or a cannula to inject the hyaluronic acid filler into the tear trough area. The injection is usually made at specific strategic points to achieve the desired results.
- Evaluation and adjustment: After the injection, the doctor will evaluate the treatment area to see if any additional filler is needed to ensure optimal results.
- Aftercare: Ice may be applied to the area to reduce swelling, and the doctor will provide aftercare instructions, such as avoiding certain activities, massaging the area, and taking any necessary medications.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from tear trough filler treatment is usually relatively quick, but there are some important aftercare steps to follow: