Introduction
Full - face fat filling, also known as facial fat transfer or fat grafting, has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure in New York City. This procedure involves harvesting healthy fat cells from one area of the body and re - injecting them into the facial tissues to restore lost volume, smooth lines and creases, and enhance facial features. In this article, we will explore the top ten hospitals in New York City for full - face fat filling, along with an in - depth look at the procedure itself, its benefits, and what to expect during and after the treatment.
Understanding Full - Face Fat Filling
What is Full - Face Fat Filling?
Full - face fat filling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure. It is the process of taking fat cells from a donor site, such as the buttocks, thighs, or abdomen, and injecting them into various areas of the face. As we age, our face loses subcutaneous fat, which leads to a hollowed - out appearance, fine lines, and wrinkles. Fat transfer can counteract these signs of aging and give the face a more youthful and refreshed look.
Benefits of Full - Face Fat Filling
- Natural Results: Since the procedure uses the patient's own fat, the results look and feel more natural compared to synthetic fillers. The transferred fat blends seamlessly with the existing facial tissues.
- Long - Lasting Effects: Unlike some dermal fillers that may need to be repeated every few months, a significant portion of the transferred fat can survive in the new location, providing long - lasting volume enhancement. Once the fat cells establish a blood supply, they can remain in the face for years.
- Low Risk of Rejection: Because the fat is taken from the patient's own body, there is a very low risk of allergic reactions or rejection by the body's immune system.
- Body Contouring: In addition to facial rejuvenation, the liposuction part of the procedure can also help in contouring the donor area, such as slimming down the thighs or reducing belly fat.
Top Ten Hospitals for Full - Face Fat Filling in New York City
1. Where Dr. Darrick Antell Practices
Dr. Darrick Antell is one of the world's most respected and sought - after plastic surgeons. He was 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 approach to plastic surgery is to achieve subtle, beautiful results that naturally enhance facial features. He has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but many patients prefer to have the procedure in his private operating room across from Lenox Hill Hospital. The facility is fully accredited, equipped with the latest technology, and offers personalized care.
2. Where Dr. David Cangello Practices
Dr. David Cangello is an expert in fat grafting to the face. He was mentored by and shared a practice with one of the pioneers of the fat grafting method, Dr. Sydney Coleman. He uses the technique described by Dr. Coleman to deliver long - lasting and natural - looking fat transfer results. His office has a state - of - the - art, fully accredited operating room, and he also has operating privileges at Lenox Hill Hospital and Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital in NYC.
3. Gotham Plastic Surgery
Gotham Plastic Surgery offers fat injection procedures, which can be used for full - face fat filling. Dr. Miller and the team at Gotham perform these procedures on an outpatient basis at their JCAHO - accredited office - based surgery facility. The procedure is typically completed in under an hour and may be performed with local anesthesia. There is minimal downtime or recovery associated with the fat injection at this facility.
4. Where Dr. William Samson Practices
Dr. William Samson is dedicated to providing premier and personalized patient experiences for facial fat grafting. He is a board - certified plastic surgeon and a member of both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the Aesthetic Society (ASAPS). His practice focuses on using a professional liposuction technique to preserve fat cells and strategically injecting them for the best results. The recovery period is often short, and patients can return to their daily routine soon after the treatment.
5. Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery
Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg at Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery can design a treatment plan tailored to each patient's goals and natural facial features. He has offices in multiple locations, including Manhattan, Princeton, and Long Island. The fat transfer procedure here is a simple and safe one, with a well - defined liposuction process and injection technique to ensure a natural look and increase the survival rate of the transferred fat cells.
6. Where Dr. Elie Levine and Dr. Jody Levine Practice
At this practice, facial fat transfer can be combined with a facelift to achieve optimal results. The procedure is performed in an AAAASF - accredited NYC surgical suite. Local, general, or twilight anesthesia may be used depending on the extent of the procedure. Patients can return home the same day as treatment, and the results can include long - lasting, natural - looking facial rejuvenation.
7. New Face NY with Dr. Westreich
Dr. Westreich is a double - board surgeon certified in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology. He is recognized for using advanced techniques in facial fat transfer to increase the chances of the transferred fat cells surviving. His surgical approach is meticulous, focusing on precision and symmetry to achieve aesthetically pleasing results with minimal risk.
8. Millennial Plastic Surgery
Millennial Plastic Surgery offers facial fat transfer treatments. Dr. David Shokrian has performed thousands of surgical procedures on the face and body. The procedure here combines the body contouring effects of liposuction with facial volume restoration. It is less invasive than traditional plastic surgery and can give long - lasting results. They also offer financing options for patients.
The Full - Face Fat Filling Procedure
Pre - Procedure Consultation
Before undergoing full - face fat filling, patients will have a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will evaluate the patient's facial structure, discuss the patient's goals and expectations, and determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure. The surgeon will also explain the procedure in detail, including the potential risks and benefits.
Procedure Steps
- Harvesting the Fat: The surgeon will first identify a donor site on the patient's body, such as the thighs, buttocks, or abdomen. Using liposuction techniques, the fat cells are gently removed from the donor site. Specialized and gentle methods are used to ensure that the fat cells remain healthy and undamaged during the extraction process.
- Processing the Fat: Once the fat is harvested, it is processed to separate the healthy fat cells from blood, fluids, and other impurities. This is typically done using a centrifuge, which helps to ensure that only viable fat cells are used for injection.
- Injection of the Fat: The processed fat cells are then carefully injected into the targeted areas of the face. The surgeon will use a cannula to make tiny incisions and gradually inject the fat at a specific depth in the skin tissue to add volume to the desired areas, such as sunken cheeks, under - eye hollows, or smile lines.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post - Procedure
After the procedure, patients will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a nurse. Since full - face fat filling is usually an outpatient procedure, patients can return home the same day. However, they may experience some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. Ice packs can be applied to the treated areas to reduce swelling, and pain medication may be prescribed to manage any pain.
Short - Term Recovery (First Two Weeks)
Most of the swelling and bruising will subside within the first two weeks. Patients are advised to keep their head elevated when sleeping to reduce swelling and to avoid strenuous activities during this time. Makeup can usually be applied after a few days to cover any remaining bruising.
Long - Term Recovery
The final results of the full - face fat filling may not be visible for up to a month due to residual swelling. The transferred fat cells will gradually establish a blood supply and integrate into the facial tissues. Some of the fat may be reabsorbed by the body in the first few months, but a significant portion should remain long - term. Patients are usually able to return to their normal daily activities within a day or two, but they should avoid intense exercise for a few weeks.
Cost of Full - Face Fat Filling
The cost of full - face fat filling can vary depending on several factors, such as the amount of fat needed, the complexity of the procedure, the experience of the surgeon, and the location of the hospital. On average, the cost can range from a few thousand dollars to over ten thousand dollars. Some hospitals may offer financing options to help patients manage the cost of the procedure.
Risks and Complications
While full - face fat filling is generally considered a safe procedure, like any surgery, it does carry some risks. These can include:
- Swelling and Bruising: As mentioned earlier, swelling and bruising are common side effects, but they usually resolve within a few weeks.
- Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the donor or injection sites. Surgeons will take precautions to minimize this risk, such as using sterile techniques during the procedure and prescribing antibiotics if necessary.
- Asymmetry: In some cases, the results may be slightly uneven, requiring additional touch - up procedures.
- Fat Reabsorption: Not all of the transferred fat cells will survive. The amount of fat reabsorbed can vary from patient to patient, and in some cases, a second procedure may be needed to achieve the desired results.
Choosing the Right Hospital
When choosing a hospital for full - face fat filling in New York City, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Surgeon's Experience: Look for a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in performing full - face fat filling procedures. Check their credentials, patient reviews, and before - and - after photos.
- Hospital Facilities: Ensure that the hospital or surgical facility is fully accredited and equipped with the latest technology and safety measures.
- Patient Care: Consider the level of personalized care offered by the hospital staff. A good hospital will provide comprehensive pre - and post - operative care, including clear instructions and support during the recovery process.
- Cost and Financing: Compare the costs of the procedure at different hospitals and find out if they offer financing options to suit your budget.
Conclusion
Full - face fat filling is a popular and effective cosmetic procedure for achieving a more youthful and natural - looking appearance. In New York City, there are many top - notch hospitals and experienced plastic surgeons available to perform this procedure. By understanding the procedure, its benefits, risks, and recovery process, and by carefully choosing the right hospital, patients can make an informed decision and achieve the best possible results. If you are considering full - face fat filling, take the time to research and consult with multiple surgeons to find the one that is right for you.
Are you ready to take the next step towards a more youthful and refreshed appearance? Contact one of the top hospitals in New York City for a consultation and start your journey to full - face fat filling today!
