Introduction
Breast augmentation is one of the most sought - after cosmetic surgeries in the United States, offering women the chance to enhance their body image and boost self - confidence. In New York City, a hub of medical excellence, there are numerous hospitals and clinics that perform high - quality breast augmentation surgeries. This article will take a detailed look at five carefully - selected hospitals on the ranking list for breast augmentation surgery in the city.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that enhances the volume and shape of the breasts. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2020 alone, nearly 200,000 women underwent breast augmentation in the US. This procedure has evolved significantly over the years, with improvements in implant technology and surgical techniques.
Types of Breast Implants
- Silicone Implants: These implants are pre - filled with a cohesive silicone gel. They closely mimic the texture and feel of natural breast tissue. In 2020, approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the US were performed with silicone implants. They are approved by the FDA and are the most frequently chosen option by women. However, the FDA suggests MRI scans every few years to monitor the condition of the implant shell.
- Saline Implants: These are placed in the breast pocket and are filled to the patient’s desired volume during the procedure. They are filled with a solution of salt and water. Saline implants have the advantage of potentially being placed through a slightly shorter incision. They are approved for patients who are at least 18 years old, and in the rare case of rupture, the saline can be safely absorbed by the body.
Five Carefully - Selected Hospitals for Breast Augmentation in New York City
1. NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals is a top - ranked medical institution in New York. It is nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties and is high - performing in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions.
Expertise in Breast Augmentation
The hospital's plastic surgeons are highly experienced in breast augmentation. They offer a comprehensive range of options, including both silicone and saline implants. The surgeons work closely with patients to understand their aesthetic goals and develop personalized treatment plans. They also keep up - to - date with the latest advancements in breast augmentation techniques to ensure the best possible results for their patients.
Patient - Centered Approach
NYU Langone takes a patient - centered approach to breast augmentation. Before the surgery, patients have in - depth consultations with the surgeons, during which they can discuss their expectations, ask questions, and view before - and - after photos of previous patients. The hospital also provides pre - operative and post - operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process for patients.
2. New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell
New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell is another premier medical facility in New York. It is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties and is high - performing in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions.
Multidisciplinary Team
For breast augmentation, the hospital assembles a multidisciplinary team of plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses. This team approach ensures that all aspects of the surgery are carefully planned and executed. The plastic surgeons at the hospital have extensive experience in breast reconstruction as well as augmentation, which allows them to handle complex cases with precision.
Advanced Technology
The hospital utilizes advanced technology in breast augmentation procedures. For example, they may use 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look before the surgery. This technology allows patients to have a more realistic understanding of the potential outcome and make more informed decisions about their breast augmentation.
3. Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital is a well - known medical center in New York. It is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties and is high - performing in 20 procedures/conditions.
Range of Options
Mount Sinai offers a variety of options for breast augmentation. In addition to traditional silicone and saline implants, they have pioneered a new fat transfer technique known as Natural Fill®. This two - step procedure involves removing fat from the patient's buttocks or abdomen using liposuction and then inserting that fat into the breasts to enlarge them. This option is appealing to patients who want a more natural - looking and - feeling result.
Patient Education
The hospital places a strong emphasis on patient education. Before the surgery, patients are educated about the different types of implants, the surgical procedure, and the potential risks and benefits. This education helps patients make informed decisions about their breast augmentation and prepares them for the recovery process.
4. Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health
Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health is nationally ranked in 10 specialties and is high - performing in 1 specialty and 16 procedures/conditions.
Skilled Surgeons
The plastic surgeons at Lenox Hill Hospital are highly skilled in breast augmentation. They are committed to providing natural - looking results that enhance the patient's overall appearance. The surgeons take the time to understand each patient's unique body type and aesthetic goals and customize the surgery accordingly.
Comprehensive Care
The hospital offers comprehensive care before, during, and after the breast augmentation surgery. This includes pre - operative medical evaluations, in - depth consultations, and post - operative follow - up appointments. The goal is to ensure that patients have a safe and comfortable surgical experience and achieve the best possible results.
5. Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital
While Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital is well - known for its work in the fields of eye, ear, and throat, it also has a reputation for high - quality breast augmentation surgeries. It is one of the premier hospitals for aesthetic surgery in New York City.
State - of - the - Art Facilities
The hospital has state - of - the - art facilities for breast augmentation procedures. Their operating rooms are equipped with the latest technology and equipment to ensure the safety and success of the surgeries. The hospital also provides a comfortable and private environment for patients during their treatment and recovery.
Reputation for Excellence
Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital has a long - standing reputation for excellence in patient care. Their plastic surgeons are highly respected in the field and have a track record of achieving excellent results in breast augmentation surgeries. The hospital also offers a range of post - operative support services to help patients recover as quickly and comfortably as possible.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Augmentation
Surgeon Experience
The experience of the plastic surgeon is one of the most important factors to consider. Look for surgeons who have a high volume of breast augmentation surgeries under their belt and who are board - certified. For example, many of the top plastic surgeons in New York City, such as Dr. Adam R. Kolker and Dr. David L. Cangello, are double - board certified and have extensive experience in breast augmentation procedures.
Hospital Reputation
Research the hospital's reputation for performing breast augmentation surgeries. Check online reviews, patient testimonials, and rankings. Hospitals like NYU Langone and New York - Presbyterian have well - established reputations for excellence in medical care, which extends to their plastic surgery departments.
Range of Options
Consider the range of breast augmentation options offered by the hospital. Some hospitals may offer a wider variety of implant types, such as different shapes, sizes, and textures of implants. Additionally, hospitals that offer non - implant options like fat transfer can provide more choices for patients.
Cost
The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implants used, the surgeon's fee, and the hospital's fees. It's important to get a detailed breakdown of the costs upfront and to inquire about financing options. Some hospitals may offer payment plans or accept insurance in certain cases.
The Breast Augmentation Process
Consultation
The first step in the breast augmentation process is the consultation. During this appointment, the patient meets with the plastic surgeon to discuss their aesthetic goals, medical history, and any concerns they may have. The surgeon will perform a physical examination of the breasts, take measurements, and may use imaging technology to help the patient visualize the potential results. The surgeon will also discuss the different types of implants, the surgical procedure, and the potential risks and benefits.
Pre - operative Preparation
Once the patient decides to proceed with the surgery, they will be given pre - operative instructions. These instructions may include quitting smoking, tapering off certain medications or supplements that may increase bleeding, arranging for a trusted family member or friend to pick them up from the hospital, and designating a comfortable space to recover at home.
Surgery
Breast augmentation is typically an outpatient procedure that takes 1 - 1.5 hours to perform. The patient will be given either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation anesthesia. The surgeon will make small incisions to create a pocket for the implant. The incision can be made in different locations, such as under the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit. The implant will then be placed either under the pectoral muscles (submuscular plane) or above the pectoral muscles (subglandular). After the implant is placed, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures and wrap the area with a compression garment.
Recovery
In the initial days after the surgery, it's normal to experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. The patient will be given a prescription for pain medication to help ease discomfort. They will also be provided with a surgical compression bra to wear for a few weeks. Most patients can resume light activities and work in 2 - 3 weeks and more strenuous activities in 6 - 8 weeks. It may take a few months for the implants to settle into place and for the final results to be visible.
Potential Complications of Breast Augmentation
Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)
Over the past few years, researchers have found that women with breast implants may have a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL. This is not breast cancer but a form of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It appears to be associated with textured implants and in patients who develop a seroma (accumulation of fluid around the breast). The actual number of cases worldwide is approaching 400, but this is still a very rare occurrence.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
Breast Implant Illness is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that women report after having implants placed. These symptoms include memory loss, “brain fog,” joint pain, and fatigue. However, the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is poorly understood and still being investigated.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is a common complication after breast augmentation. It occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing hardening or discomfort. Treatment may involve removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants. Some surgeons may use an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to help prevent capsular contracture.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hospital for breast augmentation in New York City is a crucial decision that can greatly impact the outcome of the surgery. The five hospitals mentioned in this article - NYU Langone Hospitals, New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell, Mount Sinai Hospital, Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health, and Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital - are all top - ranked institutions with experienced surgeons, advanced technology, and a commitment to patient care. By considering factors such as surgeon experience, hospital reputation, range of options, and cost, patients can make an informed decision about their breast augmentation surgery.
If you're considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule consultations with surgeons at these hospitals to learn more about the procedures, ask questions, and see if it's the right choice for you. Don't hesitate to share this article with others who may be interested in breast augmentation in New York City.
