Introduction to Breast Augmentation Surgery in New York City
Breast augmentation surgery has gained immense popularity over the years, driven by a growing cultural emphasis on self - care and confidence. In New York City, a hub of medical excellence, patients have a plethora of options when it comes to breast augmentation, especially surgeries involving areola incisions. These incisions offer advantages such as less visible scarring and more direct access for implant placement. Let's explore the factors influencing this surgery and the top hospitals and surgeons in the city.
Factors Influencing Breast Augmentation with Areola Incision
Implant Selection
There are mainly two types of implants: silicone and saline. Silicone implants are known for their natural look and feel. According to industry data, in 2020, approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States were performed with silicone implants. They are pre - filled by the manufacturer with a cohesive gel. On the other hand, saline implants are filled with a salt - water solution once they are placed in the breast pocket. They often require a smaller incision size and are approved for patients as young as 18 years old, compared to silicone implants which are approved for patients aged 22 and above.
Patient Goals and Expectations
Every patient has unique aesthetic goals. Some may desire a subtle increase in breast size, while others may want a more dramatic change. Surgeons need to have in - depth consultations with patients to understand their expectations, body type, and lifestyle. For example, a patient who is very physically active may require a different approach to implant placement and selection compared to someone with a more sedentary lifestyle.
Medical History and Health
A patient's medical history plays a crucial role in determining their suitability for breast augmentation surgery. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or a history of breast cancer may affect the surgical process and recovery. Non - smokers are generally better candidates for surgery as smoking can impede the healing process. Surgeons also need to take into account a patient's current medications and supplements, as some may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
Top - Ranked Plastic Surgeons in New York City for Breast Augmentation
Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board certified plastic surgeon in New York City. His education and training span some of the most prestigious medical institutions, including Harvard Medical School, New York University, and the University of Melbourne in Australia. He is a highly - regarded surgeon in the field of breast augmentation and cosmetic surgery. Dr. Kolker has been featured in New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues from 2008 - 2024 and is also recognized as one of America's Best Plastic Surgeons by Newsweek in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 across multiple categories including breast augmentation. His patients have reported high satisfaction rates, with many commending his ability to achieve natural - looking results.
Dr. David L. Cangello
Dr. David L. Cangello is a board - certified plastic surgeon known for his artistic approach to breast surgery. He offers personalized treatment plans to meet each patient's aesthetic goals. He has extensive experience with both silicone and saline implants and is one of only two surgeons in the world trained in fat grafting techniques by a pioneer in the field. His patients include professional models from top agencies, which speaks to the quality of his work. Dr. Cangello takes into account a patient's tastes and preferences, and he uses meticulous surgical techniques to minimize scarring, especially in the case of areola incisions.
Dr. Daniel Maman
Dr. Daniel Maman is a Harvard fellowship - trained and board - certified plastic surgeon. He has completed a Harvard fellowship in aesthetic breast surgery and a 6 - year plastic surgery residency at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He appears on the New York Times Top Doctors and Super Doctors in Plastic Surgery lists. Dr. Maman offers a comprehensive consultation process, including a detailed review of a patient's medical history, physical assessment, and operative plans. He typically performs breast augmentations via incisions hidden within the natural breast fold or the nipple, with some cases suitable for areola incisions. His focus is on providing natural - looking, long - lasting results with a manageable recovery time.
Dr. John E. Sherman
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He worked closely with Allergan during the development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. Dr. Sherman has a deep understanding of different implant types and can guide patients in choosing the best option for their goals. He performs breast augmentations at an accredited surgical facility or a nearby hospital. When it comes to incisions, he can choose between inframammary, periareolar (around the areola), or transaxillary incisions, depending on the patient's unique case.
Comparing the Top Surgeons
| Surgeon | Certifications | Experience | Patient Reviews | Approach to Areola Incisions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Adam R. Kolker | Double - board certified; Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, etc. | Trained at top - tier institutions; years of experience in breast augmentation | High satisfaction rates; featured in multiple best - doctor lists | Skilled in achieving natural results with incisions, taking into account patient's anatomy and goals |
| Dr. David L. Cangello | Board - certified; trained in advanced fat grafting techniques | Extensive experience with various breast implant types; work with professional models | Positive reviews; known for artistic approach and minimizing scarring | Uses "no - touch" method with keller funnel for easier implant insertion and smaller incisions |
| Dr. Daniel Maman | Board - certified; Harvard fellowship in aesthetic breast surgery | Completed residency at Mount Sinai Hospital; recognized on top - doctor lists | Good patient feedback; comprehensive consultation process | Can perform incisions within the nipple or areola for discreet results |
| Dr. John E. Sherman | Board - certified; involved in implant development | Years of experience in breast augmentation; knowledge of different implant types | Patients appreciate his personalized approach | Chooses incision based on implant selection, size, and patient's anatomy |
The Procedure of Breast Augmentation with Areola Incision
Consultation
The consultation is a crucial first step. Surgeons will discuss the patient's goals, expectations, and medical history. They will also perform a physical examination of the breasts, taking measurements and noting the existing breast shape, skin laxity, and nipple position. Advanced 3D imaging technology may be used to help the patient visualize the potential results. For example, Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons use 3D imaging to show patients what their larger breasts will look like on their unique bodies.
Pre - operative Preparation
Patients are usually advised to quit smoking or using nicotine products as nicotine can impede the healing process. They may also need to taper off certain medications or supplements that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John's wort. Arrangements should be made for a trusted family member or friend to pick up the patient after the surgery and assist with post - operative care at home. Patients are also advised to designate a comfortable recovery space and have necessary items within reach.
Surgery
During the surgery, the patient is given either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation anesthesia. The surgeon makes a periareolar incision around the areola. The size and location of the incision are carefully determined based on the type and size of the implant and the patient's anatomy. Next, a pocket is created either under the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement) or above the muscle behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement). The implant is then inserted into the pocket, and the surgeon adjusts it to achieve the desired shape and symmetry. Finally, the incision is closed with sutures, and a compression garment is applied to protect the results.
Recovery
In the initial days after surgery, it is normal to experience fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Patients are given a prescription for pain medication to ease the discomfort. A surgical compression bra is provided and should be worn for a few weeks during the healing process. Light activities and work can usually be resumed in 2 - 3 weeks, while more strenuous activities, such as going to the gym, can be started at 6 - 8 weeks. It may take a few months for the implants to fully settle into place.
Benefits of Areola Incision in Breast Augmentation
Less Visible Scarring
The areola is an area where the skin changes color and texture. As a result, scars around the nipple are often well - camouflaged. Surgeons like Dr. David L. Cangello are skilled in minimizing scarring, especially when using incisions around the areola. Their meticulous surgical techniques and the use of tools like the Keller funnel can further reduce the length of the incision and the resulting scar.
Direct Access for Implant Placement
An areola incision provides direct access to the breast pocket, allowing the surgeon to more easily place the implant in the desired position. This can lead to more accurate placement and potentially better results in terms of symmetry and shape.
Potential Risks and Complications
Infection
As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection. The risk can be minimized by following the surgeon's pre - and post - operative instructions, such as keeping the incision clean and taking prescribed antibiotics. However, in rare cases, an infection may still occur and may require further treatment, including antibiotics or even removal of the implant in severe cases.
Implant Rupture
Both silicone and saline implants can rupture. In the case of saline implants, if a rupture occurs, the saline solution is safely absorbed by the body, and the affected breast will flatten. For silicone implants, ruptures may be more difficult to detect, and the FDA recommends MRI scans every few years to monitor the condition of the implant shell. However, this is only a recommendation and not mandated.
Changes in Sensation
There is a risk of changes in nipple or breast sensation after breast augmentation surgery. While areolar incisions present a slightly higher risk of paresthesia (change in sensation), approximately 90% of women who have this type of surgery regain full nipple sensation over time.
Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)
Although rare, women with breast implants may have a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL. This is a form of non - Hodgkin's lymphoma that can be effectively treated. It appears to be associated with textured implants and patients who develop a seroma (accumulation of fluid around the breast). As of now, the number of cases worldwide is approaching 400.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
BII is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms, such as memory loss, joint pain, and fatigue, that women report after having implants placed. However, the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is poorly understood and still being investigated.
Selecting the Right Hospital and Surgeon
Research and Referrals
Patients should conduct thorough research on hospitals and surgeons in New York City. They can look at online reviews, patient testimonials, and the surgeon's professional achievements. Referrals from friends, family, or other medical professionals can also be valuable. For example, if someone knows a person who had a successful breast augmentation surgery, they can get first - hand information about the surgeon and the hospital.
Credentials and Experience
It is essential to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation surgery, especially with areola incisions. Surgeons with additional certifications, fellowships, and training from top institutions are often a good choice. Their experience allows them to handle various situations during surgery and ensure better results.
Communication and Comfort
During the consultation, patients should assess how well the surgeon communicates. The surgeon should be able to answer all questions clearly and listen to the patient's concerns. A good doctor - patient relationship is based on trust, and patients should feel comfortable discussing their goals and expectations with the surgeon.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation surgery with areola incisions in New York City offers many patients the opportunity to achieve their desired aesthetic goals. With a careful selection of top - rated hospitals and surgeons like Dr. Adam R. Kolker, Dr. David L. Cangello, Dr. Daniel Maman, and Dr. John E. Sherman, patients can have confidence in the quality of their surgery. However, it is important to understand the procedure, its potential risks and benefits, and to take the time to select the right provider. By doing so, patients can increase their chances of a successful surgery and a satisfying outcome.
If you are considering breast augmentation surgery with an areola incision in New York City, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with multiple surgeons, and ask all the questions you may have. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about this procedure, and continue to explore related topics to make an informed decision.
