Breast augmentation has emerged as one of the most sought - after cosmetic procedures globally, and New York City stands at the forefront of this trend. With a plethora of plastic surgeons offering their services, it can be a daunting task for patients to choose the right one. This article aims to be a comprehensive guide by presenting an in - depth comparison of the top plastic surgeons in New York City for breast augmentation and beautification, along with a detailed analysis of relevant factors.
Overview of Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that enhances the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. It can be achieved through the use of implants or fat transfer. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation has been among the top cosmetic surgeries in the United States for many years. In 2020 alone, nearly 200,000 women underwent breast augmentation, despite the onset of a global pandemic.
Reasons for Breast Augmentation
- Enhanced Self - Confidence: Many women feel more confident and positive about their bodies after the procedure. A well - proportioned bust can make a significant difference in how a woman perceives herself and how she is perceived by others.
- Body Proportion: It can correct breast asymmetry and improve overall body proportions. For instance, women with small or underdeveloped breasts can achieve a more balanced figure.
- Restoration after Pregnancy or Weight Loss: Pregnancy and weight loss can cause significant changes to the breasts, such as sagging and loss of volume. Breast augmentation can help restore the pre - pregnancy or pre - weight loss appearance of the breasts.
Leading 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 in the world, including Harvard Medical School, New York University, and the University of Melbourne in Australia. As an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, he stays on the cutting edge of plastic surgery advancements.
- Specialties: Dr. Kolker specializes in breast augmentation, as well as other body and facial cosmetic procedures. He offers a wide range of breast procedures, including breast asymmetry correction, breast lift, breast reconstruction, and breast reduction.
- Credentials: He is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Board of Surgery, and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He has also been featured in New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues from 2008 - 2024 and is recognized as one of America's Best Plastic Surgeons by Newsweek in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
- Patient Reviews: Patients praise Dr. Kolker for his attention to detail, artistic eye, and ability to achieve natural - looking results. One patient said, “He made the impossible, possible. I will forever be thankful to him for correcting my asymmetrical breasts and making me so happy.”
Dr. John E. Sherman
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon renowned for his commitment to patient care and excellent results. He has over 35 years of experience in plastic surgery, which has earned him a reputation for reliability and skill.
- Specialties: His areas of expertise include breast augmentation, as well as facial rejuvenation such as facelifts and rhinoplasty. He has a deep understanding of breast implants, having worked closely with Allergan during the development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants.
- Approach: Dr. Sherman takes an individualized approach to each patient. He works closely with prospective patients to understand their goals and develop a personalized treatment plan. For example, when choosing breast implants, he considers factors such as the patient's body type, desired results, and the implant's material, shape, size, and texture.
- Patient Care: He provides comprehensive pre - and post - operative care. Before the surgery, he reviews the patient's medical history, examines the breasts, and answers all questions. After the surgery, he closely monitors the patient's recovery and provides support.
Dr. David L. Cangello
Dr. David L. Cangello is a board - certified plastic surgeon who is experienced in the art of cosmetic breast surgery. He is known for his artistic approach and ability to achieve elegant, natural - looking results.
- Specialties: Dr. Cangello offers a full range of cosmetic breast surgery, including breast lift, breast revision, and natural augmentation with fat transfer. He is one of only two surgeons in the world trained in fat grafting techniques by one of the pioneers in the field, Dr. Sydney Coleman.
- Artistic Vision: He combines medical precision with the principles of aesthetics. His superior results have earned the trust of professional models from some of the world's top agencies, including Wilhelmina Models, IMG Models, and Next Management.
- Patient Consultation: During the consultation, he takes the time to understand the patient's tastes and preferences. He addresses all questions and concerns and determines if the patient is a good candidate for the procedure.
Criteria for Evaluating Plastic Surgeons
Medical Credentials
Medical credentials are a crucial factor when choosing a plastic surgeon. A board - certified plastic surgeon has completed the necessary training and passed the required exams. In the United States, the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) accreditation is a significant credential. Plastic surgeons with ABPS certification have completed appropriate training and passed oral and comprehensive written exams covering all plastic surgery procedures. For example, Dr. Adam R. Kolker and Dr. John E. Sherman are both board - certified by the ABPS, which gives patients confidence in their skills and knowledge.
Surgical Skills
Surgical skills can be evaluated by looking at before - and - after photos of past patients. This provides insight into the surgeon's aesthetic sensibilities and technical proficiency. For instance, if a surgeon's before - and - after photos show natural - looking results with minimal scarring, it indicates a high level of skill. Some surgeons may also have specialties in certain types of breast augmentation surgeries, such as using specific implant materials or techniques. Dr. David L. Cangello's use of the “no - touch” method during breast augmentation with silicone shows his innovative approach to minimizing incision size and reducing infection risk.
Experience
Experience is invaluable in plastic surgery. A surgeon with many years of experience performing breast augmentations is likely to have encountered a wide range of patient cases and be better equipped to handle any potential complications or challenges that may arise during surgery. Dr. John E. Sherman, with over 35 years of experience, has dealt with numerous complex cases, which has enhanced his ability to achieve successful outcomes.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Patient reviews and testimonials provide first - hand information about the surgeon's skills, bedside manner, and the overall quality of care. Online platforms and social media have made it easier for patients to share their experiences. Positive reviews often mention the surgeon's ability to listen to the patient's concerns, achieve the desired results, and provide excellent post - operative care. For example, patients of Dr. Adam R. Kolker often praise his personal attention and the natural - looking results he achieves.
Technological Advancements in Breast Augmentation
3D Imaging Technology
3D imaging technology has revolutionized breast augmentation by allowing surgeons to create a virtual model of the patient's body and simulate the potential results of various implant sizes and shapes. This enables patients to make more informed decisions about their surgery. For example, a patient can see how different implant sizes will look on their body before undergoing the actual procedure, which helps in setting realistic expectations.
High - Quality Implant Materials
Advancements in implant materials have led to better - looking and more durable breast implants. Silicone implants are now more popular than ever, with about 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States in 2020 being performed with silicone implants. Cohesive silicone gel implants, also known as gummy bear implants, are increasingly popular because they provide a natural and proportionate breast shape and feel. These implants are less likely to leak and can maintain their form better than traditional implants.
Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques
Minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as endoscopic and robotic - assisted approaches, have become more widely used in breast augmentation surgery. These techniques offer several benefits over traditional open surgery, including smaller incisions, fewer complications, quicker recovery times, and less post - operative pain. For example, Dr. David L. Cangello uses the “no - touch” method with a Keller funnel for implant insertion, which allows for a smaller incision size and may reduce the risk of infection.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Cost Factors
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary depending on several factors. These include the surgeon's expertise, the complexity of the operation, the type of implants used, and the geographic location of the clinic. Top surgeons with extensive experience and a good reputation typically charge higher fees. Advanced surgical technology or techniques may also increase the cost. Additionally, the cost of living in New York City can contribute to higher overall expenses.
Insurance Coverage
Most insurance companies do not cover the cost of elective cosmetic surgeries like breast augmentation because they consider these procedures non - essential. However, if the procedure is performed for reconstructive purposes, such as after a mastectomy, insurance may cover a portion or all of the costs. Patients should communicate openly with their surgeons and insurance providers about the projected costs and potential coverage to avoid any unexpected expenses.
Geographical Comparison and Trends in Breast Augmentation
A study comparing breast augmentation patients in different geographical locations found that patients from different areas were similar in age, height, and parity, but varied in weight, body mass index (BMI), and implant volume. In North America, the average age of women undergoing augmentation was around 34 years. The average implant volume was 370 ml, which may be larger than in some European countries. There was also a positive linear correlation between BMI and implant volume in American cohorts, suggesting that patients with higher BMIs may require larger implants to achieve the desired breast size.
Conclusion
Choosing the right plastic surgeon for breast augmentation in New York City is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration. By evaluating factors such as medical credentials, surgical skills, experience, patient reviews, and technological advancements, patients can make an informed choice. Surgeons like Dr. Adam R. Kolker, Dr. John E. Sherman, and Dr. David L. Cangello stand out as experts in the field, offering high - quality care and excellent results. It's important for patients to have realistic expectations, understand the risks and benefits, and communicate openly with their chosen surgeon. If you're considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to research further, schedule consultations with multiple surgeons, and take the time to make the best decision for your needs.
