Introduction
Endoscopic breast augmentation has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure in New York City. With the demand for this surgical enhancement on the rise, a newly released ranking offers valuable insights into the top practitioners in the area. This article will explore the latest endoscopic breast augmentation ranking in New York City, as well as provide in - depth information about breast augmentation in general, including surgeons, techniques, and patient considerations.
Overview of Breast Augmentation in the U.S.
Elective plastic surgery has witnessed a significant surge in popularity over the years. Data from November 2023, released by the global intelligence platform Statista, showed that in 1997, there were about 900,000 cosmetic surgical procedures in the U.S., and by 2022, that number had more than doubled to over 1.87 million. A greater variety of safe and less - invasive surgeries, along with an increased cultural emphasis on self - care and confidence, have contributed to more positive societal attitudes towards plastic surgery.
Newsweek, in partnership with Statista, conducts an annual ranking of America's best plastic surgeons. In 2024, for breast augmentation, 379 surgeons were recognized across five types of procedures (breast augmentation, liposuction, facelift, rhinoplasty, and eyelid surgery). The top 30 in each category were ranked from 1 to 30, and the rest were listed alphabetically. To compile the ranking, thousands of medical experts with knowledge of plastic surgery were invited to an online survey in March and April 2024, which resulted in the collection of more than 8,400 votes for plastic surgeons representing all surgery categories. Only surgeons from the 20 states with the most plastic surgeons were included, and those who offer only reconstructive or non - elective corrections were excluded.
Top Plastic Surgeons for Breast Augmentation in New York City
New York City is home to some of the world's leading plastic surgeons specializing in breast augmentation. Here are some well - known surgeons:
Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Dr. Kolker is a double - board certified plastic surgeon in New York City. His education and training span prestigious medical institutions such as 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 at the forefront of plastic surgery advancements. He specializes in breast augmentation and various cosmetic surgery procedures for the face, body, and non - surgical treatments. He has been featured as a top plastic surgeon in New York Magazine's best doctors issues from 2008 - 2024 and is also among America's best plastic surgeons in 2021 - 2024 by Newsweek. His patients praise his skill, artistry, and ability to deliver natural - looking results. For example, many patients with asymmetrical breasts have had successful corrective surgeries with Dr. Kolker.
Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Antell is a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He has focused his career on aesthetic procedures and has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentations. Trained at Stanford and Cornell, he has been honored for his groundbreaking research on identical twins and the aging process, with his work displayed in the Smithsonian Museum. He is listed in multiple magazines, such as Harper’s Bazaar and Town and Country, as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. He takes a comprehensive approach to breast augmentation, discussing all aspects from implant type to potential complications with his patients. He also has a reputation for addressing common complications like capsular contracture effectively.
Dr. Douglas Steinbrech
Selected among America’s top plastic surgeons by the Consumers’ Research Council of America, Dr. Steinbrech is one of New York City’s top breast augmentation experts. He can increase breast size, enhance appearance, and improve asymmetry while creating a natural look. The best candidates for his breast augmentation are healthy women over 18 who wish to enhance their appearance. He offers personalized solutions, whether it's post - mastectomy reconstruction or enhancement after weight loss. His patients appreciate his professionalism, informativeness, and the support from his team during the entire process.
Dr. Norman Rowe
Dr. Rowe, a board - certified plastic surgeon with the American Board of Plastic Surgery, specializes in breast procedures, rhinoplasty, and revision procedures. At Rowe Plastic Surgery in New Jersey, Manhattan, Long Island, and the Hamptons, he and his team provide meticulous attention to detail in breast augmentation surgeries. They offer a variety of breast augmentation options, including saline implants, silicone implants, and fat transfer. Dr. Rowe combines his skills with knowledge of the latest techniques to provide natural - looking results, and he has been acknowledged for his excellent quality of care and treatment.
Endoscopic Breast Augmentation
What is Endoscopic Breast Augmentation?
Endoscopic breast augmentation is a minimally invasive technique used for breast enhancement. Instead of traditional open - surgery methods, it uses an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light on the end. This allows the surgeon to visualize the surgical area without making large incisions. The endoscope is inserted through small incisions, usually in the underarm area, and the implants are placed with greater precision. This technique often results in less scarring, reduced pain, and a quicker recovery time compared to traditional breast augmentation methods.
Benefits of Endoscopic Breast Augmentation
- Minimal Scarring: Since the incisions are smaller, the resulting scars are less noticeable. This is especially important for patients who are concerned about the cosmetic appearance of their breasts after surgery.
- Reduced Pain and Discomfort: With less tissue disruption, patients typically experience less pain during the recovery period. This can also lead to a shorter hospital stay and a faster return to normal activities.
- Precise Implant Placement: The endoscope provides a clear view of the surgical site, enabling the surgeon to place the implants more accurately. This can lead to better - balanced and more natural - looking results.
- Faster Recovery: Patients often recover more quickly from endoscopic breast augmentation compared to traditional methods. They can usually return to work and light activities within a few days to a week, depending on their individual circumstances.
Breast Implants
Types of Breast Implants
There are several types of breast implants available for breast augmentation:
| Implant Type | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saline Implants | These implants have an outer silicone shell filled with sterile salt water (saline). They are inflated during the surgery. | Lower cost, safer in case of rupture (the body can absorb the saline), and can be inserted through a smaller incision. | More likely to cause a rippling effect under the skin and may feel firmer than natural breast tissue. |
| Silicone Implants | Silicone implants are filled with a silicone gel. They come pre - filled. | They feel more like natural breast tissue, and the gel does not usually cause the implant to collapse if it leaks. | More expensive, and in case of a rupture, it may be more difficult to detect. |
| Structured Implants | Filled with saline but placed in an inner mold to make them feel more like natural breasts. | Offer a more natural feel and reduced risk of some complications. | Relatively new, and long - term data may be limited. |
| Gummy Bear Implants | These are form - stable implants that hold their shape. They have a thicker silicone gel. | Less likely to fold or wrinkle, and maintain their shape well. | They may be more expensive and require a larger incision for placement. |
Implant Placement
There are two main options for implant placement:
- Submuscular Placement: The breast implant is inserted below the pectoralis major muscle. This approach provides more natural - looking results, as more of the body's natural tissues cover the implants. It also reduces the risk of capsular contracture and has less influence on mammography. However, the recovery time may be a bit longer, and it may be more difficult to perform a mammogram in some cases.
- Subglandular Placement: The implant is placed between the existing breast tissue and the muscle. This technique is less invasive, and the recovery time may be shorter. Implants in this position may produce enhanced cleavage and feel softer to the touch. But it may not be suitable for women with thin skin or insufficient breast tissue, as rippling or visible implants may occur.
Preparing for Breast Augmentation
Consultation
The initial consultation with a plastic surgeon is a crucial step. During this meeting, the surgeon will ask about your goals for the surgery, review your medical history, and perform a physical examination of your breasts. You should bring any photos or examples of the look you want to achieve. The surgeon will also discuss the different types of implants, incision options, and placement choices. They will explain the procedure in detail, including the risks and potential complications. It's important to ask any questions you may have during this consultation.
Medical Preparation
Your surgeon will likely ask you to stop smoking and taking certain medications, such as blood - thinning drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen, for a period before the surgery. You may also need to get a medical clearance from your primary care physician. If you have any underlying health conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, they need to be well - controlled before the surgery. You may also be required to get some laboratory tests and imaging studies, such as a mammogram if you are over a certain age.
Lifestyle Preparation
Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and to stay with you for the first few days. Stock up on groceries, medications, and any other supplies you may need during your recovery. You may also want to arrange for help with household chores and childcare if necessary. Mentally prepare yourself for the surgery and the recovery process, and have realistic expectations about the results.
Breast Augmentation Procedure
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep during the procedure. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor you throughout the surgery to ensure your safety.
Incision and Implant Placement
The surgeon will make an incision in one of the following areas: under the breast (inframammary crease), around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). The choice of incision depends on various factors, including the type of implant, your anatomy, and personal preferences. After making the incision, the surgeon will create a pocket either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or behind the pectoral muscle (submuscular). The implant is then placed into the pocket and centered beneath the nipple. The incisions are closed with sutures, and a bandage or a special bra is applied to support the breasts.
Duration of the Procedure
The average breast augmentation procedure takes about 1 - 2 hours, but it can vary depending on the complexity of the surgery and the individual patient's circumstances.
Recovery after Breast Augmentation
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where you will be monitored until you wake up from the anesthesia. You may feel some pain, swelling, and discomfort, but your doctor will prescribe pain medications to manage these symptoms. You will also need to wear a special bra or bandage to support your breasts. Most patients are able to go home the same day as the surgery, but you will need someone to drive you.
Short - term Recovery
You should plan to take it easy for the first few days after the surgery. Avoid strenuous activities, lifting heavy objects, and raising your arms above your head. You may need to sleep in an elevated position for the first few days to reduce swelling. You will have a follow - up appointment with your surgeon a few days after the surgery to check your incisions and remove any drainage tubes if they were placed. You will also be instructed on how to care for your incisions and how to massage your breasts to prevent capsular contracture.
Long - term Recovery
It can take several weeks to months for your breasts to fully heal and for the swelling to completely subside. You may notice some changes in the appearance and feel of your breasts during the first few months as they settle into their final position. You should continue to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding exercise, wearing a bra, and breast self - examinations. It's important to attend all your follow - up appointments to ensure that your recovery is progressing smoothly.
Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation
While breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, there are some risks and complications associated with it:
- Capsular Contracture: This is a condition in which the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to become hard, misshapen, and painful. It can be treated by removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants.
- Infection: Infection can occur after surgery and may require antibiotics or, in severe cases, removal of the implant.
- Implant Rupture or Leakage: Over time, the implant may rupture or leak. Saline implants will deflate if they rupture, and the body will absorb the saline. Silicone implants may require more invasive testing to detect a rupture.
- Changes in Nipple Sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in nipple sensation, such as numbness or increased sensitivity.
- Bleeding: Bleeding can occur during or after the surgery, which may require additional treatment.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the surgeon's experience, the type of implants used, the complexity of the procedure, and the geographical location of the clinic. On average, breast augmentation can cost between $4,500 and $11,000, not including additional fees such as anesthesia, operating room charges, and post - operative medications. Most insurance policies do not cover breast augmentation, as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. However, if the procedure is performed for reconstructive purposes, such as after a mastectomy, insurance may cover a portion or all of the costs.
Conclusion
The newly released ranking of endoscopic breast augmentation in New York City provides valuable information for patients considering this procedure. New York City is home to many highly skilled plastic surgeons who offer a variety of breast augmentation options, including endoscopic techniques. Patients should carefully research their options, choose a qualified surgeon, and have realistic expectations about the results. Understanding the different types of implants, the procedure, recovery, and potential risks is essential for making an informed decision. Whether it's endoscopic or traditional breast augmentation, the goal is to achieve a natural - looking and proportional result that enhances the patient's self - confidence and body image.
If you are considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. Discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations with the surgeon to determine if breast augmentation is the right choice for you. Also, share this article with anyone you know who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation.
