Silicone Breast Augmentation in New York City: A Comprehensive Review
Silicone breast augmentation is one of the most sought - after cosmetic procedures, offering women the opportunity to enhance their appearance and boost self - confidence. New York City, a hub of medical excellence, is home to numerous hospitals and surgeons specializing in this procedure. In this article, we will review the top five hospitals for silicone breast augmentation in New York City, each with its unique techniques and approaches.
Importance of Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
Selecting the right hospital and surgeon for silicone breast augmentation is crucial. A skilled surgeon can minimize risks, ensure natural - looking results, and provide a comfortable and safe surgical experience. According to a study from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, patient satisfaction is highly correlated with the surgeon's experience and the quality of the medical facility. In New York City, with its high - standard medical environment, patients have access to world - class expertise.
Top Five Hospitals for Silicone Breast Augmentation in New York City
1. Hospital Associated with Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Surgeon Profile
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon. His education and training span prestigious institutions such as Harvard Medical School, New York University, and the University of Melbourne in Australia. He is an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Dr. Kolker has an extensive list of credentials, including being featured in New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues from 2008 - 2024, and in Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons list from 2021 - 2024.
Techniques
Dr. Kolker believes that true artistry in breast augmentation is based on achieving a proportionate outcome and the most natural results. He tailors each procedure to the individual woman's aesthetic goals and body type. For example, when choosing implants, he takes into account factors like the patient's existing breast tissue, body frame, and desired projection. He also has in - depth knowledge of different implant types, including the FDA - approved cohesive silicone gel implants, which can provide a more natural shape and feel.
Patient Experience
Patients have reported high levels of satisfaction with Dr. Kolker's work. Testimonials describe how he has transformed their lives, correcting asymmetrical breasts and boosting their self - confidence. His practice offers comprehensive consultations, both virtually and in - person, and his team provides support throughout the entire process, from pre - surgery preparation to post - operative care.
2. Hospital Associated with Dr. William Lao
Surgeon Profile
Dr. William Lao is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in both the USA and Taiwan. He graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a double major and obtained his doctorate of medicine from Johns Hopkins. He is a member of multiple prestigious medical societies, including the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and was voted a top doctor in 2022 by New Beauty.
Techniques
Dr. Lao is on a shortlist of surgeons in the country who specialize in the scarless breast augmentation technique. This involves inserting the implants through the armpit, leaving no visible scar. For Asian patients, he offers a demographically inspired surgery, taking into account the smaller frames of Asian women when choosing implant size, shape, and projection. He is experienced in using endoscopic equipment for transaxillary endoscopic breast augmentation, which allows for a bloodless dissection and precise placement of the implants.
Patient Experience
Patients have shared positive experiences, highlighting Dr. Lao's kindness, consideration, and expertise. The surgery typically takes 2 - 3 hours, and most patients return home on the day of surgery and can resume their regular routine in 2 - 3 weeks. Dr. Lao's office provides detailed pre - and post - operative instructions, and his team is available to answer any questions.
3. Hospital Associated with Dr. Daniel Maman
Surgeon Profile
Dr. Daniel Maman is a Harvard fellowship - trained and board - certified plastic surgeon. He 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 has appeared on the New York Times top doctors and Super Doctors in plastic surgery lists and is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Techniques
Dr. Maman offers a personalized approach to breast augmentation. He takes the time to have a thorough 90 - minute consultation, which includes a review of the patient's medical history, a physical assessment, and the development of a comprehensive operative plan. He typically uses smooth, round silicone implants (gummy - bear implants) for their natural look and feel. For implant placement, he almost exclusively uses a dual - plane approach, placing the top 80 - 90% of the implant below the pectoral muscle and the bottom 10 - 20% directly below the breast tissue to achieve a more natural - looking result.
Patient Experience
The practice emphasizes convenience, comfort, and a smooth recovery. They offer luxury recovery room options at NYC hotels, complimentary custom post - operative support garments, and scar treatment regimens. Patients receive attentive aftercare visits, and the team is dedicated to ensuring the highest degree of comfort throughout the entire process.
4. Hospital Associated with Dr. Darrick Antell
Surgeon Profile
Dr. Darrick Antell is a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentation surgeries. Trained at Stanford and Cornell, he has received numerous awards and is often listed in magazines like Harper’s Bazaar and Town and Country as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country.
Techniques
Dr. Antell focuses on providing natural - looking results and reducing the risk of complications. He offers both saline and silicone implants and helps patients choose the right implant type, incision type, and implant placement based on their anatomy and desired outcome. To prevent capsular contracture, a common complication, he may use an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) such as Strattice or Alloderm. He also takes great care in placing incisions to minimize visible scarring.
Patient Experience
Patients have given positive reviews of Dr. Antell's work, highlighting his expertise and the quality of his staff. His private operating room is located just across the street from Lenox Hill Hospital, offering discretion and personalized care. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery facility is fully accredited, and patients are provided with detailed pre - and post - operative instructions.
5. Hospital Associated with Dr. Jeffrey Ascherman
Surgeon Profile
Dr. Jeffrey Ascherman has a high patient rating of 4.90 out of 5 stars according to Healthgrades. While specific details about his training and unique accolades are not as extensively detailed in the available sources as some of the other surgeons, his high rating indicates a high level of patient satisfaction and skill.
Techniques
Although the exact techniques are not well - documented, based on his reputation, he likely uses up - to - date methods in silicone breast augmentation. This may include proper assessment of the patient's breast anatomy, careful selection of implants, and precise surgical placement to achieve optimal results.
Patient Experience
The high star rating suggests that patients have a positive experience with Dr. Ascherman. He is likely to provide comprehensive consultations, answer patient questions thoroughly, and offer good post - operative care to ensure patient satisfaction and a smooth recovery.
Comparative Analysis of Techniques
| Surgeon | Implant Selection | Incision Technique | Implant Placement | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Adam R. Kolker | Tailored to patient's aesthetic goals and body type, using cohesive silicone gel implants | Not specifically detailed, likely chosen for least visible scarring | Based on patient's anatomy for natural results | Combination of scientific expertise and artistic creativity |
| Dr. William Lao | Saline or cohesive silicone gel implants, with a focus on Asian - specific needs | Scarless transaxillary endoscopic technique | Determined by amount of breast tissue | Expertise in Asian breast augmentation and scarless approach |
| Dr. Daniel Maman | Mostly smooth, round silicone (gummy - bear) implants | Incisions hidden within natural breast fold or nipple | Dual - plane approach | Personalized approach with comprehensive consultations |
| Dr. Darrick Antell | Saline or silicone implants, selected based on patient's anatomy | Incisions chosen for least visible scarring and best surgical visualization | Subglandular or submuscular based on patient's needs | Use of acellular dermal matrix to prevent capsular contracture |
| Dr. Jeffrey Ascherman | Presumably modern implant types, no specific details | No specific details, likely standard for minimal scarring | No specific details, likely anatomical consideration | High patient satisfaction rating |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital and Surgeon
Surgeon's Experience and Credentials
Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have extensive experience in silicone breast augmentation. Certifications from well - recognized organizations such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery indicate that the surgeon has met high - quality standards. Additionally, a long history of performing the procedure reduces the risk of complications and increases the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Technique and Technology
Advanced techniques, such as the scarless approach or the use of acellular dermal matrix to prevent capsular contracture, can offer significant benefits. Discuss with the surgeon their preferred techniques and how they can customize the procedure to meet your specific needs.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide insights into the surgeon's bedside manner, the quality of the hospital's facilities, and the overall patient experience. Look for patterns of positive feedback regarding results, communication, and post - operative care.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of silicone breast augmentation can vary depending on factors such as the type of implants, the surgical technique, and the surgeon's fees. It is important to have a clear understanding of the total cost and to explore insurance options if applicable. Some patients may be able to find financing plans to make the procedure more affordable.
Potential Risks and Complications of Silicone Breast Augmentation
While silicone breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure when performed by a qualified surgeon, there are potential risks and complications. These include:
- Capsular contracture: This is the tightening of the scar tissue around the implant, which can cause the breast to feel hard and look misshapen. It can be treated by removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants.
- Implant rupture: Over time, the implant shell may rupture, which can lead to leakage of the silicone gel. A rupture can occur due to injury or normal wear and tear. If a rupture occurs, a revision surgery is usually required to replace the implant.
- Infection: Infection can occur within a week after surgery and is typically treated with antibiotics. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed.
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensation. This is more common with certain incision techniques.
- Scarring: While surgeons take measures to minimize scarring, there will be some scarring at the incision site. The appearance of the scars will fade over time but may never completely disappear.
It is important to discuss these risks with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure so that you can make an informed decision.
Pre - and Post - Operative Care
Pre - Operative Care
Before silicone breast augmentation, patients are usually required to undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation. This may include blood tests, a physical examination, and a review of the patient's medical history. Patients may also be advised to quit smoking, stop taking certain medications (such as blood thinners) that can increase the risk of bleeding, and arrange for someone to drive them home after surgery. Additionally, patients should have a clear understanding of the procedure and what to expect during recovery.
Post - Operative Care
After surgery, patients will need to wear a special surgical bra to support the breasts and aid in the healing process. They may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication. It is important to follow the surgeon's instructions regarding activity restrictions, such as avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for a certain period of time. Regular follow - up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure that there are no complications.
Conclusion
New York City offers a wealth of options for women considering silicone breast augmentation. The top five hospitals and surgeons mentioned in this article each bring unique techniques and high - quality care to the table. Whether it's Dr. Kolker's artistic approach, Dr. Lao's scarless technique, Dr. Maman's personalized consultations, Dr. Antell's prevention of capsular contracture, or Dr. Ascherman's high patient satisfaction, patients have a range of choices to find the best fit for their needs.
If you are considering silicone breast augmentation, take the time to research different surgeons, discuss your goals and concerns, and understand the risks and benefits. By making an informed decision, you can increase the likelihood of a successful and satisfying outcome. Contact one of these top - rated surgeons in New York City to schedule a consultation and start your journey towards achieving your desired look.
