Introduction
New York City is a global hub for plastic surgery, especially when it comes to breast implant procedures. There are numerous hospitals and clinics that offer high - quality breast implant services, each with its own unique features and expertise. In this article, we will provide an in - depth look at some of the top large - scale plastic surgery hospitals in New York City for breast implant surgeries.
Importance of Choosing the Right Hospital for Breast Implant
Selecting the right hospital for breast implant surgery is crucial. A well - equipped and experienced hospital can ensure a safe and successful procedure. This involves not only the surgical skills of the doctors but also the quality of after - care, the use of advanced technology, and the overall patient experience. High - profile hospitals often have access to the latest research and techniques, which can lead to better aesthetic results and fewer complications.
Top 10 Plastic Surgery Hospitals for Breast Implant in New York City
1. Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in breast augmentation. They use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look. This technology allows patients to virtually try on different sizes of breasts on a computer monitor. The hospital offers multiple options for breast augmentation, including two types of implants (silicone and saline) and a non - implant option called NaturalFill®. NaturalFill® is a fat - transfer technique pioneered and perfected by Mount Sinai surgeons. It involves removing fat from the buttocks or abdomen using liposuction and then inserting it into the breasts. Before the surgery, a physical exam is conducted to confirm the patient's candidacy, and the surgeon will consult with the patient to understand their desires and choose the best option.
2. Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice
Dr. Adam R. 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 at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, he stays at the forefront of plastic surgery advancements. Dr. Kolker offers a wide range of breast procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction. In breast augmentation, he focuses on attaining the best results based on each individual woman's aesthetic goals and body type to achieve a proportionate and natural outcome. He has been featured in multiple top - tier magazines as one of the best plastic surgeons in New York City and the United States, including New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues and Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons list.
3. Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Columbia is one of New York's best hospitals and a world - renowned medical center. Their plastic surgeons are proficient in various areas of specialization, from non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations. For breast augmentation, the hospital has a team of experienced surgeons who are committed to providing high - quality care. They offer both cosmetic and reconstructive breast procedures, such as breast reconstruction after breast cancer. The plastic surgery division is actively involved in clinical and laboratory research, which means patients may benefit from the latest advancements in the field. The hospital also provides comprehensive pre - and post - operative care, including educational guides to help patients make informed decisions.
4. Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He works closely with patients to develop an individualized approach for breast augmentation. He has in - depth knowledge of breast implants, as he was a select investigator during the development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. When it comes to choosing breast implants, patients can consider factors such as material (saline or silicone), shape (round or anatomical), size, and texture. Dr. Sherman helps patients understand the benefits and potential complications of each option. He also emphasizes the importance of preparation before the surgery, including quitting smoking, tapering off certain medications, and arranging for post - operative support. The recovery process is carefully monitored, and patients are provided with clear instructions for a smooth recovery.
5. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice
Dr. Darrick Antell is a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentations. He is highly respected in the field and has been listed in multiple magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Dr. Antell addresses common complications such as capsular contracture and provides in - depth consultations to help patients choose the right implant type, incision type, implant placement, and size. He uses advanced techniques to ensure natural - looking results. His practice has a state - of - the - art outpatient surgery facility, and he offers personalized care throughout the entire process, from consultation to recovery.
6. NYU Langone Health - Breast Plastic Surgery Services
NYU Langone offers a comprehensive range of breast plastic surgery services, including breast reduction, breast lift, and secondary breast reconstruction and augmentation. Their plastic surgeons are experts in using the latest techniques, such as breast reconstruction using perforator flaps. The hospital also has an innovative "Breast in a Day" program, which is suitable for women diagnosed with breast cancer or at high risk for it. This program combines a nipple - sparing mastectomy and breast reconstruction using implants in a single day, reducing the number of surgeries and hospital stay. The surgeons at NYU Langone use three - dimensional imaging for preoperative planning and follow - up care.
7. Additional Reputable Hospitals (from US News list)
- Dr. Ernest S. Chiu: A plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. He specializes in general plastic surgery, facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, plastic & reconstructive microsurgery, and wound healing. His patients can benefit from his long - term expertise in different areas of plastic surgery, which may be relevant in case of any complex issues during or after breast implant surgery.
- Dr. Jarrod T. Bogue: Affiliated with New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell. He has 6 - 10 years of experience and specializes in burn, plastic & reconstructive microsurgery, breast reconstruction, and general plastic surgery. His microsurgical skills can be an advantage for precise and detailed breast implant procedures.
- Dr. David L. Abramson: A plastic surgeon affiliated with Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health. With over 20 years of experience, he focuses on aesthetic/cosmetic plastic surgery, breast reconstruction, and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. His long - standing practice means he has a wealth of knowledge and experience in handling various breast - related plastic surgery cases.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Breast Implant Hospital
Surgeon's Experience and Qualifications
The experience and qualifications of the surgeon are of utmost importance. Look for surgeons who are board - certified, have extensive experience in breast implant surgeries, and are affiliated with reputable medical institutions. Surgeons who have received training from top - tier medical schools and have a long - standing practice are more likely to perform the surgery safely and effectively.
Hospital Facilities and Technology
Advanced hospital facilities and technology can enhance the surgical experience and outcomes. For example, hospitals with 3D imaging technology can help patients better visualize the expected results. State - of - the - art operating rooms and recovery suites can ensure a comfortable and safe environment for the patient. Additionally, access to the latest research and techniques through the hospital's research programs can also be beneficial.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the hospital's quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the overall experience. Look for reviews that specifically mention breast implant surgeries, as they can give you an idea of the results, complications, and after - care provided by the hospital and its surgeons.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Breast implant surgery can be expensive, so it's important to understand the cost involved. Different hospitals may have different pricing structures based on factors such as the surgeon's fee, operating room fees, and the type of implants used. Additionally, check if your insurance covers any part of the breast implant surgery, especially if it is for reconstructive purposes after breast cancer or other medical conditions.
Breast Implant Options
Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants are a popular choice. They look and feel more natural in the breasts, closely mimicking the texture of natural breast tissue. In 2020, approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States were performed with silicone implants. Over the years, silicone implants have undergone significant improvements in terms of shell thickness and gel viscosity, making them safer and more reliable. Cohesive silicone gel implants, also known as gummy bear implants, are increasingly popular as they can provide a natural and proportionate breast shape and feel, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit different chest dimensions.
Saline Breast Implants
Saline breast implants are firmer and rounder. They are filled with a salt - water solution. One advantage of saline implants is that they can potentially be placed through a slightly shorter incision. They are also adjustable for asymmetry, which can be beneficial in some cases. Saline implants are generally less costly than silicone implants, although a significant number of patients still opt for the more expensive silicone ones.
NaturalFill (Fat Transfer)
As mentioned earlier, NaturalFill® is a fat - transfer technique pioneered by Mount Sinai surgeons. It involves removing fat from the patient's own body (usually the buttocks or abdomen) using liposuction and then injecting it into the breasts. This option has the advantage of using the patient's own tissue, which may reduce the risk of allergic reactions. It also allows patients to get rid of unwanted fat in one area while enhancing their breasts.
Pre - operative and Post - operative Care
Pre - operative Care
Before breast implant surgery, patients are usually required to go through a series of steps. This includes a thorough consultation with the surgeon, during which the patient's medical history is reviewed, and a physical examination is conducted. The patient needs to quit smoking or using nicotine products, as nicotine can significantly impact the healing process. Certain medications and supplements that may increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John's wort, need to be tapered off. Arrangements should be made for someone to pick up the patient after the surgery and to have a comfortable space at home for recovery. Some hospitals may also require pre - operative clearance from another doctor depending on the patient's medical history.
Post - operative Care
After the surgery, patients can expect to experience some symptoms such as fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. They will be given pain medication to ease the discomfort, and a surgical compression bra is usually provided to wear for a few weeks. In the initial days, patients are advised to rest and refrain from strenuous activities. Most patients can return to light activities and work in 2 - 3 weeks and more strenuous activities like going to the gym at 6 - 8 weeks. The swelling will gradually subside over several months, and the final results will become visible. Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are essential to monitor the healing process and address any concerns.
Potential Complications and Risks
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is one of the most common complications after breast augmentation. It occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to become hard, misshapen, and sometimes painful. Surgeons can treat capsular contracture by removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants. Some hospitals, like Dr. Antell's practice, use acellular dermal matrix (ADM) such as Strattice or Alloderm to resist capsular contracture, which has shown promising results.
Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)
Although rare, researchers have found that women with breast implants may have a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL. It 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 variety of symptoms that some women report after having implants placed, such as memory loss, "brain fog", joint pain, and fatigue. However, the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is still poorly understood and under investigation.
Other Complications
Other potential complications include bleeding, infection, numbness, and implant rupture. Infections usually present within a week after surgery and can be treated with antibiotics, and in some cases, the implant may need to be removed. Implant rupture can occur due to injury or normal compression and movement of the breast. If a saline implant ruptures, the salt - water is harmlessly absorbed by the body, but a revision surgery is usually required to replace the implant.
Conclusion
New York City offers a plethora of options for breast implant surgeries, with top - notch hospitals and highly skilled surgeons. When considering breast implant surgery, it is essential to do thorough research, take into account factors such as surgeon experience, hospital facilities, cost, and potential risks. Each of the hospitals mentioned in this article has its own strengths and unique features, so patients should choose the one that best suits their needs and preferences. By making an informed decision, patients can increase their chances of a successful and satisfying breast implant experience.
If you are considering breast implant surgery in New York City, we encourage you to schedule consultations with the hospitals and surgeons discussed in this article. Learn more about their procedures, meet the medical teams, and ask any questions you may have. This will help you make the best decision for your breast enhancement journey.
