Introduction
Breast augmentation has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure for women in New York City and around the world. Whether it's to enhance self - confidence, restore breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss, or correct asymmetry, finding the right hospital and surgeon is crucial for a successful outcome. In this article, we will explore some of the top hospitals and surgeons in New York City for breast augmentation, along with important aspects such as the procedure, costs, recovery, and potential risks.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, also known as a boob job or breast enlargement, is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing breast size, enhancing shape, or improving symmetry. It typically involves placing breast implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles. There are two main types of implants: silicone and saline, and a non - implant option called fat transfer.
Types of Breast Implants
| Implant Type | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone Implants | Pre - filled with a cohesive silicone gel. Feel and look more natural compared to saline implants. | More natural feel and appearance; less likely to show rippling, especially in women with less breast tissue. | Require larger incisions for insertion; FDA suggests periodic MRI scans to monitor for rupture; higher cost compared to saline implants in some cases. |
| Saline Implants | Filled with sterile salt water. Can be adjusted for size during surgery. | Smaller incisions can be used for insertion; in case of rupture, the saline is safely absorbed by the body; usually more affordable. | May have a firmer feel; visible rippling may occur, especially in thinner women. |
| Gummy Bear Implants (Form - stable Silicone Implants) | Filled with a thicker, more cohesive silicone gel that maintains its shape even if the implant shell is broken. | Lower risk of rippling and better shape retention; natural - looking results. | Require relatively large incisions; more expensive than other types of implants. |
Fat Transfer (Naturalfill)
Some surgeons, like those at Mount Sinai, offer a fat transfer technique known as Naturalfill®. This procedure involves removing fat from areas such as the buttocks or abdomen through liposuction and then injecting it into the breasts. It has the advantage of using the patient's own body fat, which can be a more natural - looking and feeling option. However, not all of the transferred fat may survive, and multiple sessions may be required to achieve the desired results.
Top Hospitals and Surgeons for Breast Augmentation in New York City
Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look. Before the surgery, a physical exam is conducted to confirm the patient's suitability for the procedure. Surgeons at Mount Sinai offer both implant options (silicone and saline) as well as the Naturalfill® fat - transfer technique. Their goal is to provide patients with a natural shape and size that they will be happy with. Recovery time and follow - up care are also thoroughly explained to the patients.
Weill Cornell Medicine
Weill Cornell Medicine is known for its exemplary surgeons in plastic and reconstructive surgery. They partner with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S. The plastic and reconstructive surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine are highly skilled and focus on individualized breast surgery for each patient's unique body. They offer a full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, including breast augmentation with implants. Patient comfort is a top priority, from the initial consultation to the post - operative care.
Doctors Associated with Individual Practices
Dr. David L. Cangello
Dr. Cangello is a board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He is known for his artistic approach to breast augmentation, combining medical precision with aesthetic principles. He offers personalized treatment plans to meet each patient's aesthetic goals, including breast lift, breast revision, and natural augmentation with fat transfer. Dr. Cangello has a state - of - the - art, fully accredited operating room at his NYC office and also has privileges at Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital. He takes the time to address all patient concerns during the consultation and provides detailed pre - and post - operative instructions.
Dr. Barry Weintraub
Dr. Weintraub is a board - certified plastic surgeon with over two decades of experience. He is Ivy League - educated at the Weill - Cornell Medical Center and is a national spokesperson for the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Dr. Weintraub often performs breast augmentation using the transaxillary subpectoral approach, which has several advantages such as no jeopardy to nipple sensation, no visible scars near the breast, and less pain and downtime. His office at 800a Fifth Avenue has a hospital - grade, state - of - the - art surgical center.
Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Dr. 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. He specializes in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures. Dr. Kolker combines scientific and technical mastery with artistic creativity to deliver natural and proportional results. He has received numerous accolades and is featured in many top - doctor lists.
Dr. Oren Z. Lerman
Dr. Lerman is a Manhattan - based breast surgery expert. He offers two options for breast augmentation: using breast implants (silicone or saline) or a patient's body fat. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Lerman is also the director of breast reconstruction at Lenox Hill Hospital's Institute for Comprehensive Breast Care. He takes the time to explain the surgical process in detail during the consultation and helps patients choose the best option for their needs.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
The breast augmentation procedure typically starts with a consultation. During this consultation, the surgeon will discuss the patient's goals, medical history, and examine the breasts. The surgeon will also help the patient choose the appropriate type, size, and placement of the implants.
Pre - operative Preparation
- Medical clearance from a family physician is usually required.
- Patients may need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, and avoid smoking and alcohol in the weeks leading up to the surgery as they can affect the healing process.
- Arrangements should be made for someone to accompany the patient to and from the surgery and assist them in the first 24 hours after the procedure.
Surgery Day
The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision, either around the areola, in the inframammary crease, or in the armpit (transaxillary). A pocket is then created either under the breast tissue or the pectoral muscle, and the implant is inserted. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and the patient is dressed in a surgical bra. The procedure typically takes one and a half to two hours.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery time after breast augmentation can vary from patient to patient, but generally, it takes about one to two weeks. During this time, patients may experience swelling, discomfort, and tightness in the breasts, which can be managed with pain medication.
Post - operative Instructions
- Patients should wear a surgical bra as directed by the surgeon for several weeks to provide support to the newly enlarged breasts.
- Drainage tubes may be in place for a short period to prevent fluid accumulation.
- Heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be avoided for at least six weeks to allow the incisions to heal properly.
- Follow - up appointments with the surgeon are essential to monitor the healing process and ensure that there are no complications.
Cost of Breast Augmentation in New York City
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary depending on several factors, such as the surgeon's fees, facility costs, type of implants used, and whether other procedures are combined with the breast augmentation. The national average price for breast augmentation is approximately $5,352, but in New York City, prices can be higher due to the high cost of living and the reputation of the surgeons and facilities. Many clinics do not list their prices publicly, and patients are advised to schedule a consultation to get a personalized quote.
Success Rate and Potential Risks
Breast augmentation has a relatively high success rate in New York City, with many patients reporting satisfaction and enhanced confidence after the procedure. However, like any surgical procedure, it comes with potential risks and complications.
Common Risks
- Infection: Although rare, an infection can occur at the incision site or around the implant.
- Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, which may require additional treatment.
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensation.
- Implant leakage or rupture: Both silicone and saline implants can potentially leak or rupture. Silicone implants may require more monitoring, while saline implants are less of a concern as the saline is absorbed by the body if a rupture occurs.
- Capsular contracture: This is a condition where the body forms scar tissue around the implant, which can cause the breast to feel hard and distorted. Surgeons take steps to prevent this, but it can still occur in some cases.
Alternatives to Breast Augmentation
If a patient is not ready for surgery or prefers non - surgical options, there are alternatives to breast augmentation in New York City. These include:
- Fat grafting: As mentioned earlier, this involves transferring fat from one part of the body to the breasts. It is a more natural option but may require multiple sessions.
- Hormonal therapy: Some hormonal treatments may help increase breast size, but they need to be carefully monitored by a medical professional due to potential side effects.
- Natural remedies: There are various natural supplements and exercises that claim to enhance breast size, but their effectiveness is often not scientifically proven.
Conclusion
When considering breast augmentation in New York City, it is essential to do thorough research and choose a reputable hospital or surgeon. The top hospitals and surgeons mentioned in this article have the experience, expertise, and technology to provide high - quality results. It is also important to understand the procedure, recovery process, costs, and potential risks before making a decision. Always have open and honest communication with your surgeon during the consultation to ensure that your expectations are realistic and that the treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs.
If you are interested in learning more about breast augmentation or scheduling a consultation, reach out to the hospitals and surgeons mentioned in this article. Take the time to explore your options and make an informed decision that will help you achieve your aesthetic goals and enhance your self - confidence.
