Introduction
Surgical silicone breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure in New York City. Many women opt for this surgery to enhance their appearance, boost self - confidence, and address various breast - related concerns. With numerous hospitals and clinics offering this service, it can be challenging to determine which one provides the best results. In this article, we will explore some of the top hospitals in New York City known for their expertise in surgical silicone breast augmentation, and examine the reasons why they are highly regarded.
What is Surgical Silicone Breast Augmentation?
Surgical silicone breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgical procedure that involves inserting silicone breast implants to increase the size, change the shape, or improve the symmetry of a woman's breasts. Silicone breast implants are made of a flexible silicone casing filled with a silicone gel, which gives them a more natural look and feel compared to saline implants.
Benefits of Silicone Breast Implants
- Natural Look and Feel: Silicone implants closely mimic the texture and movement of natural breasts. As Dr. David P. Rapaport from Rapaport Plastic Surgery notes, about 70% of his patients choose silicone implants for their breast augmentation due to their more natural feel. He likens a silicone implant to the feeling of squeezing a down pillow, which is softer and more natural compared to saline implants, especially for patients with little breast tissue or body fat.
- Less Risk of Rupture: Silicone implants are less likely to rupture than saline implants. Although the FDA has stated that ruptured silicone implants are not associated with breast cancer or other diseases, the low risk of rupture is still an advantage. However, removing a ruptured silicone implant requires a more complicated surgery.
- Versatility: Silicone implants come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and projections, allowing for a more customized result. Gummy bear implants, a type of cohesive silicone gel implant, are increasingly popular as they can provide a natural and proportionate breast shape and feel, and they come in a range of shapes and sizes to fit different chest dimensions.
Top Hospitals in New York City for Surgical Silicone Breast Augmentation
Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai is a well - known institution in New York City with highly experienced plastic surgeons. Their plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation to enlarge breasts.
Services Offered
- 3D Imaging Technology: Before scheduling the surgery, they use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique body. By showing various options on a computer monitor, patients can virtually try on different sizes of breasts, which helps them make more informed decisions.
- Multiple Implant Options: They offer 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 with liposuction and then inserting that fat into the breasts to enlarge them.
- Personalized Consultation: Surgeons consult with patients, listening carefully to understand their desire for enhancing breast size. They also help patients decide about the size and shape that will look best for their body, and explain what happens during the procedure and answer any questions.
Patient Considerations
While Mount Sinai offers comprehensive services, patients should be aware that the results of breast augmentation, whether with implants or fat transfer, may be affected by factors such as pregnancy, nursing, and significant weight changes over time. In such cases, additional procedures like breast lift or implant replacement may be considered.
Rapaport Plastic Surgery
Dr. David P. Rapaport at Rapaport Plastic Surgery is a board - certified plastic surgeon who provides a range of options for breast augmentation, including both saline and silicone breast implants.
Implant Selection
- Variety of Implants: The practice offers a variety of silicone implants with different characteristics such as smooth or textured surfaces, and round or teardrop shapes. Dr. Rapaport prefers to use smooth implants as he believes they are safer and longer - lasting.
- Patient - Surgeon Collaboration: He works closely with each patient to determine the ideal implant choice based on their anatomy, aesthetic preferences, and goals. For example, he recommends silicone implants for most patients with little breast tissue or body fat, while he may recommend saline implants for women seeking scarless breast augmentation.
Advantages and Limitations
One of the advantages of choosing Rapaport Plastic Surgery is the surgeon's extensive experience in evaluating and recommending the most suitable implant type for each patient. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, such as capsular contracture, and patients should have a thorough understanding of these risks before proceeding.
Weill Cornell Medicine
Weill Cornell Medicine is committed to helping patients feel their best through its cosmetic breast surgery services.
Features of Care
- Exemplary Surgeons: Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons are leaders in the field, and the care team is equipped to promote comfort throughout the process. The institution partners with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S.
- Individualized Approach: Surgeons work with patients from the initial consultation to understand their goals and discuss the best options for their unique bodies. They provide a full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, including breast augmentation with implants, to help patients achieve the natural look they want.
- Patient Comfort: The team prioritizes patient comfort at every step. Before surgery, patients have time to ask questions, and in state - of - the - art surgical suites, surgeons use the latest anesthetics and medications to help patients recover more quickly and heal faster. After surgery, the care team manages pain and teaches patients how to care for themselves during recovery.
Patient Expectations
Patients at Weill Cornell Medicine can expect a high - level of personalized care. However, they should also be prepared for the standard recovery process after breast augmentation, which includes some pain, swelling, and restrictions on physical activities in the initial weeks.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, a fellowship - trained, board - certified plastic surgeon, offers breast augmentation services on the Upper East Side of New York City.
Treatment Process
- Fully Customized Approach: Dr. Hutchinson spends a significant amount of time with patients during a preoperative consultation to understand their desires and body shape. She then helps patients decide which implant type (saline, ideal implant structured breast implants, or silicone gel - filled implants) and implant placement (subglandular or subpectoral) is ideal for them.
- Comprehensive Services: In addition to standard breast augmentation, she also discusses other procedures such as breast lift (mastopexy) or liposuction of the chest area for enhanced results, if appropriate for the patient.
- Patient Support: She provides detailed instructions for preparation before surgery, including breast imaging, medical clearance, and lifestyle recommendations. After surgery, she follows up with patients to ensure a smooth recovery.
Notable Considerations
Many patients have reported high satisfaction with Dr. Hutchinson's services. However, as with any cosmetic surgery, there is a risk of complications, and patients should carefully consider their decision and understand the long - term implications, such as the possibility of breast revision surgery in the future.
Dr. Joshua B. Hyman
Dr. Joshua B. Hyman is a double - board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with expertise in body contouring, including silicone breast augmentation.
Surgical Process
- Thorough Consultation: He conducts a thorough consultation process, discussing the best incision pattern and implant placement position for each patient's needs. On the day of surgery, patients receive general anesthesia for comfort, and he also administers a long - lasting local anesthetic to help with postoperative pain.
- Customized Treatment: Since silicone implants are pre - filled, he creates an incision large enough for their insertion according to the patient's unique treatment plan. He may use a tissue expander if the patient lacks sufficient breast tissue to cover the implant.
- Recovery Support: Dr. Hyman provides detailed instructions for recovery, including rest, incision care, and resuming normal activities. He also prescribes pain medications to alleviate discomfort after surgery.
Patient Suitability
Silicone implants in his practice are approved for healthy women over the age of 22. Ideal candidates are non - smokers in good mental and physical health. Patients should also have realistic expectations about the results and be aware of the potential risks and recovery process.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Silicone Breast Augmentation
Surgeon Experience
The experience of the plastic surgeon is crucial. Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have a proven track record in performing silicone breast augmentation. Experienced surgeons are more likely to understand the nuances of the procedure, handle potential complications, and achieve better results. For example, Dr. John E. Sherman has been involved in the development of advanced breast implants and has a deep understanding of their nature, which can be beneficial for patients in making informed decisions.
Hospital Reputation
The reputation of the hospital or clinic matters. Research the institution's history, patient reviews, and accreditations. A hospital with a good reputation is more likely to have high - quality facilities, adhere to safety standards, and provide comprehensive after - care services. Mount Sinai and Weill Cornell Medicine, for instance, are well - respected institutions in New York City with a long - standing history of providing excellent medical care.
Range of Services
Consider hospitals that offer a wide range of services related to breast augmentation. This includes different types of implants, additional procedures like breast lift or fat transfer, and the use of advanced technologies such as 3D imaging. Having more options allows patients to customize their treatment according to their specific needs and goals.
Patient - Surgeon Communication
Effective communication between the patient and the surgeon is essential. The surgeon should take the time to understand the patient's desires, explain the procedure in detail, answer all questions, and set realistic expectations. A surgeon who listens to the patient's concerns and provides clear information can help the patient make a more confident decision.
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on factors such as the hospital, the surgeon, the type of implant, and additional procedures. It's important to understand the total cost and what it includes. Some hospitals offer financing options to help patients manage the expense. For example, Weill Cornell Medicine will break down the anticipated costs after the consultation and inform eligible patients about financing options.
Potential Risks and Complications of Silicone Breast Augmentation
Breast Implant Associated - Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)
Over the past few years, researchers have found that women with breast implants may have a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL. It is not breast cancer but a form of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The risk seems to be associated with textured implants, although there have been a few cases associated with smooth implants in patients who previously had textured implants. Most cases can be effectively treated with surgical removal of the tumor, capsule, and breast implant.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
BII is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that 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 poorly understood and still being investigated.
Capsular Contracture
This is a complication where the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant tightens and squeezes the implant. It can cause the breast to feel hard, look distorted, and may be painful. The risk of capsular contracture can be influenced by factors such as implant placement (submuscular or subglandular) and the type of implant.
Implant Rupture
Although silicone implants have a lower risk of rupture compared to saline implants, rupture can still occur. A ruptured silicone implant may require a more complicated surgery for removal. Signs of a ruptured implant may include a change in breast shape, pain, or firmness.
Preparing for Silicone Breast Augmentation Surgery
Medical Evaluation
Before surgery, patients will undergo a medical evaluation, including a physical exam and medical history review. This is to ensure that the patient is in good health and a suitable candidate for the procedure. The surgeon may also order breast imaging, such as a mammogram, sonogram, or MRI, to assess the breast tissue.
Lifestyle Changes
Patients are usually advised to make some lifestyle changes before surgery. This may include quitting smoking, as nicotine can significantly impact the ability to heal after treatment. They may also need to taper off certain medications or supplements that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John’s wort.
Arranging Support
Patients should arrange for a trusted family member or friend to pick them up from the hospital after surgery. They also need to designate a comfortable space at home for recovery and place necessary items within reach. Additionally, patients should plan to take 2 - 3 weeks off work to rest and recuperate.
Recovery Process After Silicone Breast Augmentation
Immediate Post - Surgery
In the initial days after surgery, it is normal to experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Patients will be given a prescription for pain medication to help ease discomfort, which is usually most pronounced during the first few days. They will also be provided with a surgical compression bra to wear for the next few weeks as they heal.
Returning to Normal Activities
Most patients can return to work within a week, but vigorous exercise should be avoided for at least 2 - 4 weeks, depending on the specific type of breast augmentation surgery. Stitches are usually absorbable and will gradually break down over time. Swelling and bruising will subside within about two weeks, and over the coming months, the breasts will settle into their new shape.
Follow - up Appointments
Patients will have several follow - up appointments with the surgeon during the postoperative period. The surgeon will monitor the recovery process, check for any complications, and provide further instructions for care. For example, suture removal is usually one week after breast augmentation, and the surgeon will assess the healing of the incisions at this time.
Conclusion
When it comes to surgical silicone breast augmentation in New York City, several hospitals and surgeons stand out for their expertise, services, and patient - centered approach. Mount Sinai, Rapaport Plastic Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's practice, and Dr. Joshua B. Hyman's practice all offer high - quality care and a range of options for patients. However, it's important for patients to carefully consider their options, including the surgeon's experience, the hospital's reputation, the range of services, and the potential risks and costs. By making an informed decision and following the pre - and post - operative instructions, patients can increase the likelihood of achieving satisfactory results. If you are considering silicone breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule consultations with multiple surgeons to discuss your goals and determine the best approach for you.
