Introduction
Breast augmentation has long been a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure, especially in a vibrant and fashion - forward city like New York. This article is meticulously crafted to present you with a carefully selected top 5 ranking of breast augmentation procedures in New York City. We will delve into various aspects such as different surgical techniques, implant options, leading surgeons, and patient experiences. With input from top Google search results, we aim to provide a comprehensive and reliable resource for those considering breast augmentation in the Big Apple.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that aims to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. It can be achieved through two primary methods: using breast implants or fat transfer. As the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports, in 2020 alone, nearly 200,000 women in the United States underwent breast augmentation. This desire for fuller and shaplier breasts has persisted for nearly the past 20 years and shows no sign of waning.
Benefits of Breast Augmentation
- Enhanced Body Confidence: Women often report an increase in self - esteem and body image after the procedure. It allows them to feel more comfortable in their own skin and more confident in social and professional settings.
- Natural - looking Results: With advanced surgical techniques and high - quality implants, modern breast augmentation can achieve results that look and feel natural, complementing the patient's body.
- Customizable Size and Shape: Patients have the option to choose the size, shape, and type of implants to match their personal aesthetic goals, ensuring a personalized outcome.
- Balanced Body Proportions: Breast augmentation can enhance the body's curves, creating a more balanced and proportionate figure.
- Minimally Invasive Techniques: Some procedures use modern surgical methods that reduce recovery time and scarring.
- Long - lasting Results: With durable implants and proper care, the results of breast augmentation can last for many years.
Types of Breast Implants
Implant Type | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|---|
Saline Implants | Filled with sterile salt water. Inserted into the breast empty and then filled once inside the body. | Require smaller incisions. In case of rupture, the saline solution is safely absorbed by the body. | May have a less natural feel compared to silicone implants. |
Silicone Implants | Filled with silicone gel, which feels more like natural breast tissue. | Many patients prefer them because they tend to feel softer and more natural. | Require a slightly larger incision. Regular check - ups with the surgeon are recommended to ensure they remain intact. |
Gummy Bear Implants | A newer type of silicone implant. Hold their shape even if the implant shell breaks, and the gel inside is thicker than traditional silicone. | Highly durable, offering a more stable, long - lasting shape and feel, often with a teardrop contour for a more natural look. | May be more expensive than other implant types. |
Top 5 Ranking of Breast Augmentation Procedures in New York City
1. Dr. Adam Kolker
Dr. Adam 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 is an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, which keeps him at the forefront of advancements in plastic surgery.
Expertise and Experience
Dr. Kolker specializes in breast augmentation and a wide range of cosmetic surgery procedures. He has been featured as a top plastic surgeon in New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues from 2008 - 2024, as well as in Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons list in 2021 - 2023. He is also distinguished in Castle Connolly's America's Top Doctors. His extensive media coverage, including over 100 print articles, television segments, and online news, attests to his reputation as a leading expert in the field.
Approach to Breast Augmentation
Dr. Kolker believes that true artistry in breast augmentation is based on the concept that "beautiful" should be more important than "size". He takes the time to understand each individual woman's aesthetic goals, distinct to her body type, to attain a proportionate outcome and the most natural results. His vast knowledge and expertise in breast augmentation have been highlighted in almost 100 media articles and television appearances, including being featured in Bazaar's hot list for providing some of the best breast augmentation in New York City.
Patient Testimonials
Patients have left numerous positive testimonials about Dr. Kolker. One patient said, “I could not believe my eyes. Dr. Kolker had done something all other surgeons had told me was not possible. He made the impossible, possible. I could not believe it took a possibility and turned it into my reality! I will forever be thankful to him for correcting my asymmetrical breasts and making me so happy.” Another patient stated, “Dr. Kolker changed my life. He truly pays attention to your individual case, and I'm so happy with my results.”
2. Dr. Nadia Afridi
Dr. Nadia Afridi is a well - known surgeon in New York City when it comes to breast augmentation. She is a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons in Canada, an associate fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Professionalism and Patient Care
Dr. Afridi is known for her professionalism and patient - centric approach. She is always ready to answer her patients' calls post - operation. Her and her staff are very helpful and accommodating, treating patients like royalty. When it comes to breast augmentation, she has four main considerations: the site of breast implant placement, the site of the incision to insert the breast implant, the type of implant (silicone or saline), and the size of the breast implant.
Surgical Techniques
Dr. Afridi's breast augmentation practice usually lasts 1 - 2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Incisions are usually made in unnoticeable areas like the armpit, the underside of the breast, and around the areola, ensuring that any scars are less visible. She is experienced with both saline and silicone implants, giving patients a wider option of what gel to use. She also performs breast augmentation for patients who are not satisfied with the previous breast augmentation procedure, correcting issues such as wrinkling, bottoming out, implant palpability, symmastia, severe implant displacement, and capsular contracture.
Patient Satisfaction
Dr. Afridi has received impressive reviews from clients due to her quality of work. One patient said, “Getting a breast augmentation was something I thought about for years but was always nervous about actually going through with it. I finally did it with Dr. Afridi, and I can't even explain how happy I am with the results! The team here made everything feel so comfortable from day one.”
3. Dr. Richard Swift
Dr. Richard Swift is a board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He offers a variety of cosmetic surgeries and treatments to help patients enhance their natural beauty.
Awards and Expertise
Dr. Swift has earned a number of prestigious awards for his experience and expertise. He provides detailed consultations on surgical techniques, alternative treatments, and pre - and post - operative care. He is dedicated to delivering personalized, high - quality, one - on - one care to ensure his patients' complete comfort and satisfaction.
Pre - and Post - Operative Care
Dr. Swift advises patients to refrain from vigorous exercise the day before the breast augmentation procedure. The night before the surgery, patients are recommended to shower and wash with antimicrobial soap and not apply any lotions, creams, or moisturizers on the area to be treated. After the surgery, patients' breasts will be swollen and tender. They can usually return to work within a week but need to wear a surgical bra when the bandages are removed. They should also refrain from bending, lifting, or engaging in strenuous exercise until Dr. Swift approves it.
Patient Feedback
Patients have praised Dr. Swift and his team. One patient said, “Dr. Swift is skilled when it comes to doing the job. He also has a great team of staff, from his receptionist to the operating room nurse and anesthesiologist. Their service guarantees that you are in safe hands.”
4. Dr. Ross Ratner
Dr. Ross Ratner is a double - board certified plastic surgeon with over 15 years of experience and thousands of successful procedures. He is a recognized leader in breast augmentation surgery in New York City.
Minimally Invasive Techniques
Dr. Ratner uses minimally invasive techniques in his breast augmentation procedures. His patient - focused approach makes him a top choice for breast augmentation in NYC. He is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, bringing unmatched expertise and dedication to delivering exceptional results.
Customized Treatment
During the consultation, Dr. Ratner works closely with patients to understand their aesthetic goals and recommends the most suitable implant options. He takes into account the patient's body type, existing breast shape, and personal preferences to create a personalized treatment plan.
Patient Testimonials
Patients have reported high satisfaction with Dr. Ratner's services. One patient shared, “I was so nervous about the surgery and recovery, but Dr. Ratner and his team answered all my questions and really put me at ease. Recovery wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be either. I feel more confident now, and I only wish I had done this sooner!”
5. Dr. Kevin Tehrani
Dr. Kevin Tehrani is the founder and director of Aristocrat Plastic Surgery. He values reaching the highest levels of achievement in reconstructive and plastic surgical training, continuing education, and clinical experience.
Comprehensive Consultation
Dr. Tehrani personally conducts the breast augmentation consultations. During the consultation, patients undergo a thorough medical examination, and they discuss the reasons for wanting breast augmentation. If the patient is a suitable candidate, he and his professional staff help the patient decide the most appropriate breast surgery based on the patient's body and desired goals.
Variety of Techniques and Implants
Dr. Tehrani performs various breast augmentation procedures, including using silicone implants, transumbilical breast augmentation (TUBA), and anatomical implants. He also offers a wide range of implant options, such as Allergan's INAMED® matrix of breast implants and the newly FDA - approved Natrelle Inspira™ silicone implant. He generally places the implants under the muscle, believing it offers better results and less risk of scar capsule development.
Speedy Recovery and Post - Operative Care
Dr. Tehrani offers a speedy recovery option using the injectable “ExPAREL”. This slow - release, non - opioid pain medicine is injected into the surgical site during the operation, allowing patients to significantly reduce the amount of pain they experience during the first 72 hours after surgery. He also provides detailed post - operative instructions, including the use of a surgical bra, washing stitches, and follow - up appointments.
Patients have commended Dr. Tehrani's approach to surgery and recovery. One patient said, “The speedy recovery option with ExPAREL was a game - changer. I was able to get back to my normal routine much quicker than I expected, and the pain was much more manageable.”
Preparing for Breast Augmentation
Consultation
The consultation is a crucial step in the breast augmentation process. During the consultation, patients should discuss their aesthetic goals, medical history, and any concerns with the surgeon. Surgeons will typically examine the patient's breasts, take measurements, and provide information about different implant options, surgical techniques, and potential risks. It is important for patients to ask questions and make sure they have a clear understanding of the procedure before making a decision.
Pre - operative Instructions
- Quit Smoking: Nicotine can significantly impact the ability to heal after treatment, so patients are advised to quit smoking or using any nicotine products.
- Medication Adjustment: Patients should taper off current medications or supplements that may increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John's wort.
- Arrangements: Patients should arrange to have a trusted family member or friend pick them up from the office after the surgery. They should also designate a comfortable space to recover at home and place necessary items within reach.
- Rest: Patients should plan to take 2 - 3 weeks to rest and recuperate after the surgery.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation anesthesia, depending on the patient's preferences and the surgeon's recommendation. The board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient's vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure safety.
Incisions
There are several incision options for breast augmentation:
- Inframammary Incision: Made under the breast. This approach provides good access to the breast pocket and is commonly used.
- Periareolar Incision: Made around the areola. It is often preferred when a more minimal scar is desired, but it may be more visible in some cases.
- Transaxillary Incision: Made under the armpit. This results in a hidden scar, but it may be more technically challenging for the surgeon.
Implant Placement
Implants can be placed either in the submuscular plane (under the pectoral muscles) or subglandular (above the pectoral muscles). Patients with signs of ptosis or sagging skin will typically have their implants placed subglandularly. The surgeon will determine the most appropriate placement based on the patient's anatomy, age, and vocation.
End of Procedure
After the implants are placed and the desired enhancements are achieved, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures and wrap the area with a compression garment to protect the results. Patients will stay in the recovery area until they feel comfortable returning home. If the patient is coming from more than an hour outside of New York City, they are advised to remain in the city overnight for the surgeon to check on them if needed. Suture removal is usually one week after the breast augmentation.
Recovery and Results
Immediate Post - operative Period
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.
Short - term Recovery
After 2 - 3 weeks, symptoms will have subsided enough for patients to resume light activities and work. At 6 - 8 weeks, patients can gradually start more strenuous activities, such as going to the gym. By this point, swelling will have subsided significantly.
Long - term Results
Although the breasts may still feel overly firm and tight initially, within a few months, the implants will have settled into place, and patients will be able to see and celebrate their final results. The results of breast augmentation are generally long - lasting, but it is important to follow up with the surgeon regularly for check - ups.