Introduction
Breast augmentation surgery has become an increasingly popular option for women in New York City who wish to enhance their physical appearance and boost their confidence. Whether it's due to natural breast size dissatisfaction, changes after pregnancy or weight loss, or simply a desire for a more proportionate figure, there are numerous powerful public and well - reputed private hospitals and clinics to choose from. This article will explore the options available in New York City, the procedures involved, and factors to consider when making a decision.
Reasons for Considering Breast Augmentation
There are several common reasons why women opt for breast augmentation:
- Small or Asymmetrical Breasts: Some women feel that their breasts are too small for their body frame or that one breast is noticeably smaller than the other. This can lead to self - consciousness, especially when wearing swimsuits or form - fitting clothing.
- Changes Due to Aging, Pregnancy, or Weight Loss: After pregnancy and breastfeeding, or significant weight loss, breasts may lose volume and firmness. Breast augmentation can help restore the fullness and shape of the breasts.
- Desire for a More Feminine Figure: Many women want to enhance their femininity and create a more balanced silhouette. A well - proportioned bust can complement the overall body shape and boost self - esteem.
Popular Hospitals and Surgeons in New York City
Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They use the latest technologies, such as advanced 3D imaging, to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look. The hospital offers different 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, where fat is removed from the buttocks or abdomen and inserted into the breasts. Before the surgery, patients undergo a physical exam and have detailed consultations with their surgeons to ensure they are suitable candidates and to discuss the best options for them.
Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Dr. Adam R. 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 and New York University. He specializes in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures. Dr. Kolker is known for his artistic approach, aiming to deliver beautiful, natural, and proportional results. He offers a wide range of breast procedures, such as breast asymmetry correction, breast lift, and breast reduction. His work has been highly recognized, being featured in New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues, Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons, and Castle Connolly's Top Doctors.
Dr. Nadia Afridi
Dr. Nadia Afridi is a popular surgeon in NYC for breast augmentation. She is very professional and caring towards her patients, always ready to answer their calls post - operation. Her practice typically lasts 1 - 2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia. She has four main considerations for breast augmentation surgery: the site of breast implant placement, the site of the incision, the type of implant (silicone or saline), and the size of the breast implant. Incisions are usually made in unnoticeable areas like the armpit, the underside of the breast, and around the areola to minimize scarring. She is also experienced in correcting issues from previous breast augmentation procedures.
Dr. Richard Swift
Dr. Richard Swift is a board - certified plastic surgeon who offers a variety of cosmetic surgeries and treatments. He provides detailed consultations on surgical techniques, alternative treatments, and pre - and post - operative care. Before the breast augmentation procedure, he recommends that patients refrain from vigorous exercise the day before, shower with antimicrobial soap the night before, and avoid applying lotions or creams on the treatment area. After the surgery, patients are advised on how to manage the swelling and tenderness and when they can return to work and normal activities. His team is known for being caring and helpful, and his prices are fair and in line with other board - certified plastic surgeons.
New York Group for Plastic Surgery (Dr. Jordan Jacobs)
Dr. Jordan Jacobs of the New York Group for Plastic Surgery has received training from globally acclaimed medical leaders. The group offers breast augmentation options including breast implants and autologous fat transfer. They use high - resolution imaging technology like Vectra XT 3D - imaging to help patients visualize the results. During the consultation, patients have the opportunity to ask questions about the surgery, potential risks, and complications. The surgeons at the group will also perform a physical examination to confirm that the patient is an ideal candidate for the procedure.
Dr. Lara Devgan
Dr. Lara Devgan is a female plastic surgeon in New York City. Many women seek her out because they prefer a female surgeon who is discreet about this sensitive topic. During the consultation, she examines, measures, and photographs the patient's breasts, discusses the medical history and desires for surgery, and allows the patient to "try on" different sizes of implants. The surgery typically takes one hour and can be performed in her private office operating room or at a top local hospital. The recovery process is relatively fast, with most patients feeling "back to normal" within a month, and being cleared for all types of physical activity by 6 - 8 weeks.
Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a renowned breast augmentation surgeon in New York City. He is board - certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery and has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentation surgeries. He is known for his expertise in addressing complications such as capsular contracture. Dr. Antell tailors each breast augmentation to achieve the look the patient desires, with benefits such as enhanced confidence, improved proportions, and a customized volume and shape. He has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but most patients prefer his private operating room.
Dr. David L. Cangello
Dr. David L. Cangello is a board - certified plastic surgeon experienced in cosmetic breast surgery. He offers personalized treatment plans and a full range of cosmetic breast surgery, including breast lift, breast revision, and natural augmentation with fat transfer. He takes an artistic approach, combining medical precision with aesthetics to create elegant, natural - looking results. His superior results have earned the trust of professional models. He has a state - of - the - art operating room at his NYC office and also has operating privileges at the Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital.
Types of Breast Augmentation Procedures
Breast Implants
Breast implants are the most common form of breast augmentation. They are devices made of a soft silicone outer shell filled with either silicone gel or saline (a solution of salt and water). Here are the different types of breast implants:
Type of Implant | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|---|
Saline Breast Implants | Filled with sterile saltwater. If the implant ruptures, the saline is simply absorbed by the body. | Can be placed through a slightly shorter incision. Safer in case of rupture as the saline is harmless. | May feel firmer and less natural compared to silicone. In thin women, visible rippling at the implant edges may be seen. |
Silicone Breast Implants | Filled with silicone gel, which resembles the natural feel and texture of actual breasts. | Feel and look more natural. Preferred by many patients for a more realistic appearance. | There is a small risk of the gel escaping into the breast implant pocket in the unlikely event of a rupture. Require MRI scans every few years for monitoring (FDA recommendation). |
Structured Saline Breast Implants | Saline breast implants with an internal structure that makes them more natural and realistic. | Combines some of the benefits of saline and a more natural look. | May still have some of the drawbacks associated with saline implants. |
Gummy Bear Breast Implants | Form - stable silicone breast implants that maintain their shape even when the implant shell breaks. Have a tapered top that resembles the natural structure of the breasts. | Provide a very natural look and maintain their shape well. | May be more expensive. Require a slightly larger incision for placement. |
Round Breast Implants | Rounded implants that are evenly shaped on all sides. | No risk of external projection if they rotate out of place. Usually softer and more natural - feeling. | May not provide as natural a shape as anatomical implants in some cases. |
Autologous Fat Transfer
This method involves removing viable fat cells from a region of the body with excess fat, such as the thighs, abdomen, or hips, using liposuction. The fat is then processed and purified before being injected into the breasts. The benefit of this technique is that it uses the patient's own fat, resulting in a completely natural - looking and feeling augmentation. However, it can only increase the breast size by one full cup size, and the amount of fat that survives and remains in the breasts can vary.
Pre - operative Considerations
Consultation
The consultation is a crucial step in the breast augmentation process. During this time, the patient meets with the surgeon to discuss their goals, expectations, and medical history. The surgeon will perform a physical examination of the breasts to assess their size, shape, and condition. They will also discuss the different types of implants or fat transfer options, incision sites, and potential risks and complications. Patients should come prepared with questions and be honest about their medical history, including any previous surgeries, allergies, or medical conditions.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
Selecting the right surgeon is one of the most important decisions. Look for a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation. Check their credentials, patient reviews, and before - and - after photos. It's also a good idea to schedule consultations with multiple surgeons to compare their approaches, communication styles, and the overall feel of their practice.
Cost and Payment Options
The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of implants, the surgeon's fee, the facility fee, and anesthesia costs. It's important to get a detailed quote from the surgeon and understand what is included in the price. Some doctors accept credit cards, insurance, or financing options like CareCredit. CareCredit offers no - interest plans up to 24 months and extended payment plans for 24, 36, 48, or 60 months.
Intra - operative Process
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another form of “twilight” sedation. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the procedure to ensure safety.
Incision Sites
There are several options for incision sites:
- Inframammary Fold (IMF): Placed underneath the breasts, just above the natural fold. This is a common choice as it allows for good access to the breast pocket and the scars are often well - hidden in the crease.
- Periareolar Incision: Made around the lower edge of the areola. The advantage of this incision is that the scar can be less noticeable due to the color and texture of the areola skin. However, it may have a slightly higher risk of affecting nipple sensation.
- Transaxillary Incision: Located near or within the armpit. This option results in no visible scar on the breast, but it may be more difficult to achieve precise implant placement and has a higher rate of implant malposition in some cases.
Implant Placement
The implants can be placed either directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or behind the pectoral (chest) muscle (submuscular placement). Placing the implants behind the chest muscle may reduce the risk of capsular contracture but may also require a longer recovery time. The surgeon will discuss the best placement option based on the patient's anatomy and desired outcome.
Post - operative Recovery and Care
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, the patient will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a nurse. They will have a surgical dressing over the incisions and will be wearing a post - surgical bra. The breasts may be sore, swollen, and tender, and pain medication will be prescribed to manage the discomfort. The patient will need to arrange for someone to drive them home and may need assistance with daily tasks for the first few days.
Recovery Timeline
The recovery process varies from patient to patient, but here is a general timeline:
- First 1 - 2 Days: Most patients spend this time resting, reading, or watching TV. They may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort and may need to take pain medicine.
- 2 - 3 Days: If the patient has a desk job that does not require strenuous activity, they may be able to return to work. However, they should avoid bending, lifting, or engaging in strenuous exercise.
- 1 Week: The swelling may start to subside, and the patient can usually resume non - strenuous and non - contact sport activities. They will have a follow - up appointment with the surgeon to check the healing progress.
- 1 Month: The vast majority of patients say they feel "back to normal." The bruising, discomfort, and most swelling have disappeared, but the breasts will still continue to "settle" into their final position.
- 6 - 8 Weeks: The patient will be cleared to do all types of physical activity, although elite athletes may have some exceptions.
Scar Care
The scars will be firm and pink for at least six weeks. Over time, they will begin to fade, but they will never disappear completely. Following the surgeon's instructions on scar care, such as using silicone sheets or creams, can help minimize the appearance of the scars.
Potential Risks and Complications
While breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure when performed by a qualified surgeon, there are some potential risks and complications:
- Capsular Contracture: This is the most common complication, where the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing hardening, pain, and a misshapen appearance. It can be treated by removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants.
- Bleeding and Infection: Bleeding can occur during or after the surgery, and infection typically presents within a week after surgery. Both can usually be treated, but they may require additional medical attention.
- Implant Rupture: In the unlikely event of an implant rupture, a revision surgery is usually required to replace the implant and remove any troublesome scar tissue. Saline implants are safer in case of rupture as the saline is harmlessly absorbed by the body.
- Changes in Nipple Sensation: Nearly all patients experience some change or loss in nipple sensation after the surgery, but this should resolve itself within about six months.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation surgery in New York City offers women the opportunity to enhance their physical appearance and boost their confidence. With a wide range of powerful public and well - reputed private hospitals and clinics, as well as highly skilled surgeons, patients have many options to choose from. By carefully considering the reasons for the procedure, the different types of breast augmentation, the pre - operative, intra - operative, and post - operative processes, and the potential risks and complications, women can make an informed decision about whether breast augmentation is right for them. It's important to choose a qualified surgeon, follow all pre - and post - operative instructions, and have realistic expectations about the results.
If you're considering breast augmentation in New York City, we encourage you to schedule consultations with multiple surgeons to learn more about the procedure and your options. Take the time to research and ask questions to ensure you have a positive experience and achieve the results you desire. Share this article with friends who may be interested in learning about breast augmentation, and explore related