Introduction
New York City stands as a global hub for advanced medical procedures, particularly in the realm of cosmetic surgery. Silicone breast augmentation with prostheses has become an increasingly popular choice for women looking to enhance their appearance, gain more confidence, and achieve their desired aesthetic goals. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the options available in New York City for silicone breast augmentation, including powerful public hospitals and well - reputed private clinics, and provide in - depth information on various aspects of the procedure.
Why Consider Silicone Breast Augmentation?
There are numerous reasons why women opt for silicone breast augmentation. For many, it's a way to address issues such as small or disproportionate breasts, asymmetry, or loss of breast volume due to factors like pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss. According to a study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation has been one of the top cosmetic procedures in the United States for nearly two decades. In 2020 alone, despite the challenges of a global pandemic, nearly 200,000 women underwent breast augmentation.
Silicone breast implants are a popular choice because they closely mimic the look and feel of natural breasts. Dr. David P. Rapaport of Rapaport Plastic Surgery states that approximately 70% of his patients choose silicone implants for their breast augmentation. These implants are softer than saline implants, allowing for more natural movement and feel, which is highly valued by those seeking a natural - looking result.
Top Public and Private Hospitals in New York City for Silicone Breast Augmentation
Public Hospitals
Although public hospitals in New York City are often known for their focus on general healthcare and emergency services, some also offer high - quality plastic surgery services, including silicone breast augmentation. For example, certain public hospital systems have plastic surgery departments staffed by experienced surgeons who are trained to perform the procedure safely and effectively. These surgeons may also have access to advanced technologies and research, which can contribute to better outcomes for patients.
Private Hospitals and Clinics
- 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. This technology shows various options on a computer monitor, allowing patients to virtually try on different sizes of breasts. Their goal is to give patients a natural shape and size that they will be happy with. The hospital offers different types of breast implants, including silicone and saline, as well as a non - implant option called NaturalFill®, which uses a fat transfer technique.
- New York Group for Plastic Surgery: Specializing in breast augmentation, this clinic offers a range of options. They use high - resolution imaging technology like Vectra XT 3D - imaging to help patients determine the breast size they'd like to achieve. Their board - certified plastic surgeons discuss all the options with patients, including the different types of breast implants such as saline, structured saline, silicone, and gummy bear implants. The surgeons also explain the different incision placements and what to expect during the recovery process.
- Dr. Greenwald's Practice: Dr. Joshua A. Greenwald is a board - certified plastic surgeon who has significant experience in breast implant surgery. He offers a choice of breast implant types, incisions, and placement options. His practice operates in a state - of - the - art surgical center that meets and often exceeds hospital safety standards. Dr. Greenwald uses mainly smooth implants and prefers the submuscular placement for most of his patients as it offers a lower incidence of capsular contracture and a more natural look.
- Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice: A fellowship - trained, board - certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Hutchinson is passionate about delivering outstanding care in a state - of - the - art setting. She offers fully customized breast augmentation, spending a significant amount of time with patients during the preoperative consultation to determine the ideal implant type and placement. Her results are natural - looking, personalized, and elegant.
- Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice: Dr. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He worked closely with Allergan during the development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. He takes an individualized approach, working closely with patients to choose the right implants based on material, shape, size, and texture. His practice offers a comprehensive understanding of the procedure and possible complications, ensuring patients are well - informed.
- Dr. David L. Cangello's Practice: Known for his artistic approach to breast surgery, Dr. Cangello offers personalized treatment plans. He uses both silicone and saline implants and is experienced in fat grafting techniques. His practice has a state - of - the - art, fully accredited operating room, and he is committed to patient satisfaction throughout the entire process, from consultation to post - operative visits.
Types of Silicone Breast Implants
Standard Silicone Gel Implants
These are the most common type of silicone breast implants. They are pre - filled with a cohesive silicone gel that gives them a natural feel and appearance. The gel is designed to stay within the implant shell, and in the unlikely event of a rupture, it is less likely to leak out compared to older generations of silicone implants. Standard silicone gel implants come in different profiles, such as low, medium, and high, which determine how far the implant projects from the chest wall.
Cohesive Silicone Gel Implants (Gummy Bear Implants)
Developed in the 1990s, gummy bear implants are made of a thicker, more cohesive silicone gel. This gel is so thick that it holds its shape even when the implant shell is cut. They are available in both round and teardrop shapes. Teardrop - shaped gummy bear implants are designed to mimic the natural slope of the breast, providing a very natural look. They are also less likely to rotate within the breast pocket compared to round implants.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Silicone Breast Implants
Advantages
- Natural Look and Feel: As mentioned earlier, silicone breast implants closely resemble the look and feel of natural breasts. This is especially important for patients who value a natural appearance and want their breasts to feel as natural as possible.
- Less Risk of Ripples: Compared to saline implants, silicone implants are less likely to cause visible or palpable ripples under the skin. This is particularly beneficial for women with thin skin or little body fat.
- Low Rupture Rate: Silicone implants have a relatively low risk of rupture. The cohesive gel inside the implant helps to keep it intact in case of a rupture, and the rupture is often less obvious compared to a saline implant rupture.
Disadvantages
- Silent Rupture Risk: A “silent rupture” can occur with silicone implants, where the implant has ruptured, but the patient is not aware of it because the body cannot absorb the silicone. This is why the FDA recommends that women with silicone breast implants undergo a breast imaging exam such as an MRI or mammogram every three years, starting the third year after the initial breast enhancement procedure.
- Larger Incisions: Since silicone implants are pre - filled, they usually require slightly larger incisions for insertion compared to saline implants, which can be filled after insertion.
- Cost: Silicone implants generally cost slightly more than saline implants, which may be a consideration for some patients.
Procedure Process
Consultation
The first step in the silicone breast augmentation process is the consultation. During this meeting, the patient will discuss their goals, concerns, and expectations with the plastic surgeon. The surgeon will conduct a physical examination, including taking measurements of the breasts and assessing the patient's overall health. They will also review the patient's medical history to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the procedure. The surgeon will explain the different types of implants, incision options, and placement techniques, and answer any questions the patient may have. Some clinics, like Dr. Greenwald's, use the Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients determine the appropriate implant size.
Pre - operative Preparation
Before the surgery, patients will be given specific instructions to follow. This may include quitting smoking or using nicotine products, as nicotine can significantly impact the healing process. Patients may also need to taper off certain medications or supplements that can increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John's wort. Additionally, patients will need to arrange for a trusted family member or friend to pick them up from the hospital and to assist them during the recovery period.
Surgery
Breast augmentation surgery typically takes 1 - 1.5 hours and is usually performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision in one of several locations, such as the inframammary fold (under the breast), the periareolar area (around the areola), or the transaxillary area (in the armpit). The choice of incision depends on various factors, including the patient's anatomy, the type and size of the implant, and the surgeon's preference. After making the incision, the surgeon will create a pocket either under the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or under the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement). The silicone implant is then inserted into the pocket, and the incision is closed with sutures.
Recovery
The recovery process varies from patient to patient. In the initial days after surgery, patients may experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. They will be given a prescription for pain medication to help ease discomfort, and they will need to wear a surgical compression bra for several weeks. Most patients are able to return to work within a few days to a week, depending on the nature of their job. Strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks to a month after the procedure. Residual swelling usually resolves within a month, and the implants will continue to soften and settle into place over the next few months.
Possible Complications
Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)
Although rare, there is a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL in women with breast implants. It is a form of non - Hodgkin's lymphoma that is associated with implants that have a textured surface. The FDA has issued a worldwide alert regarding this risk, and some textured shell breast implants have been recalled. The disease usually presents as a mass or fluid accumulation around the implant, and it is mostly treatable 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. These symptoms include 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 occurs when the body forms a tight capsule of scar tissue around the implant, causing the breast to feel hard and sometimes distorted. The risk of capsular contracture can be reduced by choosing the appropriate implant placement (submuscular placement is often preferred), using smooth implants, and following the surgeon's post - operative instructions.
Implant Rupture
Although silicone implants have a low risk of rupture, it can still occur. In the case of a silent rupture, it may be difficult to detect, which is why regular imaging studies are recommended. If a rupture is detected, the implant will need to be removed and possibly replaced.
Cost of Silicone Breast Augmentation in New York City
The cost of silicone breast augmentation in New York City can vary depending on several factors. These include the plastic surgeon's fee, the anesthesiologist's fee, the operating room fee, the cost of the breast implants, and any miscellaneous costs associated with the surgery, such as lab testing, the surgical bra, and pain medication. For example, Dr. Greenwald's practice offers special prices, with primary breast augmentation surgery with silicone breast implants costing $8,295.00 (including the plastic surgeon's fee, the anesthesiologist's fee, the operating room fee, and the cost of the breast implants). However, the final cost may be higher or lower depending on the patient's unique anatomical needs, the complexity of the surgical procedure, and whether an adjunct procedure such as a breast lift is being performed at the same time.
Conclusion
Silicone breast augmentation with prostheses in New York City offers women a wide range of options to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. Whether you choose a powerful public hospital or a well - reputed private clinic, it's important to do thorough research, select a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, and have realistic expectations about the procedure. Understanding the different types of implants, the procedure process, possible complications, and the cost is crucial for making an informed decision.
If you're considering silicone breast augmentation in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a reputable plastic surgeon. They can provide you with personalized information and guidance based on your specific needs and goals. Share this article with anyone you think might find it helpful, and continue to explore related topics to learn more about the world of cosmetic surgery.
