Introduction
Breast augmentation has emerged as one of the most sought - after cosmetic procedures, with over 5 million women in the USA opting for it. The desire for fuller, shapelier breasts is deeply ingrained as it significantly influences a woman's confidence and self - perception. In New York City, a hub of beauty and innovation, there are several world - class hospitals and surgeons specializing in breast augmentation with implants. This article will take you through the top 3 hospitals for breast augmentation with implants in New York City, exploring everything from the doctors, procedures, costs, to the patient experience.
Why Breast Augmentation is Popular
The allure of breast augmentation lies in its transformative power. Around 90% of women choose to undergo this procedure after having kids, looking to regain their pre - pregnancy figure. An impressive 79% of those who undergo the surgery report satisfaction with the results. Whether a woman wants to enhance her figure for a career, a transgender individual aims to look better in dresses, or a mom wishes to reclaim her old self, breast augmentation offers a long - term solution.
Top 3 Hospitals for Breast Augmentation with Implants in New York City
1. Facilities Associated with Dr. Adam Kolker
Dr. Adam Kolker is a well - known name in the New York City plastic surgery scene. He is a highly qualified surgeon, having graduated with honors from the highly selective accelerated six - year biomedical education program at Union College and Albany Medical College at the young age of 23. He is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery.
Expertise
Dr. Kolker specializes in a wide range of breast procedures. Apart from standard breast augmentation, he offers breast asymmetry correction, breast lift, breast reduction, breast reconstruction, fat transfer breast augmentation, tuberous breast correction, breast procedure by age, inverted nipple correction, male breast reduction, and the use of gummy bear breast implants. His surgical approach is meticulous, and he takes into account the unique anatomy and desires of each patient to achieve a natural and proportional outcome.
Procedure Details
At Dr. Kolker's fully accredited surgical facility located on Park Avenue in New York City, breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure. After preoperative marking, the surgery is performed under general anesthesia by a board - certified anesthesiologist and typically lasts about 1.5 - 2 hours.
Implant Selection
He offers two primary types of breast implants: silicone gel and saline. Silicone gel implants are pre - filled with a cohesive silicone gel and feel more natural to the touch. Saline implants are filled with a salt - water solution at the time of surgery. For each patient, Dr. Kolker carefully considers factors such as body type, desired outcome, and personal preferences to recommend the most suitable implant type.
Incision Options
There are multiple incision options available, including the inframammary crease incision (lower crease beneath the breast), periareolar incision (along the lowest border of the pigmented areola), or transaxillary incision (within the underarm). To minimize incision length and ensure a smooth insertion of silicone gel implants, Dr. Kolker uses a Keller funnel, a low - friction implant insertion device.
Implant Placement
Breast implants can be placed below the muscle (submuscular augmentation) or above the muscle (subglandular augmentation). Dr. Kolker generally prefers submuscular augmentation as it provides increased coverage of the breast implants, softens the upper pole of the breast for a more natural transition, maintains long - term stability of the breast pocket, markedly decreases rates of capsular contracture, and lessens influence on mammography. In cases of minor lower pole soft tissue excess or mild droop (ptosis) of the breast, he may use the “dual plane” augmentation technique.
Cost
The estimated cost of breast augmentation with Dr. Kolker ranges from $9000 – $11000. However, the final cost can vary depending on the material used (silicone breast implants are $1000 more expensive than saline implants), the complexity of the surgery, and other associated factors.
Patient Experience
Many patients have left glowing testimonials about their experience with Dr. Kolker. He and his team are known for their warmth, professionalism, and attention to detail. From the initial consultation to the follow - up appointments, patients feel well - cared for and informed. His office staff is also commended for their friendliness and helpfulness.
2. Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai is a renowned medical institution, and its plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures.
Advanced Technology
One of the key advantages of choosing Mount Sinai for breast augmentation is its use of the latest technologies. Before scheduling the surgery, the surgeons use advanced 3D imaging technology. This technology can actually demonstrate what larger breasts will look like on a patient's unique body. By showing various options on a computer monitor, patients can virtually try on different sizes of breasts, which helps them make a more informed decision about the desired size and shape.
Personalized Consultation
The surgeons at Mount Sinai take the time to have in - depth consultations with patients. They listen carefully to understand each patient's desire for enhancing their breast size and also help them decide about the size and shape that will look best for their body. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will explain in detail what happens during the procedure and answer any questions the patient may have.
Treatment Options
Mount Sinai offers several options for breast augmentation. The two main types of breast implants available are silicone breast implants, which look and feel natural in the breasts, and saline breast implants, which are firmer and rounder. Additionally, they have pioneered and perfected a fat transfer technique called NaturalFill®. This two - step procedure involves removing fat from the buttocks or abdomen using liposuction and then immediately inserting that fat into the breasts to enlarge them. The surgeons will guide patients in choosing the best option based on their body type and desired outcome.
Long - Term Results
Patients can expect their breast augmentation results at Mount Sinai to last for years. However, factors such as pregnancy, nursing, and significant weight gain or loss may cause natural drooping over time. In such cases, a breast lift or replacement of breast implants may be considered as an option.
3. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice
Dr. Darrick Antell is a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentation surgeries. He is among the most respected breast augmentation surgeons in the country and has been listed in multiple magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons.
Patient - Centered Approach
Dr. Antell believes in a patient - centered approach. He takes the time to understand each patient's personal needs and aesthetic goals. Whether a patient wants to correct volume loss after pregnancy, resolve breast asymmetry, or simply enhance her figure, Dr. Antell tailors the breast augmentation procedure accordingly.
Benefits of Choosing Dr. Antell
- Enhanced Confidence: Many patients experience a significant boost in self - confidence after their breast augmentation with Dr. Antell.
- Improved Proportions: The surgery helps create a balanced silhouette that aligns with the patient's aesthetic goals.
- Customized Volume and Shape: With options for both saline and silicone implants in various shapes and sizes, each breast augmentation is customized to achieve the desired look.
- Rejuvenated Appearance: For women who have experienced volume loss due to aging, pregnancy, or weight changes, breast augmentation restores fullness and creates a youthful contour.
- Corrected Asymmetry: Dr. Antell can address natural asymmetry, creating a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing breast shape.
- Broader Wardrobe Options: Patients often find that achieving their ideal breast size opens up more clothing choices.
Procedure Process
During the initial consultation, Dr. Antell performs a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's general health, medical history, and current breast condition. He guides the patient through selecting the proper implant type, incision type, implant placement, and size. The incision can be made below the breast crease, around the areola, or in the armpit. The implants are placed either directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or behind the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement), depending on the patient's anatomy and desired outcome. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete.
Cost and Financing
The cost of breast augmentation with Dr. Antell varies from patient to patient and depends on factors such as the type of breast implants selected (saline or silicone), operating room and anesthesia fees, and the surgeon's fee. To determine the full cost, patients are encouraged to schedule a personal consultation. Additionally, Dr. Antell offers various financing options to make the procedure more accessible.
Pre - operative Considerations
Before undergoing breast augmentation, patients need to make several preparations.
- Medical History: A thorough review of the patient's medical history is essential. Surgeons need to know about any pre - existing medical conditions, allergies, and medications the patient is taking.
- Smoking and Medications: Patients are usually advised to quit smoking or using any nicotine products as nicotine can significantly impact the healing process. Certain medications that may increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John's wort, should be tapered off before the surgery.
- Support System: Arranging for a trusted family member or friend to pick the patient up from the hospital and assist during the initial days of recovery is crucial. Patients also need to designate a comfortable space at home for recuperation and place necessary items within reach.
- Recovery Time: Patients should plan to take 2 - 3 weeks off work to rest and recuperate. Light activities can usually be resumed within a few days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for several weeks.
Post - operative Care
After breast augmentation, proper post - operative care is vital for a successful recovery.
- Pain Management: Patients are typically given a prescription for pain medication to help ease discomfort, which is usually most pronounced during the first few days.
- Compression Garment: A surgical compression bra is provided, which should be worn for a few weeks as the body heals.
- Follow - up Appointments: Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are necessary to monitor the healing process, check for any complications, and ensure the implants are settling correctly. Sutures are usually removed about a week after the surgery.
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are normal after the surgery and will gradually subside over several weeks. The final results may take a few months to become fully visible as the implants settle into place.
- Activity Restrictions: Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for a specific period as advised by the surgeon. This helps prevent any damage to the incisions and the implants.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation comes with potential risks and complications.
- Capsular Contracture: This is one of the most common complications, 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. Some surgeons use techniques such as acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to prevent capsular contracture.
- Infection: Infection can occur within a week after surgery and may be treated with antibiotics. In severe cases, the implant may need to be removed.
- Bleeding: While bleeding during surgery is minimized, there is still a risk. Excessive bleeding may require additional treatment.
- Numbness: Some patients may experience numbness in the breasts or nipples, which may be temporary or permanent.
- Implant Rupture: An implant can rupture due to injury or normal wear and tear. If a saline implant ruptures, the salt - water is harmlessly absorbed by the body, and the breast appears deflated. A revision surgery is usually required to replace the implant and remove any troublesome scar tissue.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): Although rare, there is a small increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL in women with breast implants. It is associated with textured implants and the development of a seroma. Early detection and treatment are crucial.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII is a term used to describe a range of symptoms reported by some women after having implants placed, such as memory loss, joint pain, and fatigue. The cause and link to synthetic implants are still being investigated.
Cost Comparison
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary significantly depending on the hospital, surgeon, type of implants, and complexity of the surgery. Here is a comparison of the estimated costs at the top 3 hospitals:
Hospital | Estimated Cost |
---|---|
Facilities Associated with Dr. Adam Kolker | $9000 – $11000 |
Mount Sinai - New York | Varies based on implant type and procedure complexity |
Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice | Varies depending on implant type, operating room and anesthesia fees, and surgeon's fee |
Conclusion
Choosing the right hospital and surgeon for breast augmentation with implants is a crucial decision. The top 3 hospitals in New York City - facilities associated with Dr. Adam Kolker, Mount Sinai - New York, and Dr. Darrick Antell's practice - offer a high level of expertise, advanced technology, and personalized care. Each hospital has its unique strengths, whether it's the wide range of breast procedures offered by Dr. Kolker, the use of 3D imaging technology at Mount Sinai, or the patient - centered approach of Dr. Antell.
However, before making a decision, patients should carefully consider their personal goals, budget, and the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure. It's essential to have an in - depth consultation with the surgeon to understand all aspects of the surgery and post - operative care. By doing so, patients can increase their chances of achieving a successful and satisfying breast augmentation outcome.
If you're considering breast augmentation in New York City, take the time to research these top hospitals, read patient reviews, and schedule consultations. You can start your journey to achieving the beautiful and confident you by reaching out to these institutions and learning more about their services. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast augmentation and encourage them to make an informed decision.