Introduction
Breast augmentation is one of the most sought - after cosmetic procedures in the world. Many women dream of having fuller, more symmetrical breasts, and in New York City, a hub of medical excellence, there are multiple options available for this surgery. Scarless breast augmentation, in particular, has gained popularity as it allows women to achieve their desired breast appearance without the concern of visible scars on the breasts. In this article, we will delve into the top 3 hospitals and clinics in New York City for scarless breast augmentation surgery.
Importance of Choosing the Right Facility for Scarless Breast Augmentation
Scarless breast augmentation is a specialized procedure that requires a high level of skill and expertise from the surgeon. The right facility should have experienced doctors, state - of - the - art equipment, and a focus on patient safety and satisfaction. A wrong choice can lead to complications such as implant malposition, capsular contracture, and dissatisfaction with the aesthetic results. Additionally, a reliable facility will provide comprehensive pre - and post - operative care, which is crucial for a successful recovery.
Top 3 Hospitals/Clinics for Scarless Breast Augmentation in New York City
Rapaport Plastic Surgery
Surgeon Expertise
Board - certified plastic surgeon David P. Rapaport, MD, is a world - recognized expert in breast augmentation and breast implant revision. He has more experience in the endoscopic underarm technique of breast augmentation than any other plastic surgeon in the New York area. With over 27 years of experience in performing underarm, endoscopic breast augmentation, he is a pioneer in endoscopic breast surgery. This vast experience has drawn patients from across the nation and internationally to New York City to seek his services.
Procedure Details
- Technique: Dr. Rapaport uses a transaxillary endoscopic breast augmentation technique. Discreet incisions are hidden neatly in the underarm. By utilizing a narrow tubular camera, the endoscopic approach allows for great accuracy in terms of implant placement, helping to reduce the risk of complications. This technique creates a result that appears organic and non - surgical.
- Implants: He offers both saline and silicone implants. For scarless breast augmentation, saline implants are used since they can be filled after they’ve been inserted, making it possible to use a small incision under the arm instead of incisions on the breasts. Dr. Rapaport also offers silicone implants for those less concerned with scarring.
- Anesthesia: Breast augmentation procedures are typically performed with general anesthesia or IV sedation (twilight anesthesia). A board - certified anesthesiologist will administer the chosen anesthesia and monitor the patient throughout the procedure.
- Procedure Steps: After the sedation or anesthesia is administered, Dr. Rapaport will make small incisions in each underarm. He will use an endoscope to insert the breast implants through these incisions and place them carefully under the chest muscles. The implants are then filled, and the incisions are closed.
Patient Experience and Recovery
Patients who have non - physical jobs can commonly return to work about five days following surgery. Pain medication is prescribed for the first two to three days to manage discomfort, and patients must keep their activities at a low level during this period. All patients must have an adult spend the first night with them after breast augmentation for their safety. Most patients do not require prescription pain medicine after the third day and will be fine with just Tylenol. Ice packs are often helpful to reduce discomfort during the first postoperative night, but direct application of ice to the skin should be avoided. Aerobic activity, including sexual activity, is strictly prohibited for ten days. Mild aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, is generally permitted after about ten days, and full aerobic activity after three weeks. Leisure travel for vacation is not advised less than three weeks after surgery.
Results
Many women feel more confident and feminine after the surgery, alleviating the frustration of deflated or asymmetrical breasts. The results of breast augmentation are typically permanent, with most breast implants lasting a decade or more. Patients can have the implants removed later if desired, and although capsular contracture may occur occasionally, the risk is minimal for Dr. Rapaport's patients.
Mount Sinai - New York
Comprehensive Approach
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. Before scheduling the surgery, they use the latest 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 is a great way to ensure patient satisfaction with the results.
Treatment Options
- Breast Implants: There are two main types of breast implants offered - silicone and saline. Silicone breast implants look and feel natural in the breasts, while saline breast implants are firmer and rounder. Surgeons at Mount Sinai will advise patients based on their body type and desired outcome.
- NaturalFill: A unique offering at Mount Sinai is the NaturalFill® technique, a fat transfer method. It is a two - step procedure where fat is first removed from the buttocks or abdomen using liposuction and then immediately inserted into the breasts to enlarge them. This is a great option for patients who want to use their own fat deposits for augmentation.
Doctor - Patient Consultation
During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will listen carefully to the patient's desire for enhancing their breast size. They will also help the patient decide about the size and shape that will look best for their body. The surgeon will explain what happens during the procedure and answer any questions the patient may have. A physical exam is performed, including a series of health - related questions, to confirm that the patient is a candidate for breast augmentation.
Long - Term Results
Patients can expect their breast augmentation results to last for years. However, as with non - augmented breasts, factors such as pregnancy, nursing, and significant weight gain or loss may cause natural drooping over time. In such cases, a breast lift or implant replacement may be considered.
Dr. Adam Kolker's Practice
Surgeon's Qualifications
Dr. Adam Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. His education and training in plastic surgery 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 also an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, which means he stays at the cutting edge of advancements in plastic surgery. He has been featured in numerous top - rated doctor lists, such as New York Magazine's Best Doctors, Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons, and Castle Connolly's Top Doctors.
Breast Augmentation Approach
True artistry in breast augmentation, according to Dr. Kolker, is based on the concept that "beautiful" should be more important than "size". He establishes each individual woman's aesthetic goals, distinct to her body type, to attain a proportionate outcome and the most natural results. He offers a variety of breast procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, breast reconstruction, fat transfer breast augmentation, tuberous breast correction, etc.
Patient Testimonials
Many patients have left positive testimonials about Dr. Kolker's work. They mention that he pays attention to their individual cases and can achieve results that other surgeons thought were impossible. For example, patients have thanked him for correcting asymmetrical breasts and giving them a new - found confidence.
Comparing the Top 3
| Criteria | Rapaport Plastic Surgery | Mount Sinai - New York | Dr. Adam Kolker's Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surgeon Expertise | Dr. Rapaport is a pioneer in endoscopic underarm breast augmentation with over 27 years of experience. | Experienced plastic surgeons with the ability to use 3D imaging for patient visualization. | Dr. Kolker is double - board - certified with a world - class education and a long list of accolades. |
| Treatment Options | Saline and silicone implants for scarless breast augmentation using an endoscopic approach. | Silicone and saline implants, and the unique NaturalFill® fat transfer technique. | A wide range of breast procedures, including fat transfer breast augmentation. |
| Patient Experience | Comprehensive pre - and post - operative care, with specific guidelines for recovery. | 3D imaging to help patients make informed decisions and personalized consultation. | Positive patient testimonials highlighting individualized care and excellent results. |
| Cost | Cost may vary depending on implant type and other factors. Not explicitly stated. | Cost may vary. Consultation needed for a personalized quote. | Service is relatively expensive, with silicone breast implants being $1000 more expensive than saline implants. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital/Clinic for Scarless Breast Augmentation
Surgeon Qualifications
Look for board - certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in scarless breast augmentation. Check their educational background, training, and any awards or recognition they have received. For example, Dr. Rapaport's decades of experience in endoscopic underarm breast augmentation and Dr. Kolker's double - board certification and world - class education are strong indicators of their expertise.
Treatment Options
Consider the variety of treatment options available. Some patients may prefer saline implants for scarless procedures, while others may be interested in fat transfer techniques like the NaturalFill® offered at Mount Sinai. A facility that offers multiple options can better meet your individual needs.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an idea of the patient experience at a particular hospital or clinic. Positive reviews about the surgeon's skill, bedside manner, and post - operative care are good signs. Dr. Kolker's numerous positive patient testimonials are a testament to his quality of work.
Cost
Scarless breast augmentation can be a significant investment. Compare the costs of different facilities, but also consider what is included in the price. Some may offer more comprehensive pre - and post - operative care, which can be worth the extra cost. However, do not make cost the sole determining factor as the quality of the procedure is of utmost importance.
Preparing for Scarless Breast Augmentation
Consultation
Schedule a consultation with the surgeon of your choice. Come prepared with a list of questions about the procedure, implants, recovery time, and potential risks. The surgeon will also perform a physical exam and discuss your aesthetic goals to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the surgery.
Medical Clearance
Obtain medical clearance from your family physician. This is to ensure that you are in good general health and can safely undergo the surgery. Your doctor may conduct a series of tests, such as blood tests and a physical examination.
Lifestyle Changes
Some surgeons may advise you to make certain lifestyle changes before the surgery. This could include quitting smoking, as smoking can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. You may also need to adjust your diet and exercise routine to optimize your health.
Recovery After Scarless Breast Augmentation
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area until the anesthesia wears off. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication. You will need to have an adult stay with you for the first night after the surgery for your safety.
Return to Work and Normal Activities
Patients with non - physical jobs can usually return to work within a few days to a week, depending on the individual and the surgeon's advice. However, strenuous activity, including aerobic exercise and sexual activity, is typically restricted for the first ten days. Mild aerobic activity may be permitted after about ten days, and full aerobic activity after three weeks.
Follow - up Appointments
Regular follow - up appointments with your surgeon are crucial during the recovery period. The surgeon will monitor your healing progress, check for any complications, and provide further instructions for care and rehabilitation.
Potential Risks and Complications
Capsular Contracture
This occurs when the capsule around the implant contracts and squeezes the implant. Dr. Rapaport takes precautions to minimize this risk, such as advising patients not to engage in aerobic activity for ten days following surgery to minimize the risk of small bleeding and using meticulous techniques to avoid contamination during the operation.
Implant Malposition
If the implant is not placed correctly, it can lead to an unnatural appearance of the breasts. Surgeons like Dr. Rapaport use endoscopic techniques to ensure accurate implant placement, reducing the risk of this complication.
Infection
Infection can occur after surgery. Strict sterile conditions in the operating room and proper post - operative care, including wound cleaning and taking prescribed antibiotics, can help prevent infections.
Conclusion
Scarless breast augmentation is a life - changing procedure for many women in New York City. The top 3 hospitals and clinics - Rapaport Plastic Surgery, Mount Sinai - New York, and Dr. Adam Kolker's Practice - offer high - quality services with experienced surgeons, a variety of treatment options, and a focus on patient satisfaction. When considering scarless breast augmentation, it is essential to carefully evaluate the surgeon's qualifications, treatment options, patient reviews, and cost. By choosing the right facility and following the pre - and post - operative instructions, you can achieve the beautiful, natural - looking results you desire.
If you are considering scarless breast augmentation in New York City, we encourage you to schedule consultations with the surgeons at these top facilities. Take the time to ask questions, understand the procedure, and make an informed decision that is right for you. Share this article with friends who may be interested in this topic and explore more about plastic surgery and body enhancement on our other articles.
