Introduction
Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that can enhance a woman's confidence and body image. In New York City, there are several hospitals known for their excellent word - of - mouth in providing prosthetic breast augmentation services. This article will explore some of the top - rated hospitals, the breast augmentation procedures they offer, the associated benefits, risks, and everything else you need to know about this surgical option.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing the size and improving the shape of the breasts. It is often sought by women who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their breasts due to various reasons such as genetics, changes after pregnancy, weight fluctuation, or aging. There are mainly two types of prosthetic breast augmentation methods: using breast implants and fat transfer.
Types of Breast Implants
- Silicone Implants: Silicone implants are pre - filled with a cohesive silicone gel. They more closely mimic the texture and feel of natural breast tissue. Many patients find that they look and feel more natural compared to other options. In 2020, approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States were performed with silicone implants. However, the FDA suggests MRI scans every few years to monitor the condition of the implant shell. They are approved for patients who are at least 22 years old.
- Saline Implants: Saline implants are filled with a saline solution (a solution of salt and water) once they’ve been placed into the treatment site. This allows for a smaller incision size during insertion. If a saline implant ruptures, the saline can be safely absorbed by the body. They are approved for patients who are at least 18 years old. However, in thin women with small amounts of breast tissue, visible rippling at the implant edges may be seen.
Fat Transfer (Natural Fill)
A new way to augment breasts uses a fat transfer technique - known as Natural Fill®. This is a two - step procedure. First, the surgeon removes fat from the patient's buttocks or abdomen with a liposuction technique. The surgeon then immediately inserts that fat into the breasts to enlarge them using the patient's own fat deposits. This approach has the advantage of using the patient's own tissue, but it may have limitations in terms of the amount of volume that can be added and the potential for fat reabsorption.
Top Three Word - of - Mouth Hospitals in New York City for Breast Augmentation
1. Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai is one of the well - known institutions in New York City for breast augmentation. Their plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation to enlarge breasts. Before scheduling the surgery, they use advanced 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.
Treatments Offered
- Breast Implants: They offer both silicone and saline breast implants. Silicone breast implants look and feel natural in the breasts, while saline breast implants are firmer and rounder.
- Natural Fill®: Mount Sinai surgeons pioneered and perfected the Natural Fill® technique. It involves removing fat from an unwanted area of the body and using it to enhance the breasts, which is a win - win situation for the patients.
Patient Consultation and Assessment
During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will listen carefully to understand the patient's desire for enhancing breast size. The doctor will also help the patient decide about the size and shape that will look best for their body. A physical exam is performed, which includes asking a series of health - related questions to confirm that the patient is a candidate for breast augmentation.
2. Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Division
As one of New York’s best hospitals and the world’s top medical centers, Columbia has a highly experienced plastic surgery team. Their mission is to use their many resources to deliver the highest quality care for patients in need of a cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, including breast augmentation.
Services and Expertise
The division's plastic surgeons are proficient in multiple areas of specialization. They offer both surgical and non - surgical cosmetic options. In the context of breast augmentation, they take a comprehensive approach, considering the patient's overall aesthetic goals and body type. The team stays at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery, which means patients can benefit from the latest techniques and advancements.
Plastic Surgery Team
The division has a team of board - certified surgeons. For example, Christine Rohde, MD, is a highly skilled clinician, researcher, and teacher. She is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, specializing in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, body contouring, cosmetic surgery, and breast, trauma, and cancer reconstruction.
3. Dr. David L. Cangello's Practice
Dr. David L. Cangello is a board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City who is highly experienced in the art of cosmetic breast surgery. He offers personalized treatment plans to meet the aesthetic goals of his patients.
Artistic Approach
Dr. Cangello takes an artistic approach to breast augmentation that combines medical precision with the principles of aesthetics. He is known for delivering elegant, natural - looking results. His superior results have earned the trust of professional models from some of the world’s top agencies, including Wilhelmina Models, IMG Models, and Next Management.
Patient Consultation and Options
During the consultation, Dr. Cangello will address the patient's questions and concerns, and determine whether the patient is a good candidate based on their medical history and current health. He will guide the patient through the process of deciding on the size and shape of the implants, where they’ll be placed, and whether silicone or saline will be used. He also offers breast augmentation via fat grafting for patients seeking a more natural approach.
Benefits of Breast Augmentation
- Enhanced Confidence: Many women experience a renewed sense of self - confidence and empowerment after achieving their desired breast size and shape. A study by Handel et al. (2006) showed a high rate of patient satisfaction after breast augmentation.
- Improved Proportions: Breast augmentation can enhance overall body proportions, helping create a balanced silhouette that aligns with the patient's aesthetic goals. It can add balance to a feminine figure and correct natural asymmetry.
- Restored Fullness: For women who have lost breast volume due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss, breast augmentation can restore fullness to the breasts and rejuvenate their appearance.
- Broader Wardrobe Options: Achieving the ideal breast size opens up more choices in clothing, providing a comfortable and flattering fit in a wider variety of styles.
Possible Complications and Risks
Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)
Over the past few years, researchers have found that women with breast implants may have a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL. While the actual number of cases worldwide is not confirmed, it appears to be approaching 400 cases. This is not breast cancer but rather a form of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma that can be effectively treated. It seems to be associated with textured implants and patients who develop a seroma (accumulation of fluid around the breast).
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
Breast Implant Illness 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.
Other Complications
Other common complications include capsular contracture (a condition in which the capsule surrounding the implant restricts the implant, resulting in a misshapen appearance, hardening of the area, and pain), bleeding, infection, numbness, and implant rupture.
Preparing for Breast Augmentation
- Consultation: This is the first and most important step. During the consultation, the surgeon will review the patient's medical history, perform a physical examination, and discuss the patient's aesthetic goals. They will also explain the procedure, the available options, and the potential risks and benefits.
- Medical Evaluation: The patient may be required to undergo a medical evaluation, including blood tests, a mammogram, and an electrocardiogram, to ensure they are in good health for the surgery.
- Lifestyle Changes: Patients are usually advised to quit smoking or using any nicotine product, as nicotine may significantly impact the ability to heal after the treatment. They may also need to taper off current medications or supplements that may increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John’s wort.
- Arrangements for Recovery: 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. Additionally, they need to designate 2 - 3 weeks to rest and recuperate.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another form of “twilight” sedation. In either case, the patient will not experience any discomfort during the procedure. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the procedure to ensure safety.
Incisions
There are several possible incision locations:
- Inframammary Incision: Made in the crease between the breast and the chest wall. It is the most common incision site and provides good control of the breast pocket.
- Periareolar Incision: Made along the border of the areola. It is well - concealed, but there is a slightly higher risk of breast - feeding difficulties or changes in breast or nipple sensation.
- Transaxillary Incision: Made in the armpit. It allows for a hidden scar, but it can be more difficult to control the implant during insertion.
Implant Placement
The implants can be placed either submuscular (under the pectoral muscles) or subglandular (above the pectoral muscles). The choice of placement depends on the patient's anatomy, age, and vocation. For example, patients exhibiting signs of ptosis or sagging skin will typically have their implant placed subglandularly.
Recovery and Aftercare
In the initial days after the surgery, it's normal to experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. The patient will be given a prescription for pain medication to help ease the discomfort, which is usually most pronounced during the first few days. A surgical compression bra will also be provided to be worn for the next few weeks as the patient heals.
Most patients can return to light activities and work in 2 - 3 weeks, and more strenuous activities, including going to the gym, can be resumed at 6 - 8 weeks. However, it may take several months for the swelling to subside completely, and the implants to settle into place.
Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are crucial to monitor the healing process and address any concerns that may arise.
Cost of Breast Augmentation in New York City
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implants used (saline or silicone), the surgeon's fee, the cost of the operating room and anesthesia, and any additional procedures or services. Saline implants are generally less costly than silicone implants, but a significant percentage of patients still opt for silicone implants due to their more natural look and feel. To determine the full and final cost, patients should schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon, who will provide a detailed breakdown of the anticipated expenses.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation is a life - changing procedure that can offer numerous benefits to women who are looking to enhance their appearance and confidence. In New York City, hospitals like Mount Sinai, Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Division, and the practice of Dr. David L. Cangello are among the top - rated institutions known for their excellent word - of - mouth in providing prosthetic breast augmentation services. However, it is essential for patients to thoroughly research and understand the procedure, its potential risks, and the recovery process before making a decision.
If you're considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon at one of these top hospitals. Take the time to discuss your goals, ask questions, and make an informed decision that is right for you. You can also share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in New York City.
