Introduction
For many women in New York City, the desire to enhance breast fullness is a personal journey. Whether it's due to genetic factors, changes after pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or aging, breast augmentation can be a life - changing solution. In this article, we will explore the top hospitals and surgeons in New York City for breast augmentation, the procedures involved, and important considerations to help you make an informed decision.
Importance of Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is more than just a cosmetic procedure; it can have a profound impact on a woman's self - confidence and body image. A study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons shows that breast augmentation has been one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the U.S. for over a decade, with more than 300,000 procedures performed last year. It can restore fullness to breasts that have lost volume, rejuvenate breasts that have changed shape with age, improve symmetry and balance, add balance to a feminine figure, and enhance the size and shape of smaller breasts.
Top Surgeons in New York City for Breast Augmentation
Dr. David L. Cangello
Dr. David L. Cangello is a board - certified plastic surgeon and a well - known NYC breast augmentation specialist. He has perfected the art of breast surgery through extensive experience, meticulous surgical techniques, and an eye for artistic detail. His superior results have earned the trust of professional models from some of the world’s top agencies. He offers personalized treatment plans to meet each patient's aesthetic goals. Patients choose Dr. Cangello because he is known as a highly skilled surgeon who delivers elegant, natural - looking results. He offers a full range of cosmetic breast surgery, including breast lift, breast revision, and natural augmentation with fat transfer.
Dr. Cangello's consultations are comprehensive. He will address any questions or concerns you may have and determine whether you're a good candidate based on your medical history and current health. For optimal patient comfort, he has a state - of - the - art, fully accredited (AAA SF) operating room at his NYC office. He also has operating privileges at Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital.
Dr. Daniel Maman
Dr. Daniel Maman is a Harvard fellowship - trained and board - certified plastic surgeon specialized in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, body, and face. He completed a Harvard fellowship in aesthetic breast surgery and a 6 - year plastic surgery residency at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He has appeared on the New York Times top doctors and super doctors in plastic surgery lists.
His 90 - minute consultation includes a thorough review of your medical history, an in - depth physical assessment, comprehensive operative plans, review of cost, accommodations and follow - up visits, and scheduling of surgery. Dr. Maman emphasizes convenience, comfort, and a smooth recovery for his patients, offering luxury recovery room options at NYC hotels and complimentary, custom post - operative support garments and scar treatment regimens.
Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City specializing in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures. His education and training 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. As an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, he remains on the cutting edge of advancements in plastic surgery.
Dr. Kolker combines scientific and technical mastery with artistic creativity. He is featured as a top plastic surgeon in numerous publications, such as New York Magazine's best doctors issues, Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons, and Castle Connolly's top doctors. His breast augmentation approach focuses on achieving a proportionate outcome and the most natural results for each individual patient.
Best Hospitals for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Related Specialties in New York City
Hospital Name | Rank in Obstetrics & Gynecology | Score | Other Notable Specialties |
---|---|---|---|
Mount Sinai Hospital | #11 | 73.3 / 100 | Nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties |
Long Island Jewish Medical Center at Northwell Health | #11 | 73.3 / 100 | Nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties |
New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell | #13 | 73.0 / 100 | Nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties |
Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health | #16 | 71.4 / 100 | Nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties |
NYU Langone Hospitals | #25 | 66.2 / 100 | Nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties |
Morristown Medical Center | #36 | 63.1 / 100 | Nationally ranked in 6 adult specialties |
Good Samaritan University Hospital | #47 | 59.6 / 100 | Nationally ranked in 1 adult specialty |
North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health | Not Ranked (Score 58.6) | 58.6 / 100 | Nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties |
Montefiore Medical Center | Not Ranked (Score 57.5) | 57.5 / 100 | Nationally ranked in 4 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties |
Northern Westchester Hospital at Northwell Health | Not Ranked (Score 57.0) | 57.0 / 100 | Not mentioned |
These hospitals are evaluated on patient outcomes, nurse staffing, services, and more. Choosing a hospital with a high - ranking in obstetrics & gynecology can be beneficial as they may have more resources and expertise in dealing with breast - related surgeries.
Breast Augmentation Procedures
Implant Options
There are mainly two types of implants: saline and silicone. Each has its own characteristics:
Implant Type | Advantages | Disadvantages | Approved Age |
---|---|---|---|
Saline Implants | Can be filled after placement, allowing for a smaller incision. In case of rupture, the saline can be safely absorbed by the body. Long - term monitoring is not required. Comparatively lower cost. | Visible rippling at the implant edges may be seen in thin women with small amounts of breast tissue. Some people find them less natural - looking. | At least 18 years old |
Silicone Implants | Feel and look more natural. Many patients prefer them for their more realistic texture. Do not collapse easily even if they leak. | Traditionally required larger incisions (but techniques like the Keller funnel can minimize this). The FDA suggests MRI scans every few years to monitor the implant shell. | At least 22 years old |
There are also other types of implants such as structured implants and gummy - bear implants. Structured implants are filled with saline but placed in an inner mold to feel more like natural breasts. Gummy - bear implants have a thicker silicone gel consistency and won't lose their shape even if the shell is compromised.
Implant Shape
There are two basic shapes for breast implants:
- Round Implants: Have volume and fullness all the way around. They contain a gel that is less cohesive than the anatomically shaped variety, so they are softer and feel natural. They typically have a smooth texture and are the most common type, providing more upper fullness.
- Contoured (Teardrop) Implants: Have a subtle sloping shape that is intended to match the curves of natural breasts. These require a textured surface to ensure they adhere to surrounding tissue and do not rotate in the breast pocket. They are a bit firmer to the touch due to the greater cohesivity of the gel filling.
Implant Placement and Incision
Breast implants can be placed under the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement) or the breast tissue (submammary/subglandular placement). The choice of placement depends on factors such as the patient's anatomy, the type of implant, and the desired outcome.
There are several possible incision locations:
- Periareolar (Around the Nipple): This incision helps disguise the scar with the natural pigmentation change of the areola. However, there is a slightly higher risk of affecting nipple sensation and milk ducts.
- Inframammary (In the Crease between the Breast and Chest Wall): Offers the best scar concealment as the scar is hidden in the breast crease. It also poses the fewest breastfeeding complications. It is a commonly used incision for silicone implants.
- Transaxillary (In the Armpit): Creates the least visible scar tissue as it is made in the armpit. It is the least invasive to the mammary gland, making it a preferred option for younger women who want to retain their ability to breastfeed safely and successfully. However, it may be more difficult to achieve accurate implant placement using this method.
Fat Transfer
Natural breast enhancement through fat transfer involves taking subcutaneous fat from other parts of the body, such as the abdomen or hips, and injecting it into the breasts. This method provides more natural - feeling breasts and doesn't introduce any foreign material into the body. However, it has limitations. Ideal candidates are those looking for a small bust - size increase, with tight breast skin, no breast sagging, and adequate fat - harvest sites. The most significant risk is that the fat can change position/texture or be reabsorbed by the body, leaving the patient with potentially misshapen or smaller - than - desired breasts.
Preparing for Breast Augmentation
Preparing for breast augmentation is a crucial step to ensure a successful procedure and a smooth recovery.
- Consultation: This is the first and most important step. You will meet with a board - certified plastic surgeon who will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and discuss your goals and expectations. The surgeon will also provide you with information about the different types of implants, incisions, and placement options, and help you choose the best approach for you.
- Medical Evaluations: You may need to undergo various medical evaluations, such as blood tests, mammograms, and breast biopsies, depending on your age and medical history. If you are over the age of 35 or have a family history of breast cancer, you must have screening mammography before undergoing breast augmentation surgery.
- Lifestyle Changes: Your surgeon will likely recommend that you stop smoking and taking certain medications, such as blood - thinning medications (e.g., ibuprofen or aspirin), alcohol, and recreational drugs. You should also arrange for someone to drive you home after the outpatient procedure and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours.
- Setting Realistic Expectations: It is important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. Breast augmentation can enhance your appearance and boost your confidence, but it cannot achieve perfection. Discuss your desired results with your surgeon to ensure that they are achievable.
Recovery after Breast Augmentation
The recovery process after breast augmentation varies from patient to patient, but in general, you can expect the following:
- Immediate Post - Surgery: After the surgery, you will have a surgical dressing over your incisions and will be wearing a post - surgical bra. You may feel achiness or tightness in your breasts, and your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to alleviate any discomfort. You will need to stay upright, usually in a recliner, for the first 48 hours after surgery.
- Return to Work: Most patients can return to work within a few days, as long as their job doesn't involve heavy lifting. However, it is important to follow your surgeon's advice and take enough time to rest and recover.
- Physical Activity: Strenuous exercise and aerobic activity, including sexual activity, are restricted for the first ten days after breast augmentation. You should wait about two weeks before sleeping on your side and avoid raising your arms over your head for a couple of weeks. Mild aerobic activity can usually be resumed after ten days, and full activity after three weeks. However, it is recommended to wait at least four to six weeks before resuming workouts that require significant upper body involvement, such as yoga, weight lifting, and core training.
- Follow - Up Appointments: You will need to visit your surgeon for follow - up appointments at regular intervals to ensure that you are healing properly. Your surgeon will monitor your recovery, remove stitches if necessary, and check for any complications.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries some risks and potential complications. The most common risks include:
- Bleeding: This can occur during or after the surgery and may require additional treatment, such as blood transfusions or surgical intervention.
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site or around the implant. Infections can usually be treated with antibiotics, but in some cases, the implant may need to be removed.
- Changes in Sensation: Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation, such as numbness, tingling, or increased sensitivity. In most cases, these changes are temporary, but in some rare cases, they may be permanent.
- Implant Rupture: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture. A saline implant rupture is usually easily detectable as the affected breast will flatten, and the saline will be absorbed by the body. A silicone implant rupture may be more difficult to detect and may require an MRI scan. If a rupture occurs, the implant will need to be replaced.
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the body forms a tight capsule of scar tissue around the implant, causing the breast to feel hard and look distorted. The exact cause of capsular contracture is not fully understood, but factors such as bleeding around the implant, contamination during surgery, and certain medical conditions may increase the risk. Treatment may involve massage, medication, or surgery to remove the capsule and replace the implant.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation is a popular and effective way to enhance breast fullness and improve a woman's self - confidence. In New York City, there are many top - notch hospitals and experienced surgeons who can provide high - quality breast augmentation services. However, it is important to do your research, choose a board - certified plastic surgeon, and have a thorough consultation to understand the procedure, the potential risks, and the expected outcome.
If you are considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a reputable surgeon. During the consultation, you can ask questions, discuss your goals, and learn more about the different options available to you. Remember, this is a personal decision, and it is important to choose an option