Introduction
Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after plastic surgery procedure. In New York City, a hub of medical excellence and cosmetic innovation, there are numerous plastic surgery hospitals offering this service. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information about breast augmentation plastic surgery hospitals in NYC, including what breast augmentation is, who the candidates are, the types of procedures available, and how to choose the right hospital.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that aims to enhance the size and shape of a woman's breasts. There are multiple reasons that a woman may choose to undergo this procedure. These include changes in breast size due to pregnancy, weight loss, genetics, or the natural aging process. Some women may feel that their breasts are too small or asymmetrical, and breast augmentation can help them achieve a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing figure.
According to the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, breast augmentation can also use either implants or non - implant options. The two main types of implants are silicone and saline, and there's also a natural - fill option that uses a fat - transfer technique.
Candidates for Breast Augmentation
- Physical Health: Ideal candidates for breast augmentation are generally in good physical health. They should not have any underlying medical conditions that could complicate the surgery or recovery process. A surgeon will typically conduct a physical exam and review the patient's medical history to determine if they are a suitable candidate. For example, patients with heart problems, uncontrolled diabetes, or autoimmune diseases may face increased risks during surgery.
- Not Pregnant or Breastfeeding: Women who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding are not suitable candidates for breast augmentation. The hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect the size and shape of the breasts, and it is recommended to wait until after these periods to undergo the procedure. This is to ensure more stable and predictable results.
- Healthy BMI: A healthy body mass index (BMI) is often preferred. Extreme underweight or overweight patients may have a higher risk of complications during and after surgery. Surgeons may recommend that patients with a high BMI lose weight before the procedure to reduce these risks.
- Realistic Expectations: It is crucial for candidates to have realistic expectations about the results of breast augmentation. While the procedure can enhance the size and shape of the breasts, it may not completely change a person's overall appearance or solve psychological issues. For example, patients should understand that there will be some scarring, and the results may change over time due to factors such as aging, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy.
Types of Breast Augmentation Procedures
Breast Implants
Breast implants are the most common method of breast augmentation. They are devices made of a soft silicone outer shell filled with either silicone gel or saline solution.
Type of Implant | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|---|
Silicone Breast Implants | These implants are filled with silicone gel, which closely resembles the feel and texture of natural breast tissue. According to Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery, they are often used to achieve a natural - looking result. | They look and feel more natural compared to saline implants. The gel does not easily leak out in case of rupture, and the appearance of the breast is less likely to change significantly if a rupture occurs. However, regular monitoring is still required. | There is a small risk of the gel escaping into the breast implant pocket in the unlikely event of a rupture. Silicone implants are generally more expensive than saline implants. |
Saline Breast Implants | Saline implants consist of a silicone shell filled with sterile saline water once they are placed in the breast tissue. They are the most economical implant option. | If the implant ruptures, the saline is simply absorbed by the body and expelled without any harm. They can also be fully tailored to the precise size a woman wants during the surgery. | They are often considered firmer and rounder than silicone implants. There is a small risk of visible rippling under the skin, and they may not provide as natural a feel as silicone implants. |
Cohesive Gel Implants (Gummy Bear Implants) | These implants have a similar texture to gummy bear candies. They are form - stable silicone breast implants that maintain their shape even when the implant shell breaks. | They have a tapered top that resembles the natural structure of the breasts, making them look very realistic. They are less likely to leak or shift compared to other types of implants. | They require a slightly longer incision than other implant types due to their firm consistency. |
Natural Fill (Fat Transfer)
A natural way to augment breasts is through a fat - transfer technique known as Natural Fill®, which was pioneered and perfected by Mount Sinai surgeons. In this two - step procedure, the surgeon first removes fat from the patient's buttocks or abdomen using liposuction. The fat is then immediately inserted into the breasts to enlarge them. This method has the advantage of using the patient's own fat deposits, which can result in a more natural - looking and feeling result. However, it can usually only increase the breast size by one full cup size.
Top Breast Augmentation Plastic Surgery Hospitals in New York City
Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They use the latest technologies, such as advanced 3D imaging technology, to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique bodies. The hospital offers both breast implants (silicone and saline) and the natural - fill fat - transfer option. The surgeons take the time to consult with patients, understand their desires for breast enhancement, and help them choose the best option for their body type and desired outcome.
Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery
Dr. Brian Bassiri - Tehrani of Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery specializes in breast enhancement. The hospital emphasizes patient satisfaction and offers a personalized approach to breast augmentation. They use smooth, round silicone gel implants for a natural shape and feel. The consultation process at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery is in - depth, including 3D imaging of expected results and the opportunity for patients to hold sample implants in different sizes. The surgical team provides detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Rapaport Plastic Surgery
Dr. David P. Rapaport, a board - certified plastic surgeon at Rapaport Plastic Surgery, is a world - recognized expert in breast augmentation and breast implant revision. He offers both saline and silicone implants and can perform scarless breast augmentation using an endoscope through an underarm incision. The hospital focuses on providing natural - looking results and takes precautions to minimize the risk of complications such as capsular contracture.
Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice
Dr. Barry Weintraub is a board - certified and Ivy League - educated plastic surgeon. He prefers to perform breast augmentation using the transaxillary subpectoral approach, which has several advantages, including no jeopardy to nipple sensation, no hindrance to future breastfeeding, and no visible scars near the breast. Dr. Weintraub takes great pride in his attention to detail and patient care, and he has a high success rate in breast augmentation procedures.
Gotham Plastic Surgery
Gotham Plastic Surgery offers a variety of breast implant options, including saline, silicone, and cohesive gel implants. They can customize the procedure to the patient's precise desires and body proportions. The hospital also provides the option to combine breast augmentation with other body - enhancement procedures such as a breast lift, liposuction, or a tummy tuck. Their expert team ensures a safe procedure and the best possible results for patients.
New York Group for Plastic Surgery
New York Group for Plastic Surgery has been serving the New York area for over 27 years. They offer both breast implants and autologous fat - transfer breast augmentation. Their board - certified plastic surgeons use advanced imaging technology like Vectra XT 3D - imaging to help patients visualize their breast augmentation results. The hospital focuses on providing personalized care and guiding patients through every step of the process.
How to Choose the Right Plastic Surgery Hospital
Surgeon's Qualifications
- Check the surgeon's license with the state of New York. A licensed surgeon has met the necessary requirements to practice plastic surgery in the state.
- Look for certification in both general surgery and plastic surgery. This ensures that the surgeon has had extensive training and experience in the field.
- Consider surgeons who attended well - known east coast medical schools. These institutions often provide high - quality medical education.
- Check how long the surgeon has been in practice. A surgeon with more years of experience is likely to have performed a larger number of breast augmentation procedures and may be more skilled in handling various situations.
Hospital Reputation
- Read patient reviews and testimonials. This can give you an idea of the experiences of previous patients and the quality of care provided by the hospital.
- Look at before - and - after photos of the surgeon's previous breast augmentation cases. This can help you assess the surgeon's skills and the type of results they can achieve.
- Consider the hospital's accreditations and awards. A hospital with high - quality accreditations is more likely to meet strict safety and quality standards.
Communication and Personalized Care
- Choose a surgeon who takes the time to understand your needs and desires. During the consultation, the surgeon should listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide honest advice.
- Ensure that the surgeon and the hospital staff make you feel comfortable and welcome. You should have a good rapport with the medical team, as this can contribute to a positive surgical experience.
- Look for a hospital that offers personalized treatment plans. Every patient is different, and a one - size - fits - all approach may not be suitable for breast augmentation.
Cost
- While cost should not be the only factor in choosing a hospital, it is an important consideration. The cost of breast augmentation in NYC can vary widely depending on factors such as the surgeon's fees, the type of implants used, and the facility costs.
- Get multiple quotes from different hospitals and compare them. However, be wary of extremely low - cost options, as they may not provide the same level of quality and safety as more established hospitals.
- Discuss financing options with the hospital if needed. Some hospitals may offer payment plans or work with financing companies to help patients afford the procedure.
The Breast Augmentation Process
Consultation
The consultation is the first and most important step in the breast augmentation process. During the consultation, you will meet with a plastic surgeon who will discuss your goals for the surgery, such as the desired breast size and shape. The surgeon will also review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and discuss the different types of implants or procedures available. Many hospitals use 3D imaging technology to help you visualize the expected results of the surgery. You should also take this opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the procedure, risks, recovery, and costs.
Surgery
Breast augmentation surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision in one of several locations, including under the breast, around the areola, or in the underarm. The choice of incision depends on various factors, such as the type of implant and the patient's body type. The surgeon will then create a pocket for the implant and insert it either under the pectoral muscle or between the muscle and the breast tissue. Once the implant is in place, the incisions will be closed with sutures.
Recovery
The recovery process after breast augmentation varies from patient to patient. In general, you can expect to experience some swelling, bruising, and soreness for the first few days after surgery. You will be required to wear a support garment or bra as instructed by your surgeon to help with healing. Most patients can 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. Your surgeon will schedule follow - up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure that you are healing properly.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries some risks and potential complications. These include:
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site or around the implant. Signs of infection may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. Infections can usually be treated with antibiotics, but in some cases, the implant may need to be removed.
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the body forms a capsule of scar tissue around the implant, and the capsule contracts and squeezes the implant. It can cause the breasts to appear round and high and may feel very hard to the touch. Surgeons take precautions to minimize the risk of capsular contracture, such as using a "no - touch" technique during surgery and advising patients to avoid aerobic activity for a certain period after surgery.
- Implant Rupture or Leak: Both silicone and saline implants can rupture or leak. Silicone gel leaks may not be immediately obvious, while saline leaks will cause the breast to deflate. In case of a rupture or leak, the implant may need to be replaced.
- Changes in Nipple Sensation: Some patients may experience changes or loss in nipple sensation after breast augmentation. In most cases, this resolves over time, but in some cases, it may be permanent.
- Asymmetry: There is a small risk of the breasts appearing asymmetrical after surgery. This may be due to differences in the way the body heals or the placement of the implants.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation can be a life - changing procedure for many women, helping them to achieve the body confidence they desire. In New York City, there are numerous top - notch plastic surgery hospitals and experienced surgeons who can provide high - quality breast augmentation services. However, it is essential to do thorough research, choose the right hospital and surgeon, and have realistic expectations about the results and potential risks. By following the guidelines in this guide, you can make an informed decision and have a successful breast augmentation experience.
If you are considering breast augmentation in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a reputable plastic surgeon. Take the time to ask questions, discuss your goals, and learn more about the procedure. Share this guide with friends or family who may also be interested in breast augmentation, and explore more resources on plastic surgery to stay informed.