Breast augmentation is a prevalent cosmetic surgical procedure, especially in bustling metropolises like New York City. The desire to enhance one's appearance and boost self - confidence through breast augmentation has led many individuals to seek out the best medical facilities. In this article, we'll explore the top three hospitals for hyaluronic acid breast augmentation in New York City, while also providing a comprehensive guide on related topics.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, also commonly referred to as a boob job or breast enlargement, is a surgical operation. Its primary goals are to increase breast size, improve breast shape, or enhance symmetry. In New York City, board - certified plastic surgeons perform this procedure in accredited medical facilities, which helps ensure both safety and quality. The two main types of breast implants are silicone and saline. Silicone breast implants look and feel natural in the breasts, while saline implants are firmer and rounder.
Popularity and Motivations
Over 5 million women in the USA have had breast augmentation. A significant 90% of women opt for this procedure after having kids, aiming to regain their pre - pregnancy figures. The shape and size of breasts directly influence a person's confidence. For many, it's about achieving a more proportionate body or enhancing their appearance for personal or career reasons. Some transgender individuals also undergo breast augmentation as part of their gender - affirming journey.
What to Consider Before Breast Augmentation
Before deciding on breast augmentation, there are several crucial factors to keep in mind. This section will guide you through the necessary preparations and considerations.
Medical and Lifestyle Assessment
You must have detailed conversations with your surgeon about your medical background, allergies, current medications, and lifestyle habits such as smoking or alcohol consumption. Smoking can significantly affect the healing process, so you may need to cease it weeks before the procedure. Practical preparations also include organizing for someone to be with you on the day of the surgery, scheduling sufficient time off work for recovery, and establishing a comfortable space at home for recuperation.
Financial Considerations
The cost of breast augmentation can vary widely. It usually ranges from $3,900 to $6,000, but this can be influenced by the type of procedure, type of implants, and the doctor performing the surgery. Sometimes, the implant cost is not included in the initial payment. Many surgeons accept different payment methods, such as cash, credit cards, checks, and some also offer financing options. Popular surgery financing options in NYC include CareCredit, which offers no - interest plans up to 24 months and extended payment plans for 24, 36, 48, or 60 months.
Surgeon Selection
Selecting the right surgeon is of utmost importance. Look for board - certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in breast augmentation. Check their patient reviews and before - and - after photos. A good surgeon will take the time to understand your goals, discuss the procedure in detail, and address all your concerns.
Top Three Hospitals for Hyaluronic Acid Breast Augmentation in New York City
1. Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai is a well - known and respected medical institution in New York City. Its 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. This technology can demonstrate different breast sizes on a patient's unique body, allowing them to virtually "try on" various options.
The hospital offers multiple options for breast augmentation. Besides traditional silicone and saline implants, they have pioneered and perfected a fat - transfer technique called NaturalFill®. In this two - step procedure, fat is first removed from the buttocks or abdomen via liposuction and then immediately inserted into the breasts. This approach allows patients to use their own fat deposits to enhance their breasts, which is a win - win situation.
2. Weill Cornell Medicine
Weill Cornell Medicine is another top - notch choice for breast augmentation. The plastic and reconstructive surgeons here are leaders in their field. The hospital partners with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S., which further attests to its high - quality medical care.
They focus on individualized breast surgery. The surgeons are highly skilled at understanding each patient's unique body and goals, aiming to achieve a natural look. From the initial consultation, they work closely with patients to discuss the best options for them. Their state - of - the - art surgical suites use the latest anesthetics and medications to help patients recover more quickly and heal faster. After the surgery, the care team manages pain with medication and teaches patients how to care for themselves during the recovery process.
3. [Clinic with Dr. Adam R. Kolker]
Dr. Adam R. Kolker, a double - board - certified plastic surgeon associated with a well - known practice in New York City, is renowned for his work in breast augmentation. 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 stays at the forefront of advancements in plastic surgery.
Dr. Kolker believes that true artistry in breast augmentation is about making "beautiful" more important than "size". He establishes each individual woman's aesthetic goals, tailored to her body type, to attain a proportionate outcome and the most natural results. His credentials are numerous, including being board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, and he has been featured in many media outlets as a top plastic surgeon.
The Procedure of Breast Augmentation
The breast augmentation procedure generally involves placing breast implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles. Here's a more detailed look at what happens during the surgery.
Consultation
During the consultation, the surgeon will examine, measure, and photograph your breasts. You'll discuss your medical history and your desires for surgery. Surgeons often show samples of silicone and saline breast implants so you can feel the difference and choose the type you prefer. You'll also have the opportunity to "try on" different sizes of implants to figure out what's right for you. Additionally, the surgeon will explain the procedure in detail, answer your questions, and perform a physical exam to confirm that you are a candidate for the surgery.
Surgery
The surgery usually takes around one to two hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Incisions are typically made in unnoticeable areas such as the armpit, the underside of the breast, or around the areola to minimize the visibility of scars. The surgeon then inserts the chosen implants into the breast.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery and aftercare are crucial for the success of breast augmentation. Understanding what to expect during this period is essential for a smooth recovery.
Immediate Post - Surgery
In the first 24 - 48 hours after surgery, you'll experience a small amount of swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Many patients need to take pain medicine during this time. Most patients spend the first 1 - 2 days resting, reading, watching TV, and taking short walks. After 48 hours, you'll be able to shower normally.
Returning to Normal Activities
If you have a desk job that doesn't require strenuous activity, you'll likely be able to return to work by the 3rd or 4th day after surgery. By one month after surgery, the vast majority of patients say they feel "back to normal". Bruising, discomfort, and most swelling have disappeared. However, the breasts will still continue to "settle" into their final position over the next few months.
Aftercare Dos and Don'ts
Dos:
- Ensure you rest very well.
- Eat healthy food.
- Take whatever medication is prescribed by the specialist to deal with pain or post - op issues.
- Do breast massages to help the implants settle well.
- Sleep on your back.
- Go for a post - op check - up if advised by your specialist.
Don'ts:
- Don't sleep on your stomach.
- Don't do heavy lifting.
- Don't do intense exercises.
- Don't swim.
- Avoid smoking as it would delay the healing process.
- Don't ignore your specialist's advice post - op.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation comes with its own set of risks and potential complications. It's important to be aware of these before making a decision.
Common Risks:
- Infections: Infections can occur at the incision site or around the implants. They may require antibiotic treatment or, in severe cases, removal of the implants.
- Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery can be a concern. It may require additional medical intervention.
- Alterations in nipple or breast sensations: Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensitivity, which can be temporary or permanent.
- Implant leakage or rupture: Implants can leak or rupture over time, which may require replacement surgery.
- Development of scar tissue: Scar tissue can form around the implants, causing the breasts to feel firm or misshapen. This condition, known as capsular contracture, may require surgical treatment.
- Unsatisfactory outcomes: The results may not meet your expectations, which could necessitate further surgeries.
It's also important to consider the psychological ramifications of the surgery, as it can impact mental well - being. Have an extensive conversation with your healthcare provider about these potential risks before making an informed choice.
Alternatives to Breast Augmentation
If you're considering breast augmentation but are hesitant about surgery, there are several non - surgical alternatives available in New York City.
Fat Grafting
Also known as fat transfer, this procedure involves removing fat from different body parts, such as the thighs, abdomen, or hips, using liposuction. The fat is then purified and injected into the breasts. It's considered a safer option as it uses the body's own tissue, minimizing the risk of complications. However, the results may be more subtle compared to surgical breast augmentation with implants.
Hormonal Therapy
Hormonal therapy can sometimes be used to stimulate breast growth. However, it's important to note that this method may have potential side effects and is usually used in specific medical situations under the close supervision of a doctor.
Natural Remedies
Some natural remedies claim to enhance breast size, such as certain herbs and creams. However, their effectiveness is often unproven, and they may not produce significant results.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation is a personal decision that can have a significant impact on one's appearance and self - confidence. In New York City, there are top - notch hospitals like Mount Sinai, Weill Cornell Medicine, and practices led by renowned surgeons like Dr. Adam R. Kolker, which offer high - quality hyaluronic acid breast augmentation services. However, it's crucial to thoroughly understand the procedure, its risks, recovery process, and financial implications before making a decision.
If you're considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a board - certified plastic surgeon. Take the time to ask questions, review before - and - after photos, and discuss your goals in detail. Share this article with friends or family who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in New York City.