Introduction
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat, skin, and glandular tissue from the breasts to reduce their size. This surgery can relieve physical discomfort caused by overly large breasts, such as neck, back, and shoulder pain, as well as improve self - confidence and body image. In New York City, there are several outstanding hospitals and clinics that offer top - notch breast reduction surgeries. This article will present a high - quality list of the top 5 hospitals for breast reduction surgery in New York City, taking into account factors like the expertise of the surgeons, patient satisfaction, available technology, and overall reputation.
What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery is not just a cosmetic procedure; it can be a life - changing solution for many women. Excessively large breasts can cause a range of physical and emotional issues. The physical symptoms often include chronic neck and back pain, poor posture, and shoulder grooving from bra straps. Emotionally, women with large breasts may experience self - consciousness, low self - esteem, and even social withdrawal. The surgery involves removing excess tissue, fat, and skin from the breasts, repositioning the nipples, and reshaping the breasts to achieve a more proportionate and comfortable size. It's important to note that the procedure can also have a positive impact on a woman's ability to lead an active lifestyle, as large breasts can often limit physical activities.
According to data, over 90,000 breast reduction surgeries are performed annually in the United States. Women who have the surgery before turning 25 continue to experience long - term advantages up to three decades later, and an impressive 80% of women report excellent or very good breast appearance even a year post - surgery.
Top 5 Hospitals for Breast Reduction Surgery in New York City
1. Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital is a well - known name in the medical field. Its team of highly trained and qualified plastic surgeons is well - versed in breast reduction surgery. The hospital offers a warm, caring, and supportive environment, which is crucial when patients are dealing with very private and sensitive concerns about their bodies. Before the surgery, the surgeons at Mount Sinai help patients determine if breast reduction is the right choice for them. During the confidential consultation, patients receive all the necessary information to make an educated decision about the procedure.
The benefits of getting a breast reduction at Mount Sinai include less neck, back, and shoulder pain, improved self - confidence about breast size, decreased breast size to be in proportion with the body frame, nipples pointing in a more upward position, relief from chafing and skin irritation caused by sagging breast skin, and balanced breast size. Moreover, patients may consider combining breast reduction with breast lift or as part of a mommy makeover for a more complete enhancement. It should be noted that if a patient intends to become pregnant or lose weight, the surgeon may encourage postponing the surgery as pregnancy and weight change can reverse the improvements from the surgery.
2. Rowe Plastic Surgery
Rowe Plastic Surgery is another excellent option in New York City. The breast reduction surgeons here are board - certified plastic surgeons and are among the top reduction mammoplasty specialists. They focus on minimally invasive breast reduction surgery and are leading experts in macromastia (breast hypertrophy). The team approach at Rowe Plastic Surgery, with communication between the breast surgeon and the reconstructive surgeon, is a significant advantage. This collaborative approach is critical in defining areas of excision and designing reduction techniques prior to surgery.
Dr. Norman Rowe, a highly sought - after plastic surgeon at Rowe Plastic Surgery, is renowned for his expertise in breast reduction surgery. His approach to the procedure is meticulous, ensuring minimal scarring and maintaining the natural aesthetics of the breasts. Patients appreciate his compassionate care and the personalized attention they receive from the initial consultation to post - operative follow - ups. The hospital offers different types of breast reduction techniques, such as the pedicle method, inferior pedicle method, superior pedicle method, free nipple graft, anchor incision pattern, and the le jour incision pattern. The le jour incision pattern, in particular, is popular as it leaves minimal scarring and is suitable for patients with certain breast characteristics.
3. Breast Reduction Center of NYC
The Breast Reduction Center of NYC, located on the upper east side in Manhattan, is a premier destination for breast reduction plastic surgery. The breast reduction specialist surgeons here are top - rated board - certified or board - eligible plastic surgeons. They offer top - quality surgical care in a state - of - the - art facility without the impersonal experience and paperwork of large - scale hospitals. Patients enjoy a beautiful, private, and relaxed environment that fosters personalized patient care.
One of the unique features of this center is its innovative approach to pain management. The surgeons do not use drains in breast reductions, and all the stitches dissolve on their own, making post - op care much less complicated. They also use a special technique called a nerve block, which eliminates the need for prescription pain medicine. Only over - the - counter Tylenol and ibuprofen are necessary for recovery. The center offers virtual consultations, which provides flexibility for patients, and it is in - network with some major insurance providers, although there are also some plans it does not accept.
4. Practice affiliated with Dr. John E. Sherman
Dr. John E. Sherman, a board - certified plastic surgeon, understands the physical and emotional implications of breast hypertrophy. He works closely with his patients to create a personalized surgical plan that meets their needs and goals. During the consultation, he discusses the various incision techniques available, the risks and benefits of the procedure, and what to expect during recovery.
Patients have the option to have the breast reduction surgery at a hospital on an outpatient basis or at the fully accredited office - based surgery center. If recommended, they can also spend one night as an inpatient at locations such as New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medical Center, or Lenox Hill Hospital. The surgery involves removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to create a smaller, more proportionate breast size. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 3 - 4 hours to complete, depending on the patient's individualized treatment plan.
5. Plastic Surgery clinics associated with top - rated surgeons on Zocdoc
Zocdoc lists several highly rated plastic surgeons in New York City who perform breast reduction surgeries. Surgeons like Dr. Francesco Gargano, with a 5.00 rating, have been certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the European Board of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery. He has extensive global training and is committed to individualized care. His practice uses the latest technology and state - of - the - art procedures, and his facility is well - equipped with all the necessary equipment found in a hospital.
Dr. Michelle Zweifler, also highly rated at 4.98, is a board - certified plastic surgeon and general surgeon specializing in facial rejuvenation as well as breast and body contouring. She is on the staff at prestigious hospitals like the Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital and Lenox Hill Hospital. These surgeons offer a wide range of services and a high level of expertise in breast reduction surgery, ensuring that patients receive top - quality care.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Reduction Surgery
- Surgeon's Expertise: Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have extensive experience in breast reduction surgery. Check their training, certifications, and patient reviews. For example, many of the top surgeons in New York City are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, which is a mark of high - quality training and proficiency.
- Hospital Reputation: Research the hospital's overall reputation, including its success rates in breast reduction surgeries, patient satisfaction scores, and any awards or recognitions it has received. Hospitals like Mount Sinai and Rowe Plastic Surgery have well - established reputations for providing excellent care.
- Available Technology: Modern technology can improve the precision and safety of the surgery. Inquire about the surgical techniques and equipment used at the hospital. For instance, some hospitals may use advanced imaging technology for pre - operative planning.
- Patient Care: A hospital that provides compassionate and personalized patient care can significantly enhance the surgical experience. Consider the level of attention patients receive from the surgical team, from the initial consultation to post - operative follow - ups.
- Cost and Insurance: Understand the total cost of the surgery, including surgeon fees, hospital fees, anesthesia fees, and post - operative care. Check if the hospital accepts your insurance and if the procedure is covered. Some procedures may be considered medically necessary and covered by insurance, while others may be purely cosmetic and require self - pay.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Breast Reduction Surgery
Before Surgery
Before breast reduction surgery, patients will go through several steps. The initial consultation is crucial, where patients can learn more about the procedure from an experienced breast surgeon. The surgeon will carry out a physical examination, review the patient's medical history, and ask questions to determine if the patient is a good candidate for the surgery. The doctor will also determine the best reduction option based on the patient's chest, height, weight, and body size. Pre - operative requirements may include taking a baseline mammogram, stopping the use of blood - thinning medications, aspirin, and anti - inflammatories, and quitting smoking weeks before the procedure.
During Surgery
The surgery is typically an inpatient procedure that takes place in a fully equipped ambulatory surgical center. The surgeon will first mark the incision lines on the breasts while the patient is standing. The patient will then be put under general anesthesia by an anesthesiologist, who will monitor the patient throughout the surgery. Incisions are made according to the best breast reduction technique for the patient's breast anatomy. The surgeon removes the excess tissue, fat, skin, and glandular tissue from the lower part of the breasts. The bust is then reshaped with the remaining breast tissue, and the nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher location. Finally, the incisions are closed using a combination of skin adhesives, surgical tape, and sutures.
After Surgery
After the surgery, patients can expect some mild pain and soreness. They may also feel pulling or stretching around the breasts, which is normal and will pass. Patients may require an overnight stay, and if released the same day, they need a friend or family member to drive them home and stay with them for the first 24 hours. Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to work in two to three weeks, depending on their job type. They should avoid heavy lifting and high - intensity exercise for at least a month. Scars are expected but will fade over time with proper care. The final results of the surgery will become apparent as the body continues to heal over several weeks to months.
Conclusion
Breast reduction surgery can be a life - changing procedure for women suffering from the physical and emotional burdens of overly large breasts. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals and clinics that offer high - quality breast reduction surgeries. Mount Sinai Hospital, Rowe Plastic Surgery, the Breast Reduction Center of NYC, practices affiliated with Dr. John E. Sherman, and clinics associated with top - rated surgeons on Zocdoc are all excellent choices. When choosing a hospital, patients should consider factors such as surgeon expertise, hospital reputation, available technology, patient care, and cost and insurance. By making an informed decision and following the pre - and post - operative instructions, patients can achieve a successful breast reduction and improve their quality of life.
If you're considering breast reduction surgery, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with multiple hospitals, and talk to other patients who have undergone the procedure. Share this article with anyone you know who might benefit from this information, and don't hesitate to explore related topics on breast health and plastic surgery.
