Introduction
Prosthetic breast augmentation with silicone has become a popular cosmetic procedure for women in New York City who wish to enhance the size and shape of their breasts. With numerous hospitals and clinics offering this service, it can be challenging to determine which ones provide the best results. This article will explore some of the top hospitals in New York City known for their excellence in silicone breast augmentation, including their expertise, available options, and patient experiences. Additionally, we will delve into the details of silicone breast implants, the procedure itself, and important considerations for those contemplating this cosmetic enhancement.
Understanding Silicone Breast Implants
Types of Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants consist of a silicone shell filled with a silicone gel. Over the years, different types of silicone implants have been developed to meet various patient needs and preferences. These include:
- Traditional Silicone Implants: These implants use a silicone gel where the implant is cohesive but maintains an extremely soft feel, closely mimicking the texture of natural breast tissue. For example, in many cases, patients who prioritize a very natural - feeling result often consider traditional silicone implants. According to research, about 70% of Dr. Rapaport’s patients choose silicone implants for their breast augmentation, with a significant portion opting for traditional silicone for its natural feel.
- Gummy Bear Implants: Also known as cohesive gel implants, they have a much more cohesive and form - stable silicone gel filling. The gel is firmer and has a consistency comparable to a gummy bear. These implants are less likely to leak if ruptured and can hold their shape better. Gummy bear implants are available in both round and teardrop shapes. They are particularly suitable for patients who want a more natural - looking shape that maintains its form even when lying down. A study has shown that patients with petite frames or those with little natural breast tissue often benefit from the shape - retaining properties of gummy bear implants.
Advantages of Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants offer several advantages over other types of implants:
- Natural Look and Feel: Silicone implants are softer than saline implants, allowing for more natural movement and feel. They closely resemble the texture and appearance of natural breast tissue. Dr. Rapaport, a board - certified plastic surgeon, notes that in patients with adequate fat and breast tissue, the look and feel of silicone implants are virtually identical to natural breasts. For instance, when he examines a woman with a good saline result, he often cannot tell if it is saline or silicone, but in general, silicone has a more natural feel similar to squeezing a down pillow.
- Less Risk of Visible Rippling: Compared to saline implants, silicone implants are less likely to cause visible rippling under the skin, especially in patients with thin skin or little breast tissue. This is a significant advantage as rippling can be a cosmetic concern for some patients. A study of breast augmentation cases showed that patients with silicone implants had a much lower incidence of visible rippling compared to those with saline implants.
- Lower Risk of Rupture: Silicone implants are generally more durable and less likely to rupture than saline implants. According to the FDA, although ruptured silicone implants have been a topic of discussion, they are not associated with breast cancer or other diseases. However, it should be noted that removing a ruptured silicone implant requires a more complicated surgery than removing a ruptured saline implant.
Top Hospitals in New York City for Silicone Breast Augmentation
Mount Sinai - New York
Expertise and Experience
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures. They have been at the forefront of breast enhancement surgery for many years. Their team of board - certified plastic surgeons has in - depth knowledge of the latest techniques and technologies in the field. For example, they use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique body. By showing patients various options on a computer monitor, patients can virtually try on different sizes of breasts, which helps them make more informed decisions about their desired outcome.
Available Options
At Mount Sinai, patients have several options for breast augmentation. They offer two types of implants: silicone and saline, as well as a non - implant option called NaturalFill®. The silicone breast implants look and feel natural in the breasts, providing a more aesthetically pleasing result. The NaturalFill® technique, pioneered and perfected by Mount Sinai surgeons, is a two - step procedure. First, the surgeon removes fat from the patient's buttocks or abdomen using liposuction. Then, the fat is immediately inserted into the breasts to enlarge them using the patient's own fat deposits. This option is ideal for patients who want a more natural - looking and natural - feeling augmentation without using an implant.
Patient Experience
Mount Sinai is known for its patient - centered approach. The plastic surgeons take the time to consult with patients, listen to their desires, and help them decide on the size and shape that will look best for their body. They also explain the entire procedure in detail and answer any questions patients may have. The hospital provides a comfortable and supportive environment throughout the entire process, from the initial consultation to the post - operative care. Patients appreciate the personalized attention and the high - quality care they receive at Mount Sinai.
Dr. Darrick Antell
Expertise and Experience
Dr. Darrick Antell is a renowned breast augmentation surgeon in New York City. He is board - certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery and has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentation surgeries. Trained at Stanford and Cornell, he has demonstrated extraordinary skill and talent throughout his education. He has also been honored for his groundbreaking research study on identical twins and the aging process, with his work displayed in the Smithsonian Museum. His expertise and experience make him a trusted choice for patients seeking breast augmentation in New York City.
Available Options
Dr. Antell offers both saline and silicone breast implants. He provides a wide range of implant shapes, sizes, and textures to meet the individual needs and aesthetic goals of his patients. For example, he can help patients choose between round and teardrop - shaped implants, and smooth or textured implants. He also offers customized volume and shape options, tailoring each breast augmentation to achieve the look the patient desires. In addition, he addresses common complications such as capsular contracture and can use an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to help prevent it.
Patient Experience
Patients who have undergone breast augmentation with Dr. Antell have reported high levels of satisfaction. He takes the time to understand each patient's expectations and goals during the initial consultation. He provides a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's general health and medical history, as well as assesses the current condition of the breasts. He then creates a personalized surgical plan to achieve the desired outcome. His staff is also known for being friendly and accommodating, and they provide support throughout the entire process. Many of his new patients come from referrals by former patients, which speaks to the high level of patient satisfaction and the quality of care he provides.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Expertise and Experience
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a fellowship - trained, board - certified plastic surgeon. She has been in practice for over two decades on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, with extensive experience in breast augmentation surgery. She is passionate about delivering outstanding care to patients from NYC and beyond. Her results are known for being natural - looking, personalized, and elegant, carefully tailored to each patient's express wishes. She takes the time to understand the unique desires and body shape of each patient during the preoperative consultation.
Available Options
Dr. Hutchinson offers several types of breast implants, including saline - filled implants, ideal implant structured breast implants, and silicone gel - filled implants. The silicone gel implants have a single outer shell and come pre - filled with different types of silicone gel in a specific volume. The most cohesive gel implants, or “gummy bear” implants, are available in both round and teardrop shapes. She also provides options for implant placement, either under the breast itself (subglandular) or below the pectoralis major muscle (submuscular), and will discuss with the patient which option is best based on their anatomy and desired outcome.
Patient Experience
Patients have shared positive experiences with Dr. Hutchinson. She has a reputation for walking patients through the entire breast augmentation process, making them feel comfortable and informed. Her patients have reported being thrilled with the results of their surgeries. For example, one patient said, “Dr. Hutchinson is a terrific plastic surgeon. She walked me through the whole process of my breast augmentation and made sure I was completely comfortable and knew exactly what to expect. I am thrilled with the results and would recommend her to everyone.” Her staff is also kind and supportive, providing assistance during the pre - operative and post - operative periods.
The Silicone Breast Augmentation Procedure
Consultation
The first step in the silicone breast augmentation process is the consultation. During this visit, the plastic surgeon will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's general health and medical history. They will also assess the current condition of the breasts, including the size, shape, and amount of breast tissue. The patient should communicate their expectations and desired outcome clearly to the surgeon. The surgeon will then discuss the available implant options, including the type, size, shape, and texture of the silicone implants. They will also explain the procedure in detail, including the incision methods, implant placement, and the expected recovery process. The patient will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain a better understanding of the surgery.
Pre - operative Preparation
Once the patient decides to proceed with the surgery, they will need to make some pre - operative preparations. This may include getting a mammogram, sonogram, and/or MRI as necessary, as well as obtaining medical clearance and having blood work done. The patient will also be advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle, diet, and weight, avoid smoking if they are a smoker, and refrain from taking medications that can increase the risk of complications, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John’s wort. The patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and ensure they have someone to assist them during the first few days of recovery.
Surgery
The silicone breast augmentation surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another form of “twilight” sedation. The surgeon will make an incision in an inconspicuous location on the breast, such as under the breast crease, around the areola, or in the armpit. The choice of incision depends on various factors, including the patient's anatomy, the type and size of the implant, and the surgeon's preference. Through the incision, the surgeon will create a pocket either directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or behind the pectoral (chest) muscle (submuscular placement). The silicone implant will then be inserted into the pocket and centered beneath the nipple. Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures will be used to close the incisions, and a layer of gauze and a bandage will be placed over the breasts to speed healing. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete.
Recovery
After the surgery, the patient will recover in a state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by a nurse. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia is used to dramatically decrease any discomfort. Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure, so the patient can return home the same day after the procedure. However, they will need to have an escort to bring them home, as they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. The patient may feel tired or sore following surgery, but many patients are able to return to most daily activities within days of the procedure. However, it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. The swelling in the breasts will take several months to fully dissipate, with the final result typically being visible around 6 months. The scars will begin to fade over time, although they will never disappear completely.
Important Considerations for Silicone Breast Augmentation
Candidacy
Not all women are suitable candidates for silicone breast augmentation. Ideal candidates are typically in good health, have fully developed breasts, feel that their breasts are too small, have lost breast tissue volume after pregnancy and/or breastfeeding, are unhappy with their overall body image because of their breasts, have low self - esteem due to small breasts, have breast asymmetry, and are non - smokers. Women who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding should wait until after they have finished these processes before considering breast augmentation. It is also important for patients to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery.
Cost
The cost of silicone breast augmentation in New York City can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implant, the surgeon's fee, the operating room and anesthesia fees, and the complexity of the procedure. Saline implants are generally less expensive than silicone implants, but most patients opt for the more expensive silicone implants. On average, silicone breast augmentation in New York City can range from several thousand dollars to over ten thousand dollars. It is important for patients to get a detailed price quote from the surgeon during the consultation and to discuss any financing options that may be available.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, silicone breast augmentation comes with certain risks and complications. These may 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. Other complications include bleeding, infection, numbness, and implant rupture. In rare cases, there is a small risk of developing breast implant associated - anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), which is a form of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma. However, it is important to note that most patients are able to enjoy their implants in perfect health, and the risks can be minimized by choosing a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon.
Conclusion
In 2025, New York City offers several top - notch hospitals and surgeons for prosthetic breast augmentation with silicone. Hospitals like Mount Sinai, as well as practices led by surgeons such as Dr. Darrick Antell and Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, have the expertise, experience, and available options to provide high - quality results for patients. Understanding the types of silicone breast implants, the augmentation procedure, and important considerations such as candidacy, cost, and risks is crucial for anyone considering this cosmetic enhancement. By making an informed decision and choosing a reputable provider, patients can achieve their desired breast size and shape while minimizing the potential risks and complications. If you are considering silicone breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your options further and take the first step towards achieving your aesthetic goals.
