Breast Augmentation in New York City: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Breast augmentation has long been a popular cosmetic procedure, and New York City is renowned for its top - notch plastic surgeons who offer a range of options for those looking to enhance their breasts. Whether you're seeking to increase breast size, correct asymmetry, or restore volume after pregnancy or weight loss, there are numerous skilled professionals in the city to choose from. In this article, we will explore the top breast augmentation surgeons in New York City, the types of breast implants available, the procedure itself, recovery, and other important considerations.
The Top Breast Augmentation Surgeons in New York City
Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board certified plastic surgeon with an outstanding reputation in New York City. He is affiliated with the New York Magazine's Best Doctors list from 2013 - 2024 and has also been featured as one of America's Best Plastic Surgeons by Newsweek in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. His education and training span prestigious institutions like 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 plastic surgery advancements.
Dr. Kolker specializes in a wide range of breast procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, and breast reconstruction. He offers comprehensive consultations, both virtually and in - person, to understand each patient's aesthetic goals and create a personalized treatment plan. His ability to combine scientific and technical expertise with artistic creativity allows him to deliver natural - looking and proportional results.
However, some patients may find his service relatively expensive due to the combined effort of his surgical and anesthesia team, and some may prefer more direct communication with the doctor rather than going through the staff for follow - ups. The estimated cost of breast augmentation with Dr. Kolker is $9000 – $11000.
Dr. Nadia Afridi
Dr. Nadia Afridi is a well - known cosmetic surgeon in NYC. She is very professional and cares about her patients like a friend. Her practice usually lasts 1 - 2 hours under general anesthesia, and she makes incisions in unnoticeable areas such as the armpit, the underside of the breast, and around the areola to minimize scar visibility. She is experienced with both saline and silicone implants and can also perform breast augmentation revisions for patients not satisfied with previous procedures.
She takes into account four key aspects for breast augmentation surgery: the site of breast implant placement, the site of the incision, the type of implant (silicone or saline), and the size of the breast implant. Her estimated breast augmentation cost is $8900. Patients praise her helpfulness, the professionalism of her staff, and her ability to offer a wide range of breast augmentation procedures.
Dr. Richard Swift
Dr. Richard Swift is a board - certified plastic surgeon who offers a variety of cosmetic surgeries and treatments. He has earned several prestigious awards for his experience and expertise. Dr. Swift provides detailed consultations on surgical techniques, alternative treatments, and pre - and post - operative care. He is dedicated to providing personalized, high - quality, one - on - one care to ensure patient comfort and satisfaction.
He advises patients on pre - operative preparations, such as refraining from vigorous exercise the day before the procedure, showering with antimicrobial soap the night before, and avoiding lotions on the treatment area. After surgery, he gives clear instructions on recovery, including wearing a surgical bra and avoiding strenuous activities until approved. The estimated cost of breast augmentation with Dr. Swift is between $5000 - $10000.
Dr. John E. Sherman
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon in New York. He works closely with patients to develop individualized approaches for breast augmentation. He has in - depth knowledge of breast implants, having worked closely with Allergan during the development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants.
During the consultation, he reviews the patient's medical history, examines the breasts, and discusses implant options. He helps patients understand the various choices regarding implant material, shape, size, and texture. His surgical facility is well - equipped, and he uses advanced techniques to perform breast augmentation with excellent results. The cost of breast augmentation varies depending on the patient's unique anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Dr. David P. Rapaport
Dr. David P. Rapaport is a world - recognized expert specializing in breast augmentation and breast implant revision. He is a board - certified plastic surgeon who offers breast augmentation with both saline and silicone implants. He uses an endoscope for scarless breast augmentation through an underarm incision, which allows for precise implant positioning and reduced scarring.
Dr. Rapaport ensures that patients understand the different types of implants and their advantages and disadvantages. He customizes the procedure based on each patient's needs and preferences. After surgery, he provides comprehensive aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Patients often report a significant confidence boost after breast augmentation with Dr. Rapaport.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a fellowship - trained, board - certified plastic surgeon on the Upper East Side. She is passionate about delivering natural - looking, personalized, and elegant results. She spends a significant amount of time with patients during the preoperative consultation to understand their goals and determine the ideal implant type and placement.
Dr. Hutchinson offers different types of breast implants, including saline - filled implants, ideal implant structured breast implants, and silicone gel - filled implants. She makes incisions in inconspicuous places and provides detailed instructions for pre - and post - operative care. Her patients often praise her thoroughness and the excellent results of their breast augmentation surgeries.
Dr. Daniel Maman
Dr. Daniel Maman is a Harvard fellowship - trained and board - certified plastic surgeon. He completed a fellowship in aesthetic breast surgery at Harvard 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.
Dr. Maman provides 90 - minute consultations that include a thorough review of the patient's medical history, in - depth physical assessment, and a comprehensive operative plan. He offers a range of breast augmentation options, considering factors such as implant material, incision location, shape, and placement. He emphasizes patient comfort throughout the procedure and recovery and provides luxury recovery room options in NYC hotels.
Dr. Darrick Antell
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. He has been listed in multiple magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country.
Dr. Antell addresses common complications such as capsular contracture and provides in - depth consultations to help patients choose the right implant type, incision type, and placement. He uses advanced techniques to ensure natural - looking results and a safe procedure. His patients often report high satisfaction with their breast augmentation outcomes.
Types of Breast Implants
Saline Implants
Saline implants consist of a silicone shell filled with a saline solution (salt water). They have several advantages. One is that they can be filled after being placed in the breast pocket, which allows for a smaller incision. If a saline implant ruptures, the saline solution is harmlessly absorbed by the body, and the breast will deflate. However, some patients may find that saline implants look and feel less natural than silicone implants, and they may show wrinkles or ripples over time.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are pre - filled with a silicone gel. They more closely mimic the texture and feel of natural breast tissue, providing a more natural look and feel. Silicone implants are very popular, with approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States in 2020 being performed with silicone implants. However, ruptures in silicone implants can be more difficult to detect without an MRI, and they usually require a slightly larger incision for placement.
Cohesive Silicone Gel Implants (Gummy Bear Implants)
These are a type of silicone implant with a highly cohesive gel. They are known as "gummy bear" implants because the gel holds its shape well, even if the implant shell is cut or damaged. Gummy bear implants provide a more natural and proportionate breast shape and feel. They come in various shapes and sizes, including round and teardrop shapes, and can mimic most breast shapes and fit a wider range of chest dimensions.
Ideal Implant Structured Breast Implants
Ideal implants are round and have two chambers and a layered system of external shells. They are filled with a variable amount of saline solution. These implants are designed to provide a natural look and feel while also reducing the risk of some complications associated with traditional implants.
Choosing the Right Implant
Material
The choice between saline and silicone implants depends on several factors. Patients who prioritize a more natural look and feel may prefer silicone implants, while those concerned about the detectability of a rupture or who want a smaller incision may lean towards saline implants. The cost can also be a factor, as silicone implants are generally more expensive.
Shape
Round implants are popular for adding volume higher on the chest. They provide a more full and lifted appearance. Anatomical (teardrop - shaped) implants are designed to replicate the natural form of the breast, with a slight slope. The choice of shape depends on the patient's desired aesthetic outcome and body type.
Size
Implant sizes are measured in cubic centimeters (cc). The ideal implant size depends on the patient's existing breast tissue, body frame, and desired results. Surgeons consider the patient's overall proportions to ensure a balanced and natural - looking outcome. For example, a patient with a smaller frame may choose a smaller implant size to maintain a proportionate appearance.
Texture
Textured implants have a rougher surface, which allows the tissues to heal more closely around the implant, reducing the risk of rotation or displacement. However, some textured implants have been associated with a very rare form of lymphoma called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). Smooth implants are also an option, and the choice of texture depends on the surgeon's recommendation and the patient's specific situation.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Consultation
The first step in the breast augmentation process is a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the patient discusses their aesthetic goals, medical history, and any concerns they may have. The surgeon examines the patient's breasts, takes measurements, and discusses the different implant options available. The surgeon also provides information about the procedure, recovery, and potential risks.
Pre - operative Preparation
Patients are usually given instructions to prepare for surgery. This may include quitting smoking or using nicotine products, as nicotine can affect the healing process. They may also be asked to taper off certain medications or supplements that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John's wort. Patients need to arrange for a trusted family member or friend to pick them up from the surgical facility and to have a comfortable space at home for recovery.
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. A board - certified anesthesiologist administers and monitors the anesthesia to ensure the patient's safety and comfort during the procedure.
Incisions
There are several incision options for breast augmentation:
- Inframammary incision: Made in the crease under the breast. This incision provides good access to the breast pocket and is often used for silicone implants. The scar is usually well - hidden in the breast crease.
- Periareolar incision: Made around the areola. This incision may be used for both saline and silicone implants. It can sometimes affect nipple sensation, but it can also result in a less visible scar.
- Transaxillary incision: Made in the armpit. This is a popular option for patients who want to avoid visible scars on the breast. However, it may be more challenging to place the implant precisely, especially for silicone implants.
Implant Placement
Implants can be placed either subglandular (above the pectoral muscles) or submuscular (under the pectoral muscles). Subglandular placement is a simpler procedure and may have a less painful recovery. However, submuscular placement can provide a more natural look, reduce the risk of capsular contracture, and have less interference with mammogram examinations. The surgeon will consider the patient's anatomy, age, and goals when deciding on the best placement option.
Closure
After the implant is placed, the incisions are closed with sutures. The surgeon may also place a layer of gauze and a bandage over the breasts to protect the incisions and support the implants during the initial healing process.
Recovery
Immediate Post - operative Period
After surgery, patients are monitored in a recovery area until they are awake and stable. They may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising, which are normal after breast augmentation. A prescription for pain medication is usually provided to help manage discomfort. Patients are also given a surgical compression bra to wear for the first few weeks to support the breasts and reduce swelling.
Returning to Normal Activities
Most patients can return to work within a few days to a week, depending on the type of job. Non - strenuous or desk jobs may allow for an earlier return. However, strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks. Surgeons typically recommend refraining from aerobic activity for 10 - 14 days and from more strenuous activities like weightlifting for 4 - 6 weeks. Patients should follow their surgeon's specific instructions regarding activity restrictions.
Long - term Recovery
Swelling and bruising will gradually subside over the first few weeks, and the breasts will begin to feel more natural. The implants will settle into place over a few months. Scars will initially be firm and pink but will fade over time. It's important for patients to attend follow - up appointments with their surgeon to monitor the healing process and ensure that there are no complications.
Possible Complications
Capsular Contracture
This is one of the most common complications of breast augmentation. Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to become hard, misshapen, and sometimes painful. It can be treated by removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants. Some surgeons use techniques such as placing an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) or prescribing certain medications to reduce the risk of capsular contracture.
Infection
Infection can occur within a week after surgery. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. Most infections can be treated with antibiotics, but in some cases, the implant may need to be removed temporarily until the infection clears.
Implant Rupture
Both saline and silicone implants can rupture. A saline implant rupture will cause the breast to deflate as the saline solution is absorbed by the body. A silicone implant rupture may be more difficult to detect. If a rupture occurs, a revision surgery is usually required to replace the implant.
Changes in Sensation
Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation after breast augmentation. This can include numbness, tingling, or hypersensitivity. In most cases, these changes are temporary, but in some instances, they may be permanent.
BIA - ALCL
Breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) is a very rare form of lymphoma that has been associated with some textured breast implants. It usually presents as a mass or fluid accumulation around the implant, often several years after the initial surgery. Most cases of BIA - ALCL are treatable with surgical removal of the tumor, capsule, and breast implant.
Cost of Breast Augmentation in New York City
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary widely depending on several factors. These include the surgeon's experience and reputation, the type of implant used (saline or silicone), the complexity of the procedure, the location of the surgical facility, and anesthesia fees.
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