Allergan Breast Augmentation Overview
Allergan is a well - known brand in the breast implant industry. Their breast implants include saline and silicone devices used in breast augmentation and reconstruction. The company's flagship brand is Natrelle, but it also previously sold implants under subsidiaries like Inamed and Mcghan. However, in July 2019, the company issued a worldwide recall of its textured implants after the FDA linked them to a rare cancer called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). Despite this setback, Allergan breast implants are still popular among many women seeking breast augmentation.
When it comes to breast augmentation with Allergan implants, patients have several decisions to make, such as the type of implant (saline or silicone), the shape (round or anatomical), the size, and the texture. These choices, along with the surgical technique and the expertise of the surgeon, can significantly impact the final results.
Top Hospitals in New York City for Allergan Breast Augmentation
Mount Sinai - New York
Surgeon Expertise
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They are well - versed in handling Allergan breast implants and understand the nuances of different implant types. They take the time to consult with patients, listen to their desires for enhancing breast size, and help them visualize how their larger breasts will look using advanced 3D imaging technology. This technology allows patients to try on different sizes of breasts virtually, which can aid in making more informed decisions.
Treatment Options
At Mount Sinai, patients have several options for breast augmentation. There are two main types of implants: silicone and saline. Silicone breast implants look and feel more natural in the breasts, while saline breast implants are firmer and rounder. Additionally, Mount Sinai surgeons have pioneered a fat transfer technique known as NaturalFill®. This two - step procedure involves removing fat from the buttocks or abdomen via liposuction and then inserting that fat into the breasts to enlarge them. The surgeons at Mount Sinai will help patients choose the best option based on their body type and desired outcome.
Pre - operative and Post - operative Care
Before the surgery, Mount Sinai conducts a physical exam and asks a series of health - related questions to confirm that the patient is a candidate for breast augmentation. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon explains the procedure in detail and answers any questions the patient may have. After the surgery, the hospital provides guidance on recovery, including instructions on how to care for the incisions, manage pain, and when to resume normal activities. Patients can expect their breast augmentation results to last for years, but they are also informed about possible factors that may cause natural drooping over time, such as pregnancy, nursing, or significant weight changes.
Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He worked closely with Allergan during the original development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. He has a deep understanding of these implants and can go over all the benefits and considerations for patients interested in using anatomically shaped implants. Dr. Sherman takes an individualized approach with each patient, working closely with them to develop a treatment plan that meets their specific aesthetic goals.
Implant Selection
When it comes to choosing breast implants, Dr. Sherman helps patients consider multiple factors. In terms of material, patients can choose between saline implants, which are filled to the desired volume during the procedure, and pre - filled silicone implants. The shape of the implants can be round, which adds volume higher on the chest, or anatomical (teardrop - shaped) to replicate the form of the natural breast. Implant size is measured in cubic centimeters, and Dr. Sherman takes into account the patient's existing breast tissue and desired results to determine the appropriate size. Texture is also a consideration, as a textured surface can prevent the implant from rotating or becoming displaced.
Complications and Precautions
Dr. Sherman is aware of the potential complications associated with breast implants, such as BIA - ALCL and breast implant illness (BII). He educates patients about these risks during the consultation process. He also ensures that patients meet the criteria to be ideal candidates for breast augmentation, such as being in good health, having realistic expectations, and being aware of the risks and benefits. Before the surgery, patients are given instructions on how to prepare, including quitting smoking, tapering off certain medications, and arranging for someone to pick them up after the procedure.
Rapaport Plastic Surgery
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. David P. Rapaport is a board - certified plastic surgeon and a world - recognized expert specializing in breast augmentation and breast implant revision. He has vast experience with Allergan breast implants and can help patients choose the best implant type based on their anatomy and aesthetic goals. Dr. Rapaport uses advanced techniques, such as using an endoscope for a scarless breast augmentation procedure through an underarm incision. This allows for precise muscle division and implant positioning, reducing the risk of implant malposition.
Implant Options
Dr. Rapaport offers breast augmentation with both saline and silicone implants. Saline implants can be filled after placement, making them suitable for the scarless breast augmentation technique. Silicone implants, on the other hand, typically have a more natural look and feel. He discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each type with patients to help them make an informed decision.
Recovery and Results
Full recovery from breast augmentation at Rapaport Plastic Surgery takes approximately two to three weeks. Patients can often return to work in just a few days, depending on their job type. Dr. Rapaport prescribes pain medication for the first few days after surgery and advises patients to rest and limit activity during this time. Ice packs may also be recommended to reduce swelling and discomfort. Patients usually experience a significant confidence boost after the surgery, as they achieve fuller, larger, and more symmetrical breasts. Dr. Rapaport takes precautions to minimize the risk of capsular contracture, and this problem is extremely rare among his patients.
Park Avenue Plastic Surgery
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. Monasebian at Park Avenue Plastic Surgery is an expert in breast augmentation. He has a deep understanding of Allergan breast implants and can guide patients through the process of choosing the right implant type, size, and shape. Dr. Monasebian takes the time to learn about each patient's desires and body shape during the pre - operative consultation, developing a completely customized treatment plan.
Implant Selection and Surgical Technique
Patients at Park Avenue Plastic Surgery can choose between saline and silicone implants. Silicone gel - filled breast implants are offered as they are softer and feel more natural than saline - filled implants. The breast augmentation procedure lasts one to two hours and is typically performed with general anesthesia. Incisions are made in inconspicuous places on the breast, such as in the armpit, in the crease on the underside of the breast, or around the areola. The implant is then placed behind each breast, either underneath breast tissue or the chest wall muscle.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients feel tired and sore after the surgery, but this usually passes in a day or two. Many patients return to work within the week. Stitches are removed in a week after breast augmentation. Any post - operative pain, swelling, and sensitivity will diminish over the first few weeks. The hospital provides regular monitoring of breast implants after the surgery to ensure continuing breast and implant health.
Dr. Lara Devgan's Practice
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. Lara Devgan is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York City. She understands the needs of women seeking Allergan breast augmentation, especially those who desire natural - looking, beautifully contoured, and comfortable results. During the consultation, she examines, measures, and photographs the patient's breasts. She shows samples of silicone and saline breast implants, allowing patients to feel the difference between them and choose the type they prefer. Patients also have the opportunity to "try on" different sizes of implants to figure out what is right for them.
Surgery and Recovery
The surgery at Dr. Devgan's practice typically takes one hour and can be performed either in her fully accredited private office operating room or at one of the top local hospitals on the upper east side. In the first 24 - 48 hours after surgery, patients may 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 and can shower normally after 48 hours. If the patient has a desk job, they can likely 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", and by 6 - 8 weeks, they are cleared to do all types of physical activity again.
Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice
Surgeon Expertise
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 has a deep understanding of Allergan breast implants and can provide expert advice on implant selection, incision type, and implant placement.
Implant Selection and Surgical Process
Patients at Dr. Antell's practice can choose between silicone gel and saline implants. Silicone gel implants more closely mimic the texture and feel of natural breast tissue, while saline implants have the advantage of potentially being placed through a slightly shorter incision. The incision for the surgery can be made below the crease near where the breast meets the chest, around the areola, or in the armpit. The implant is then placed either directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or behind the pectoral (chest) muscle (submuscular placement). Placing the implant behind the chest muscle may reduce the risk of capsular contracture.
Recovery and Results
After the surgery, patients recover in Dr. Antell's state - of - the - art recovery suite. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia is used to decrease discomfort. Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure, and patients can return home the same day. Many patients are able to return to most daily activities within days of the procedure. The swelling in the breasts will take several months to fully dissipate, with the final result typically being visible around 6 months. Dr. Antell and his staff are available throughout the recovery process to answer any questions.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Allergan Breast Augmentation
Surgeon Expertise
The expertise of the surgeon is perhaps the most important factor. Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation with Allergan implants. Surgeons who have worked closely with Allergan, such as those who were involved in implant development, are likely to have in - depth knowledge of the products. They should be able to provide personalized advice based on your body type, aesthetic goals, and medical history.
Treatment Options
Different hospitals may offer different treatment options. Some may specialize in certain types of implants or surgical techniques. For example, some hospitals may be more experienced in fat transfer techniques in addition to using implants. Consider the range of options available and whether they align with your preferences and needs.
Pre - operative and Post - operative Care
Good pre - operative care includes a thorough consultation where the surgeon explains the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes. They should also conduct a comprehensive physical exam and review your medical history. Post - operative care is equally important. This includes monitoring your recovery, providing pain management, and giving instructions on how to care for the incisions and the implants. Hospitals that offer comprehensive aftercare services are more likely to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.
Patient Reviews
Reading patient reviews can give you an idea of the experiences of other women who have had Allergan breast augmentation at a particular hospital. Look for reviews that mention the quality of the surgery, the professionalism of the staff, and the overall satisfaction with the results. Positive reviews can be an indication of a reliable hospital, while negative reviews may raise red flags.
Cost
The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of implant, the complexity of the procedure, and the location of the hospital. It's important to get a clear understanding of all the costs involved, including the surgeon's fee, the cost of the implants, operating room fees, and anesthesia fees. Some hospitals may offer financing options to help make the procedure more affordable.
Common Concerns and Risks Associated with Allergan Breast Augmentation
BIA - ALCL
As mentioned earlier, there is a small but increased risk of developing breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) with Allergan textured implants. Although the risk is relatively low, it is a serious concern. It appears to be associated with textured implants and patients who develop a seroma (accumulation of fluid around the breast). Most hospitals are aware of this risk and will discuss it with patients during the consultation process. They may also recommend regular follow - ups to monitor for any signs of BIA - ALCL.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
Breast implant illness is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that women report after having implants placed. These symptoms include memory loss, "brain fog", joint pain, and fatigue. However, the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is poorly understood and still being investigated. Surgeons should inform patients about this potential concern and be prepared to address any questions or concerns the patients may have.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breasts to appear round and high and feel very hard. This can be a painful condition and may require additional surgery to correct. Surgeons take various precautions to minimize the risk of capsular contracture, such as using acellular dermal matrix (ADM) and prescribing medications. Different hospitals may have different approaches to preventing and treating capsular contracture, so it's important to discuss this with your surgeon.
Implant Rupture
Implant rupture can occur as a result of injury or normal compression and movement of the breast causing friction with the man - made shell of the implant. If a saline implant ruptures, the salt - water is harmlessly absorbed by the body, resulting in the breast appearing deflated. With a silicone implant rupture, a revision surgery is usually required to replace the implant and remove any troublesome scar tissue. Regular monitoring of the implants through MRI or other imaging techniques can help detect implant rupture early.
Conclusion
Allergan breast augmentation can be a life - changing procedure for many women, allowing them to achieve their desired breast size and shape. In New York City, there are several hospitals highly recommended by people who have had Allergan breast augmentation. Each hospital has its own strengths, including experienced surgeons, a variety of treatment options, and comprehensive pre - operative and post - operative care. However, it's important for patients to carefully consider all the factors involved, such as surgeon expertise, treatment options, cost, and potential risks, before making a decision. By doing thorough research and having in - depth consultations with surgeons, patients can increase their chances of having a successful and satisfying breast augmentation experience.
If you're considering Allergan breast augmentation in New York City, take the next step and schedule a consultation with one of the recommended hospitals. Learn more about the procedure, ask questions, and make an informed decision that's right for you. Share this article with others who may be interested in Allergan breast augmentation to help them on their journey.
