1. Allergan Breast Implants: An Overview
Allergan Inc. is a major player in the breast implant market. It has a long - standing history in the industry, starting to sell breast implants in 2006. In 2020, AbbVie acquired Allergan and its aesthetics portfolio. The company's flagship brand is Natrelle, and it has also sold implants under subsidiaries like Inamed and Mcghan.
Allergan offers a variety of breast implant types. There are anatomical, tear - drop shaped implants that mimic the curve of natural breasts, and round implants that provide a full, round look. The implants have an outer shell of silicone elastomer, which can be filled with either silicone gel or sterile saline.
| Implant Type | Filling Material | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Anatomical | Silicone Gel or Saline | Designed to mimic natural breast curves, usually requires a textured surface to prevent rotation |
| Round | Silicone Gel or Saline | Has volume and fullness all around, with a smooth texture in most cases |
However, the company faced a major setback in 2019 when the FDA linked its textured implants to a rare cancer called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). As a result, Allergan issued a worldwide recall of its textured implants.
2. Ranking of Experts in New York City for Allergan Prosthetic Breast Augmentation Surgery
2.1 Newsweek Rankings
Newsweek has been collaborating with Statista to rank America's best plastic surgeons. In the 2024 ranking for breast augmentation, several New York - based surgeons made the list.
- David Hidalgo, MD, FACS: He is highly regarded, having written over 80 scientific papers and won the James Barrett Brown award. He has also been quoted in prestigious print media like The New York Times and Vogue and has appeared on major news channels such as CBS, ABC News, and CNBC. According to patient reviews, patients are extremely satisfied with his work, especially his breast augmentation results, with some having multiple surgeries with him.
- Adam R. Kolker, MD, FACS: A double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He has trained at some of the most prestigious medical institutions like Harvard Medical School, New York University, and the University of Melbourne in Australia. He is an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Kolker is featured in multiple top doctor lists, including New York Magazine's Best Doctors, Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons, and Castle Connolly's Top Doctors. His patients praise his ability to achieve natural and beautiful results.
- Alan Matarasso, MD, FACS: Included in the Newsweek 2024 breast augmentation ranking, he brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the field of plastic surgery in New York.
2.2 Other Reputable Surgeons
- Dr. David L. Cangello: A board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He is known for his artistic approach to breast surgery, combining medical precision with aesthetic principles. His patients, including professional models from top agencies, trust him for his ability to deliver elegant and natural - looking results. He offers a full range of cosmetic breast surgeries, such as breast lift, breast revision, and natural augmentation with fat transfer.
- Dr. Douglas Steinbrech: Ranked in the top 10 plastic surgeons in NYC. He has extensive training at New York University in general surgery, plastic surgery, and reconstructive surgery. Dr. Steinbrech can create natural - looking breasts that are proportionate to a woman's frame. He provides personalized consultations and takes the patient's goals, preferences, and frame into account when planning the surgery.
3. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Surgeon for Allergan Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
3.1 Medical Credentials
It is essential to choose a surgeon who is board - certified in plastic surgery. Board certification indicates that the surgeon has completed the necessary training, passed rigorous exams, and is committed to maintaining high standards of practice. For example, all the surgeons mentioned above, such as David Hidalgo, Adam R. Kolker, and David L. Cangello, are board - certified, which is a strong indicator of their expertise.
3.2 Experience
Surgeons with years of experience in breast augmentation are more likely to handle various situations during the surgery. For instance, a surgeon who has performed hundreds of Allergan prosthetic breast augmentations will be better prepared to deal with any potential complications that may arise. They have also seen different patient anatomies and aesthetic preferences, allowing them to offer more personalized solutions.
3.3 Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into a surgeon's skills, bedside manner, and the overall quality of care. Positive reviews from patients who have undergone Allergan prosthetic breast augmentation with a particular surgeon can give you confidence in your choice. For example, the glowing reviews of patients who have had surgeries with David Hidalgo and Adam R. Kolker highlight their satisfaction with the results and the surgical experience.
3.4 Technological Proficiency
With the continuous evolution of plastic surgery, it is important for surgeons to be proficient in the latest technologies. In 2024, technologies such as 3D imaging can help surgeons plan the surgery more accurately and allow patients to visualize the potential results. Surgeons who embrace these technologies can offer a more precise and customized experience.
4. Plastic Surgery Prices for Allergan Prosthetic Breast Augmentation in New York City
4.1 Factors Affecting the Price
- Surgeon's Expertise: Highly experienced and well - known surgeons typically charge more for their services. For example, surgeons like Adam R. Kolker and David Hidalgo, who are well - recognized in the field, may have higher fees due to their reputation and skill level.
- Complexity of the Procedure: If the patient has specific anatomical challenges or desires a more complex augmentation, such as a combined breast lift and augmentation, the price will be higher. Additionally, the type of Allergan implant chosen (e.g., high - end silicone implants) can also increase the cost.
- Geographic Location: New York City is a high - cost area, and plastic surgery prices are generally higher compared to other regions. The overhead costs for clinics in the city, including rent, staff salaries, and equipment, are factored into the overall price of the surgery.
4.2 Cost Range
On average, breast augmentation in New York City can cost between $9,000 and $11,000. However, this is just an estimate, and the actual cost can vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned above. Some clinics may also offer financing options to make the procedure more affordable for patients.
5. Allergan Prosthetic Breast Augmentation Procedure
5.1 Consultation
The consultation is a crucial first step. During this phase, the surgeon will ask about the patient's goals, medical history, and perform a physical examination of the breasts. They will also discuss the different types of Allergan implants, their advantages and disadvantages, and help the patient choose the most suitable implant size, shape, and placement. For example, a patient with smaller breasts may be advised on implant sizes that will provide a natural - looking result without being overly large.
5.2 Surgical Procedure
Allergan prosthetic breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure that usually takes one to several hours, depending on the complexity. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision in one of three common locations: periareolar (around the nipple), inframammary (in the breast fold), or axillary or transaxillary (under the arm).
| Incision Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Periareolar | More concealed | Higher likelihood of breastfeeding problems, higher risk of change in sensation in nipple, higher risk of infection |
| Inframammary | Fewer breastfeeding difficulties, best access and control of implant pocket, most commonly used by surgeons | Less concealed |
| Axillary or Transaxillary | Fewer breastfeeding problems | Less concealed, more difficult, may increase risk of damage to and unexpected location of implant |
After making the incision, the surgeon will create a pocket for the implant, either submuscular (under the chest muscle) or subglandular (under breast glands). Submuscular placement can reduce the risk of capsular contracture but may have a longer recovery time, while subglandular placement may have a shorter recovery time but a higher risk of capsular contracture.
5.3 Recovery
Patients can expect to feel tired and sore for several days after the surgery. Swelling and tightness are common as the skin adjusts to the implant. Most patients can return to work within a few days but should avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks. The surgeon will prescribe pain medication and may recommend using a special bra or support to aid in healing. Full recovery can take several months, during which the breasts will gradually settle into their final shape.
6. Risks and Complications of Allergan Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
6.1 General Risks
Like any surgery, Allergan prosthetic breast augmentation carries some risks. These include infection, bleeding, changes in nipple or breast sensation, and scarring. The FDA classifies breast implants as class III, high - risk devices, which means they require long - term monitoring.
6.2 Implant - Specific Risks
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant and squeezes it, causing pain and a hard, misshapen appearance. Submuscular placement can help reduce the risk of capsular contracture.
- Implant Rupture or Deflation: Silicone implants can rupture, and saline implants can deflate. If a rupture occurs, the surgeon may need to remove or replace the implant.
- BIA - ALCL: Although Allergan recalled its textured implants due to the link with this rare cancer, it is still a concern for patients who had textured implants in the past.
7. The Future of Allergan Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
The field of plastic surgery, including Allergan prosthetic breast augmentation, is likely to continue evolving. With the development of new technologies, such as better implant materials and more precise surgical techniques, the results of breast augmentation are expected to become even more natural - looking and safer. Surgeons will also continue to focus on personalized care, taking into account each patient's unique needs and aesthetic goals.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing a top - notch surgeon for Allergan prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City is crucial for achieving the best results and minimizing risks. Surgeons like David Hidalgo, Adam R. Kolker, David L. Cangello, and Douglas Steinbrech have proven their expertise through their credentials, experience, and patient testimonials. The cost of the procedure can vary depending on multiple factors, and patients should carefully consider all aspects before making a decision. It is also important to be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery.
If you are considering Allergan prosthetic breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule consultations with multiple surgeons to discuss your goals and options. Take the time to research and read patient reviews. By being well - informed, you can make the best choice for your body and achieve the aesthetic results you desire.
