Understanding Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, often referred to as a “boob job,” is a popular cosmetic surgical procedure. It involves reshaping, filling out, and defining the breasts to meet the patient's desires and expectations. The best breast augmentation surgery can rely on fat transfer or implants to increase the size of the breasts. As stated on the Rowe Plastic Surgery website, today, this type of cosmetic surgery is safer than ever. When performed by top breast augmentation surgeons, the breasts can look and feel natural, complete, and symmetrical.
Women opt for breast augmentation for various reasons. These include restoring volume to the breasts after a successful weight loss program, bringing the breasts back to their natural shape following a pregnancy, increasing the fullness of the bust, providing symmetry if one breast is larger than the other, improving the balance between the chest, waist, and hips for a more flattering silhouette, reconstructing the breasts after a mastectomy or other surgical procedure, and enhancing confidence and self - esteem.
Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
According to the Rowe Plastic Surgery source, the most successful procedures occur when patients have the right reasons. These can include relieving anxiety about the shape of the breasts, increasing self - esteem, feeling more comfortable in one's body, and being able to wear preferred fashions. However, it is not recommended as a short - term solution for situations like landing a job, fixing a relationship, looking good for a vacation, or just out of curiosity about a different appearance.
Typically, a patient must wait until they are at least 18 years old, as breasts usually aren't completely formed until then. Other requirements for being a good candidate include having naturally asymmetrical breasts, breasts that never fully formed, a sincere desire for a fuller, larger breast size, feeling inferior because of bust size, being healthy both physically and mentally, not being breastfeeding or currently pregnant, having reasonable expectations from the procedure, and seeking improvement rather than perfection in appearance.
Types of Breast Implants
The results of breast augmentation depend on the type and shape of the implants used. There are several options available:
- Saline Implants: These are typically uniform in shape and firmness. They are filled with sterile salt water and are inserted into the breast empty, then filled once inside the body. One of the key advantages is that they require smaller incisions. In the rare case of a rupture, the saline solution is safely absorbed by the body. (Source: Doctors Plastic Surgery)
- Silicone Implants: Filled with silicone gel, they feel more like natural breast tissue compared to saline. Many patients prefer them because they tend to feel softer and more natural. However, they require a slightly larger incision, and regular check - ups with the surgeon are recommended to ensure they remain intact.
- Structured Implants: Filled with saline but placed in an inner mold, they feel more like natural breasts.
- Gummy Bear Implants: Also known as form - stable implants, they hold their shape even if the implant shell breaks. The gel inside is thicker than traditional silicone, and the breasts usually are firmer. They offer a more stable, long - lasting shape and feel, often with a teardrop contour for a more natural look.
- Natural Breast Augmentation (Fat Transfer): This process involves taking subcutaneous fat from other parts of the body, like the abdomen, thighs, or flanks through liposuction, and then injecting it into the breasts. It offers a more natural look and feel, but it's typically recommended for those seeking a modest increase in size. There are pros and cons, but it provides additional body sculpting.
Top Three Hospitals in New York City for Breast Implant Augmentation
1. Rowe Plastic Surgery
Dr. Norman Rowe, MD, a board - certified plastic surgeon at Rowe Plastic Surgery, combines extraordinary skills with knowledge of the latest and most innovative techniques. He specializes in breast procedures, rhinoplasty procedures, and revision procedures. The practice has locations in New Jersey, Manhattan, Long Island, and the Hamptons.
At Rowe Plastic Surgery, the top breast augmentation surgeons provide exceptional results that meet patients' needs for fuller, more beautiful breasts. The team offers a variety of breast augmentation services, including using different types of implants such as saline, silicone, and structured implants, as well as fat transfer.
The surgeons at Rowe Plastic Surgery carefully guide patients through selecting the implant specifications, such as shape, size, and texture. They take into account the patient's unique anatomy and aesthetic desires to guarantee a post - operative appearance that the patient is happy with. They also use computer - aided design pictures and provide fake implants called sizers that patients can put in their bras to try out before committing to a specific size.
The consultation process at Rowe Plastic Surgery is comprehensive. It includes meeting the medical team and the plastic surgeon, evaluating the patient's medical history, performing a physical examination of the breasts, taking photographs for planning, and discussing how pregnancy and nursing may impact the outcomes if the patient has not completed their family. During the second consultation, the doctor helps choose the breast implant, goes through the surgery plan, and provides information on what to expect during recovery.
One of the reasons to choose Rowe Plastic Surgery is that their surgeons are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, which means they have met the highest standards of education, training, and experience in plastic surgery. They also use the latest techniques and equipment, are committed to patient satisfaction, and offer a free consultation.
2. Weill Cornell Medicine
Weill Cornell Medicine partners with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S. Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons are leaders in the field, and the care team is equipped to promote comfort throughout the process.
The facility provides the full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, including breast augmentation with implants. Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons are highly skilled and can help patients achieve the natural look they want. They take into account the unique body features of patients of all races, ethnicities, genders, and gender identities to ensure that patients feel confident in their appearance.
During the process, the focus is on the patient's comfort. Before surgery, patients have time to ask questions so that they feel comfortable with the procedure. In state - of - the - art surgical suites, the surgeons use the latest anesthetics and medications to help patients recover more quickly and heal faster. After the surgery, the care team manages the patient's pain with medication and teaches them how to care for themselves during the healing and recovery period.
By choosing Weill Cornell Medicine, patients can benefit from the expertise of top - ranked surgeons in a well - respected medical institution that is committed to providing high - quality, personalized care.
3. Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique body. By showing various options on a computer monitor, patients can virtually try on different sizes of breasts before making a decision.
The surgeons at Mount Sinai consult with patients, listening carefully to understand their desire for enhancing breast size. They also help patients decide on the size and shape that will look best for their body. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon explains the procedure in detail and answers any questions the patient may have.
When it comes to breast implants, Mount Sinai offers two main types: silicone and saline. Silicone breast implants look and feel natural in the breasts, while saline implants are firmer and rounder. Additionally, Mount Sinai pioneered and perfected the natural fill® technique, which is a fat transfer method. This two - step procedure involves removing fat from the buttocks or abdomen with liposuction and then immediately inserting that fat into the breasts to enlarge them.
Patients at Mount Sinai can expect their breast augmentation results to last for years. However, as with natural breasts, factors like pregnancy, nursing, or significant weight gain or loss may cause natural drooping over time. In such cases, a breast lift or replacement of breast implants may be considered.
Considerations for Choosing a Hospital
When choosing a hospital for breast implant augmentation in New York City, there are several important factors to consider:
- Surgeon Qualifications: Look for board - certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in breast augmentation. Check their certifications from recognized boards such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
- Techniques and Technology: Hospitals that use the latest techniques and advanced technologies, like 3D imaging, can provide better results and a more informed decision - making process for patients.
- Patient Comfort and Care: A hospital that prioritizes patient comfort during the entire process, from consultation to recovery, is essential. This includes answering questions, providing pain management, and teaching post - operative care.
- Range of Options: Having a variety of breast implant types and procedures available, such as fat transfer in addition to implant - based augmentation, allows patients to choose the option that best suits their needs and preferences.
- Reputation and Reviews: Research the hospital's reputation by reading patient reviews and testimonials. You can also look at any awards or recognition the hospital or its surgeons have received.
The Breast Augmentation Process
Consultation
The initial consultation is a crucial step. It typically involves meeting the medical team and the plastic surgeon, evaluating the patient's medical history (including past surgical operations, health issues, mammograms, breast biopsies, and current medications), performing a physical examination of the breasts (including an evaluation of skin and soft tissue health, base width, and skin quality), and taking photographs for planning. If the patient has not completed their family, the surgeon will discuss how pregnancy and nursing may impact the outcomes.
During the second consultation, the doctor helps the patient choose the breast implant, goes through the surgery plan (including the duration of the surgery, incision locations, and what to expect during recovery), and the patient completes the necessary paperwork. The surgeon may also recommend stopping certain drugs before surgery based on the patient's medical history and ask the patient to abstain from smoking for a period before and after the procedure. Patients over 35 or with a family history of breast cancer may need screening mammography before surgery.
Pre - surgery Preparation
To ensure the best results, the surgeon usually requests that patients stop smoking and taking certain medications, refrain from taking blood - thinning medications like ibuprofen or aspirin, avoid alcohol and recreational drugs, arrange for someone to drive them home after the outpatient procedure and stay with them for at least the first 24 hours, and have realistic expectations for the surgery outcome.
The Surgery
Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure carried out under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision next to or below the breast, and the implant is positioned either behind the breast tissue or under the chest muscle. The incision is then stitched and covered with a dressing. The average breast implant procedure takes 45 to 60 minutes, and the patient is kept under observation for an extra hour or two before being allowed to go home.
Recovery
The recovery process can take several weeks. Immediately after surgery, patients are advised to sleep upright, usually in a recliner, for the first 48 hours. They can return to work within a few days as long as they don't do any heavy lifting. They need to wait about two weeks before sleeping on their side, avoid raising their arms over their head for a couple of weeks, reduce strenuous activity for two to three weeks, wear a bra 24 hours a day for at least four weeks, and resume all normal routines within about eight weeks. The hospital's team will provide more detailed post - operative instructions.
Cost and Financing
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City varies depending on factors such as the type of procedure (implants or fat transfer), the complexity of the surgery, and the individual goals. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of breast augmentation is about $4,500, but this usually doesn't include all the other fees such as the anesthesiologist's fees, operating room charges, prescription medications, blood tests, and imaging tests.
Most insurance policies don't cover breast augmentation as it's considered a purely cosmetic, non - medical procedure. However, many hospitals offer flexible financing options. For example, at Doctors Plastic Surgery, they offer transparent pricing and flexible financing options, including CareCredit, Alphaeon, and Cherry, to help patients achieve their desired results within their budget.
Conclusion
Breast implant augmentation is a popular and effective way for women to enhance the size and shape of their breasts, boost self - confidence, and achieve their desired aesthetic goals. In New York City, hospitals like Rowe Plastic Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, and Mount Sinai offer high - quality services provided by experienced and qualified surgeons. These hospitals use the latest techniques and technologies, offer a variety of breast implant options, and prioritize patient comfort and satisfaction throughout the process.
If you are considering breast implant augmentation, take the time to research different hospitals, consult with multiple surgeons, and make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences. By choosing the right hospital and surgeon, you can increase the likelihood of achieving the results you desire and having a positive experience. Don't hesitate to reach out to these top hospitals for a consultation and start your journey towards a more confident you.
