Introduction

Breast augmentation surgery has gained immense popularity in recent years. It is a life - changing procedure for many women, offering them the opportunity to enhance their physical appearance and boost self - confidence. In New York City, a hub of beauty and fashion, the demand for high - quality breast augmentation surgery is extremely high. To help patients make informed decisions, various rankings and research are conducted, and this article will dive deep into the newly released ranking of public - owned strengths for breast augmentation surgery in NYC.

The Growing Popularity of Breast Augmentation

According to data from global intelligence platform Statista, in 1997, there were 900,000 cosmetic surgical procedures in the U.S., and by 2022, this number had soared to more than 1.87 million. Breast augmentation has been one of the top cosmetic procedures for over a decade. Over 5 million women in the USA have had breast augmentation, with 90% of them doing it after having kids, and 79% of those who underwent the procedure reporting satisfaction. This shows a greater societal acceptance of plastic surgery due to the availability of safer, less - invasive surgeries and an increasing emphasis on self - care and confidence.

Key Criteria for Evaluating Breast Augmentation Surgeons

Medical Credentials

Medical credentials are the foundation of a surgeon's ability. A surgeon who is board - certified in plastic surgery indicates that they have completed appropriate training and passed oral and comprehensive written exams covering all plastic surgery procedures. For example, in the U.S., the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) accreditation is a voluntary but highly respected credential. Surgeons with such credentials have the knowledge and skills to perform breast augmentation surgeries safely and effectively. When evaluating a surgeon, patients should look for not only their board certification but also their medical degree, residency training, and any fellowships they've completed.

Surgical Skills

Surgical skills are evident in the before - and - after photos of past patients. These photos can provide insight into the surgeon's aesthetic sensibilities and technical proficiency. Some surgeons may specialize in a particular type of breast augmentation surgery, such as using saline implants, silicone implants, or performing fat - transfer breast augmentation. The ability to create natural - looking results, take into account the patient's body shape, and minimize scarring are all important aspects of surgical skills. A skilled surgeon will also be able to handle potential complications during the surgery.

Experience

Experience plays a crucial role in breast augmentation surgery. A surgeon with many years of experience performing breast augmentations is likely to have encountered a wide range of patient cases. They will be better equipped to handle different anatomical variations, address potential complications, and achieve better overall results. For instance, they may have dealt with cases where patients had previous breast surgeries, or where there were issues with implant rejection or capsular contracture. Experienced surgeons also tend to be more efficient in the operating room, which can lead to a shorter surgery time and a quicker recovery for the patient.

Knowledge of Latest Advancements

The field of plastic surgery is constantly evolving, and breast augmentation is no exception. Surgeons who stay updated with the latest advancements can offer the most up - to - date and effective treatment options to their patients. In 2024, there were significant technological advancements such as the use of 3D imaging technology, which allows surgeons to create a virtual model of the patient's body and simulate the potential results of various implant sizes and shapes. This helps patients make more informed decisions about their surgery. Additionally, the development of new, high - quality implant materials like bio - engineered implants and the increased use of minimally invasive surgical techniques are also important advancements.

Patient Reviews and Feedback

Patient reviews and feedback are an invaluable resource. They provide first - hand experiences and insights into the surgeon's skills, bedside manner, and the overall quality of care provided. In 2024, online platforms and social media made it easier than ever to access such reviews. However, patients should approach them with a critical eye. A single negative review may not necessarily indicate a problem, and a single glowing review does not guarantee an excellent experience. It is advisable to look for consistent feedback across multiple reviews and consider the source, especially feedback from patients who have undergone the same procedure.

Top Surgeons in New York City for Breast Augmentation

Dr. Adam R. Kolker

Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He is a well - known name in the field of breast augmentation. His education and training span some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world, including 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 on the cutting edge of advancements in plastic surgery.

Dr. Kolker offers a wide range of breast procedures, including breast asymmetry correction, breast lift, breast reduction, breast reconstruction, fat - transfer breast augmentation, tuberous breast correction, and more. He has been featured as one of America's best plastic surgeons in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 by Newsweek and is listed in all the featured categories: breast augmentation, facelift, eye lift, rhinoplasty, and liposuction. He is also included in New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues from 2008 - 2024 and Castle Connolly's America's Top Doctors list.

Patients have given him rave reviews. For example, one patient said, “I could not believe my eyes. Dr. Kolker had done something all other surgeons had told me was not possible. He made the impossible, possible. I could not believe it took a possibility and turned it into my reality! I will forever be thankful to him for correcting my asymmetrical breasts and making me so happy.” However, some patients have noted that his service can be quite expensive, and his staff often answers patient calls instead of him directly.

Dr. Nadia Afridi

Dr. Nadia Afridi is a popular surgeon in NYC for breast augmentation. She is a board - certified plastic surgeon and has received impressive reviews from clients due to her quality of work and the way she handles patients. She is very professional but also cares for patients like a friend. She and her staff are very helpful and accommodating, treating patients like royalty.

When it comes to breast augmentation surgery, she has four key considerations: the site of breast implant placement, the site of the incision to insert the breast implant, the type of implant (silicone or saline), and the size of the breast implant. Her practice usually lasts 1 - 2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Incisions are made in unnoticeable areas like the armpit, the underside of the breast, and around the areola to minimize scarring. She is experienced with both saline and silicone implants. She also performs breast augmentation for patients who are not satisfied with previous procedures and can correct various breast - related issues.

The estimated breast augmentation cost with Dr. Afridi is $8900. Some of the pros of choosing her include being a board - certified plastic surgeon, being very helpful and informative, having an accommodating staff, offering several breast augmentation procedures, using “try on the look” to determine the best size and shape for patients, and accepting credit cards and insurance. However, appointments are by appointment only.

Dr. Richard Swift

Dr. Richard Swift is another well - known cosmetic plastic surgeon in NYC. He is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. He has earned a number of prestigious awards for his experience and expertise. He provides detailed consultations on surgical techniques, alternative treatments, and pre - and post - operative care, and is dedicated to delivering personalized, high - quality, one - on - one care to ensure patient comfort and satisfaction.

Before the breast augmentation procedure, he recommends that patients refrain from vigorous exercise the day before and shower with antimicrobial soap the night before. After the surgery, patients' breasts will be swollen and tender, and they need to follow a set of post - operative instructions, such as wearing a surgical bra, refraining from strenuous activities until approved by the doctor. His price for breast augmentation ranges from $5000 - $10000, and it depends on the extent of surgery and the number of treatments needed. His price is fair and in line with other board - certified plastic surgeons.

Pros of choosing Dr. Swift include his board certifications, providing detailed consultations and pre - and post - operative care, having a caring and helpful staff, accepting credit cards, and having over 25 years of experience. However, like others, appointments are by appointment only.

Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg

Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg is a renowned double - board - certified plastic surgeon based in Manhattan, Southampton, Woodbury, and Smithtown in New York and Boca Raton, Florida. He is often called upon by media outlets for his plastic surgery expertise and makes frequent appearances on various news shows like Fox Good Day New York, CBS New York Eyewitness News, etc.

He offers breast augmentation with saline, silicone, and gummy bear implants in all different sizes. His one - on - one breast implant consultation helps patients determine which variety of breast implant will help them achieve their desired bust line. He takes into account the patient's goals, body frame, lifestyle, and other factors to choose the most suitable implants. He also offers natural breast augmentation, which combines breast enhancement with body sculpting by transferring fat from other areas of the body to the breasts. This is a minimally invasive alternative with a reduced recovery time.

Dr. Ross Ratner

Dr. Ross Ratner is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon and a recognized leader in breast augmentation surgery with over 15 years of experience and thousands of successful procedures. His minimally invasive techniques and patient - focused approach make him a top choice in NYC.

As a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, he brings unmatched expertise and dedication to delivering exceptional results. His surgical center is state - of - the - art, equipped with cutting - edge technology to provide the highest level of care for breast augmentation procedures. They specialize in advanced breast augmentation techniques, including both implants and fat transfer, to achieve natural - looking, beautifully sculpted results with reduced recovery time and minimized discomfort.

Dr. John E. Sherman

Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon renowned for his commitment to patient care and excellent results. He works closely with prospective patients to develop an individualized approach for breast augmentation.

He has in - depth knowledge of breast implants. For example, he was a select investigator during the original development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. He helps patients choose the right implants based on material, shape, size, and texture. He also educates patients about the meaningful benefits of breast augmentation, such as boosting self - confidence and lessening the appearance of pectus excavatum, as well as possible complications like BIA - ALCL and breast implant illness. He guides patients through the entire process, from consultation to recovery, and provides detailed pre - and post - operative instructions.

Types of Breast Augmentation and Their Considerations

Breast Implants

Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation

Fat transfer breast augmentation uses the patient's own body fat to enhance the breasts. Fat is harvested from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or flanks through liposuction and then injected into the breasts. This method offers a more natural look and feel, but it's typically recommended for those seeking a modest increase in size. It also has the added benefit of body contouring in the areas where fat is removed. However, not all of the transferred fat may survive, and multiple sessions may be required to achieve the desired results.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

Cost Factors

The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary widely. It depends on factors such as the type of procedure (implants or fat transfer), the complexity of the surgery, the surgeon's expertise, and the geographic location of the clinic. Top - rated surgeons with extensive experience and a good reputation may charge higher fees. The choice of implant material also affects the cost; for example, silicone breast implants are generally more expensive than saline implants, and gummy bear implants may be even pricier. Additionally, the cost may include fees for the surgical facility, anesthesia, and post - operative care.

Insurance Coverage

Most insurance companies do not cover the cost of elective cosmetic surgeries like breast augmentation, as they consider these procedures non - essential. However, if the procedure is performed for reconstructive purposes, such as after a mastectomy, insurance may cover a portion or all of the costs. Patients should communicate openly with their surgeons and insurance providers about the projected costs and potential coverage to avoid any unexpected expenses. Some clinics may offer payment plans or financing options to help make the procedure more affordable. Popular surgery financing options in NYC include CareCredit, which offers no - interest plans up to 24 months and extended payment plans for 24, 36, 48, or 60 months.

Preparing for Breast Augmentation Surgery

Consultation

A consultation with a surgeon is a crucial step. During the consultation, the patient can discuss their aesthetic goals, and the surgeon will review the patient's medical history, examine the breasts, take measurements, and note the existing breast shape and any skin laxity or ptosis. The surgeon will then explain the procedure, the available implant options, and any potential risks or complications. They will also devise a personalized treatment plan and schedule the surgical appointment. Many surgeons in New York offer free consultations, but some may charge a fee, especially if the consultation takes a long time. It is advisable to start with an online consultation if possible.

Pre - operative Preparation

Before the surgery, patients are usually advised to quit smoking or using any nicotine product, as nicotine can significantly impact the healing process. They may also need to taper off current medications or supplements that may increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John’s wort. Arranging for a trusted family member or friend to pick them up from the office after the surgery is essential. Designating a comfortable space at home for recovery and placing necessary items within reach is also important. Patients should plan to take 2 - 3 weeks off to rest and recuperate.

Recovery and Aftercare

In the initial days after breast augmentation surgery, it is normal to experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Patients will be given a prescription for pain medication to ease the discomfort, which is usually most pronounced during the first few days. They will also be provided with a surgical compression bra to wear for the next few weeks as they heal.

Within 2 - 3 weeks, the symptoms should subside enough for patients to resume light activities and work. At 6 - 8 weeks, they can start more strenuous activities, including going to the gym. Although the breasts may still feel overly firm and tight in the beginning, within a few months, the implants will have settled into place, and patients can enjoy their final results. Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are necessary to monitor the healing process and address any concerns.

Conclusion

Choosing the right surgeon for breast augmentation in New York City is a significant decision that can have a profound impact on a patient's life. With the new release of the ranking of public - owned strengths for breast augmentation surgery, patients have more information at their disposal. The top surgeons in NYC, such as Dr. Adam R. Kolker, Dr. Nadia Afridi, Dr. Richard Swift, Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg, Dr. Ross Ratner, and Dr. John E. Sherman, offer a range of expertise, experience, and patient - centered care.