Introduction
Breast filling, also known as breast augmentation, is a highly sought - after plastic surgery procedure in New York City. Women opt for this surgery for various reasons, such as enhancing body contour, correcting breast asymmetry, or restoring breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top hospitals and clinics in New York City for breast filling, the different types of procedures available, factors to consider when choosing a surgeon, and much more.
Top Breast Filling Hospitals in New York City
Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in breast augmentation. They use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look. Before the surgery, a physical exam and a series of health - related questions are asked to confirm the patient's candidacy.
They offer different treatment options, including two types of implants (silicone and saline) and a non - implant option called Naturalfill. Silicone breast implants look and feel natural in the breasts, while saline breast implants are firmer and rounder. Naturalfill is a fat transfer technique pioneered by Mount Sinai surgeons. It involves removing fat from the buttocks or abdomen via liposuction and then inserting it into the breasts.
NewYork Presbyterian
NewYork Presbyterian's plastic and reconstructive surgeons are passionate about helping patients achieve their desired appearance. They offer a full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, including breast reduction surgery, breast lift surgery (mastopexy), breast augmentation with implants, and diep flap surgery. The surgeons work closely with patients starting from the initial consultation to understand their goals and recommend the best options.
Gotham Plastic Surgery
At Gotham Plastic Surgery in New York City, breast augmentation is a popular procedure. They offer a variety of breast implant options. Saline implants consist of a silicone shell filled with sterile saline water and are the most economical option. Silicone implants are pre - filled with a silicone gel that looks and feels more like natural breast tissue. Cohesive gel implants, also known as gummy bear implants, are firmer and won't leak in case of a tear or rupture.
Implants can be placed either over the chest muscle (subglandular placement) or directly under the muscle (submuscular placement). The choice depends on multiple factors. The procedure can be done with local anesthesia and sedation or general anesthesia, and patients can usually return home the same day.
Rapaport Plastic Surgery
Dr. David P. Rapaport, a board - certified plastic surgeon at Rapaport Plastic Surgery, is a world - recognized expert in breast augmentation and breast implant revision. He offers breast augmentation with both saline and silicone implants. The incision for the surgery can be placed in the underarm, under the breast, or within the areola, with the underarm option being scarless when an endoscope is used.
Breast augmentation at this clinic can be performed with general anesthesia or IV sedation. Patients typically recover in about two to three weeks, and they can often return to work in a few days. The results of breast augmentation here can provide a significant confidence boost and usually last a long time.
New York Group for Plastic Surgery
New York Group for Plastic Surgery offers a range of breast augmentation options. Breast implants are made of a soft silicone outer shell filled with FDA - approved silicone or saline. Autologous fat transfer is also an option, which involves removing fat from an area with excess fat and injecting it into the breasts. They use Vectra XT 3D - imaging to help patients visualize the results. The recovery process varies depending on the method used, with autologous fat transfer having a shorter recovery timeline.
NYU Langone Health
NYU Langone's plastic surgeons are experts in breast reconstruction and cosmetic breast surgery. They offer all the latest reconstruction techniques, such as breast reduction using the short - scar method, breast lift surgery, and secondary breast reconstruction and augmentation surgery. They also perform breast reconstruction using perforator flaps. An innovative procedure called "Breast in a Day" is available, which combines a nipple - sparing mastectomy and breast reconstruction using implants in one day.
Types of Breast Filling Procedures
Breast Implants
Breast implants are the most common method of breast augmentation. There are two main types of implants based on the filling material: silicone and saline.
- Silicone Implants: These implants are filled with medical - grade silicone gel. They have a more natural look and feel, closely resembling real breast tissue. However, in the unlikely event of a rupture, the gel may not be as easily detectable as with saline implants, and regular monitoring is required. For example, at Mount Sinai and Rapaport Plastic Surgery, silicone implants are a popular choice for patients seeking a natural appearance.
- Saline Implants: Saline implants have a silicone outer shell filled with sterile saline water. If the implant ruptures, the saline is absorbed by the body and expelled harmlessly. They may require a smaller incision in some cases and are generally considered to have less of a tendency toward capsular contracture. Many clinics like Gotham Plastic Surgery offer saline implants as an economical and safe option.
Implants also come in different shapes (round and teardrop) and surface textures (smooth and textured). Round implants are the traditional choice, while teardrop - shaped implants can add volume to the upper chest area. Textured implants may help keep the implant from moving within the breast pocket.
Autologous Fat Transfer (Naturalfill)
This procedure involves taking fat from an area of the patient's body, such as the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks, and injecting it into the breasts. Mount Sinai surgeons have pioneered and perfected the Naturalfill technique. One of the main advantages of this method is that it uses the patient's own tissue, reducing the risk of rejection. However, it can only increase the breast size by about one full cup size, and not all of the transferred fat may survive.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Surgeon
Qualifications and Experience
It is crucial to choose a surgeon who is board - certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). They should have at least 10 years of experience in breast plastic surgery. For example, at Rapaport Plastic Surgery, Dr. David P. Rapaport is a board - certified expert with extensive experience in breast augmentation and revision. A surgeon with breast reconstructive experience is also a plus, as it shows their comprehensive understanding of breast anatomy and surgical techniques.
Communication and Trust
The right surgeon will take the time to listen to your goals, understand your medical history and physical characteristics, and explain all the options available for breast augmentation. You should feel comfortable communicating with them and trust their judgment. During the consultation, you can gauge the surgeon's communication style and whether they respect your concerns. Surgeons at NewYork Presbyterian are known for their patient - centered approach and effective communication.
Reputation and Patient Reviews
Look for reviews from previous patients to get an idea of the surgeon's track record. Positive reviews regarding the surgical results, patient care, and post - operative support are a good sign. For instance, Dr. Jordan Jacobs at New York Group for Plastic Surgery has received positive feedback from patients for his exceptional surgical skills and thorough follow - up care.
Surgical Facility
The surgery should be performed at an accredited outpatient surgery center or a well - equipped hospital. Facilities like the Vanguard Surgical Center in Bergen County, NJ, are accredited and ensure a safe surgical environment. The availability of advanced technology, such as 3D imaging, at the surgical facility can also enhance the surgical experience and outcome.
Pre - Operative Considerations
Health Assessment
Before the surgery, you will undergo a physical examination and a series of health - related questions to determine your suitability for breast augmentation. Your surgeon will want to know about any pre - existing medical conditions, allergies, medications you are taking, and your smoking habits. If you have any underlying health issues, they need to be well - managed before the surgery. For example, if you are a smoker, you may be advised to quit smoking for a certain period before and after the surgery to reduce the risk of complications.
Understanding the Procedure
During the consultation, your surgeon will explain in detail what happens during the breast augmentation procedure. This includes the type of anesthesia to be used (local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia), the incision locations, the implant placement (over or under the chest muscle), and the expected recovery time. You should also ask about the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery, such as infection, bleeding, capsular contracture, and changes in nipple sensation.
Setting Realistic Expectations
It is important to have realistic expectations about the results of breast augmentation. While the surgery can enhance the size and shape of your breasts, it may not completely transform your body. Your surgeon can help you understand what is achievable based on your body type and goals. For example, if you have very small breasts, you may not be able to achieve an extremely large cup size without significant strain on your body and a higher risk of complications.
Post - Operative Care
Pain Management
After breast augmentation, you will experience some discomfort. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to manage the pain for the first few days. It is important to take the medication as directed and report any unusual or severe pain to your doctor. Applying ice packs to the surgical area can also help reduce swelling and discomfort.
Compression Bra
You will be required to wear a compression bra for a certain period to support the breasts and promote proper healing. The compression bra helps reduce swelling and keeps the implants in place. Make sure to wear it as recommended by your surgeon and follow the instructions on how to properly care for it.
Activity Restrictions
Strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting, exercise, and sexual activity, should be restricted for a few weeks after the surgery. Most patients can return to work within a few days to a week, depending on the nature of their job. It is important to gradually increase your activity level as you recover and follow your surgeon's advice. For example, at Gotham Plastic Surgery, patients are typically advised to avoid strenuous exercise for at least a month after the surgery.
Follow - Up Appointments
Your surgeon will schedule follow - up appointments to monitor your recovery, check for any complications, and answer your questions. These appointments are crucial for ensuring a successful outcome. Make sure to attend all the scheduled appointments and communicate any concerns you may have during these visits.
Potential Risks and Complications
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture occurs when the body forms a capsule of scar tissue around the implant, and the capsule contracts and squeezes the implant. This can result in breasts that appear round and high and feel hard to the touch. Surgeons take precautions to minimize this risk, such as using the "no - touch" technique and avoiding contamination during the surgery. At Rapaport Plastic Surgery, the incidence of capsular contracture is extremely rare due to their meticulous surgical techniques.
Infection
Although rare, infection can occur after breast augmentation. Signs of infection include fever, redness, swelling, and pain at the surgical site. If you suspect an infection, you should contact your surgeon immediately. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat the infection.
Implant Rupture
Both silicone and saline implants can rupture. With saline implants, if a rupture occurs, the saline is absorbed by the body and expelled. Silicone implant rupture may be less obvious, and regular monitoring is required. If an implant rupture is detected, surgery may be needed to replace the implant.
Changes in Nipple Sensation
Most patients experience some change or loss in nipple sensation after breast augmentation. However, this usually resolves itself during the recovery process, generally within about six months. In rare cases, the change in sensation may be permanent.
Cost of Breast Filling in New York City
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of implants used, the surgeon's experience and reputation, the surgical facility, and the complexity of the procedure. On average, the cost of breast augmentation can range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more. It is important to get a detailed quote from your surgeon, which should include the cost of the implants, surgical fees, anesthesia fees, and post - operative care.
Some insurance companies may cover the cost of breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, but cosmetic breast augmentation is usually not covered by insurance. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider before the surgery to understand your coverage options.
Conclusion
Breast filling in New York City offers a range of options for women looking to enhance their breast appearance. From the top hospitals and clinics with experienced surgeons to the different types of procedures available, there are many factors to consider. By carefully choosing a qualified surgeon, understanding the procedure and its potential risks, and following the pre - and post - operative care instructions, you can achieve the desired results.
If you are considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a reputable plastic surgeon in New York City. They can provide you with personalized advice and guidance based on your specific needs and goals. Share this guide with your friends and family who may also be interested in breast filling procedures and continue to explore our website for more information on plastic surgery and related topics.
