Plastic Surgery Guide for Minimally Invasive Breast Augmentation Surgery in New York City!

Introduction

Breast augmentation is a widely sought - after plastic surgery procedure, especially in a vibrant city like New York City. Minimally invasive breast augmentation offers women the opportunity to enhance their appearance with less trauma, shorter recovery times, and often less noticeable scarring. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore every aspect of minimally invasive breast augmentation surgery in NYC, from the reasons behind the procedure to the post - operative care.

Reasons for Breast Augmentation

There are numerous reasons why a woman might consider breast augmentation. According to multiple sources, some of the most common reasons include:

• Volume Loss: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight loss can all lead to a reduction in breast volume. For example, many women notice that their breasts lose fullness after having children, and breast augmentation can help restore that lost volume.
• Asymmetry: Natural breast asymmetry is common, and some women may feel self - conscious about it. Breast augmentation can create a more balanced and symmetrical look.
• Congenital Deformities: Some women are born with breast deformities, and breast augmentation can correct these issues and improve their overall body contour.
• Personal Preference: Simply wanting to enhance the size and shape of the breasts for aesthetic reasons is also a valid motivation. Many women feel that larger and shapelier breasts can boost their confidence and improve their self - image.

Candidates for Minimally Invasive Breast Augmentation

Not all women are suitable candidates for minimally invasive breast augmentation. The ideal candidate typically meets the following criteria:

• Good Health: The patient should be in overall good physical health, without any major medical conditions that could increase the risks associated with surgery. This includes having a healthy heart, lungs, and a normal immune system.
• Non - Pregnancy and Non - Breastfeeding: It is recommended to wait until after completing childbearing and breastfeeding before undergoing breast augmentation. Hormonal changes and weight fluctuations during pregnancy and nursing can affect the results of the surgery.
• Realistic Expectations: The patient should have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. Breast augmentation can enhance the size and shape of the breasts, but it may not achieve perfection, and it's important to understand the limitations of the procedure.
• Desire for Subtle Enhancement: Minimally invasive techniques are often more suitable for women who want a relatively subtle increase in breast size, rather than a very large and dramatic change.

Finding the Right Surgeon in NYC

Choosing the right plastic surgeon is crucial for a successful breast augmentation procedure. Here are some tips to help you find the best surgeon in New York City:

1. Board Certification: Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Board certification indicates that the surgeon has met the high standards of education, training, and experience required in the field of plastic surgery.
2. Experience: Look for a surgeon with extensive experience in performing breast augmentation surgeries, especially minimally invasive techniques. A surgeon who has performed many such procedures is more likely to achieve excellent results and handle any potential complications.
3. Reputation: Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the surgeon's reputation. You can also ask for before - and - after photos of previous patients to assess the quality of their work.
4. Personal Connection: During your consultation, pay attention to how well the surgeon listens to your concerns and communicates with you. You should feel comfortable asking questions and discussing your goals, and the surgeon should provide honest and clear answers.
5. Hospital Privileges: Check if the surgeon has surgical privileges at a nearby accredited hospital or outpatient surgery center. This ensures that the surgery will be performed in a safe and regulated environment.

Types of Breast Implants

There are several types of breast implants available for minimally invasive breast augmentation, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The main types are:

Saline Implants

Saline implants consist of a silicone shell filled with sterile saline water. These implants have the following characteristics:

• Economical: They are generally the least costly option among breast implants, making them more accessible for some patients.
• Tailored Size: The implants can be filled to the precise size desired during the surgery, allowing for a more customized fit.
• Visible Rupture: If a saline implant ruptures, the saline is absorbed by the body, and the breast will visibly deflate. This can be an advantage as it makes the rupture easily detectable.
• Firmer Feel: Compared to silicone implants, saline implants may feel a bit firmer, especially in patients with less natural breast tissue.

Silicone Implants

Silicone implants have a silicone shell filled with medical - grade silicone gel. Their features include:

• Natural Look and Feel: Silicone implants closely mimic the texture and feel of natural breast tissue, resulting in a more natural appearance.
• Less Visible Rippling: They are less likely to cause visible rippling under the skin compared to saline implants, which is particularly beneficial for women with thin skin or little breast tissue.
• Regular Monitoring: Since a ruptured silicone implant may not be as obvious as a saline implant rupture, women with silicone implants need to undergo regular monitoring, usually through MRI scans, to check for leaks.

Cohesive Gel Implants (Gummy Bear Implants)

These implants are also known as gummy bear implants because of their firm and cohesive silicone gel. They offer the following benefits:

• Shape Maintenance: Gummy bear implants are more likely to maintain their shape over time, reducing the risk of the implant becoming misshapen or shifting within the breast.
• Lower Leak Risk: In the event of a tear or rupture, the cohesive gel is less likely to leak out compared to other types of silicone implants.
• Longer Incision: Due to their firm consistency, they require a slightly longer incision for placement compared to other implant types.

Minimally Invasive Techniques

Minimally invasive breast augmentation techniques aim to reduce the amount of tissue damage, pain, and scarring associated with traditional breast augmentation. Some of these techniques include:

Keller Funnel® Implant Insertion

This technique involves the use of a Keller Funnel for silicone breast implant placement. The benefits are significant:

• Smaller Incision: It allows the placement of a large implant under the breast while making a much smaller incision than normally needed. This results in a significantly smaller scar compared to surgeons who do not use the Keller Funnel.
• Reduced Infection and Capsular Contracture: By protecting the integrity of the implant and keeping it clean, it minimizes infection rates and the formation of capsular contracture (internal scarring around the implant).
• Less Trauma: The implant is placed with minimal stress and trauma to the surrounding skin, leading to less wound - healing complications and pain.

Endoscopic - Assisted Techniques

Surgeons may use an endoscope, a tool with a camera and surgical instruments at the end, to perform the surgery. For example, the implant can be placed through a cut under the arm using an endoscope. This method has the following advantages:

• Scar - Free Breast: There will be no scar around the breast, as the incision is made in the underarm area.
• Precision: The endoscope allows for precise visualization of the surgical area, which can lead to more accurate implant placement.

The Consultation Process

The consultation is a crucial step in the breast augmentation process. Here's what to expect during your consultation with a plastic surgeon in NYC:

1. Medical History Review: The surgeon will ask about your medical history, including any previous surgeries, allergies, and current medications. This information helps the surgeon assess your suitability for the procedure and identify any potential risks.
2. Breast Examination: A physical examination of your breasts will be conducted to evaluate their current size, shape, and tissue quality. The surgeon will also check for any existing lumps or abnormalities.
3. Goal Discussion: You should discuss your goals for the surgery, including the desired size, shape, and look of your breasts. Be as specific as possible and bring along any "wish pics" to help convey your vision.
4. 3D Imaging: Many surgeons offer 3D imaging technology to help you visualize how your breasts will look after the surgery. This can be a valuable tool in making decisions about implant size and shape.
5. Implant Options: The surgeon will explain the different types of implants available and help you choose the one that is best suited for your body type and aesthetic goals. They will also discuss implant placement options (over or under the muscle).
6. Procedure Details: You will learn about the surgical procedure itself, including the incision location, anesthesia options, and expected duration of the surgery. The surgeon will also address any concerns or questions you may have about the process.
7. Recovery and Aftercare: Information about the recovery process, including post - operative pain management, activity restrictions, and follow - up appointments, will be provided. You should understand what to expect during the recovery period and how to take care of yourself to ensure optimal results.

The Surgical Procedure

Minimally invasive breast augmentation surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. Here's a general overview of what happens during the surgery:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is usually given either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation (twilight anesthesia) to ensure comfort during the surgery. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient's vital signs throughout the procedure.
2. Incision: The surgeon will make a small incision in a carefully chosen location, such as under the breast, around the areola, or in the underarm area. The choice of incision depends on several factors, including the type of implant, the patient's body type, and the surgeon's preference.
3. Pocket Creation: Working through the incision, the surgeon will create a pocket either directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or behind the pectoral (chest) muscle (submuscular placement). The pocket is where the implant will be placed.
4. Implant Placement: The chosen breast implant is then inserted into the pocket and centered beneath the nipple. If saline implants are used, they may be filled after placement. The surgeon will ensure that the implant is properly positioned and symmetrical.
5. Incision Closure: After the implant is in place, the incision is closed using multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures. A layer of gauze and a bandage may be placed over the breasts to aid in healing.

The entire surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from minimally invasive breast augmentation is generally quicker and less painful compared to traditional breast augmentation, but it still requires proper care and attention. Here's what to expect during the recovery period:

1. Immediate Post - Operative Period: After the surgery, you will recover in a state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by a nurse until you are awake and stable. You may feel tired or sore, but a specialized local anesthesia can help decrease discomfort. Since it is an outpatient procedure, you will be able to return home the same day, but you will need someone to drive you.
2. Medication and Rest: The surgeon will prescribe pain medication to manage any post - operative pain. You should rest as much as possible during the first few days after surgery and avoid strenuous activities. Most patients can return to light daily activities within a few days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least two weeks.
3. Support Garment: You will be required to wear a support garment or surgical bra as instructed to support your breasts and aid in the healing process. Some patients may also wear a sports bra without an underwire after the initial recovery period.
4. Follow - up Appointments: Regular follow - up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your recovery and check the results of the surgery. The surgeon will examine your incisions, check for any signs of complications, and provide further instructions as needed.
5. Scar Care: Your scars will be firm and pink at first and may widen slightly before starting to fade. It's important to follow the surgeon's instructions regarding scar care, which may include using silicone sheets or creams to help reduce the appearance of scars.
6. Full Recovery: Full recovery can take several weeks to months, with the swelling in your breasts gradually subsiding over time. The final result of the surgery is usually visible around 6 months after the procedure.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries some risks and potential complications. Some of the common risks include:

• Capsular Contracture: This is one of the most common complications. It occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to become hard, misshapen, and sometimes painful. Treatment may involve removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants.
• Infection: There is a risk of infection after surgery, which usually presents within a week. Infections can often be treated with antibiotics, but in some cases, the implant may need to be removed.
• Implant Rupture: Implants can rupture due to injury, normal wear and tear, or other factors. If a saline implant ruptures, the saline is absorbed by the body, and the breast will deflate. Silicone implant ruptures may require an MRI to detect, and a revision surgery is usually needed to replace the implant.
• Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery can occur, although it is relatively rare. This may require additional treatment or surgery to stop the bleeding.
• Changes in Sensation: Some women may experience temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensation after surgery. This can include numbness, decreased sensitivity, or increased sensitivity.
• Asymmetry: Although the surgeon will try to create symmetrical breasts, there is a possibility of some degree of asymmetry in the final result. This may require additional surgery to correct.

Cost of Minimally Invasive Breast Augmentation in NYC

The cost of minimally invasive breast augmentation in New York City can vary depending on several factors, including:

• Surgeon's Fee: The experience and reputation of the surgeon can significantly impact the cost. Highly experienced and well - known surgeons may charge more for their services.
• Type of Implants: Saline implants are generally less expensive than silicone or cohesive gel implants. The brand and quality of the implants also play a role in the overall cost.
• Anesthesia and Operating Room Fees: The cost of anesthesia and using the operating room facilities at an accredited hospital or outpatient surgery center is included in the total cost.