Introduction to Breast Augmentation in New York City
Breast augmentation has become a popular cosmetic procedure for women seeking to enhance their body contour, improve self - confidence, and address various concerns related to breast size and shape. In New York City, a vibrant hub of plastic surgery, there are numerous hospitals and clinics offering high - quality breast augmentation services. This article will provide a comprehensive preview of the top breast augmentation prosthesis plastic surgery hospitals in New York City, along with in - depth information about the procedure itself.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size and change the shape of the breasts. It can be performed for several reasons:
- To enhance the body contour of a woman who feels her breast size is too small for personal reasons.
- To correct a reduction in breast volume that occurs naturally with age, after pregnancy, or due to weight loss.
- To balance a difference in breast size (uneven or asymmetrical breasts).
- As a reconstructive technique following breast surgery, such as after breast cancer treatment.
Most women who are unhappy with the size or shape of their breasts and are in overall good health with realistic expectations can be considered good candidates for breast augmentation. However, it's important to note that breast augmentation may not adequately address breast sagging and droopiness. In such cases, a breast lift may be recommended in conjunction with the augmentation procedure.
Types of Breast Implants
There are several types of breast implants available, each with its own characteristics:
| Implant Type | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saline Breast Implants | Composed of a sterile saline (saltwater) solution enclosed in an outer silicone shell. They can be filled after placement. | If the implant ruptures, the saline is simply absorbed by the body and expelled harmlessly. They may allow for a slightly shorter incision. | They may feel firmer and rounder than silicone implants and may have a slightly higher risk of rippling. |
| Silicone Breast Implants | Filled with a thick silicone gel encased by an outer silicone shell. | They closely mimic the texture and feel of natural breast tissue. They are generally less susceptible to rippling, especially for thin - framed individuals. | In the event of a rupture, the silicone gel may remain inside the shell or move into the breast pocket, and the implant may not appear deflated. Regular monitoring with physical exams and possibly imaging is required. |
| Cohesive Gel (Gummy Bear) Breast Implants | Made of a highly durable, form - stable silicone gel. They maintain their shape even if the implant shell breaks. | They create an exceptionally natural shape and feel, have a diminished rate of rippling, and are more resistant to leaks in case of rupture. They can create a more natural - appearing blend between the chest wall and the breasts. | A slightly larger incision may be required for insertion, and they are relatively new on the market. |
Top Breast Augmentation Plastic Surgery Hospitals in New York City
Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They use the latest technologies, such as advanced 3D imaging, to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look. This technology allows patients to virtually try on different sizes of breasts on a computer monitor, enabling them to make more informed decisions about the size and shape that will look best on their unique bodies.
There are two main types of breast implants available at Mount Sinai: silicone and saline. The surgeons also offer a fat - transfer technique called Natural Fill®, which involves removing fat from the buttocks or abdomen using liposuction and then inserting it into the breasts. Before scheduling the surgery, patients undergo a physical exam and answer a series of health - related questions to confirm their candidacy for breast augmentation.
Nadia Afridi, MD
Dr. Nadia S. Afridi is a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons in Canada, an associate fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Her practice has a significant focus on breast augmentation, accounting for 36% of her service focus.
Dr. Afridi takes a personalized approach, specifically interested in women's health issues as they relate to plastic surgery. She consults with patients to understand their desires for enhancing breast size and helps them choose the most suitable implant type or other augmentation method based on their body type and goals.
Manhattan Aesthetic Surgery
Under the leadership of Dr. Nicholas Vendemia, Manhattan Aesthetic Surgery is a full - service plastic surgery practice. They specialize in breast augmentation, along with rhinoplasty, liposuction, laser treatments, and injectables.
The practice emphasizes safety, innovation, and has a caring and skilled staff. They provide a range of implant options and ensure that every procedure is tailored to the patient's specific needs and aesthetic goals. Patients can expect a high - quality experience from consultation to post - operative care.
West Village Plastic Surgery, the Natural Look
Dr. Kim at West Village Plastic Surgery has developed an algorithm for facial fillers, which also reflects his commitment to natural - looking results. Breast augmentation accounts for 28% of their service focus.
The practice's philosophy is to provide the highest quality of treatment and service to improve, restore, and harmonize the face and body. They offer a variety of implant options and ensure that the procedure is performed with the utmost precision to achieve a natural - looking outcome.
Norman Rowe, MD
Dr. Norman Rowe, MD is a board - certified plastic surgeon with a well - known practice in New York City's Upper East Side. He specializes in breast procedures, rhinoplasty procedures, and revision procedures.
With his extensive experience, Dr. Rowe can help patients who desire any type of face, breast, body, or skin treatments. For breast augmentation, he guides patients through the process of choosing the right implants and incision type to achieve the best possible results.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Consultation
The first step in the breast augmentation process is a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will discuss the patient's goals, medical history, and expectations. They will perform a physical examination of the breasts to assess their current condition, size, and shape. The surgeon will also provide information about the different types of implants, incision options, and potential risks and complications.
Some surgeons use advanced imaging technology, such as Vectra XT 3D - imaging, to help patients visualize the possible results of the procedure. This technology takes into account factors like the patient's exact measurements, skin texture, and volumetric analysis to create a 3D simulation of the breast augmentation results.
Incision Placement
The incision for breast augmentation can be placed in several locations:
- Inframammary Fold (IMF): This incision is placed underneath the breasts, just above the natural fold. It allows for direct access to the breast tissue and is well - concealed by the breast fold.
- Periareolar Incision: Made around the lower edge of the areola, the darker area of skin surrounding the nipple. It provides good access for implant placement and is camouflaged by the texture and color of the areolar tissue.
- Transaxillary Incision: Placed near or within the armpit, generally in the fold where the arm meets the chest. It offers the benefit of no scar on the breast itself, but it may limit implant placement options.
Implant Placement
Breast implants can be placed either under the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or behind the pectoral (chest) muscle (submuscular placement). Placing the implants behind the chest muscle may reduce the risk of capsular contracture but may add a few days to the recovery time compared to subglandular placement. Women with very little natural breast tissue may achieve a more natural - looking result with submuscular placement.
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation can be performed with general anesthesia or IV sedation (also called twilight anesthesia). A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the procedure to ensure safety.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery process after breast augmentation varies from patient to patient but generally takes between six to eight weeks. Here are some key aspects of the recovery and aftercare:
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, patients will recover in a monitored environment. They may experience some swelling, bruising, and soreness, which are normal. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia may be used to decrease discomfort. Most patients can return home the same day after the procedure if it is an outpatient surgery, but they will need an escort as they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia.
Medication and Pain Management
The surgeon will prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort during the initial days of recovery. Patients should take the medication as directed. Ice packs may also be helpful to reduce swelling.
Compression Bra
Patients are usually required to wear a compression bra to support the breasts and aid in the healing process. The compression bra should be worn as instructed by the surgeon.
Activity Restrictions
Strenuous activities, including exercise, heavy lifting, and sexual activity, should be restricted for a certain period. Most surgeons recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for at least two weeks and gradually increasing activity as the recovery progresses. Patients should also refrain from sleeping on their stomachs during the early stages of recovery to avoid putting pressure on the breasts.
Follow - up Appointments
Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are crucial to monitor the healing process, check for any complications, and ensure that the implants are settling properly. The first follow - up appointment is usually a day or two after the surgery, and subsequent appointments will be scheduled at appropriate intervals.
Risks and Complications
While breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure when performed by a board - certified plastic surgeon, there are potential risks and complications:
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to become hard, misshapen, and possibly painful. It can be treated by removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants. Some surgeons use techniques such as acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to help prevent capsular contracture.
- Infection: Infection can occur within a week after surgery and is usually treated with antibiotics. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed.
- Bleeding: Although rare, bleeding can occur during or after the surgery. It may require additional treatment, such as a blood transfusion or a return to the operating room to stop the bleeding.
- Implant Rupture: An implant can rupture due to injury or normal wear and tear. If a saline implant ruptures, the salt - water is absorbed by the body, and the breast will appear deflated. A silicone implant rupture may require more extensive evaluation, and a revision surgery may be needed to replace the implant.
- Changes in Sensation: Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation, which can be temporary or permanent.
Cost of Breast Augmentation in New York City
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of procedure, the type of implants, the surgeon's fees, facility costs, and anesthesia fees. On average, the cost of breast augmentation ranges from $3,900 to $6,000, but this may not include the cost of the implants themselves.
It's important to note that patients should not choose a surgeon based solely on cost. Quality and experience are crucial when it comes to plastic surgery, and it's worth investing in a reputable surgeon to ensure the best possible outcome and minimize the risk of complications.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation is a popular and effective cosmetic procedure that can help women achieve their desired breast size and shape, enhancing their self - confidence and body contour. In New York City, there are many excellent plastic surgery hospitals and clinics offering high - quality breast augmentation services. From the initial consultation to the recovery process, patients can expect personalized care and attention from experienced surgeons.
However, it's essential for patients to have realistic expectations, understand the risks and complications associated with the procedure, and follow the surgeon's aftercare instructions. If you're considering breast augmentation in New York City, take the time to research different hospitals and surgeons, schedule consultations, and make an informed decision that is right for you.
For more information about breast augmentation or to schedule a consultation with a top - rated plastic surgeon in New York City, don't hesitate to reach out to one of the recommended facilities mentioned in this article. Take the first step towards achieving your aesthetic goals and enhancing your self - confidence today!
