Introduction
Breast augmentation with prosthetics is a popular cosmetic procedure that can enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of a woman's breasts. In New York City, there are numerous public and private hospitals that offer this service. Whether you're looking to improve your self - confidence, correct volume loss after pregnancy or weight loss, or address breast asymmetry, finding the right hospital and surgeon is crucial. This article will explore the options available in New York City for breast augmentation with prosthetics, including the procedures, benefits, risks, and some of the top hospitals and surgeons.
Understanding Breast Augmentation with Prosthetics
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that uses breast implants or fat transfer to increase the size and improve the shape of the breasts. It is often sought after by women who are unhappy with the size or appearance of their breasts. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2020, nearly 200,000 women underwent breast augmentation in the United States. This desire for fuller, shapelier breasts is likely to continue in 2025.
Reasons for Choosing Breast Augmentation
- Enhancing Body Contour: Some women feel that their breasts are too small or disproportionate to the rest of their body. Breast augmentation can help create a more balanced and proportionate silhouette.
- Correcting Volume Loss: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight loss can cause a reduction in breast volume. Augmentation can restore the fullness that was lost.
- Addressing Breast Asymmetry: Many women have some degree of breast asymmetry. The procedure can help create a more symmetrical appearance.
- Reconstructive Purposes: Breast cancer survivors who have undergone mastectomy may choose breast augmentation as part of the breast reconstruction process.
Types of Breast Implants
Saline Breast Implants
Saline breast implants consist of a silicone outer shell filled with a sterile salt - water solution. One of the main advantages of saline implants is that they can be filled after insertion, allowing for a smaller incision. In the event of a rupture, the saline is safely absorbed by the body. However, they may not feel as natural as silicone implants and are more prone to folding or wrinkling, especially in women with thin skin or little body fat.
Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants have a silicone outer shell filled with a silicone gel. They more closely mimic the look and feel of natural breast tissue. There are different types of silicone implants, such as cohesive silicone gel implants (also known as gummy bear implants). These implants maintain their shape even if the shell breaks. However, they arrive pre - filled, which may require a slightly larger incision. There is also a risk of “silent rupture,” where the implant has ruptured but the patient may not be aware of it as the body cannot absorb silicone.
Implant Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|
Saline | Smaller incision, body can absorb filling in case of rupture | Less natural feel, more prone to wrinkling |
Silicone | More natural look and feel | Requires larger incision, risk of silent rupture |
Procedure of Breast Augmentation
Consultation
Before the surgery, a patient will have a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will perform a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of the breasts. The patient and the surgeon will discuss the patient's goals, and together they will create a surgical plan. This includes selecting the proper implant type, incision type, implant placement, and size. Some surgeons, like those at New York Group for Plastic Surgery, utilize advanced 3D imaging technology, such as Vectra XT, to help the patient visualize the potential results.
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another form of “twilight” sedation. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the procedure to ensure safety.
Incision and Implant Placement
The chosen incision method and placement of the implant will be customized to the patient's anatomy to ensure natural - looking results. The incision can be made either below the crease near where the breast meets the chest (inframammary fold), around the areola (periareolar incision), or in the armpit (transaxillary incision). The implant can be placed either directly behind 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 also add a few days to the recovery time.
Closure
Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures are typically used to close the incisions. The surgeon may place a layer of gauze and a bandage over the new breasts to speed healing. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete.
Recovery Process
The recovery process after breast augmentation varies from patient to patient. After the surgery, the patient will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a nurse until they feel well enough to be discharged. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia is used to decrease discomfort. Since it is an outpatient procedure, the patient can return home the same day, but they should have an escort as they cannot drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia.
Patients may feel tired or sore following surgery. Many patients are able to return to most daily activities within days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for around two weeks. The swelling in the breasts will take several months to fully dissipate, with the final result typically being visible around 6 months. Scars will be firm and pink for at least six weeks and will gradually fade over time but will never disappear completely.
Benefits of Breast Augmentation
- Enhanced Confidence: Achieving the desired breast size and shape can significantly boost a woman's self - confidence and self - esteem.
- Improved Proportions: It can enhance overall body proportions, creating a more balanced silhouette.
- Customized Results: With options for different types, shapes, and sizes of implants, the procedure can be tailored to meet the patient's specific aesthetic goals.
- Rejuvenated Appearance: For women who have experienced volume loss due to aging, pregnancy, or weight changes, breast augmentation can restore fullness and create a youthful contour.
- Broader Wardrobe Options: A more proportionate breast size opens up more choices in clothing, providing a comfortable and flattering fit in a wider variety of styles.
Risks and Complications
Capsular Contracture
This is one of the most common complications after breast augmentation. It occurs when the capsule surrounding the implant restricts the implant, resulting in a misshapen appearance, hardening of the area, and pain. It can be treated by removing the implant and scar tissue, and, if desired, placing new implants. Some surgeons use acellular dermal matrix (ADM) such as Strattice or Alloderm to resist capsular contracture, and may also prescribe Accolate to lower the rates.
Infection
Infection typically presents within a week after surgery and can usually be treated by antibiotics. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed.
Implant Rupture
Rupture can occur as a result of injury or from normal compression and movement of the breast causing friction with the man - made shell of the implant. If a saline implant ruptures, the salt - water is harmlessly absorbed by the body, resulting in the breast appearing deflated. With both saline and silicone implant ruptures, a revision surgery is usually performed to replace the implant and remove any troublesome scar tissue.
Changes in Sensation
Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in breast and nipple sensation, including pain, tenderness, a tingling sensation, or numbness.
Public and Private Hospitals in New York City for Breast Augmentation
Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They offer a range of options, including two types of implants (silicone and saline) and a non - implant option called Naturalfill®, which uses a fat transfer technique. Before the surgery, they use advanced 3D imaging technology to help the patient visualize the results and choose the best size and shape for their body. The surgeons also take the time to understand the patient's desires and answer all their questions during the consultation.
David K. Funt, MD
Dr. David K. Funt has multiple locations in New York, including in New York City, Garden City, and Woodmere. Many of his patients have reported that breast augmentation has helped them achieve a more proportionate figure and regain their youthful appearance. He can be a great resource for patients considering breast augmentation, providing them with information about the various options available.
Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery
At Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. James N. Romanelli and his team provide personalized attention in a safe and professional environment. They serve residents of New York, including Long Island and New York City. Dr. Romanelli offers both surgical and non - surgical procedures, with breast augmentation being one of their services.
Aristocrat Plastic Surgery and Med Aesthetics
Located in Manhattan and Great Neck, Aristocrat Plastic Surgery is led by Dr. Kevin Tehrani, a top New York plastic surgeon. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. They offer the best in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, including a novel approach to breast augmentation.
Harrison H. Lee, MD, DMD, FACS
This experienced plastic surgeon provides services of exceptional quality at clinics in New York and Beverly Hills. His focus is to enhance the appearance of patients in a subtle and natural manner. He offers breast augmentation with options for silicone and saline breast implants, and can correct breast asymmetry using different sized implants.
Lara Devgan MD Plastic Surgery and Reconstructive Surgery
Dr. Lara Devgan is an expert and experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon. She performs breast augmentation with both saline and silicone implants, and the incisions for the implants are hidden either underneath the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit. The comfort, safety, privacy, and satisfaction of patients are her primary concerns.
Olivia Hutchinson, MD
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a board - certified plastic surgeon with advanced training in aesthetic plastic surgery. She specializes in cosmetic surgery of the face, breast, and body. She offers breast augmentation with saline or silicone implants, along with other surgical and non - surgical procedures.
Lenox Hill Plastic Surgery Center
An expert and experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon at this center performs long - lasting image enhancement procedures, including breast augmentation. All procedures are performed at the onsite accredited operating facility, with the comfort and safety of patients being the main concern.
Cosmedica - The Plastic Surgery Center of New York
Founded by Dr. Howard T. Bellin, a well - known plastic surgeon, Cosmedica offers breast augmentation services. Dr. Bellin is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has extensive experience in the field. He has also written books about plastic surgery and has been featured on many national television programs.
The Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Group
This group in New York City offers breast augmentation using Vectra 3D result simulation, which helps patients visualize the potential results of the procedure. They can address various reasons for breast augmentation, such as lack of volume, asymmetry, or volume loss after childbirth or weight loss.
Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists, PC
Dr. Ran Y. Rubinstein of Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists is a board - certified facial plastic surgeon. While he specializes in facial plastic surgery, he also offers breast augmentation and other related procedures.
Louis C. Cutolo, Jr., M.D., F.A.C.S
Dr. Louis C. Cutolo, Jr. has many years of training and experience in the field of cosmetic surgery. He offers a wide variety of procedures, including breast augmentation, tummy tuck, and face lifts, as well as medical spa skin care services.
Oren Tepper MD - Bronx and Manhattan
Dr. Oren Tepper is an expert and experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He provides breast augmentation services, along with other procedures such as male breast reduction surgery and surgical body sculpting. He schedules a detailed consultation with patients and demonstrates 3D simulations of the possible outcomes of the surgical procedures.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
When choosing a hospital and surgeon for breast augmentation in New York City, it is important to consider several factors:
- Experience and Reputation: Look for surgeons who have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation surgeries. Check their reviews and patient testimonials to get an idea of their reputation.
- Board Certification: Ensure that the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This indicates that they have met the high standards of education, training, and ethical practice.
- Technology and Techniques: Consider hospitals and surgeons who use the latest technology and advanced techniques for breast augmentation. This can lead to better results and a more comfortable patient experience.
- Communication and Comfort: The surgeon should be able to communicate effectively with you, understand your goals, and answer all your questions. You should feel comfortable discussing your concerns with them.
- Cost: While cost should not be the only factor, it is important to consider. Make sure to get a detailed quote that includes all the costs associated with the procedure, such as the surgeon's fee, anesthesia fee, operating room fee, and cost of the implants.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation with prosthetics is a popular and effective way for women to enhance their appearance and boost their self - confidence. In New York City, there are a plethora of public and private hospitals and experienced surgeons to choose from. By understanding the procedure, its benefits, risks, and carefully selecting the right hospital and surgeon, patients can achieve the desired results. Whether you're looking to correct volume loss, improve symmetry, or simply enhance your body contour, breast augmentation can be a life - changing decision.
If you're considering breast augmentation in New York City, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with multiple surgeons, and ask plenty of questions. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation, and explore related topics such as post - operative care and alternative breast enhancement methods.