Introduction
Breast augmentation, also known as a boob job or breast enlargement, is a surgical procedure that has gained significant popularity in New York City. This procedure aims to increase breast size, enhance shape, or improve symmetry. In this article, we will explore the ranking and price list of formal hospitals for correcting breast protrusion with prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City. We'll also cover various aspects related to the procedure, including what it involves, factors affecting the cost, recovery, and more.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that changes the size or shape of the breasts using techniques such as implant placement or fat transfer. The main goal of this surgery is to enhance the appearance of the breasts, correct unevenness, or restore breast volume after events like pregnancy or weight loss. There are different types of breast augmentation procedures, with the use of prosthetic implants being a common one.
Why Choose Breast Augmentation?
There are several reasons why women in New York City may choose breast augmentation:
- Enhanced Appearance: Many women desire larger, more shapely breasts to improve their overall physical appearance and feel more confident.
- Correct Asymmetry: Some women have uneven breasts, and breast augmentation can help correct this imbalance.
- Restore Volume: After pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss, women may experience a loss of breast volume. Breast augmentation can restore the fullness of the breasts.
- Boost Self - Confidence: Achieving the desired breast size and shape can have a positive impact on a woman's self - esteem and body image.
Types of Breast Implants
There are two main types of breast implants commonly used in breast augmentation procedures:
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are filled with a silicone gel. They are known for their natural look and feel. Many patients and surgeons prefer silicone implants because they closely mimic the texture and appearance of natural breast tissue. The shape options for silicone implants are also diverse, with round and teardrop - shaped implants available. However, when a modern silicone implant ruptures, it may not be immediately visible as the gel stays in place. Also, the FDA recommends periodic MRI or ultrasound exams to ensure the integrity of silicone implants. Silicone implants are generally slightly more expensive than saline implants. “Gummy bear” implants are a type of silicone implant with a thicker, more cohesive gel, resembling the texture of a gummy bear. These implants are the most expensive option due to the advanced technology used in their development.
Saline Implants
Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water. They are usually less expensive than silicone implants. One advantage of saline implants is that if they deflate, it is immediately obvious. However, they tend not to look or feel as natural as silicone implants, and rippling or scalloping is more likely to occur. Saline implant insertion sites are generally smaller than those for silicone implants.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Breast Augmentation
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary widely. Here are the main factors that influence the price:
Implant Type
As mentioned earlier, silicone implants are generally more expensive than saline implants. Gummy bear implants, a type of silicone implant, are the costliest due to their advanced technology. Different brands of implants also have different price ranges. Reputable brands like Mentor, Sientra, and Allergan may charge similar rates to ensure safety and quality, while less established companies may offer lower - priced alternatives, but board - certified surgeons usually use only high - standard implants.
Surgeon's Fee
The experience and credentials of the plastic surgeon performing the breast augmentation procedure greatly impact their fee. Surgeons with fellowship training in aesthetic surgery and who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery tend to charge higher rates due to their extensive expertise. For example, a highly experienced surgeon who has performed hundreds of successful breast augmentation procedures may charge more than a junior surgeon. It's important to note that choosing a less experienced or credentialed surgeon can increase the risk of complications, which may lead to additional expenses in the future.
Anesthesia Fee
The anesthesia fee depends on the anesthesia provider, the type of anesthesia provided, the length of the surgery, and the location. Anesthesia for breast implant surgery performed in a private surgical center tends to be less expensive than in a hospital setting. Surgeons may use different types of anesthesia, such as general anesthesia or local anesthesia with an oral sedative.
Facility Fee
The location of the cosmetic procedure, whether it's a hospital or a private surgical facility, greatly influences the facility fee. This fee covers the materials and staff involved in the procedure, excluding anesthesia. It includes items like operating rooms, recovery areas, and necessary supplies and equipment. Longer surgeries usually result in higher facility fees as more resources are utilized. Hospitals generally have higher facility fees compared to private clinics.
Geographical Location
New York City is a metropolitan area with a high cost of living, which affects the overall cost of breast augmentation. Quotes can vary widely, ranging from around $12,000 for those just starting their practice to $22,000 for highly experienced, sought - after surgeons.
Other Procedures
Many patients choose to combine their breast implant procedure with other cosmetic surgeries, such as a tummy tuck, breast lift, or lipo 360. Combining procedures can reduce recovery time and may save money in some cases. For example, a “mommy makeover” often includes multiple surgeries to help women regain their pre - baby bodies.
Additional Costs
There are also other costs to consider. Initial consultations may involve a fee. Post - surgery care, including follow - up visits, garments, and scar remedies, is usually part of the overall cost, but it's important to confirm. Potential breast revision surgery to adjust positioning or size is another possible expense. Recovery costs, such as prescription medications and specialized bras, as well as time off work, should also be factored in.
Price List of Formal Hospitals and Clinics in New York City
While it's challenging to provide an exact and up - to - date price list as prices are often available on request, here is some information on various providers in New York City:
Clinic/Doctor | Rating | Price Information |
---|---|---|
Sophie Bartsich, MD FACS | 5.0 | Price on request |
Forest Hills Plastic Surgery | 4.7 | Price on request |
Aristocrat Plastic Surgery & Medaesthetics | 4.7 | Price on request |
RR Plastix NY Plastic Surgery Center | - | Price on request. National average for breast augmentation is approximately $5,352 |
Leonard Grossman, M.D. | - | Price on request. National average for breast augmentation is approximately $5,352 |
New York Center for Facial Plastic & Laser Surgery | - | Price on request. National average for breast augmentation is approximately $5,352 |
Another hospital, NYC Health + Hospitals - North Central Bronx, has reported that the price for breast enlargement using prosthetic implant varies depending on whether you pay in cash or are part of an insurance plan with a pre - negotiated rate. General breast augmentation procedures in New York City can cost between $12,000 and $22,000 depending on the factors mentioned above.
Top - Rated Doctors for Breast Augmentation in New York City
Here are some of the top - rated doctors for breast augmentation in New York City, according to Healthgrades:
Doctor | Rating | Location |
---|---|---|
Dr. Mark Sultan, MD | 4.20 | 1100 Park Ave #1b, New York, NY 10128 |
Dr. Evan Matros, MD | 4.80 | 1275 York Ave, New York, NY 10065 |
Dr. Jeffrey Ascherman, MD | 4.90 | 51 West 51st street suite 380, New York, NY 10019 |
Dr. Jess Ting, MD | 4.30 | 10 Union sq e #3 - g, New York, NY 10003 |
Dr. Paul Weiss, MD | 3.30 | 1049 5th ave ste 2d, New York, NY 10028 |
Dr. Jonathan Keith, MD | 4.00 | 79 Hudson st ste 203, Hoboken, NJ 07030 |
Dr. Rachel Blue Bond - Langner, MD | 4.40 | 222 e 41st st, New York, NY 10017 |
Dr. John Pang, MD | 4.60 | 10 Union sq e ste 2m, New York, NY 10003 |
Dr. Babak Mehrara, MD | 4.40 | 1275 York ave, New York, NY 10065 |
Dr. Renata Khelemsky, MD | 5.00 | 58 prospect st, Brooklyn, NY 11201 |
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Pre - operative Preparation
Before the breast augmentation procedure, patients need to have detailed conversations with their surgeon. This includes discussing their medical background, allergies, current medications, and lifestyle habits such as smoking or alcohol consumption. Patients may need to stop certain medications and habits, like smoking, weeks before the procedure as they can affect the healing process. Practical preparations, such as arranging for someone to accompany them on the day of surgery, taking time off work for recovery, and creating a comfortable home environment for recuperation, are also important. The surgeon's team will also provide instructions on pre - operative fasting and hygiene guidelines. For example, patients may be advised to avoid eating and drinking the day before surgery and to wash their hair and body thoroughly, avoiding lotions, gels, and creams.
The Surgery
The breast augmentation surgery usually takes around 1 to 2 hours and is done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with an oral sedative. The surgeon will insert breast implants into the breast tissue. There are different incision methods:
- Sub - mammary method: The cut is made in the crease under the breast.
- Axillary method: Endoscopic equipment is used, and the incision is made in the armpit area.
- Periareolar method: The fabric is cut circumferentially around the nipple. This method is less commonly used.
After making the incision, the surgeon separates the breast tissue from the underlying connective tissue and muscles to create a space for the implant. The implant is then inserted into the space, and the incision is closed with sutures. The sutures are usually absorbable, which means the patient doesn't need to have them removed later.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery Time
After the surgery, a recovery period of one to two weeks is generally required, with follow - up visits to the surgeon. Swelling and discomfort are normal after the operation and should gradually subside with time. Patients are required to wear a compression garment, take prescribed medications, and maintain a healthy lifestyle for an effective recovery. They may also need to avoid strenuous activities for at least six weeks post - procedure to ensure proper healing.
Aftercare Instructions
Post - operative care is crucial for the success of a breast augmentation. The initial recovery phase includes taking prescribed medications to relieve pain and prevent infection. Patients should follow the doctor's instructions regarding wound care. For example, they may not be able to take a shower immediately after surgery and may need to wait about 7 days. They also need to avoid using a washcloth until the scars heal completely. It's important to refrain from alcohol intake and smoking for at least two weeks after the procedure, even for low - alcohol beverages. Sunbathing, visiting a solarium, and engaging in strong physical exertion should be avoided. General exercise should be approved by the doctor.
Success Rate and Risks
Success Rate
In New York City, breast augmentation has a relatively high success rate. Many patients have reported satisfaction and enhanced confidence after undergoing the procedure, making it a popular cosmetic surgery. However, it's important to note that individual results may vary, and the outcome depends on various factors such as the patient's anatomy, the surgeon's skill, and the patient's compliance with post - operative instructions.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation comes with its own set of risks and potential complications:
- Capsular contracture: Scar tissue can form around the implants and shrink and harden over time. The severity is rated on a scale from Baker 1 (soft) to 4 (rock hard). In some cases, the capsule may need to be surgically corrected, which incurs additional fees for anesthesia, facility use, and the surgeon's time.
- Implant malposition: If an implant shifts out of place over time, another surgical procedure may be needed to reposition it, resulting in additional costs.
- Implant rupture: Breast implants are not lifelong devices. Replacing a ruptured implant is a separate procedure with its own costs, similar to a primary breast augmentation surgery.
- Infection: A post - op breast infection may require oral or IV antibiotics. In severe cases, the removal of implants may be necessary.
- Hematoma: Internal bleeding and swelling can occur after surgery, sometimes requiring drainage in the operating room. There may be additional time under anesthesia and facility fees.
Alternatives to Breast Augmentation
If you're considering breast augmentation strictly for cosmetic reasons and prefer non - surgical options, there are several alternatives available in New York City:
Fat Grafting
Fat grafting, also known as fat transfer, involves removing fat from different body parts, such as the abdomen, hips, or thighs, and injecting it into the breasts. This approach is considered safer because it uses the body's own tissue, minimizing the risk of complications. However, the results may be less predictable in terms of breast volume and shape compared to using implants. The average fat transfer augmentation procedure costs between $10,000 and $20,000, depending on the details of the procedure and the surgeon.
Hormonal Therapy
Hormonal therapy may involve the use of certain medications to stimulate breast growth