Introduction

Breast augmentation using Allergan breast implants has been a popular choice for many women in New York City. Allergan is one of the well - known breast implant manufacturers globally. This article aims to explore the ranking list of popular hospitals for Allergan breast implants for breast augmentation in New York City, along with providing a comprehensive hospital price list. It will also cover details about Allergan breast implants, the breast augmentation process, costs, and other related aspects.

Allergan Breast Implants: An Overview

Company Background

Allergan Inc. is a major player in the breast implant industry. It started selling breast implants in 2006 and was acquired by AbbVie in May 2020, rebranding as Allergan Aesthetics. Its main markets include the United States, Canada, and Latin America. The flagship brand of Allergan for breast implants is Natrelle, and it also previously sold implants under subsidiaries like Inamed and Mcghan (Drugwatch, 2024).

Types of Allergan Breast Implants

Composition of Allergan Breast Implants

Allergan breast implants have an outer shell made of silicone elastomer, a type of silicone with elastic properties similar to rubber. The shells can be filled with either silicone gel or sterile saline (Drugwatch, 2024).

Differences between Smooth and Textured Implants

Smooth shells allow the implant to move under the skin or muscle, mimicking the movement of natural breast tissue. Most implants are smooth. On the other hand, textured shells allow tissue to grow into the surface of the implant, keeping it in place. However, the FDA found that Allergan's Biocell textured implants had a higher risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). In July 2019, Allergan announced a worldwide recall of its textured implants and advised surgeons not to use them (Drugwatch, 2024).

Breast Augmentation Process

Initial Consultation

When considering breast augmentation with Allergan implants in New York City hospitals, the first step is usually an initial consultation. At Mount Sinai, for example, plastic surgeons use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look. Surgeons listen to patients' desires for enhancing breast size, help them decide on the appropriate size and shape for their body, and explain the procedure. They also perform a physical exam and ask health - related questions to determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for breast augmentation (Mount Sinai, 2024).

Types of Breast Augmentation

There are two main types of breast augmentation methods: using implants and natural fill (also known as fat transfer). In implant - based breast augmentation, the surgeon inserts a silicone shell filled with either silicone gel or saline through a small incision under the breast tissue. Saline breast implants are firmer and rounder, while silicone breast implants look and feel more natural in the breasts. The natural fill method, pioneered and perfected by Mount Sinai surgeons, involves removing fat from the patient's buttocks or abdomen via liposuction and then inserting it into the breasts (Mount Sinai, 2024).

Implant Placement

There are two common ways to place Natrelle implants: submuscular and subglandular. Submuscular placement means the implant is placed under the chest muscle (pectoralis). This technique can reduce the risk of capsular contracture, where scar tissue squeezes the implant, and it makes breast tissue easier to see in mammograms. However, surgery and recovery are longer and may be more painful. Subglandular placement involves putting the implant on top of the muscle and under the breast glands. It has a greater likelihood of capsular contracture and makes it more difficult to see breast tissue in mammograms, but the surgery and recovery may be shorter and less painful (Drugwatch, 2024).

Incision Location

There are three common incision sites for Allergan silicone implants:

• Periareolar: Made around the nipple. It is more concealed but has a higher likelihood of breastfeeding problems, a higher risk of change in nipple sensation, and a higher risk of infection.
• Inframammary: Located in the breast fold. It causes fewer breastfeeding difficulties, provides the best access and control of the implant pocket, and is the most commonly used by surgeons, but it is less concealed.
• Transaxillary: Made under the arm. It has fewer breastfeeding problems but is less concealed, more difficult to perform, and may increase the risk of damage to the implant and an unexpected location of the implant (Drugwatch, 2024).

Recovery

After breast augmentation, women generally feel tired and sore for several days. As the skin adjusts to the implant, there may be discomfort and tightness. Swelling can decrease feeling in the nipple and breast. Most women can return to work a few days after the surgery but should avoid strenuous activities. Recovery may involve using a special bra or other support to aid healing, and some women may need pain medication infusion devices. It usually takes about one to two weeks to recover for most everyday activities, but strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for around six weeks (Medical Departures, 2020).

Ranking List of Popular Hospitals in New York City for Allergan Breast Implants

While there isn't an official standardized ranking, some hospitals in New York City are well - known for their breast augmentation services using Allergan implants.

• Mount Sinai: Its plastic surgeons have extensive experience in breast augmentation. They use advanced technology like 3D imaging to help patients visualize the results. The hospital offers a variety of breast augmentation options, including implant - based and natural fill methods, and provides comprehensive pre - and post - operative care (Mount Sinai, 2024).
• Sophie Bartsich, MD FACS: This is a highly regarded facility in New York City. Dr. Bartsich is a top - notch cosmetic surgeon known for her attention to detail, intuition, and artistry in achieving customized and natural - looking results. Patients have reported high satisfaction rates (MyMeditravel, 2024).
• Forest Hills Plastic Surgery: Established in 1984, it has a reputation for providing high - quality cosmetic, plastic, and reconstructive surgery at an affordable price. The staff here is dedicated to patient care and ensures that patients understand the procedure thoroughly (MyMeditravel, 2024).

Hospital Price List for Allergan Breast Implants in New York City

The cost of breast augmentation with Allergan implants in New York City varies widely based on several factors, including the surgeon's expertise, the type of implant used, the complexity of the procedure, and the location of the hospital or clinic.

• According to various sources, the cost of breast augmentation procedures in 2024 can range from as low as $3,600 to as high as $26,000. For example, in 2017, Scott A. Spiro, MD, FACS, in West Orange charged $3,600, while in 2015, Robert H. Gotkin, MD, in New York City charged $26,000 (Breast - Aug, 2024).
• The American Society of Plastic Surgeons states that the average cost of breast augmentation with implants is $4,875, and with fat grafting is $5,719. However, this average cost does not include anesthesia, operating room facilities, or other related expenses (Plastic Surgery.org, 2024).

Here is a summary of some price data from different years:

Factors Affecting the Cost of Breast Augmentation with Allergan Implants

Surgeon's Expertise

Renowned surgeons with extensive experience and a high success rate in breast augmentation usually charge higher fees. These surgeons have in - depth knowledge of different implant types, surgical techniques, and are better able to handle potential complications. For example, a highly experienced surgeon in a top - tier hospital in New York City may charge a premium for their services compared to a less experienced one (DrRonaldEspinoza, 2024).

Type of Implant

Silicone implants generally cost more than saline implants. The Natrelle 410 anatomical gel implants, which are more complex in design and offer a more natural look, are likely to be more expensive than the basic Natrelle saline - filled smooth round implants. Also, advanced implant technologies or newer models may come at a higher price (Drugwatch, 2024).

Complexity of the Procedure

A straightforward breast augmentation procedure will cost less than a more complex one. If the patient requires additional procedures such as a breast lift along with implant placement, or if there are pre - existing conditions that make the surgery more challenging, the cost will increase. For instance, if a patient has a lot of excess skin, the surgeon may need to perform a more complex operation, which will add to the overall cost (DrRonaldEspinoza, 2024).

Location of the Hospital or Clinic

Hospitals and clinics in prime locations in New York City, such as Manhattan, may charge more due to higher overhead costs, including rent, staff salaries, and equipment expenses. In contrast, facilities in less expensive areas may offer more competitive pricing (DrRonaldEspinoza, 2024).

Potential Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation with Allergan implants has potential risks and complications.

• Implant - related risks: These include implant rupture (more common in silicone - filled implants) and implant deflation (in saline - filled implants). In addition, there is a risk of capsular contracture, where scar tissue around the implant tightens and can cause pain and misshapen breasts. BIA - ALCL is a rare but serious type of cancer associated with Allergan's textured implants (Drugwatch, 2024).
• General surgical risks: These include infection, bleeding, hematoma, fluid accumulation, and delayed wound healing. Changes in nipple, breast, or skin sensation, scarring, and wrinkling/rippling (where the folds of the implant are visible through the skin) can also occur (Drugwatch, 2024).

Allergan requires surgeons and patients to sign an “acceptance of risk and consent to surgery” form before breast implant surgery. Women with breast implants will need to be monitored for the rest of their lives, including getting an MRI every two years while the implant remains in the body to detect possible ruptures (Drugwatch, 2024).

Conclusion

Breast augmentation using Allergan breast implants is a popular cosmetic procedure in New York City. Patients considering this option have a range of hospitals and clinics to choose from, each with its own advantages and price points. It's crucial for patients to understand the different types of Allergan implants, the breast augmentation process, potential risks, and costs before making a decision. The surgeon's expertise, type of implant, complexity of the procedure, and location of the facility all play a significant role in determining the cost. By being well - informed and consulting with multiple providers, patients can make a more educated choice that aligns with their aesthetic goals and financial situation.

If you're interested in learning more about breast augmentation with Allergan implants, we encourage you to research further, consult with board - certified plastic surgeons in New York City, and explore patient reviews and testimonials. You can also seek advice from other women who have undergone the procedure to gain first - hand insights. Remember, making an informed decision is the first step towards achieving your desired results.