Introduction
Silicone breast augmentation has long been a sought - after cosmetic procedure, offering women the opportunity to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. In New York City, a hub of medical excellence, numerous public hospitals provide high - quality silicone breast augmentation services. This article aims to present a ranking of three regular public hospitals for silicone breast augmentation in NYC, exploring their features, procedures, and what makes them stand out.
Overview of Silicone Breast Augmentation
Popularity of Silicone Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries in the United States. In 2020 alone, nearly 200,000 women underwent breast augmentation, with approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the country performed with silicone implants. The desire for fuller, shapelier breasts is prevalent among women of various ages, whether it's to correct congenital issues, restore volume after pregnancy, or simply enhance their natural appearance.
Benefits of Silicone Implants
Silicone breast implants are favored for their natural look and feel. They are pre - filled with a cohesive silicone gel, which gives them a more realistic appearance compared to other types of implants. The gel in silicone implants has a consistency that closely mimics natural breast tissue, providing a soft and natural feel. Also, silicone implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing for a more customized augmentation.
Ranking of Three Regular Public Hospitals for Silicone Breast Augmentation
1. Mount Sinai - New York
Surgeon Expertise
The plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They are well - trained in handling silicone implants and take the time to understand each patient's desires for enhancing their breast size. Surgeons will consult with patients, listening carefully to their concerns and using advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique body.
Treatment Options
Mount Sinai offers multiple treatment options for breast augmentation. They use silicone breast implants, which look and feel natural in the breasts. In addition to traditional implant - based augmentation, they also offer a fat - transfer technique called NaturalFill®. This two - step procedure involves removing fat from the patient's buttocks or abdomen via liposuction and then inserting that fat into the breasts. Surgeons will help patients decide between implant types or fat transfer based on their body type and desired outcome.
Patient Care
From the initial consultation to the post - operative period, Mount Sinai focuses on patient satisfaction. Before scheduling surgery, they perform a physical exam and ask a series of health - related questions to confirm that the patient is a suitable candidate for breast augmentation. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon explains the procedure in detail and answers all patient questions. After the surgery, they provide support and guidance for recovery.
2. Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Medical Staff Expertise
The plastic surgeons at Columbia University are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, including breast augmentation. They are board - certified and have published numerous scientific articles and chapters, and some have been included in lists of America's top doctors. Their vast experience and in - depth knowledge of plastic surgery ensure high - quality results for silicone breast augmentation procedures.
Range of Services
Columbia offers a comprehensive range of plastic surgery services, including both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. In addition to silicone breast augmentation, they also provide breast reduction, breast lift, and breast reconstruction after mastectomy. This allows patients to have access to a full spectrum of breast - related treatments in one place.
Research and Innovation
The hospital's plastic surgery division is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research. Their research includes areas such as stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy applications to wound healing. This commitment to research means that patients may benefit from the latest advancements in silicone breast augmentation techniques and after - care.
3. New York - Presbyterian (through affiliated clinics with experience in breast augmentation)
Collaborative Care
New York - Presbyterian often collaborates with top medical experts from affiliated institutions. For silicone breast augmentation, patients can expect a multi - disciplinary approach. Surgeons work closely with anesthesiologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the safety and success of the procedure. This collaborative care model results in comprehensive patient treatment.
Advanced Technology
The hospital invests in advanced medical technology for breast augmentation. They use the latest imaging tools to accurately plan the surgery and ensure precise implant placement. Advanced techniques such as the use of 3D imaging and simulation help patients better understand the expected results and surgeons to create a more personalized treatment plan.
Patient - Centric Approach
New York - Presbyterian takes a patient - centric approach, focusing on the individual needs and concerns of each patient. They offer personalized treatment plans based on the patient's body type, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals. Before the surgery, they provide detailed pre - operative instructions and support. After the surgery, they offer comprehensive after - care services to help patients recover smoothly.
Silicone Breast Augmentation Procedure Details
Implant Selection
Shape
There are two basic shapes for silicone breast implants: round and contoured (teardrop). Round implants have volume and fullness all the way around and are softer. They are often chosen for their ability to add volume higher on the chest. Contoured implants mimic the natural slope of a woman's breast, require a textured surface to prevent rotation, and are a bit firmer to the touch.
Size
Implant sizes are measured in cubic centimeters, not bra cup size. The appropriate size depends on the patient's existing breast tissue, body frame, and desired results. Sizes typically range from 120cc to 800cc, and different widths, heights, and projections are available to harmonize with a woman's natural proportions.
Texture
Silicone implants can have a smooth or textured surface. A textured surface allows the tissues to heal more closely around the implant, preventing it from rotating or becoming displaced.
Incisions and Placement
Incisions
Common incisions for silicone breast augmentation include inframammary (under the breast), periareolar (around the areola), and transaxillary (under the armpit). Each approach has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on factors such as the patient's anatomy, the type and size of the implant, and the surgeon's preference.
Placement
Implants can be placed either submuscularly (under the pectoral muscles) or subglandularly (above the pectoral muscles). Submuscular placement offers advantages such as reduced risk of capsular contracture and less interference with mammogram examinations, but it may cause greater initial discomfort and a longer recovery phase.
Recovery and After - care
Immediate Post - operative Phase
After silicone breast augmentation, patients typically experience moderate fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the initial days. They are usually given a prescription for pain medication to ease the discomfort. A surgical compression bra is also provided to be worn for a few weeks during the recovery process.
Return to Normal Activities
Most patients can return to work within a week or two, depending on the nature of their job. However, strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for at least 4 - 6 weeks. The surgeon will monitor the patient's recovery during follow - up appointments and provide guidance on when it is safe to resume normal activities.
Long - term Follow - up
Regular long - term follow - up is important after silicone breast augmentation. The FDA suggests MRI scans every few years to monitor the condition of the implant shell for silicone implants. Surgeons will also check for any signs of complications such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).
Potential Risks and Complications
General Surgical Risks
Like any surgical procedure, silicone breast augmentation carries some general risks, including bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Surgeons take precautions to minimize these risks, such as strict sterilization protocols and pre - operative health assessments.
Implant - specific Risks
Capsular contracture, where the scar tissue around the implant tightens, is a relatively common implant - specific complication. Implant rupture can also occur, although modern silicone implants are designed to be more durable. There is also a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL, which is more commonly associated with textured implants. In addition, some women may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation.
Choosing the Right Hospital for Silicone Breast Augmentation
Surgeon Reputation
One of the most important factors in choosing a hospital for silicone breast augmentation is the reputation of the surgeons. Look for board - certified surgeons with extensive experience in breast augmentation. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the surgeon's skills and patient satisfaction.
Hospital Facilities
The quality of the hospital's facilities is also crucial. A well - equipped hospital with modern surgical technology and a comfortable recovery environment is more likely to provide a successful and comfortable patient experience. Hospitals that use advanced imaging tools, like 3D imaging, can offer better pre - operative planning.
Cost and Insurance
Silicone breast augmentation can be a significant financial investment. Different hospitals may have different pricing structures, so it's important to understand the cost breakdown. Insurance typically does not cover breast augmentation as it is considered a cosmetic procedure, but in some cases, if it is related to reconstruction after breast cancer, insurance may provide coverage.
Conclusion
In New York City, Mount Sinai, Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, and New York - Presbyterian (through affiliated clinics) stand out as top choices for silicone breast augmentation. Each hospital offers unique advantages in terms of surgeon expertise, treatment options, technology, and patient care. When considering silicone breast augmentation, it's essential to thoroughly research these hospitals, consult with the surgeons, and carefully weigh the pros and cons. By making an informed decision, patients can achieve their desired aesthetic results while ensuring their safety and well - being.
If you're interested in silicone breast augmentation, take the first step by scheduling a consultation with a surgeon at one of these top - ranked hospitals. Learn more about the procedure, ask your questions, and see if it's the right choice for you. Share this article with others who may be considering breast augmentation to help them make an informed decision.
