Introduction

New York City is a hub for medical excellence, particularly in the field of plastic surgery. Long - term prosthetic breast augmentation is a popular procedure, and choosing the right plastic surgery department in a public hospital is crucial for patients. This article aims to provide an in - depth look at the ranking of plastic surgery departments in public hospitals for this specific procedure in New York City. We will explore the various factors that contribute to the rankings, profiles of top hospitals and surgeons, patient experiences, and more.

Plastic Surgery Trends in New York City

Elective plastic surgery has seen a significant rise in popularity in the United States. According to data released in November 2023 from the global intelligence platform Statista, the number of cosmetic surgical procedures in the U.S. increased from 900,000 in 1997 to more than 1.87 million in 2022. In New York City, a large and diverse metropolis, the demand for long - term prosthetic breast augmentation is high due to factors such as a strong emphasis on self - care, body image, and a large population with disposable income.

The city is also home to some of the world's top medical institutions and plastic surgeons, which attract patients from across the country and internationally. The growth in the availability of safe and less invasive surgical options, combined with an increasing cultural acceptance of plastic surgery, has contributed to the positive societal attitudes towards these procedures.

Factors Considered in Ranking Plastic Surgery Departments

Surgeon Expertise

The skill and experience of the plastic surgeons are of utmost importance. In rankings, surgeons are evaluated based on their training from prestigious medical institutions, board certifications, and years of experience in performing long - term prosthetic breast augmentation. For example, a surgeon who has trained at top institutions like Harvard Medical School, New York University, or the University of Melbourne, as in the case of Dr. Adam R. Kolker, is often highly regarded.

Certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is also a significant factor. Plastic surgeons with ABPS accreditation have completed appropriate training and passed oral and comprehensive written exams covering all plastic surgery procedures, and this can contribute a percentage to their overall score in rankings, as seen in the Newsweek rankings.

Patient Satisfaction

Patient reviews and satisfaction play a crucial role. Online platforms, such as Google reviews, are often used to gather data on patient experiences. Aspects like the quality of pre - operative consultations, post - operative care, and the overall results of the breast augmentation procedure are considered. For instance, in the rankings by the Review Growth Index™ (RGI™) in 2024 Q1, practices were ranked based on over 17,000 online patient reviews, taking into account the volume of reviews and the star ratings.

Hospital Resources and Reputation

The resources available at the public hospital, including state - of - the - art surgical facilities, advanced imaging technology for pre - operative planning, and a comprehensive after - care program, are important. Public hospitals with a long - standing reputation for excellence in plastic surgery, especially in breast augmentation, are more likely to rank higher. For example, hospitals like Columbia University's plastic surgery department is recognized for its vast experience, research contributions, and its position as one of New York's best hospitals and a world - top medical center.

Research and Innovation

Hospitals that are actively involved in research related to breast augmentation, such as studies on new implant materials, techniques to reduce complications, or tissue engineering for more natural results, are favored. Columbia University's plastic surgery research laboratory conducts numerous studies on stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy applications in wound healing related to plastic surgery, which enhances its standing in the field.

Top Plastic Surgeons in New York City for Breast Augmentation

Dr. Adam R. Kolker

Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He has an outstanding educational background, having trained at some of the world's most prestigious medical institutions, including Harvard Medical School, New York University, and the University of Melbourne in Australia. As an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, he stays at the forefront of advancements in plastic surgery.

Dr. Kolker specializes in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures. He is known for achieving beautiful, natural, and proportional results. His approach is to understand each patient's unique aesthetic goals and body type to attain the best outcome. He has an extensive list of credentials, including board certifications from the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He has also been featured in multiple prestigious lists, such as New York Magazine's Best Doctors from 2013 - 2024, Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons in 2021, 2022, and 2023, and Castle Connolly's America's Top Doctors.

Dr. David Hidalgo

Dr. David Hidalgo, MD, FACS, is recognized among the top plastic surgeons in the United States for breast augmentation. He has appeared in the Newsweek rankings of America's Best Plastic Surgeons in 2023 and 2024. His expertise in breast augmentation is highly regarded, and his patients trust him for his skill in achieving natural - looking results. He has likely accumulated years of experience, training, and a solid reputation within the medical community in New York City.

Dr. Alan Matarasso

Dr. Alan Matarasso, MD, FACS, is another well - known plastic surgeon in New York City. Like the others, he is board - certified and has demonstrated proficiency in breast augmentation. His presence in the Newsweek rankings shows that he is respected by his peers and has a high level of skill in performing this procedure. He may have a particular approach to patient care and surgical techniques that contribute to his success in the field.

Top Public Hospitals in New York City for Long - Term Prosthetic Breast Augmentation

Columbia University's Plastic Surgery Department

Columbia University's plastic surgery department is one of the premier institutions in New York City. It has a team of highly skilled plastic surgeons, each proficient in multiple areas of specialization, ranging from routine non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations. In the context of long - term prosthetic breast augmentation, the department offers a comprehensive approach.

The cosmetic care program provides surgical and non - surgical options for breast augmentation, along with other procedures like ear and eyelid lifts, tummy tucks, etc. The department is also at the forefront of research, with its plastic surgery research laboratory conducting studies on stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy for wound healing. This research can potentially lead to better outcomes and fewer complications in breast augmentation procedures.

Some of the notable surgeons in the department include Christine Rohde, MD, who is trained in a wide range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, and Jeffrey A. Ascherman, MD, an experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon with numerous publications and a history of participation in humanitarian surgical missions.

NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital

The expert team of plastic surgeons at NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital is dedicated to improving patients' quality of life through various cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries, including long - term prosthetic breast augmentation. The hospital has specialists with a wide range of expertise in aesthetic procedures, such as breast augmentation and reduction, facial rejuvenation, liposuction, abdominoplasty, and rhinoplasty.

The surgical departments at both NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center and NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center offer extensive reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. The plastic surgery divisions in the departments of otolaryngology also provide expert surgical care, specifically for the head and neck. This comprehensive approach means that patients can receive all - rounded care before, during, and after their breast augmentation procedure.

Patient Experiences and Testimonials

Patient testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the results of long - term prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City's public hospitals. Many patients on platforms like Google reviews express their satisfaction with the surgical outcomes, the professionalism of the surgical teams, and the quality of post - operative care.

For example, patients who have undergone breast augmentation with Dr. Adam R. Kolker often mention his attention to detail, his ability to understand their aesthetic goals, and the natural - looking results they achieved. Some testimonials highlight how the procedure has boosted their confidence and improved their overall quality of life.

At Columbia University's plastic surgery department, patients may share stories about the state - of - the - art facilities, the friendly and knowledgeable staff, and the comprehensive pre - operative consultations that helped them make informed decisions about their breast augmentation. Similarly, patients at NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital may praise the hospital's reputation, the experienced surgeons, and the seamless care they received throughout the process.

Comparison of Different Approaches to Long - Term Prosthetic Breast Augmentation

Implant Types

There are two main types of breast implants commonly used in long - term prosthetic breast augmentation: silicone and saline. Silicone breast implants look and feel more natural in the breasts, as they closely mimic the texture and movement of natural breast tissue. They are a popular choice for patients who desire a more natural appearance. On the other hand, saline breast implants are firmer and rounder. They are filled with a solution of salt and water, and if the implant ruptures, the saline is absorbed by the body.

At Mount Sinai, plastic surgeons guide patients in choosing the best implant type based on their body type and desired outcome. Some surgeons may also recommend a new technique called Naturalfill®, which uses a fat transfer method. In this procedure, fat is removed from the patient's buttocks or abdomen via liposuction and then inserted into the breasts. This approach can provide a more natural - looking result and has the added benefit of body contouring in the donor area.

Surgical Techniques

Surgeons may use different surgical techniques for breast augmentation. Some common techniques include the inframammary incision, which is made under the breast fold, and the periareolar incision, which is made around the areola. The choice of incision depends on various factors, such as the patient's anatomy, the type of implant, and the surgeon's preference.

Another important aspect is the placement of the implant, either above or below the pectoralis major muscle. Submuscular placement (below the muscle) can offer more natural - looking results and may reduce the risk of capsular contracture. However, it may also result in more post - operative discomfort and a longer recovery time compared to subglandular placement (above the muscle). Surgeons need to carefully evaluate each patient's situation to determine the most appropriate technique.

Cost Considerations for Long - Term Prosthetic Breast Augmentation in New York City

The cost of long - term prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City can vary significantly depending on several factors. The reputation and experience of the surgeon play a major role. Well - known and highly skilled surgeons, such as those ranked in Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons or New York Magazine's Best Doctors, may charge higher fees.

The type of implant used also affects the cost. Silicone implants are generally more expensive than saline implants. Additionally, the hospital or surgical facility's location, overhead costs, and the level of post - operative care provided can impact the overall price. Some patients may also need additional procedures, such as breast lifts or liposuction, which will add to the total cost.

It is important for patients to have a clear understanding of the cost breakdown and to discuss payment options with the surgical team. Some hospitals may offer financing plans to help patients manage the expense of the procedure.

Risks and Complications of Long - Term Prosthetic Breast Augmentation

Immediate Complications

Immediate complications of breast augmentation can include bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Bleeding may occur during or after the surgery and can sometimes require additional surgical intervention to stop. Infections can be caused by bacteria entering the surgical site and may require antibiotic treatment. Adverse reactions to anesthesia are rare but can be serious and may include allergic reactions, breathing problems, or changes in blood pressure.

Long - Term Complications

Long - term complications may include capsular contracture, which is the formation of scar tissue around the implant that can cause the breast to feel hard or look distorted. Implant rupture is another concern, especially with silicone implants. While modern implants are designed to be durable, over time, there is a risk of rupture, which may require replacement of the implant. Breastfeeding difficulties can also occur in some cases, although many women with augmented breasts are able to breastfeed successfully.

It is essential for patients to have a detailed discussion with their surgeon about these risks and complications before undergoing the procedure. Surgeons can take steps to minimize these risks, such as using proper surgical techniques, choosing the right implant, and providing thorough post - operative care.

Pre - operative and Post - operative Care for Long - Term Prosthetic Breast Augmentation

Pre - operative Care

Pre - operative care is crucial for a successful breast augmentation procedure. Patients typically have a series of consultations with their surgeon to discuss their goals, medical history, and any medications they are taking. The surgeon will perform a physical examination, which may include mammograms or other imaging tests to assess breast health.

Patients may be advised to stop taking certain medications, such as blood - thinners, to reduce the risk of bleeding during surgery. They may also need to quit smoking, as smoking can interfere with the healing process. Surgeons may also use advanced 3D imaging technology, as seen at Mount Sinai, to help patients visualize the expected results of the procedure.

Post - operative Care

After the surgery, patients need to follow their surgeon's post - operative instructions carefully. This may include wearing a supportive bra, taking pain medications as prescribed, and avoiding strenuous activities for a certain period. The surgeon will schedule follow - up appointments to monitor the healing process, check for any signs of complications, and ensure that the implants are healing properly.

Patients may also need to undergo additional procedures in the future, such as breast lifts or implant replacements, depending on their individual circumstances. Proper post - operative care is essential for achieving long - term success and maintaining the appearance and health of the augmented breasts.

Conclusion

When it comes to long - term prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City, patients have a wide range of options in terms of public hospitals and plastic surgeons. Factors such as surgeon expertise, patient satisfaction, hospital resources, research, and innovation all play important roles in ranking the plastic surgery departments.

Top surgeons like Dr. Adam R. Kolker, Dr. David Hidalgo, and Dr. Alan Matarasso, along with top public hospitals such as Columbia University's plastic surgery department and NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital, offer high - quality care and a comprehensive approach to breast augmentation. However, patients should also be aware of the costs, risks, and the importance of pre - operative and post - operative care.

If you are considering long - term prosthetic breast augmentation, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with multiple surgeons, and read patient testimonials. By making an informed decision, you can increase your chances of achieving the desired results and a positive surgical experience.