Introduction
Breast implantation is a popular plastic surgery procedure that many women in New York City are interested in. With the increasing demand for such surgeries, there are numerous plastic surgery hospitals and surgeons in the city. In this article, we will provide a ranking summary of 3 major plastic surgery departments of breast implantation plastic surgery hospitals in New York City, along with in - depth information about breast implantation, including procedures, surgeons, and related details.
Understanding Breast Implantation
Definition and Purpose
Breast augmentation is a breast surgery that enhances the volume and shape of the breasts. It remains one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgeries in the United States, affording many women the opportunity to achieve their ideal breast profile. Some women opt for breast implantation due to factors such as genetics, changes after pregnancy, weight fluctuation, or aging, aiming to restore fullness, improve symmetry, and boost self - confidence.
Breast Implant Options
- Material: There are mainly two types of breast implants - saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with saline once they've been placed into the treatment site, allowing for a smaller incision size. They are approved for patients who are at least 18 years old. Silicone implants are pre - filled by the manufacturer with a cohesive silicone gel. They feel and look more natural, but the FDA suggests MRI scans every few years for monitoring. They are approved for patients who are at least 22 years old.
- Shape: Round breast implants have volume and fullness all the way around, with a softer feel. Contoured (teardrop - shaped) implants have a subtle sloping shape to match the curves of natural breasts and require a textured surface to prevent rotation.
- Size: Implant sizes are measured in cubic centimeters. The appropriate size depends on the patient's existing breast tissue and desired results, ranging from 120cc to 800cc.
- Texture: A textured surface allows the tissues to heal more closely around the implant, preventing rotation or displacement.
Procedure and Recovery
Breast augmentation is typically an outpatient procedure that takes 1 - 1.5 hours. Incisions can be made in different locations such as inframammary (under the breast), periareolar (around the areola), or transaxillary (under the armpit). Implants can be placed either submuscular (under the pectoral muscles) or subglandular (above the pectoral muscles). After the surgery, patients may experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the initial days. They will be given pain medication and a surgical compression bra. Most patients can resume light activities in 2 - 3 weeks and more strenuous activities at 6 - 8 weeks.
Ranking Summary of 3 Major Plastic Surgery Departments
Department 1: Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Reputation and Expertise
Columbia University is one of New York’s best hospitals and the world’s top medical centers. The plastic surgery division at Columbia has the experience that few other programs can match. The mission is to use their many resources to deliver the highest quality care for cosmetic or reconstructive procedures. Each plastic surgeon on the clinical staff is proficient in multiple areas of specialization, ranging from routine non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations and body contouring surgery after significant weight loss. The division is also at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery, recognized as a national and international leader.
Breast Implantation Services
The cosmetic care program at Columbia offers breast augmentation as one of its services. The surgeons take an individualized approach, considering the patient's body type and aesthetic goals to achieve proportionate and natural results. They are also well - versed in breast reconstruction after breast cancer, which involves a high level of skill and precision.
Surgeons
- Christine Rohde, MD: A highly skilled clinician, researcher, and teacher. She is trained in the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, specializing in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, body contouring, cosmetic surgery, and breast, trauma, and cancer reconstruction. She is the chief of microvascular services for the plastic surgery division and has numerous publications and presentations in the field.
- Jeffrey A. Ascherman, MD: An experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon who has published over 75 scientific articles and chapters. He has been included multiple times in Castle Connolly’s list of America’s top doctors and in New York Magazine’s annual list of best doctors. He has also participated in humanitarian surgical missions.
Department 2: Cangello Plastic Surgery
Reputation and Expertise
Dr. David L. Cangello at Cangello Plastic Surgery is a board - certified plastic surgeon known for his expertise in cosmetic breast surgery. He offers personalized treatment plans to meet each patient's aesthetic goals. His superior results have earned the trust of professional models from some of the world’s top agencies, including Wilhelmina Models, IMG Models, and Next Management.
Breast Implantation Services
Dr. Cangello offers a full range of cosmetic breast surgery, including breast lift, breast revision, and natural augmentation with fat transfer. He takes an artistic approach to breast augmentation, combining medical precision with the principles of aesthetics to create elegant and natural - looking results. He guides patients through the process of choosing the size, shape, placement of implants, and whether to use silicone or saline implants.
Surgeons
- David L. Cangello, MD, FACS: He has perfected the art of breast surgery through extensive experience, meticulous surgical techniques, and an eye for artistic detail. His expert opinion on cosmetic breast surgery has been featured in several media segments.
Department 3: Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
Reputation and Expertise
The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC is well - known for its breast implant removal and replacement services. The top - rated breast surgery team is highly trained in breast implant removal surgery and world - renowned for their advanced techniques. They understand the importance of achieving the patient's desired chest aesthetic and offer personalized treatment plans.
Breast Implantation Services
In addition to breast implant removal procedures (en bloc, partial capsulectomy, total capsulectomy), the center can also provide breast implantation services. They work with patients to understand their goals and choose the most suitable implants and surgical methods.
Surgeons
The board - certified plastic surgeons at the center are experienced in breast - related surgeries. They are dedicated to providing high - quality care and achieving the best possible results for patients undergoing breast implant removal or implantation.
Top Plastic Surgeons in New York City for Breast Implantation
Adam R. Kolker, MD, FACS
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. His education and training in plastic surgery span some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world, 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 cutting edge of advancements in plastic surgery. He is highly skilled in breast augmentation, as well as other cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Dr. Kolker has been featured as a top plastic surgeon in New York Magazine's best doctors issues from 2008 - 2024 and is one of America's best plastic surgeons according to Newsweek in 2021 - 2024, being listed in multiple categories such as breast augmentation, facelift, eye lift, rhinoplasty, and liposuction.
John E. Sherman, MD
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He is renowned for his commitment to patient care and excellent results. He works closely with prospective patients to develop an individualized approach for breast augmentation. He has a deep understanding of breast implants, having worked closely with Allergan during the development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. He can guide patients through the entire process of breast augmentation, from choosing the right implants to the post - operative recovery.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plastic Surgery Department for Breast Implantation
Surgeon's Qualifications
It is crucial to choose a plastic surgeon who is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. A board - certified surgeon has typically completed at least 5 years of graduate medical study, graduated from an authorized medical institution, and has gone through 3 years of general surgery and 2 years of plastic surgery training. They must also perform plastic surgery for 2 years and pass written and oral tests to become board - certified. Regularly updated board certification (every ten years) ensures continued proficiency in the specialty.
Reputation and Experience
Research the reputation of the plastic surgery department and the individual surgeons. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous patients. Consider the surgeon's experience in performing breast implantation surgeries, as more experienced surgeons are likely to have better skills and be able to handle various complications.
Range of Services
Choose a department that offers a comprehensive range of services related to breast implantation. This includes different types of implants, surgical techniques, and the ability to handle post - operative care and potential complications.
Patient - Surgeon Communication
Good communication between the patient and the surgeon is essential. The surgeon should take the time to understand the patient's goals, answer all questions, and provide clear information about the procedure, risks, and expected results.
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of breast implantation can vary depending on factors such as the type of implants, the complexity of the procedure, and the surgeon's fees. It is important to understand the total cost and inquire about available financing options.
Potential Complications of Breast Implantation
Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)
Over the past few years, researchers have found that women with breast implants may have a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL. It is not breast cancer but a form of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It appears to be associated with textured implants and patients who develop a seroma (accumulation of fluid around the breast). While the actual number of cases worldwide is not confirmed, research is ongoing, and there are databases and recommendations for treatment.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
BII is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that women report after having implants placed, such as memory loss, “brain fog,” joint pain, and fatigue. However, the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is poorly understood and still being investigated.
Other Complications
Other common complications of breast implantation include bleeding, infection, changes in sensation, and capsular contracture (hardening of the tissue around the implant).
Conclusion
In New York City, there are several excellent plastic surgery departments and surgeons for breast implantation. Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Cangello Plastic Surgery, and the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC stand out as major players in the field, each with its own unique strengths. When considering breast implantation, patients should carefully evaluate factors such as surgeon qualifications, reputation, range of services, and potential complications. It is also important to have realistic expectations and engage in open communication with the surgeon. If you are interested in learning more about breast implantation or are considering the procedure, we encourage you to reach out to these top - rated plastic surgery departments in New York City for a consultation. You can also do further research on reliable medical resources to make an informed decision.
