Selection Guide for Plastic Surgery Hospitals for Teardrop - Shaped Prosthetic Breast Augmentation in New York City

Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure, and teardrop - shaped prosthetic breast augmentation has gained popularity for its ability to create a more natural - looking breast shape. New York City, with its plethora of plastic surgery hospitals, offers a wide range of options for those considering this procedure. This guide will walk you through the various aspects to consider when choosing a plastic surgery hospital for teardrop - shaped prosthetic breast augmentation in the Big Apple.

Understanding Teardrop - Shaped Prosthetic Breast Augmentation

What are Teardrop - Shaped Breast Implants?

Teardrop breast implants, also known as anatomical or shaped implants, are a type of silicone breast implant designed to mimic the natural shape of the female breast. Unlike traditional round implants, teardrop implants are tapered, with more volume at the bottom and a gradual slope toward the top. This design aims to provide a more natural and subtle enhancement, especially suitable for women looking for a conservative and natural result.

Advantages of Teardrop - Shaped Implants

• Natural Appearance: As they closely mimic the natural contour of the breast, teardrop implants can create a more realistic look compared to round implants. For instance, in a comparison study, patients and observers were more likely to perceive breasts augmented with teardrop implants as natural - looking (source: Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery).
• Reduced Rippling: The tapered design helps reduce the risk of visible rippling or wrinkling that can occur with some round implants. According to experts at 740 Park Plastic Surgery, this makes teardrop implants a great option for women with less breast tissue.
• Enhanced Projection: They offer enhanced projection and fullness in the lower part of the breast, making them ideal for those seeking more defined curves. Dr. Amit Gupta’s guide to teardrop breast implants emphasizes this advantage.

Disadvantages of Teardrop - Shaped Implants

• Rotation Risk: Teardrop implants have a textured surface to minimize rotation, which could lead to an unnatural appearance. However, in very rare cases, they can still rotate, requiring corrective surgery. This risk is a key consideration as stated in Dr. Amit Gupta’s guide.
• Higher Cost: Teardrop implants are typically more expensive than round breast implants due to their specialized design and materials. This cost factor needs to be factored into your budget when planning for the procedure.
• More Complex Surgery: The surgical procedure for teardrop implants may be more complex than for round implants, as precise placement is essential to achieve the desired shape. Surgeons need to have a high level of skill and experience to perform the surgery successfully.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plastic Surgery Hospital

Surgeon's Qualifications and Experience

The expertise of the plastic surgeon is of utmost importance. Look for a surgeon who is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. For example, Dr. Daniel Maman at Maman Plastic Surgery is a Harvard fellowship - trained and board - certified plastic surgeon specialized in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, body, and face. A surgeon with extensive experience in teardrop - shaped prosthetic breast augmentation is more likely to achieve the desired results. Surgeons like Dr. David Cangello and Dr. Stephen Greenberg have a wealth of experience in guiding patients through breast implant choices, including teardrop - shaped implants.

Hospital's Reputation

Research the hospital's reputation in the field of plastic surgery. Check online reviews and patient testimonials. For instance, Maman Plastic Surgery has a reputation for providing premiere plastic surgery and concierge patient care that is personalized, modern, and sophisticated. Hospitals with a good reputation are more likely to adhere to high standards of care and safety.

Technology and Facilities

Advanced technology can significantly impact the success of the procedure. Look for hospitals that use the latest 3D imaging technology. Mount Sinai - New York's plastic surgeons use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look with different implant sizes and shapes. State - of - the - art facilities also contribute to a safer and more comfortable surgical experience.

Range of Implant Options

A good plastic surgery hospital should offer a wide range of teardrop - shaped breast implants. Hospitals like 740 Park Plastic Surgery offer various types of breast implants, including “gummy bear” cohesive gel implants, which are available in teardrop shapes. Having multiple options allows you to choose the implant that best suits your body type and aesthetic goals.

Cost and Financing Options

Understand the cost of the teardrop - shaped prosthetic breast augmentation procedure. Costs can vary depending on factors such as the surgeon's fee, the type of implant used, and the hospital's facilities. Maman Plastic Surgery customizes treatment for each patient, and during the initial consultation, patients receive an itemized price quote. Some hospitals also offer financing options to help manage the cost.

Patient Care and Support

Excellent patient care is crucial before, during, and after the surgery. Look for hospitals that provide comprehensive pre - operative consultations, including a thorough review of your medical history and physical assessment. For example, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson at Breast Augmentation Upper East Side spends a significant amount of time with patients during the preoperative consultation to understand their goals and decide on the ideal implant type and placement. Post - operative care should also include follow - up appointments and support for recovery.

Some Top Plastic Surgery Hospitals in New York City for Teardrop - Shaped Prosthetic Breast Augmentation

Maman Plastic Surgery

Dr. Daniel Maman at Maman Plastic Surgery is highly qualified, having completed a Harvard fellowship in aesthetic breast surgery and a 6 - year plastic surgery residency at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He and his skilled team collaborate throughout the entire process to achieve optimal results, personalized for each patient. The 90 - minute consultation with Dr. Maman includes a thorough review of medical history, in - depth physical assessment, comprehensive operative plans, and discussion of cost, accommodations, and follow - up visits.

Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery

Conveniently located to serve New York City and the surrounding areas, Dr. Stephen Greenberg at Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery can provide expert advice on breast implant shapes, including teardrop - shaped implants. He has helped women from around the world achieve the bust lines they desire. The hospital offers a detailed consultation process to determine the most appropriate implant shape based on the patient's goals, current breast shape, and size.

740 Park Plastic Surgery

Dr. Stafford R. Broumand at 740 Park Plastic Surgery offers a wide range of breast implant varieties, including “gummy bear” cohesive gel implants in teardrop shapes. During the consultation, the doctor presents every implant option available, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each size, shape, type, and surface texture in great detail. The use of advanced Vectra 3D imaging also helps patients visualize how the implants will look on their bodies.

Preparing for Teardrop - Shaped Prosthetic Breast Augmentation

Initial Consultation

The initial consultation is a crucial step. During this appointment, you will have the opportunity to discuss your aesthetic goals with the surgeon. The surgeon will review your medical history, perform a physical assessment, and discuss the various teardrop - shaped implant options available. You can also ask questions about the procedure, recovery, and potential risks. Some surgeons may use 3D imaging to show you how the implants will look on your body, as is the case at Mount Sinai - New York.

Medical Evaluations

Before the surgery, you may need to undergo various medical evaluations, such as a mammogram, sonogram, or MRI, depending on your age and medical history. Your surgeon will also assess your overall health to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. For example, if you have a family history of breast cancer, additional screenings or consultations with a breast specialist or genetic counselor may be recommended, as suggested by Dr. Maman at Maman Plastic Surgery.

Lifestyle Changes

Your surgeon may advise you to make certain lifestyle changes before the surgery. This may include quitting smoking, as nicotine can significantly impact your ability to heal after the treatment. You may also need to taper off certain medications or supplements that may increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John’s wort. Some hospitals, like Dr. John E. Sherman's practice, provide detailed instructions on these lifestyle changes during the preparation phase.

The Surgery Process

Anesthesia

Breast augmentation surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation anesthesia, depending on your preferences and the surgeon's recommendation. A board - certified anesthesiologist will administer the anesthesia to ensure your comfort and safety during the procedure. For example, at Dr. John E. Sherman's practice, patients have the option to choose between these two types of anesthesia.

Incisions

The surgeon will make an incision, usually in the crease under the breast, the areola, or in the armpit. The choice of incision location will depend on factors such as the type of implant, your anatomy, and any concerns about preserving nipple sensation. Each incision location has its own advantages and disadvantages. For instance, an incision in the breast crease is often the least visible site and provides good surgical visualization, while an incision around the areola may affect nipple sensation in a minority of patients, as mentioned in the information about Maman Plastic Surgery.

Implant Placement

The surgeon will create a pocket for the implant, either beneath the chest muscle (submuscular) or directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular). The decision on implant placement depends on your anatomy, age, and desired outcome. Submuscular placement can create more natural - looking breasts and reduce the risk of visible rippling, while subglandular placement may be more straightforward and have a less painful recovery. Dr. Daniel Maman almost exclusively uses a dual - plane approach, placing the top 80 - 90% of the implant below the pectoral muscle and the bottom 10 - 20% directly below the breast tissue to achieve the best of both worlds.

Closure

Once the implant is in place, the incisions are closed using sutures. The surgeon will then wrap the area with a compression garment to protect the results and reduce swelling. You will stay in the recovery area until you are awake and stable enough to return home.

Recovery and Aftercare

Immediate Post - Operative Period

After the surgery, you may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Pain medications will be prescribed to manage the pain. You will be required to wear a supportive surgical bra or compression garment to minimize swelling and provide support. Most patients can return home within a few hours after the surgery, but if you live far away, the hospital may arrange for you to stay in a nearby hotel, as offered by some hospitals like Maman Plastic Surgery.

Long - Term Recovery

It usually takes about 2 - 3 weeks for the initial symptoms to subside enough for you to resume light activities and work. Strenuous activities, such as yoga, weightlifting, and core training, should be avoided for 4 - 6 weeks after surgery. You should also avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 lbs for a full six weeks. Regular follow - up appointments with your surgeon are essential to monitor your progress and ensure proper healing. The scars from the incisions will gradually fade over time.

Potential Risks and Complications

General Surgical Risks

As with any surgical procedure, teardrop - shaped prosthetic breast augmentation carries potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia. It is essential to discuss these risks with your surgeon beforehand and follow post - operative instructions diligently to minimize potential complications. Dr. Daniel Maman at Maman Plastic Surgery emphasizes the importance of discussing these risks with patients during the consultation.

Implant - Specific Risks

• Rotation: Teardrop implants have a risk of rotation, which can lead to an unnatural appearance. Although a textured surface helps minimize this risk, in rare cases, corrective surgery may be required.
• Implant Rupture: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture. Saline implants will deflate if they rupture, and the saline solution will be absorbed by the body. Silicone implants may require an MRI to detect a rupture. Regular monitoring is necessary to detect and address any issues promptly.
• Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to feel firm or hard. It can be treated, but in some cases, additional surgery may be required.
• Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): There is a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL, especially with textured implants. It is important to be aware of this risk and discuss it with your surgeon. As of 2019, some textured shell breast implants were recalled due to this associated risk (source: Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's practice information).

Conclusion

Choosing a plastic surgery hospital for teardrop - shaped prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. By evaluating factors such as the surgeon's qualifications, the hospital's reputation, available technology, cost, and patient care, you can make an informed choice. Understanding the surgery process, recovery, and potential risks is also crucial for a successful outcome. Remember, a well - informed patient is more likely to achieve the desired results and have a positive experience.

If you are considering teardrop - shaped prosthetic breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule consultations with multiple plastic surgery hospitals in New York City. Ask questions, discuss your goals in detail, and take the time to make the best decision for your body and your well - being. Share this guide with others who may be interested in this procedure and explore more resources on breast augmentation to gain a comprehensive understanding of the process.