Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure in New York City. Women from all walks of life look to enhance the volume and shape of their breasts through prosthetic implant breast augmentation. In this article, we'll delve into the statistics related to the top 4 hospitals in New York City for this procedure and introduce the materials commonly used.
1. Top 4 Hospitals for Prosthetic Implant Breast Augmentation in New York City
There are several hospitals in New York City known for their excellence in breast augmentation surgeries. Four of the most prominent ones include:
1.1 Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. His practice is conveniently located to serve the areas of New York, NY. Breast augmentation remains one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgeries in the United States, and Dr. Sherman has been at the forefront of providing personalized care.
According to available data, breast augmentations have been in the top five cosmetic procedures in the U.S. for nearly the past 20 years. In 2020 alone, despite the global pandemic, nearly 200,000 women underwent breast augmentation. Dr. Sherman worked closely with Allergan, a leading name in cosmetic pharmaceuticals and devices. He was a select investigator during the original development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants.
Patient satisfaction at his practice is high as he works closely with prospective patients to develop an individualized approach so that they can enjoy the beautiful breasts they desire. He provides an initial consultation where patients can discuss their aesthetic goals and options. The consultation includes a review of the patient's medical history, examination of the breasts, and discussion of implant options.
1.2 Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique bodies. This technology allows patients to virtually try on different sizes of breasts, ensuring that they are happy with the results.
The hospital offers different options for breast augmentation, including silicone breast implants, saline breast implants, and a fat - transfer technique called Natural Fill®. Their goal is to give patients a natural shape and size that they will be satisfied with.
While specific statistics on their breast augmentation surgeries may not be publicly available in full detail, their long - standing reputation in the medical community and use of advanced technologies suggest a high success rate. Anecdotally, patients have reported high satisfaction due to the personalized approach and the ability to make well - informed decisions with the help of the advanced imaging technology.
1.3 Dr. David L. Cangello's Practice
Dr. David L. Cangello is a board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He is known for his artistic approach to breast augmentation, combining medical precision with aesthetic principles. His superior results have earned the trust of professional models from top agencies such as Wilhelmina Models, IMG Models, and Next Management.
Clinical study surveys of breast augmentation patients at his practice report a very high rate of patient satisfaction. Breast augmentation has been one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the U.S. for over a decade, and Dr. Cangello's patients are no exception. He offers a full range of cosmetic breast surgery, including breast lift, breast revision, and natural augmentation with fat transfer.
During the consultation process, Dr. Cangello addresses patients' questions and concerns, determines their candidacy based on medical history and current health, and develops a personalized treatment plan. His use of the “no - touch” method with a Keller funnel during silicone breast augmentation helps minimize incision size and may reduce the risk of infection.
1.4 NYC Health + Hospitals - North Central Bronx
NYC Health + Hospitals - North Central Bronx also offers breast enlargement using prosthetic implants. The price of the procedure varies depending on whether the patient is paying in cash or has an insurance plan with a pre - negotiated rate.
The surgery at this hospital takes around 1 to 2 hours and is done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with an oral sedative. After the procedure, patients are given instructions on pain management and returning to regular activities. The scars from the surgery will dissolve with time but may not completely disappear.
Although specific outcome statistics are not as well - publicized, the hospital provides accessible breast augmentation services to the local community. Their focus on patient education about the procedure, including what to expect before, during, and after the surgery, is an important aspect of their care.
2. Commonly Used Materials for Prosthetic Implant Breast Augmentation
There are several materials used in prosthetic implant breast augmentation, each with its own characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages.
2.1 Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are pre - filled by the manufacturer with a cohesive silicone gel. They are highly favored for their natural feel and appearance, as they are designed to mimic the feel of natural breast tissue. In 2020, approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States were performed with silicone implants.
Advancements in silicone implant technology have led to the development of cohesive silicone gel implants, also known as “gummy bear” implants. These implants maintain their shape even when the implant shell is broken, which further ensures their safety. The FDA has approved silicone breast implants, and they are considered safer than ever.
However, silicone implants do carry some risks. One of the concerns is silent rupture, where a break or leak in the implant may go unnoticed without regular imaging tests. The FDA suggests MRI scans every few years to monitor the condition of the implant shell, although this is only a recommendation and not mandated. They are approved for patients who are at least 22 years old.
2.2 Saline Implants
Saline implants have a silicone shell filled with sterile salt water (saline). They are placed in the breast pocket and filled to the patient's desired volume during the procedure. One of the main advantages of saline implants is their safety feature. In case of a leak, the implant will collapse, and the saline will be absorbed and naturally expelled by the body.
Saline implants also offer an advantage in terms of the surgical procedure. They can be inserted empty and then filled once they're in place, allowing for smaller incisions and fewer scars. They are approved for patients who are at least 18 years old.
However, they are often criticized for their less natural feel compared to silicone implants. In thin women with small amounts of breast tissue, visible rippling at the implant edges may be seen.
2.3 Bioengineered Materials
In 2024, there was a significant development in the use of bioengineered materials for breast augmentation. These materials are designed to mimic the body's natural tissues, providing a more lifelike feel compared to traditional silicone or saline implants. They are often derived from the patient's own cells, resulting in a lower risk of rejection or complications post - surgery.
Bioengineered materials also offer the advantage of being biocompatible, reducing the chances of an adverse immune response. They are expected to last significantly longer than traditional implants, making them a more cost - effective option in the long run, despite the initially higher cost of the procedures.
Additionally, the innovation in bioengineering materials has led to a significant reduction in scarring. The incisions required for these procedures are smaller and less invasive, leading to a faster recovery time and minimal scarring. However, as these materials are relatively new, long - term data on their safety and durability are still being collected, and their use carries an inherent risk of unknown complications in the future.
2.4 Natural Fill (Fat Transfer)
Some hospitals, like Mount Sinai, offer a fat - transfer technique known as Natural Fill®. This is a two - step procedure. First, the surgeon removes fat from the patient's buttocks or abdomen with a liposuction technique. The surgeon then immediately inserts that fat into the breasts to enlarge them using the patient's own fat deposits.
The advantage of this method is that it uses the patient's own body fat, reducing the risk of rejection. It also provides a more natural - looking and feeling result. However, not all of the transferred fat may survive, and multiple sessions may be required to achieve the desired results. There is also a limit to how much fat can be transferred safely.
3. Comparison of Materials in Tabular Form
Material | Advantages | Disadvantages | Approval Age |
---|---|---|---|
Silicone Implants | Natural feel and appearance, cohesive gel (gummy bear implants) maintain shape, FDA - approved | Silent rupture risk, may require MRI monitoring, larger incisions (but can be minimized with techniques) | At least 22 years old |
Saline Implants | Safe in case of leak (saline absorbed), smaller incisions possible | Less natural feel, visible rippling in thin patients | At least 18 years old |
Bioengineered Materials | Biocompatible, low rejection risk, more natural feel, longer - lasting, less scarring | Relatively new, long - term safety and durability data lacking | N/A |
Natural Fill (Fat Transfer) | Uses patient's own fat, natural - looking and feeling | Not all fat may survive, multiple sessions may be needed, limited amount of fat transfer | N/A |
4. Procedure - Related Considerations
4.1 Incisions
There are several options for incisions during breast augmentation surgery, and the choice depends on various factors such as the type of implant, the patient's anatomy, and the surgeon's preference.
- Inframammary Incision: This incision is made under the breast in the crease between the breast and the chest wall. It allows good access to the breast pocket and is a common choice. The scar is usually well - hidden in the breast crease.
- Periareolar Incision: Made around the areola (the area around the nipple). This incision can result in minimal scarring as the color and texture change in the areola can help camouflage the scar. However, it may affect nipple sensation in some cases.
- Transaxillary Incision: Placed in the armpit. It provides a scar - free breast appearance, but it has a higher rate of implant malposition. Some surgeons, like Dr. David L. Cangello, avoid using this technique for this reason.
4.2 Implant Placement
Implants can be placed either submuscularly (under the pectoral muscles) or subglandularly (above the pectoral muscles).
- Submuscular Placement: This placement can help reduce the visibility of rippling and the risk of capsular contracture. It may also provide a more natural - looking result, especially in thin patients. However, it can cause more pain during the recovery period and may limit the range of motion initially.
- Subglandular Placement: Placing the implant above the pectoral muscles is less invasive and may result in a quicker recovery. It is often preferred for patients with some existing breast tissue or those with ptosis (sagging) of the breasts.
5. Patient Selection and Candidacy
Not all women are suitable candidates for breast augmentation. The ideal candidate is usually in good health, without breast - related health concerns or other underlying health issues. Non - smokers or those willing to quit until completing recovery are preferred, as smoking can significantly impact the healing process.
The candidate should understand what the surgery entails and be willing to follow pre - and post - operative instructions. They should not be currently pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also important for patients to have realistic expectations for what the procedure can achieve and be aware of the risks and benefits associated with synthetic implants.
Surgeons at the top hospitals in New York City conduct thorough consultations to determine the patient's candidacy. This includes a review of the patient's medical history, a physical examination of the breasts, and a discussion of the patient's aesthetic goals.
6. Risks and Complications
While breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure, there are some risks and complications associated with it.
6.1 Capsular Contracture
This is a common complication where the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant tightens and squeezes the implant. It can cause the breast to feel hard, look distorted, and may be painful. The risk of capsular contracture is influenced by factors such as the type of implant, implant placement, and surgical technique. Textured implants were previously thought to have a lower risk, but research is ongoing.
6.2 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. While the actual number of cases worldwide is not confirmed, it appears to be approaching 400 cases. This is not breast cancer but rather a form of non - Hodgkin's lymphoma that can be effectively treated. It appears to be associated with textured implants and in patients who develop a seroma (accumulation of fluid around the breast).
6.3 Breast Implant Illness (BII)
BII is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that women report after having implants placed. These symptoms include 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.
6.4 Rupture and Leakage
Both silicone and saline implants can rupture or leak. As mentioned earlier, silicone implants may have a silent rupture, while saline implants will deflate if there is a leak.
7. Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery period after breast augmentation varies from patient to patient. In the initial days after surgery, it is normal to experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Patients are usually given a prescription for pain medication to help ease discomfort, which is usually most pronounced during the first few days.
Patients are also provided with a surgical compression bra that they will wear for the next few weeks as they heal. In 2 - 3 weeks, most patients can resume light activities and work. At 6 - 8 weeks, they can continue more strenuous activities, including going to the gym. By this point, swelling will have subsided significantly.
Follow - up appointments are crucial to monitor the healing process and ensure optimal results. Surgeons typically schedule appointments at one week, four weeks, and 12 weeks after the surgery to check for any complications, assess the patient's recovery, and answer any questions the patient may have.
8. Conclusion
Breast augmentation is a popular and effective cosmetic procedure in New York City, with the top 4 hospitals mentioned above providing high - quality services. The choice of hospital and the type of implant material are important decisions that should be made based on the patient's individual needs, preferences, and health conditions.
Silicone and saline implants are the traditional options, each with their own pros and cons. Bioengineered materials and fat - transfer techniques are emerging as alternative choices, offering some unique advantages. Patients considering breast augmentation should have in - depth consultations with their surgeons to fully understand the procedure, the materials, and the potential risks and benefits.
If you're considering breast augmentation, take the first step by scheduling a consultation with one of the top hospitals in New York City. This will allow you to discuss your aesthetic goals with an expert, ask any questions you may have, and make an informed decision about your breast augmentation journey.