Introduction

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the United States, with New York City being a hub for top - notch plastic surgery. The Mentor teardrop - shaped breast implants are a popular choice due to their natural look and feel. In this article, we will delve into the rankings of the top three plastic surgery departments in New York City hospitals for Mentor teardrop - shaped breast augmentation. We'll also provide in - depth information about the procedure, the criteria for rankings, and profiles of the top hospitals.

Popularity and Growth of Plastic Surgery

Elective plastic surgery has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity in recent years. According to data released in November 2023 from the global intelligence platform Statista, there were 900,000 cosmetic surgical procedures in the US in 1997, and by 2022, that number had skyrocketed to over 1.87 million. This growth can be attributed to several factors, such as an increasing number of options for safe and less invasive surgeries, and a cultural shift towards greater emphasis on self - care and confidence.

Understanding Mentor Teardrop - Shaped Breast Implants

Advantages of Mentor Teardrop - Shaped Implants

Mentor teardrop - shaped breast implants are designed to mimic the natural shape of the breast. They have a tapered top and a fuller bottom, which provides a more realistic look compared to round implants. These implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that holds its shape well, reducing the risk of wrinkling and rippling. They are also less likely to rotate within the breast pocket, which is crucial for maintaining a natural appearance.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Women who want a more natural breast shape, those who have lost breast volume due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging, and individuals with breast asymmetry can be good candidates for Mentor teardrop - shaped breast augmentation. However, a comprehensive consultation with a plastic surgeon is necessary to determine if these implants are suitable for a particular patient.

Criteria for Ranking Plastic Surgery Departments

When ranking plastic surgery departments for Mentor teardrop - shaped breast augmentation, several key factors are considered:

Surgeon Expertise

The experience and skill of the plastic surgeons are of utmost importance. Surgeons who have performed a high volume of Mentor teardrop - shaped breast augmentations are more likely to have mastered the techniques and be able to handle any complications that may arise. Their training, board certifications, and any specialized fellowships in breast surgery are also crucial factors.

Patient Satisfaction

Patient testimonials and reviews play a significant role in the ranking. High patient satisfaction indicates that the hospital and its surgeons are able to meet or exceed patients' expectations in terms of results, safety, and the overall surgical experience. Patient surveys regarding the pre - operative consultation, the surgical process, and post - operative care are also taken into account.

Facility Quality

The quality of the hospital's facilities, including the operating rooms, recovery areas, and post - operative care units, is vital. State - of - the - art equipment, a clean and safe environment, and adherence to strict safety and hygiene standards are necessary for a successful surgical outcome.

Research and Innovation

Plastic surgery departments that are involved in research and innovation are often at the forefront of new techniques and technologies related to breast augmentation. This can lead to better surgical outcomes, fewer complications, and a more customized approach to each patient.

Top 3 Plastic Surgery Departments in New York City for Mentor Teardrop - Shaped Breast Augmentation

1. Columbia University Plastic Surgery

Surgeon Expertise

Columbia's plastic surgery division is staffed with highly skilled and experienced surgeons. For example, Dr. Christine Rohde is a chief in the division, trained in the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, specializing in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, and breast reconstruction. Dr. Jeffrey A. Ascherman, an experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon, has published over 75 scientific articles and chapters and has been included in lists of America's top doctors. These surgeons' expertise ensures that they can perform Mentor teardrop - shaped breast augmentations with precision.

Patient Satisfaction

The hospital focuses on providing comprehensive and personalized care to its patients. From the initial consultation to post - operative follow - up, patients receive detailed information and support. Their patient - centered approach has led to high levels of patient satisfaction. For instance, the surgeons take the time to understand each patient's aesthetic goals and work closely with them to develop a customized treatment plan.

Facility Quality

Columbia is one of New York's best hospitals and a world - class medical center. The plastic surgery facilities are equipped with the latest technology, including advanced 3D imaging technology that can help patients visualize their expected results before surgery. The operating rooms are state - of - the - art, ensuring a safe and sterile environment for the surgical procedure.

Research and Innovation

The plastic surgery research laboratory at Columbia is actively involved in numerous research studies. They are exploring areas such as stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy applications to wound healing. This research can potentially lead to improved techniques and better outcomes for breast augmentation patients.

2. Mount Sinai Plastic Surgery

Surgeon Expertise

Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures. They are well - versed in using Mentor teardrop - shaped implants and can provide patients with detailed information about the procedure. Their training and skills enable them to handle different patient anatomies and achieve natural - looking results.

Patient Satisfaction

The hospital emphasizes patient education and communication. Before the surgery, they use advanced 3D imaging technology to show patients how their new breasts will look. This helps patients make informed decisions and feel more confident about the procedure. Their post - operative care also ensures that patients recover well and are satisfied with the results.

Facility Quality

Mount Sinai offers a high - quality surgical environment. The facilities are designed to provide patients with comfort and safety during the surgical process. They have modern equipment for monitoring patients during and after the surgery, and the recovery areas are well - equipped to handle any post - operative needs.

Research and Innovation

Mount Sinai surgeons have pioneered and perfected the natural fill® fat transfer technique for breast augmentation. This innovative approach provides patients with an alternative option to traditional implants. Their research in this area and other breast - related studies can contribute to the development of new and improved breast augmentation methods.

3. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice

Surgeon Expertise

Dr. Darrick Antell is a renowned breast augmentation surgeon in New York City. He is board - certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery and has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentations. His extensive experience with Mentor teardrop - shaped implants makes him a top choice for patients seeking this type of procedure.

Patient Satisfaction

Dr. Antell has a high level of patient satisfaction, as evidenced by numerous positive patient reviews. He takes the time to understand each patient's unique needs and goals, and provides them with a personalized treatment plan. His patients appreciate his attention to detail and his ability to achieve natural - looking results.

Facility Quality

Dr. Antell has a private operating room located just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. The facility is fully accredited, equipped with the latest technology, and designed for patient comfort. His staff is well - trained to provide personalized care to patients throughout the surgical process.

Research and Innovation

Dr. Antell is at the forefront of breast augmentation techniques. He discusses and uses advanced methods to prevent common complications such as capsular contracture, such as the use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM). His innovative approach to plastic surgery helps ensure better outcomes for his patients.

Comparing the Top 3 Plastic Surgery Departments

Preparing for Mentor Teardrop - Shaped Breast Augmentation

Initial Consultation

During the initial consultation with a plastic surgeon, patients should expect a comprehensive evaluation of their general health and medical history. The surgeon will also assess the current condition of the breasts. The patient should openly discuss their aesthetic goals, concerns, and expectations with the surgeon. The surgeon will then guide the patient through the selection of the appropriate implant size, placement, and incision method.

Medical Evaluation

Before the surgery, patients may need to undergo a series of medical tests, such as blood tests, mammograms, and EKGs, depending on their age and medical history. This is to ensure that the patient is in good health and can safely undergo the procedure.

Lifestyle Changes

Patients may be advised to make certain lifestyle changes before the surgery. This may include quitting smoking, avoiding certain medications and supplements that can increase the risk of bleeding, and maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure

Anesthesia

Breast augmentation is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or another form of “twilight” sedation. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the procedure to ensure safety.

Incision and Implant Placement

The surgeon will make an incision, which can be made below the crease near where the breast meets the chest, around the areola, or in the armpit. The Mentor teardrop - shaped implant will then be placed either directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or behind the pectoral (chest) muscle (submuscular placement). The choice of placement depends on factors such as the patient's anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Closure

After the implant is placed, the surgeon will close the incisions using multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures. A layer of gauze and a bandage may be placed over the breasts to speed healing.

Post - operative Care and Recovery

Immediate Post - operative Period

After the surgery, patients will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a nurse. They may feel tired or sore, but a specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia is used to decrease discomfort. Patients will be given discharge instructions and should arrange for someone to drive them home as they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia.

Recovery Timeline

Most patients can return to most daily activities within days of the procedure. However, they should refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. The swelling in the breasts will take several months to fully dissipate, and the final result is typically visible around 6 months. The scars will be firm and pink for at least six weeks and will gradually fade over time.

Follow - up Appointments

Patients will need to return to the surgeon's office for follow - up appointments. The first appointment is usually a day after the procedure to evaluate healing. Subsequent appointments at four weeks and 12 weeks are also important to ensure optimal recovery and to address any concerns.

Risks and Complications

Capsular Contracture

This is a common complication where the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing hardening or discomfort. Surgeons may use techniques such as placing an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to prevent this. If it occurs, the implants and scar tissue can be removed or replaced.

Infection

Infection can occur within a week after surgery and is usually treated with antibiotics. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed.

Implant Rupture

If a saline implant ruptures, the salt - water is harmlessly absorbed by the body, and the breast will appear deflated. With both saline and silicone implant ruptures, a revision surgery is performed to replace the implant and remove any troublesome scar tissue.

Changes in Sensation

Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation after the surgery. In most cases, this is temporary, but in some cases, it can be permanent.

Conclusion

When considering Mentor teardrop - shaped breast augmentation in New York City, the three plastic surgery departments mentioned above - Columbia University Plastic Surgery, Mount Sinai Plastic Surgery, and Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice - stand out for their surgeon expertise, patient satisfaction, facility quality, and research and innovation. However, it is essential for patients to do their own research, have in - depth consultations with the surgeons, and carefully weigh the risks and benefits before making a decision.

If you're interested in learning more about Mentor teardrop - shaped breast augmentation or are considering the procedure, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top plastic surgeons in New York City. Don't hesitate to reach out to gather more information and make an informed choice about your aesthetic journey.