Introduction
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States, with over 5 million women in the USA having undergone the surgery. In New York City, there are several hospitals and surgeons that specialize in Allergan prosthetic breast augmentation. This article will explore the top three hospitals in New York City for this procedure, providing detailed information about their services, surgeons, and patient experiences.
What is Allergan Prosthetic Breast Augmentation?
Allergan is a leading manufacturer of breast implants. Their prosthetics come in various types, including silicone gel implants such as the Natrelle Inspira Responsive, Natrelle Inspira Soft Touch, and Natrelle Inspira Cohesive. These implants are known for their natural look and feel. The procedure involves the insertion of these implants into the breast to enhance volume, shape, and symmetry.
When considering breast augmentation, patients often have different goals. Some may want to increase their breast cup size, while others aim to improve the appearance of sagging or asymmetrical breasts. Allergan implants offer a range of options to meet these diverse needs. For example, the gummy bear implants, also known as cohesive silicone gel implants, provide a more stable shape and can mimic the natural contour of the breast more effectively.
Top Three Hospitals for Allergan Prosthetic Breast Augmentation in New York City
1. Greenwald Plastic Surgery
Surgeon and Experience
Dr. Joshua A. Greenwald, MD, FACS, is a board - certified New York plastic surgeon with significant experience in breast implant surgery. He performs hundreds of primary and revision breast augmentations yearly. Dr. Greenwald was selected to the Mentor® Lead Program Advisory Board in 2012 and 2013, and he has been named a top doctor in New York every year since 2012. He is now using Allergan breast implants, believing they have the most comprehensive line available.
Dr. Greenwald's experience gives him a deep understanding of the nuances of breast augmentation. His selection to the Mentor® advisory board shows that he is recognized in the industry for his expertise. Using Allergan implants, he can offer patients the latest and most advanced options for achieving their desired breast appearance.
Services Offered
- Implant Options: Dr. Greenwald offers saline and silicone breast implants from Allergan. Saline implants have a silicone outer shell filled with saline solution, while silicone implants have both a silicone outer shell and a silicone - gel filling. He prefers cohesive silicone gel implants in cosmetic breast surgery for their more natural feel.
- Placement Options: He provides two breast implant placement options - subglandular and submuscular. The submuscular position is preferred for most patients as it has a lower incidence of capsular contracture, allows for high - quality mammograms, and provides a more natural look.
- Incision Approaches: Three incision approaches are available: inframammary (crease incision), periareolar, and transaxillary. Each approach has its own advantages and disadvantages, and Dr. Greenwald will choose the most suitable one based on the patient's anatomy and aesthetic goals.
The variety of implant options allows patients to choose the one that best suits their needs and preferences. The different placement and incision approaches give patients more personalized choices for their surgery, ensuring a more natural and aesthetically pleasing result.
Patient Experience
Most patients have minimal or no pain, minimal or no bruising, and a prompt return to normal activities. There are no drains and, typically, no sutures to remove. Dr. Greenwald provides comprehensive pre - and post - surgical care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process.
The positive patient experience at Greenwald Plastic Surgery is a testament to Dr. Greenwald's skill and the quality of care provided. The minimal pain and bruising, along with quick recovery, are important factors for patients considering breast augmentation, as they want to get back to their normal lives as soon as possible.
2. Columbia University's Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Hospital Reputation and Resources
Columbia University is one of New York’s best hospitals and the world’s top medical centers. The plastic surgery division has the experience that few other programs can match and is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery. It is a recognized national and international leader in plastic surgery.
The hospital's reputation and resources play a crucial role in providing high - quality care. The research conducted at Columbia can lead to the development of new techniques and approaches in breast augmentation, ensuring that patients receive the most advanced treatment available.
Surgeons
The clinical staff consists of highly skilled plastic surgeons proficient in multiple areas of specialization, including breast augmentation. For example, Dr. Christine Rohde is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of 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. Dr. Jeffrey A. Ascherman has published over 75 scientific articles and chapters and 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.
The expertise of the surgeons at Columbia University ensures that patients receive comprehensive and personalized care. Their diverse specialties allow them to address a wide range of issues related to breast augmentation, from simple cosmetic enhancement to complex reconstructive cases.
Services Offered
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 division also offers reconstructive care, cleft palate/cleft lip care, orthoplastic surgery care, and breast reconstructive care.
The wide range of services available at Columbia University means that patients can receive comprehensive care under one roof. Whether they need only breast augmentation or have additional reconstructive or cosmetic needs, the hospital can provide the necessary treatments.
3. Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice
Surgeon's Expertise
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon renowned for his commitment to patient care and excellent results. He worked closely with Allergan during the original development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. He has a deep and thorough understanding of these implants and can provide patients with detailed information about their benefits and suitability.
Dr. Sherman's involvement in the development of Allergan implants gives him a unique perspective on their use. This expertise allows him to make more informed decisions during the breast augmentation process, ensuring the best possible outcome for his patients.
Consultation Process
During a consultation, Dr. Sherman will review the patient’s medical history, examine the breasts, take measurements, and note the existing breast shape and any skin laxity or ptosis. He will then discuss implant options, including material, shape, size, and texture, and devise a personalized treatment plan.
The detailed consultation process at Dr. Sherman's practice ensures that patients have a clear understanding of the procedure and the expected results. It also allows the surgeon to tailor the treatment to each patient's specific needs and goals.
Patient Results and Satisfaction
Breast augmentation patients at Dr. Sherman's practice can expect a procedure that typically takes 1 - 1.5 hours. In the initial days after surgery, patients may experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising, but these usually subside within a few weeks. Many patients achieve their desired breast size and shape, and the implants settle into place within a few months, resulting in a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
The positive patient results and satisfaction at Dr. Sherman's practice are due to his skill as a surgeon and his personalized approach to treatment. The ability to achieve natural - looking results is important for patients who want to enhance their appearance without looking overly artificial.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Allergan Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
Surgeon's Experience and Qualifications
The experience and qualifications of the surgeon are perhaps the most important factors. A surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation and a good reputation in the field is more likely to achieve the desired results. Look for board - certified plastic surgeons who have performed a significant number of breast augmentation procedures, especially with Allergan implants. Their training and expertise will ensure that the surgery is performed safely and effectively.
For example, a surgeon like Dr. Greenwald, with his years of experience and industry recognition, is more likely to be familiar with the latest techniques and advancements in Allergan prosthetic breast augmentation. This can lead to better outcomes for patients.
Hospital Reputation and Resources
A hospital with a good reputation is more likely to have high - quality facilities, advanced technology, and a team of skilled medical staff. Research - based hospitals like Columbia University can offer access to the latest treatments and clinical trials. The resources available at the hospital can also impact the patient's experience during and after surgery, including the availability of post - operative care and support.
A well - reputed hospital is also more likely to adhere to strict safety standards, which is crucial for any surgical procedure. This gives patients peace of mind knowing that they are in a safe and professional environment.
Range of Services
Choose a hospital that offers a wide range of services related to breast augmentation. This includes different types of implants, placement options, and incision approaches. Additionally, having access to other related services such as breast lift, reconstruction, and follow - up care can be beneficial. A comprehensive approach to breast enhancement ensures that all aspects of the patient's needs are addressed.
For instance, if a patient requires a breast lift in addition to augmentation, a hospital that offers both procedures can provide a more coordinated and seamless treatment experience.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an idea of the hospital's and surgeon's performance. Look for reviews that mention the patient's experience during the consultation, surgery, and recovery process. Positive reviews about the results, pain management, and post - operative care are indicators of a good hospital and surgeon.
However, it's important to take reviews with a grain of salt and look for patterns. One or two negative reviews may not necessarily reflect the overall quality of the service, but consistent negative feedback should be a red flag.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of Allergan prosthetic breast augmentation can vary depending on several factors, including the hospital, surgeon, type of implant, and complexity of the procedure. It's important to get a detailed breakdown of the costs before making a decision. Some hospitals may offer financing options or accept insurance for certain aspects of the surgery.
While cost is an important consideration, it should not be the sole determining factor. Choosing a qualified surgeon and a reputable hospital is crucial for a successful and safe breast augmentation procedure.
Potential Risks and Complications of Allergan Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
General Risks
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation with Allergan prosthetics carries some risks. These can include infection, bleeding, adverse reactions to anesthesia, and scarring. Infections can occur at the incision site or around the implant, and they may require antibiotic treatment or, in severe cases, removal of the implant. Bleeding can sometimes lead to hematoma formation, which may need to be drained.
Adverse reactions to anesthesia are rare but can be serious. Surgeons and anesthesiologists take precautions to minimize these risks, but patients should be aware of the possibility. Scarring is also a common concern, but surgeons can choose incision sites that are less visible and use techniques to minimize scarring.
Implant - Specific Risks
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the body forms a capsule of scar tissue around the implant, which can cause the breast to feel hard, look distorted, and be painful. The risk of capsular contracture can be influenced by factors such as the implant placement (subglandular or submuscular), the type of implant, and the patient's individual healing response.
- Implant Rupture: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture. Saline implants will deflate quickly if they rupture, and the saline solution is safely absorbed by the body. Silicone implants, on the other hand, may experience a “silent rupture,” where the gel may leak into the breast tissue without any obvious symptoms. Regular breast imaging exams, such as MRI or mammograms, are recommended for women with silicone implants to detect any potential ruptures.
- BIA - ALCL: Breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) is a rare type of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma that has been associated with breast implants. It appears to be more commonly associated with textured implants, but the overall risk is still very low. Research is ongoing to better understand this condition and its relationship to breast implants.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII refers to a collection of symptoms reported by some women with breast implants, including fatigue, joint pain, and “brain fog.” However, the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is not well understood and is still being investigated.
It's important for patients to discuss these risks with their surgeon before undergoing breast augmentation. Surgeons can take steps to minimize the risks and provide patients with information on how to recognize and manage any potential complications.
Recovery Process After Allergan Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
Immediate Post - Surgery
After the surgery, patients will typically spend some time in the recovery room. They may experience pain, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with pain medication and cold compresses. A surgical compression bra is usually provided to support the breasts and reduce swelling. Patients will be advised to rest and have a responsible adult accompany them home.
The immediate post - surgery period is crucial for the initial healing process. Following the surgeon's instructions regarding pain management and rest is essential to ensure a smooth recovery.
First Few Weeks
In the first few weeks, patients should expect some tightness and discomfort in the breasts. They may need to take time off work and avoid strenuous activities. Most patients can shower a day or two after surgery, but care should be taken to keep the incisions clean and dry. Follow - up appointments with the surgeon will be scheduled to monitor the healing process, remove sutures if necessary, and start any post - operative treatments such as scar therapy.
During this time, it's important for patients to listen to their bodies and not push themselves too hard. The body needs time to heal, and proper care during this period can prevent complications and ensure a better long - term outcome.
Long - Term Recovery
Over the next few months, the breasts will continue to heal and the implants will settle into place. Swelling will gradually subside, and the breasts will start to feel more natural. Patients may need to wear a support bra for several months to help with the shaping and settling of the implants. It's also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to support the overall healing process.
Long - term follow - up with the surgeon is recommended to monitor the condition of the implants and the overall health of the breasts. Any concerns or changes should be reported to the surgeon promptly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hospital for Allergan prosthetic breast augmentation is a crucial decision. Greenwald Plastic Surgery, Columbia University's Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice are among the top choices in New York City, each offering unique advantages in terms of surgeon expertise, services, and patient experience. However, it's important for patients to carefully consider all the factors, including the surgeon's experience, hospital reputation, range of services, patient reviews, and cost, before making a decision. They should also be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure and understand the recovery process.
If you're considering Allergan prosthetic breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule consultations with multiple hospitals and surgeons. This will allow you to ask questions, learn more about the procedure, and choose the option that is best for you. Remember, your health and satisfaction are of the utmost importance. Don't hesitate to reach out to medical professionals for more information and guidance.
