In New York City, a vibrant hub of medical innovation, several institutions stand out when it comes to procedures aimed at increasing breast fullness. These facilities offer a range of services and have a team of highly skilled professionals dedicated to patient care. In this article, we'll explore the top three hospitals for breast fullness enhancement in the city, looking at their features, procedures, and what makes them the preferred choice for many patients.
1. NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
General Overview
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital is the nation's largest not - for - profit, non - sectarian hospital, with 2,409 beds. It has nearly 2 million inpatient and outpatient visits in a year, including 12,797 deliveries and 195,294 visits to its emergency departments. According to U.S. News & World Report, it is the #1 hospital in the New York metropolitan area and is consistently ranked among the best academic medical institutions in the nation. It has academic affiliations with two of the nation's leading medical colleges: Weill Cornell Medical College and Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.
Breast Centers Accreditation and Achievements
The breast centers at NewYork - Presbyterian/Columbia and NewYork - Presbyterian/Weill Cornell are Manhattan's first to be accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). The NAPBC accreditation is given to centers that demonstrate "a firm commitment to offer [ing] patients every significant advantage in their battle against breast disease." These accredited programs must provide state - of - the - art treatment options, including through clinical research trials, take a multidisciplinary team approach, offer community outreach and professional education, and undertake quality - improvement initiatives.
Over the past 25 years, there have been many significant advances in the treatment of breast cancer at NewYork - Presbyterian and its academic affiliates. Surgeons at the breast centers were among the first to perform total skin - sparing, nipple - sparing mastectomy, which helps improve the aesthetic outcome of reconstructive surgery. They were also among the first to use sentinel node biopsy, which limits the number of lymph nodes that need to be removed to determine if a tumor has spread. Additionally, they are among only a few worldwide to perform bone marrow examination at the time of surgery to rule out micro - metastatic disease and are among the first to offer intraoperative radiofrequency ablation to reduce the possibility of patients requiring additional surgery.
Breast Augmentation and Related Services
In the realm of breast augmentation, Weill Cornell Medicine, affiliated with NewYork - Presbyterian, offers a comprehensive range of services. Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons are leaders in the field and are equipped to promote comfort throughout the process. Starting with the initial consultation, they work with patients to understand their goals and discuss the best options for them. The center provides the full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, including breast reduction surgery, breast lift surgery (mastopexy), breast augmentation with implants, and DIEP flap surgery.
When it comes to breast augmentation with implants, patients have access to the latest techniques and high - quality implants. The surgeons focus on individualized breast surgery for each patient's unique body, aiming to achieve a natural look. They use state - of - the - art surgical suites and the latest anesthetics and medications to help patients recover more quickly and heal faster. After the surgery, the care team manages the patient's pain with medication and teaches them how to care for themselves during the healing and recovery process.
2. A Practice Associated with Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Surgeon's Credentials
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 remains on the cutting edge of advancements in the science and art of plastic surgery in New York City.
Dr. Kolker has numerous prestigious credentials. He is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, a plastic surgery specialty fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and a member of multiple professional societies such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the Northeastern Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the New York Regional Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. He has also been featured as a top plastic surgeon in New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues from 2008 - 2024, as one of America's Best Plastic Surgeons in 2021 - 2024 by Newsweek, and in Castle Connolly's America's Top Doctors from 2016 - 2024 as well as Top Doctors: New York Metro Area from 2008 - 2024.
Breast Augmentation Approach
Dr. Kolker takes an artistic approach to breast augmentation, believing that "beautiful" should be more important than "size." He establishes each individual woman's aesthetic goals, distinct to her body type, to attain a proportionate outcome and the most natural results. He offers a full range of breast - related procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, breast asymmetry correction, inverted nipple surgery, and tuberous breast correction.
For breast augmentation, he works closely with patients during the consultation process to understand their desires and then guides them through the decision - making process regarding implant size, shape, and placement. He uses both silicone and saline implants, understanding the differences between the two types. Silicone implants, for example, are pre - filled by the manufacturer with a cohesive, silicone gel and are known for feeling more natural to the touch and looking more aesthetically pleasing. Saline implants are filled with saline once they've been placed into the treatment site, allowing for a smaller incision size. Dr. Kolker ensures that patients are well - informed about the pros and cons of each option to make the best choice for their bodies and goals.
Patient Testimonials
Many patients have shared their positive experiences with Dr. Kolker. For example, one patient said, "I could not believe my eyes. Dr. Kolker had done something all other surgeons had told me was not possible. He made the impossible, possible. I could not believe it took a possibility and turned it into my reality! I will forever be thankful to him for correcting my asymmetrical breasts and making me so happy." Another patient stated, "Dr. Kolker changed my life. No, that's not an exaggeration. Dr. Kolker truly pays attention to your individual case, and I'm so happy with my results. While my surgery has already made an incredible impact on my life, I look forward to this coming summer when for the first time in a long time, I will enjoy a day at the beach without a worry in the world."
3. A Practice with Dr. John E. Sherman
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 has worked closely with Allergan, the leading name in cosmetic pharmaceuticals and devices, and was a select investigator during the original development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. These FDA - approved devices feature an anatomically shaped silhouette, with contours that closely resemble the curve of a woman’s breast and are popular choices for augmentation and breast reconstruction.
Breast Implant Knowledge
Dr. Sherman has in - depth knowledge of breast implants. He can guide patients through the process of choosing the right implants based on various factors. When it comes to the material, patients can choose between saline implants, which are placed in the breast pocket and filled to the desired volume during the procedure, and silicone implants, which are pre - filled and ready for insertion. Regarding shape, round implants are good for adding volume higher on the chest, while anatomical (teardrop - shaped) implants replicate the form of the natural breast.
The size of the implants is measured in cubic centimeters, and the ideal size depends on the patient's existing breast tissue and desired results. Implants also come in different widths, heights, and projections. Texture is another consideration, as a textured surface allows the tissues to heal more closely around the implant and prevents rotation or displacement. Dr. Sherman works closely with each patient to identify the implant specifications that will deliver optimal results.
Procedure and Recovery
Dr. Sherman's breast augmentation procedure is typically an outpatient one and takes about 1 - 1.5 hours. He will make small incisions, which can be an inframammary incision (under the breast), a periareolar incision (around the areola), or a transaxillary (under the armpit) incision, depending on the patient's unique case. The implant can be placed either submuscular plane (under the pectoral muscles) or subglandular (above the pectoral muscles), considering factors such as the patient's anatomy, age, and vocation.
After the surgery, patients can expect to experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the initial days. They will be given a prescription for pain medication and a surgical compression bra to wear for a few weeks. Most patients can resume light activities and work in 2 - 3 weeks and more strenuous activities at 6 - 8 weeks, by which time the swelling will have significantly subsided. Dr. Sherman also provides detailed post - operative care and follow - up appointments to ensure the best possible results.
Comparing the Three Institutions
Medical Resources and Research
NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital has the advantage of its extensive medical resources and strong academic affiliations. The research conducted at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and Weill Cornell Medical College contributes to the development of new treatment options and surgical techniques in breast care. The breast centers' NAPBC accreditation also indicates a high - standard approach to patient care and research - based treatment.
Dr. Adam R. Kolker's practice, while not a large - scale hospital, benefits from his extensive education and training at top - tier institutions around the world. His role as an associate clinical professor at Mount Sinai School of Medicine allows him to stay updated on the latest advancements in plastic surgery, including those related to breast augmentation.
Dr. John E. Sherman's experience in collaborating with Allergan during the development of specific breast implants shows his in - depth knowledge of implant technology. This expertise can be valuable for patients looking for the latest and most suitable implant options for their breast augmentation.
Patient - Centered Care
All three institutions prioritize patient - centered care. At NewYork - Presbyterian, the plastic and reconstructive surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine work closely with patients from the initial consultation, understanding their goals and customizing treatment plans accordingly. The post - operative care team also focuses on patient comfort and recovery.
Dr. Kolker's artistic approach to breast augmentation means he takes the time to understand each patient's aesthetic preferences and body type. He is committed to patient satisfaction throughout the entire process, from consultation to post - operative visits. The numerous positive patient testimonials attest to his patient - centered approach.
Dr. Sherman also emphasizes patient - centered care. During the consultation, he reviews the patient's medical history, examines the breasts, and discusses implant options in detail. He provides clear instructions for pre - operative preparation and post - operative recovery, ensuring patients are well - informed and comfortable throughout the process.
Procedure Options
NewYork - Presbyterian offers a wide range of breast - related procedures, not only breast augmentation but also breast reduction, breast lift, and DIEP flap surgery. This comprehensive approach allows patients to address various breast - related concerns under one roof.
Dr. Kolker's practice also offers a diverse set of breast procedures, including those for breast asymmetry, inverted nipple correction, and tuberous breast correction in addition to the common augmentation, lift, and reduction procedures. This variety gives patients more options to achieve their desired breast appearance.
Dr. Sherman focuses on breast augmentation and provides detailed guidance on implant selection. He also discusses complementary procedures such as breast lift during the consultation to help patients enhance the overall results of their breast augmentation.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Augmentation
Surgeon's Experience and Credentials
The experience and credentials of the surgeon are of utmost importance. As seen with Dr. Adam R. Kolker and Dr. John E. Sherman, their extensive training, board certifications, and affiliations with well - known institutions give patients confidence in their abilities. In the case of NewYork - Presbyterian, the plastic and reconstructive surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine have a proven track record of expertise in breast surgeries, with the hospital's academic resources further enhancing their knowledge and skills.
Reputation and Patient Reviews
Checking the reputation of the hospital or surgeon is crucial. Patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, the results of the procedures, and the overall patient experience. Dr. Kolker's numerous positive testimonials show his high - level of patient satisfaction, and NewYork - Presbyterian's ranking as a top hospital in the New York area also reflects its good reputation in the medical community.
Range of Procedures and Customization
Patients should consider the range of procedures offered and the ability to customize the treatment. A hospital or surgeon that can offer multiple options and tailor the approach to the patient's specific needs, like NewYork - Presbyterian, Dr. Kolker, and Dr. Sherman, is more likely to achieve the desired results. Customization ensures that the breast augmentation not only increases fullness but also enhances the patient's overall body proportion and appearance.
Cost and Financing Options
Cost is a significant factor for many patients. The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on factors such as the type of implants, the complexity of the procedure, and the surgeon's fees. It's important to discuss the cost and available financing options with the hospital or surgeon. For example, Dr. Sherman's practice breaks down the anticipated costs following the consultation and informs eligible patients about financing options.
Common Questions about Breast Augmentation
Will an increase in cup size provide lift to my breasts?
While breast augmentation can enlarge the size of the breasts and enhance volume and symmetry, it is limited in the amount of lift it can provide, especially to the nipple and areolar complex. If the nipple position is up to approximately 1.5 cm lower than it should be, breast augmentation alone may be able to elevate the nipple to the proper position. However, patients with ptosis (sagging) and excess skin often choose to undergo a breast lift in addition to augmentation, as seen in the offerings of all three institutions discussed.
What can I expect from recovery?
Recovery times can vary, but in general, patients can expect to experience some pain, tightness, swelling, and bruising in the first few days after surgery. They will be given pain medication to alleviate discomfort. Most patients can resume light activities and non - strenuous work within a week or two, and more strenuous activities at around 4 - 6 weeks. All the surgeons and institutions mentioned above provide detailed post - operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Is a hospital stay required?
Most breast augmentation procedures are outpatient, meaning patients can go home the same day. However, patients coming from more than an hour outside of the area may be advised to stay overnight in the city for follow - up, as is the case with Dr. Sherman's practice.
How many follow - up appointments are necessary?
Typically, follow - up appointments are scheduled at one week, four weeks, and 12 weeks after the procedure to ensure optimal healing. These appointments also give patients the opportunity to ask questions and address any concerns that may arise during the recovery period.
How do I know which size implants to choose?
The right implant size depends on the patient's cosmetic goals, body frame, and available breast tissue. Surgeons like Dr. Kolker and Dr. Sherman take the time to listen to the patient's needs and preferences during the consultation and guide them through the selection process based on what kind of look they'd like to achieve.
Will I have scarring after my breast augmentation?
Scarring is a common concern, but surgeons use techniques to minimize it. Incisions are made in inconspicuous places, such as around the areola or under the breast. Surgeons like Dr. Kolker use meticulous surgical techniques and may also offer laser treatments for patients prone to poor scarring.
What are the risks of breast augmentation?
All surgical procedures carry some risks, including bleeding, infection, changes in sensation, and risks associated with general anesthesia. However, the surgeons at these institutions are highly qualified and prioritize patient safety to minimize these risks.
Should I be worried about breast implant safety?
Breast implants are FDA - approved medical devices that are subject to rigorous testing and ongoing safety studies. While there have been reports of rare complications like breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), specific implants associated with this have been recalled. Surgeons provide patients with detailed information about implant safety and the steps they take to ensure it.