Introduction to Silicone Breast Augmentation in New York City
Silicone breast augmentation surgery has become a popular choice for many women in New York City. It offers a way to enhance breast size, shape, and proportion, ultimately boosting self - confidence and improving body image. In a city as diverse and fashion - forward as New York, the demand for high - quality breast augmentation services is constantly on the rise. However, with numerous plastic surgeons and clinics offering these services, it can be challenging for individuals to make an informed decision. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of silicone breast augmentation in New York City, including top surgeons, the procedure itself, and important considerations.
Top Plastic Surgeons for Silicone Breast Augmentation in New York City
Selecting the right plastic surgeon is crucial for a successful silicone breast augmentation. Here are some of the top surgeons in New York City:
Dr. Adam Kolker
Dr. Kolker is a double - board - certified, Harvard - trained plastic surgeon. His clinical focus is on aesthetic breast surgery. He believes that achieving a gorgeous, natural, and proportional outcome is the ultimate goal. Dr. Kolker has a wealth of experience and uses his artistic eye to create results that look and feel natural. He offers both silicone and saline implants and tailors the procedure to each patient's unique desires and anatomy. Patients who have undergone surgery with him have reported significant boosts in self - esteem and satisfaction with their results.
Dr. William Lao
Dr. William Lao is one of the top plastic surgeons specializing in breast implants in New York City. He is on a shortlist of surgeons in the country who specialize in the scarless breast augmentation technique, where the implants are inserted through the armpit, leaving no visible scar. He has successfully performed over 500 breast surgeries throughout his career. A double - board - certified plastic surgeon in both the USA and Taiwan, Dr. Lao offers personalized treatment plans and takes into account factors such as age, lifestyle, and body proportions when recommending implants.
Dr. John E. Sherman
Dr. 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 development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. Dr. Sherman takes the time to understand each patient's aesthetic goals and provides detailed guidance on choosing the right implant material, shape, size, and texture. He has a high success rate and many satisfied patients.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
As a fellowship - trained, board - certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Hutchinson is passionate about delivering outstanding care to patients. Her breast augmentation surgery allows women to achieve a fuller, firmer, and better - proportioned look. She spends a significant amount of time during the preoperative consultation to understand each patient's desires and design a fully customized treatment plan. Dr. Hutchinson has received numerous positive patient testimonials.
| Surgeon | Specialization | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Adam Kolker | Aesthetic breast surgery | Double - board - certified, Harvard - trained; Focus on natural and proportional results |
| Dr. William Lao | Breast implants, scarless technique | Double - board - certified; Over 500 breast surgeries; Consideration of various patient factors |
| Dr. John E. Sherman | Breast augmentation | Experienced; Worked on implant development; Personalized implant selection |
| Dr. Olivia Hutchinson | Breast augmentation | Fellowship - trained; Customized treatment plans; Positive patient testimonials |
The Silicone Breast Augmentation Procedure
Pre - operative Consultation
The first step in the silicone breast augmentation process is the pre - operative consultation. During this appointment, the surgeon will conduct a thorough physical examination, review the patient's medical history, and discuss the patient's aesthetic goals. The surgeon will also provide detailed information about the procedure, including the different types of silicone implants available, the incision options, and the expected recovery time. This is an opportunity for the patient to ask questions and address any concerns they may have.
For example, Dr. Kolker's initial consultation involves getting to understand the patient's desires, examining and evaluating physical requirements, and thoroughly informing the patient about the breast augmentation procedure or alternative treatments. He also introduces the patient to his warm and professional staff.
Implant Selection
There are several factors to consider when choosing silicone breast implants:
- Material: Silicone implants are pre - filled with a cohesive silicone gel, providing a more natural look and feel compared to saline implants. They are also less likely to ripple. There are different types of silicone gel, with more cohesive gels, like those in gummy bear implants, offering better shape retention.
- Shape: Round implants can add volume higher on the chest, while anatomical (teardrop - shaped) implants replicate the form of the natural breast. Anatomical implants are currently used less often due to the association of textured anatomical implants with breast ALCL (anaplastic large cell lymphoma).
- Size: Implant sizes are measured in cubic centimeters. The appropriate size depends on the patient's existing breast tissue, body proportions, and desired outcome. Surgeons may use sizing exercises, such as placing neoprene bead - filled sacs in a special brassiere, to help the patient get a better sense of the right size.
- Texture: Textured implants have a surface that allows the tissues to heal more closely around the implant, reducing the risk of rotation. However, textured implants have been associated with a small increased risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), which is why many surgeons now prefer smooth implants.
Incision Placement
There are several options for incision placement in silicone breast augmentation:
- Inframammary Crease Incision: This incision is made in the lower crease beneath the breast. It provides good access to the breast pocket and allows for easy placement of the implant. However, there may be a visible scar, although it typically fades over time.
- Periareolar Incision: The incision is made along the lowest border of the pigmented areola. This option can result in a less visible scar, especially for patients with darker areolas. However, there is a slightly higher risk of nipple sensation changes.
- Transaxillary Incision: The incision is made within the underarm. This approach leaves no visible scar on the breast, but it can be more technically challenging. Some surgeons, like Dr. William Lao, are trained to perform transaxillary endoscopic breast augmentation, which allows for precise placement of the implant.
Implant Placement
Silicone implants can be placed either below the muscle (submuscular augmentation) or above the muscle (subglandular augmentation). Submuscular augmentation has several benefits, including increased coverage of the breast implants, a more seamless transition from the collar bone to the nipple, long - term stability of the breast pocket, and a decreased risk of capsular contracture. However, it may result in more discomfort during the initial recovery period. Subglandular augmentation is a good option for patients with sufficient breast tissue and can enhance cleavage.
The Surgical Procedure
Silicone breast augmentation is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. The surgical suite is usually accredited by organizations such as the American Association for the Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF). The procedure takes approximately 1.5 - 3 hours, depending on the complexity. After preoperative marking, the surgeon makes the chosen incision, creates a pocket for the implant, inserts the silicone implant, and then closes the incisions with sutures.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, the patient will recover in a private recovery room under the care of a licensed registered nurse. They will be monitored for a few hours until they are fully awake and comfortable. The patient will be discharged home with a friend or relative. Most patients experience some pain, swelling, and bruising in the initial days after surgery. Pain medication will be prescribed to manage discomfort.
Returning to Normal Activities
The recovery time can vary depending on the individual and the type of surgery. Generally, patients are advised to take at least a week off work. Light exercise, such as cardio without impact, may be resumed at 5 - 7 days, while more vigorous physical activity can commence around 3 weeks after surgery. Strength training that excludes pectoralis muscle contraction may resume after 7 days, and modified pectoralis exercises can be started at 4 - 6 weeks. Completely unrestricted training can begin at 12 weeks.
Follow - up Visits
Regular follow - up visits are essential to monitor the healing process and ensure the best possible results. Surgeons typically schedule follow - up appointments at one week, six weeks, and 12 months after surgery. During these visits, the surgeon will check the incisions, the position of the implants, and the overall recovery. They will also provide information regarding breast health, breast self - examination, and any necessary breast imaging.
Benefits of Silicone Breast Augmentation
Improved Body Image and Self - Confidence
One of the most significant benefits of silicone breast augmentation is the improvement in body image and self - confidence. Many women who feel self - conscious about their breast size or shape find that the procedure allows them to feel more comfortable and attractive in their own bodies. This can have a positive impact on various aspects of their lives, including personal relationships and career opportunities.
Enhanced Proportion
Silicone breast augmentation can help achieve better body proportion. It can balance asymmetrical breasts and correct congenital breast defects or malformations. Women with small or underdeveloped breasts can achieve a fuller, firmer, and more proportioned look.
Long - lasting Results
Silicone breast implants can provide long - lasting results. While implants may need to be replaced after about 10 - 20 years, many women enjoy the benefits of their breast augmentation for a significant period. The natural look and feel of silicone implants also contribute to the long - term satisfaction of the procedure.
Potential Risks and Complications
Anesthesia Risks
As with any surgical procedure performed under anesthesia, there are risks associated with the use of anesthesia. These can include allergic reactions, breathing problems, and adverse effects on the heart and other organs. However, these risks are relatively rare when the procedure is performed by a qualified anesthesiologist.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is a possible complication that occurs when the body forms a thick, tight scar around the implant. This can cause the breast to feel hard, look distorted, and may be painful. The exact cause of capsular contracture is not fully understood, but factors such as infection, bleeding, and the type of implant can increase the risk.
Implant Leakage or Rupture
Although silicone implants are designed to be durable, there is a small risk of leakage or rupture. A silent rupture, where the implant leaks without any obvious symptoms, can be more difficult to detect. In the case of a rupture, the silicone gel may remain within the implant pocket or migrate to other areas of the body. If a rupture is suspected, the implant may need to be removed and replaced.
Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)
Over the past few years, researchers have identified a small but increased risk of BIA - ALCL in women with breast implants, especially textured implants. BIA - ALCL is a non - Hodgkin's lymphoma that typically presents as a mass or fluid accumulation around the implant. It is mostly treatable with surgical removal of the tumor, capsule, and breast implant.
Changes in Nipple or Breast Sensation
Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation after silicone breast augmentation. This can range from decreased sensitivity to increased sensitivity or numbness. In most cases, these changes are temporary, but in some instances, they may be permanent.
Cost of Silicone Breast Augmentation in New York City
The cost of silicone breast augmentation in New York City can vary widely depending on several factors, including the surgeon's experience, the type of implants used, the surgical technique, and the location of the clinic. On average, the cost can range from $7,000 to $20,000 or more. It is important to note that the cost may not include additional expenses such as anesthesia fees, hospital or surgical facility fees, and post - operative medications.
Patients should also consider the long - term costs, such as the potential need for implant replacement or revision surgery. Many clinics offer financing options to help patients manage the cost of the procedure.
Conclusion
Silicone breast augmentation surgery in New York City offers women the opportunity to enhance their breast size, shape, and proportion, ultimately improving their self - confidence and body image. However, it is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. When choosing a plastic surgeon, it is crucial to do thorough research, review patient testimonials, and have a detailed consultation to ensure that you are making an informed choice. The procedure itself has its own set of steps, from pre - operative planning to post - operative recovery, and understanding these can help you prepare both physically and mentally.
While there are many benefits to silicone breast augmentation, it is also important to be aware of the potential risks and complications. By working closely with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, you can minimize these risks and achieve the best possible results. If you are considering silicone breast augmentation in New York City, take the time to explore your options, ask questions, and make a decision that is right for you.
If you're intrigued by the possibilities of silicone breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a reputable plastic surgeon in New York City. This will give you the chance to discuss your goals in detail, get personalized advice, and see if the procedure is the right fit for you. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about silicone breast augmentation, and explore related topics on our website to gain even more knowledge.
