Introduction
Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that has helped numerous women enhance their appearance and boost their self - confidence. In New York City, with its vibrant and diverse medical landscape, there are several high - scoring hospitals and clinics that offer top - notch breast implant services. This article will present a ranking list of these institutions and provide detailed information to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
Benefits of Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation can have a significant impact on a woman's life. According to the information from the website about breast augmentation with Dr. Cangello, it can restore fullness to breasts that have lost volume due to factors such as pregnancy, weight fluctuation, or aging. It also rejuvenates breasts that have changed shape over time, improves symmetry and balance, and adds balance to a feminine figure. Additionally, it can enhance the size and shape of smaller breasts, giving women a more proportionate look.
Clinical study surveys of breast augmentation patients have reported a very high rate of patient satisfaction. For over a decade, breast augmentation has been the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure in the U.S., with more than 300,000 procedures performed in a single year (reference: American Society of Plastic Surgeons 2018 national plastic surgery statistics). It is popular among adult women of all ages, but the most procedures are performed on patients aged 30 to 39.
Facts about Breast Implants
- Breast implants should not interfere with a woman's ability to breastfeed, as indicated by a systematic review and meta - analysis (Schiff, M, et al., 2014).
- Breast implants are sized by volume, not cup size. An experienced plastic surgeon will help patients choose the right breast implants according to their body frame, available breast tissue, and aesthetic goals.
Types of Breast Implants
Shape
There are two basic shapes for breast implants: round and contoured (teardrop). Round breast implants have volume and fullness all the way around. They contain a gel that is less cohesive than the anatomically shaped variety, making them softer and feeling more natural. They typically have a smooth texture. Contoured breast implants have a subtle sloping shape to match the curves of natural breasts. They require a textured surface to ensure they adhere to surrounding tissue and do not rotate in the breast pocket once implanted. They are also a bit firmer to the touch due to the greater cohesivity of the gel filling (information from the article about Dr. Cangello's breast augmentation services).
| Shape | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Round | Fullness all around, less cohesive gel, softer, smooth texture |
| Contoured (Teardrop) | Subtle sloping shape, textured surface, firmer due to more cohesive gel |
Material
There are two main types of breast implant materials: saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with saline once they've been placed into the treatment site. This allows for a smaller incision size during insertion. They do not require long - term monitoring and are approved for patients who are at least 18 years old. However, in thin women with small amounts of breast tissue, visible rippling at the implant edges may be seen. In the rare case of rupture, the saline can be safely absorbed by the body.
Silicone implants are pre - filled by the manufacturer with a cohesive silicone gel. Many patients find that they feel and look more natural. Traditionally, they required larger incisions, but some surgeons use methods like the Keller funnel to minimize incision size. The FDA suggests MRI scans every few years to monitor the condition of the implant shell, though it is only a recommendation and not mandated. They are approved for patients who are at least 22 years old.
| Material | Advantages | Disadvantages | Age Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saline | Smaller incision, no long - term monitoring, safe rupture outcome | Possible visible rippling in thin patients | At least 18 years old |
| Silicone | More natural look and feel | Requires possible MRI monitoring, larger traditional incision | At least 22 years old |
Ranking List of High - Scoring Hospitals for Breast Implants in New York City
New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell
This hospital is highly regarded in New York. It is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties and is high - performing in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions. While its main areas of strength may not be exclusively focused on breast implants, it has a comprehensive medical team and advanced facilities. Surgeons at the hospital are well - trained and experienced, capable of handling various types of breast implant procedures with precision. The hospital's commitment to research and innovation also means that patients may benefit from the latest techniques and technologies in breast augmentation.
Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital is another top - tier institution. It is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties and is high - performing in 20 procedures/conditions. For breast implant surgeries, the plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai have extensive experience. They can offer patients different options for breast implants, including advanced technologies for better visualization of the results. For example, the hospital uses advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients see how their larger breasts will look on their unique bodies before the surgery, as mentioned on the Mount Sinai - New York breast augmentation page. This helps patients make more informed decisions about the size and shape of their implants.
NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals are nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties and are high - performing in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions. The hospital's plastic surgery department has a reputation for providing high - quality care. The surgeons are experts in breast augmentation and can customize treatment plans according to each patient's needs. They stay updated with the latest research in breast implant technology and safety, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.
Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health
This hospital is nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties and is high - performing in 1 specialty and 16 procedures/conditions. The medical staff at Lenox Hill is dedicated to patient satisfaction. For breast implant patients, they offer personalized consultations to understand their aesthetic goals and medical history. They also have a comprehensive post - operative care program to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Long Island Jewish Medical Center at Northwell Health
Nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties and high - performing in 1 specialty and 14 procedures/conditions, this hospital has a team of skilled plastic surgeons. They are well - versed in different breast implant techniques and can guide patients through the process of choosing the right implants. The hospital also emphasizes patient safety and comfort throughout the surgical and recovery period.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Implants
Surgeon's Experience and Reputation
The experience and reputation of the plastic surgeon are crucial. Surgeons like Dr. David L. Cangello, an experienced and board - certified plastic surgeon, are known for their skill in delivering elegant, natural - looking results. He has extensive experience in cosmetic breast surgery and has earned the trust of professional models. Patients can research the surgeon's background, including their training, number of successful procedures, and patient testimonials. Another example is Dr. John E. Sherman, who is renowned for his commitment to patient care and excellent results in breast augmentation. He worked closely with leading companies in the development of breast implants and has in - depth knowledge of different implant types.
Hospital's Facilities and Technology
Advanced facilities and technology can enhance the safety and success of the procedure. Hospitals like Mount Sinai use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize the results of their breast augmentation. This technology allows patients to have a better understanding of what to expect and make more confident decisions. Additionally, state - of - the - art operating rooms, such as those at Dr. Cangello's office, which are fully accredited (AAAASF), ensure a high - standard surgical environment. The use of the Keller funnel during breast augmentation with silicone implants, as used by some surgeons, allows for easier implant insertion, smaller incision size, and may minimize infection risk.
Patient Care and Support
Comprehensive patient care from the initial consultation to post - operative follow - up is essential. During the consultation, the surgeon should take the time to understand the patient's goals, answer all questions, and determine the patient's suitability for the procedure. For example, Dr. Cangello's consultations are informative and thorough, and his office staff creates a warm and welcoming environment. After the surgery, proper post - operative care, including pain management, follow - up appointments, and support for the recovery process, is necessary. The standard follow - up schedule at some clinics, such as Dr. Cangello's, includes appointments at one week, four weeks, and 12 weeks after the procedure to ensure optimal healing.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implants, the surgeon's fee, and the hospital's facilities. Patients should have a clear understanding of all the associated costs before proceeding with the surgery. In some cases, insurance may not cover cosmetic breast augmentation, but patients can explore financing options. Clinics like Dr. Sherman's can break down the anticipated costs after the consultation and help eligible patients with financing options.
Preparing for Breast Augmentation
Initial Consultation
The initial consultation is a crucial step. During this meeting, the surgeon will review the patient's medical history, examine the breasts, and take measurements. They will also discuss the patient's aesthetic goals, implant options, and possible risks and complications. Surgeons like Dr. Sherman and Dr. Cangello will develop a personalized treatment plan based on the patient's needs. Patients should come prepared with a list of questions to ensure they have a full understanding of the procedure.
Pre - operative Instructions
Patients are usually given pre - operative instructions to follow. These may include quitting smoking or using nicotine products, as nicotine can significantly impact the healing process. They may also be advised to taper off certain medications or supplements that may increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John's wort. Arranging for a responsible adult to accompany the patient to and from the hospital and having a comfortable recovery space at home are also important. Additionally, patients should designate a period of 2 - 3 weeks for rest and recuperation.
Recovery Process
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the breast augmentation surgery, which typically takes one - and - a - half to two hours, patients will wake up with a surgical dressing over the incisions and wearing a post - surgical bra. They may experience achiness or tightness in the breasts, and the surgeon will prescribe pain medication to alleviate discomfort. In the first few days, it is normal to have symptoms such as fatigue, swelling, and bruising.
Short - term Recovery
Most patients are able to resume non - strenuous and non - contact sport activities one week following surgery. If the patient has a standard office job that doesn't involve physical labor, they may be able to return to work within a few days. The sutures are usually removed one week after the surgery.
Long - term Recovery
It takes approximately four to six weeks for the overall recovery. At 6 - 8 weeks, patients can start more strenuous activities, such as going to the gym. Swelling will subside significantly over time, and within a few months, the implants will settle into place, and the patient can see the final results.
Risks and Complications
All surgical procedures carry some risks. The most common risks of breast augmentation surgery include bleeding, infection, changes in sensation, and risks associated with general anesthesia. There are also specific risks related to breast implants, such as breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), which is a very rare and treatable type of cancer associated with certain breast implants that have now been recalled. Breast implant illness (BII) is another term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that women report after having implants placed, though the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is still being investigated.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New York City offers a wide range of high - scoring hospitals and clinics for breast implants. Each institution has its own strengths, whether it's the expertise of the surgeons, advanced facilities and technology, or comprehensive patient care. When choosing a hospital for breast augmentation, patients should carefully consider factors such as the surgeon's experience, the hospital's facilities, patient care, cost, and potential risks. By doing thorough research and having in - depth consultations, patients can make an informed decision and achieve the desired results.
If you are considering breast augmentation in New York City, we encourage you to reach out to the hospitals and clinics mentioned in this article. Schedule a consultation, ask all your questions, and take the first step towards enhancing your appearance and confidence. Share this article with friends who may also be interested in breast augmentation information to help them make an informed choice.
