New York City is a bustling metropolis renowned for its diverse culture, vibrant lifestyle, and top - notch medical facilities. When it comes to breast augmentation surgery, the city offers a plethora of options for those seeking to enhance their appearance. In this article, we will explore the new ranking of breast augmentation surgery hospitals in New York City, the top surgeons, available procedures, and important considerations for patients.
I. Understanding Breast Augmentation
A. What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to increase the volume and projection of bilateral breasts. It is typically sought by women who have naturally small breasts, deflated breasts after breastfeeding, or those who want to improve their body proportions and self - confidence. As stated on the website of Dr. William Lao, it can be a life - changing procedure for many women in New York City.
B. Reasons for Breast Augmentation
- Desire for larger breasts: Young ladies in their 20s and 30s, who have been bothered by small breasts since youth, often seek this procedure to fit their ideal body image. For example, they may feel self - conscious at the beach or when wearing light - colored clothes in summer.
- Restoring post - pregnancy volume: Mothers with deflated breasts due to pregnancy - related changes look to regain the projection of nipples and restore lost volume. The implants add volume and improve the breast shape, giving them a more attractive appearance.
- Correcting congenital issues: In severe congenital cases where there is complete absence or very small breasts, breast augmentation can restore confidence and improve body image, which may have been a source of social distress in school and work.
- Fashion and lifestyle: Many women in New York City want to wear nice summer dresses without relying on bras for breast support.
II. The Top Surgeons in New York City
A. Overview of Top Surgeons
Healthgrades found 119 doctors who perform breast augmentation in New York. We will focus on some of the highly - rated ones:
Surgeon Name | Rating | Location |
---|---|---|
Dr. Renata Khelemsky, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 58 Prospect St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 |
Dr. Jeffrey Ascherman, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 51 West 51st street suite 380, New York, NY 10019 |
Dr. Evan Matros, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 1275 York Ave, New York, NY 10065 |
Dr. Adam R. Kolker, MD | Highly - regarded (featured in multiple top - doctor lists) | 710 Park avenue, New York, NY 10021 |
Dr. William Lao, MD | Expert in breast implants, voted top doctor in 2022 by New Beauty | NYC - area practice |
B. In - depth Look at Some Surgeons
1. Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Dr. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon. His education and training span prestigious institutions like 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 stays at the forefront of plastic surgery advancements. He offers a wide range of breast procedures, including breast augmentation, lift, reduction, and reconstruction. Dr. Kolker has been featured in numerous top - doctor lists, such as New York Magazine's Best Doctors from 2013 - 2024, Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons from 2021 - 2024, and Castle Connolly's America's Top Doctors from 2016 - 2024. His patients praise him for achieving beautiful, natural, and proportional results.
2. Dr. William Lao
Dr. Lao is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in both the USA and Taiwan, with over 10 years of experience. A double major graduate of Johns Hopkins University and a doctorate of medicine from Johns Hopkins, he is a member of multiple professional societies. He is on a shortlist of surgeons in the country who specialize in the scarless breast augmentation technique, where implants are inserted through the armpit, leaving no visible scar. Dr. Lao has successfully performed over 500 breast surgeries throughout his career and offers specialized services for Asian patients, taking into account their unique body frames and aesthetic needs.
III. Top Breast Augmentation Surgery Hospitals and Their Offerings
A. Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique bodies. This allows patients to virtually try on different sizes of breasts before making a decision. The hospital offers two types of breast implants (silicone and saline) and a non - implant option called NaturalFill®, which uses a fat - transfer technique. The surgeons at Mount Sinai will consult with patients, understand their desires for breast - size enhancement, and help them choose the best option for a natural shape and size that they will be happy with.
B. Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He works closely with patients to develop an individualized approach for breast augmentation. His practice offers a detailed consultation process where patients can discuss their aesthetic goals, and he will go over all the aspects of choosing breast implants, including material (saline or silicone), shape (round or anatomical), size, and texture. He has a deep understanding of different types of implants, such as the natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants developed in collaboration with Allergan. Dr. Sherman also takes into account possible complications like BIA - ALCL and breast implant illness and discusses them with patients to make informed decisions.
IV. Procedures and Techniques in Breast Augmentation
A. Implant Types
- Saline Implants: As described by Dr. William Lao, an empty silicone outer shell is inserted into the breast pocket through a tiny incision and then filled with a sterile saline liquid. These implants are often less expensive, but they may have a less organic feel compared to silicone - gel implants, and there is a greater potential for a noticeable rippling effect through the skin, especially in thinner patients.
- Silicone Implants: These implants are pre - filled with a silicone gel that provides a more natural look and feel. They require a larger incision but are more popular due to their ability to create a more natural movement and a lesser chance of producing a rippling effect. Cohesive silicone gel implants, also known as gummy bear implants, are becoming increasingly popular as they can keep their form and minimize the risk of leakage if the implant is compromised.
B. Incision Placements
- Inframammary: Incisions are made just below the crease of the breast. This is a common approach as it allows for good access and can result in well - hidden scars. It is suitable for different types of implants and is often used when a more precise placement of the implant is required.
- Periareolar: Incisions go around the nipple. This approach can be beneficial as the scar may blend well with the natural pigmentation of the areola. However, it may be associated with a slightly higher risk of nipple - sensation changes.
- Transaxillary (through the armpit): This is a technique where the implant is inserted through the armpit, leaving no visible scar on the breast. Dr. William Lao is experienced in performing endoscopic transaxillary breast augmentation, which uses a magnified surgical view to clearly see blood vessels and perform a bloodless dissection to create the implant pocket.
- Umbilical (through the belly button): This is a less common approach. It offers the advantage of a single, hidden scar in the belly button area, but it may have some limitations in terms of implant placement and types.
C. Implant Placement
- Submuscular (under the pectoral muscles): This placement provides a more natural look, especially for patients with less breast tissue. It also helps to reduce the risk of visible implant rippling and may offer some protection against future complications.
- Subglandular (above the pectoral muscles): When there is a sufficient amount of breast tissue, placing the implants on top of the muscle can enhance cleavage. However, it may be associated with a higher risk of visible rippling and a shorter time before the implants may need to be replaced.
V. Risks and Complications
A. General Risks
All surgical procedures carry some risks. Breast augmentation is no exception. As mentioned on the website of Dr. William Lao, risks associated with breast augmentation include anesthesia risks, bleeding, changes in nipple or breast sensation, fluid accumulation (seroma), formation of tight scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture), hematoma, implant leakage or rupture, infection, persistent pain, poor scarring, possibility of revision surgery, wrinkling of the skin over the implant, and wrong or faulty position of the implant.
B. Specific Complications
- BIA - ALCL: Breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma is a rare but serious complication. It appears to be associated with textured implants and patients who develop a seroma. While it is not breast cancer, it requires careful monitoring and treatment.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): This is a term used to refer to a variety of symptoms that women report after having implants placed, such as memory loss, “brain fog,” joint pain, and fatigue. However, the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is still poorly understood and under investigation.
VI. Recovery and After - care
A. Immediate Post - surgery
After breast augmentation surgery, patients will experience some swelling, bruising, pain, and general discomfort. They will be given a prescription for pain medication to manage the pain, which is usually most pronounced in the first few days. A surgical compression bra will be provided to support the breasts and aid in the healing process. As stated in the information about Dr. John E. Sherman's practice, patients should arrange for a trusted family member or friend to pick them up from the surgical facility and have a comfortable space at home for recovery.
B. Recovery Timeline
- First week: Most patients take about a week off work to allow their bodies to heal. They should rest and avoid strenuous activities during this time.
- 2 - 3 weeks: By this time, the swelling and discomfort should start to subside, and patients can resume light activities and return to work.
- 6 - 8 weeks: Heavy lifting and other strenuous activities can gradually be resumed. The swelling will have significantly decreased, and the implants will start to settle into place.
- Few months: The final results will become apparent as the implants fully settle, and the breasts achieve a more natural appearance.
C. Follow - up Appointments
Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are crucial. The surgeon will monitor the healing process, check for any signs of complications, and remove the sutures (usually about a week after surgery). These appointments also provide an opportunity for patients to ask questions and address any concerns they may have about their recovery.
VII. Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
A. Considerations for Hospital Selection
- Reputation: Look for hospitals with a good reputation for breast augmentation surgery. Check online reviews, patient testimonials, and accreditations. For example, Mount Sinai is well - known for its high - quality medical services in plastic surgery.
- Technology and Facilities: Hospitals that use advanced technologies, such as 3D imaging for breast augmentation, can provide patients with a better understanding of the expected results. State - of - the - art surgical facilities also contribute to a safer and more successful surgery.
- Range of Services: A hospital that offers a variety of implant types and procedures, like NaturalFill® at Mount Sinai or the different breast procedures offered by Dr. John E. Sherman, gives patients more options to meet their specific needs.
B. Considerations for Surgeon Selection
- Board Certification: Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified in plastic surgery. This indicates that they have met the necessary educational and training requirements and adhere to professional standards.
- Experience: Look for surgeons with extensive experience in breast augmentation surgery. Surgeons like Dr. Adam R. Kolker and Dr. William Lao, who have performed hundreds of breast surgeries, are more likely to achieve better results.
- Patient Reviews and Testimonials: Read reviews from previous patients to get an idea of the surgeon's bedside manner, communication skills, and the quality of their work. Many surgeons' websites feature patient testimonials that can provide valuable insights.
- Consultation: The consultation process is an important opportunity to assess the surgeon. A good surgeon will listen to your goals, answer your questions thoroughly, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
VIII. Cost of Breast Augmentation in New York City
A. Factors Affecting Cost
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary widely. Factors that influence the cost include the type of implants chosen (saline implants are generally less expensive than silicone implants), the surgical technique used (e.g., endoscopic transaxillary may have different costs compared to other approaches), anesthesia costs, surgeon fees, and the location of the surgical facility. As per information from Dr. William Lao, the average cost of breast augmentation in New York City typically starts at $7,000 and can range up to $20,000 or more.
B. Payment Options
- Cash, Credit Cards, and Checks: Many surgeons accept traditional payment methods such as cash, major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover), and checks.
- Financing: For those who cannot afford to pay the full cost upfront, financing options are available. Popular surgery financing in NYC includes CareCredit, which offers no - interest plans up to 24 months if the required minimum monthly payment is made and the balance is paid off within the promotional period, as well as extended payment plans for 24, 36, 48, or 60 months with a competitive interest rate.
- Insurance: In some cases, insurance may cover breast augmentation if it is deemed medically necessary, such as for breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. However, for cosmetic breast augmentation, insurance typically does not cover the cost.
IX. Conclusion
Breast augmentation is a popular surgical procedure in New York City, and patients have a wide range of options when it comes to hospitals and surgeons. By choosing a reputable hospital and an experienced, board - certified surgeon, patients can increase their chances of achieving their desired results. It is important to thoroughly research and understand the procedure, including the risks, complications, recovery process, and costs. The top surgeons and hospitals in New York City are committed to providing high - quality care and helping patients enhance their self - confidence through breast augmentation.
If you are considering breast augmentation in New York City, we encourage you to take the first step by scheduling a consultation with a qualified surgeon. Discuss your goals, ask questions, and make an informed decision that is right for you. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in the city that never sleeps.