Introduction
New York City is globally renowned for its advanced plastic surgery landscape, particularly in breast augmentation. The plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital for composite endoscopic breast augmentation has emerged as a leader in this dynamic field. This article delves into the various aspects of breast augmentation in New York City, highlighting the role of this prestigious department, along with exploring top surgeons, available techniques, and relevant patient considerations.
The Growing Popularity of Plastic Surgery in the US
Elective plastic surgery has witnessed a significant surge in popularity over the years. Data from November 2023 by the global intelligence platform Statista revealed that in 1997, there were 900,000 cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States, which skyrocketed to over 1.87 million by 2022. Statista attributes this growth to a greater number of safe and less invasive surgery options, coupled with an increasing cultural emphasis on self - care and confidence. This growing acceptance of plastic surgery in society has led to more individuals considering procedures like breast augmentation.
New York City's Standing in Plastic Surgery
New York City is a hub for plastic surgery, hosting some of the world's top plastic surgeons and advanced medical facilities. Hospitals such as Columbia University's plastic surgery department, Mount Sinai, NewYork Presbyterian, and Weill Cornell Medicine offer a comprehensive range of plastic surgery services, including breast augmentation. These institutions have experienced surgeons who are at the forefront of research and innovation in the field.
Breast Augmentation in New York City
Types of Cosmetic Breast Surgery
Breast surgery encompasses a variety of procedures designed to meet different patient needs. In addition to breast augmentation, common cosmetic breast surgeries include:
- Breast Reduction Surgery: This procedure helps decrease a patient's breast size. It can relieve physical discomfort associated with overly large breasts, such as back and neck pain, and improve the overall appearance and proportion of the body.
- Breast Lift Surgery (Mastopexy): Ideal for women with sagging breasts due to factors like pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. It elevates the breasts, providing a more youthful and perky appearance.
- Diep Flap Surgery: Often used in breast reconstruction, this microsurgical technique transfers tissue from the abdomen to the breast area, creating a more natural - looking breast.
Breast Augmentation Options
When it comes to breast augmentation, patients in New York City have several choices:
Breast Implants
Implants are the most common form of breast augmentation. There are two main types:
- Silicone Breast Implants: These implants are filled with a silicone gel. They look and feel more natural in the breasts, closely mimicking the texture and movement of real breast tissue. In 2020, approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States were performed with silicone implants.
- Saline Breast Implants: Saline implants are filled with a solution of salt and water. They are firmer and rounder compared to silicone implants. They are placed in the breast pocket and filled to the patient's desired volume during the procedure.
Naturalfill (Fat Transfer)
Mount Sinai surgeons have pioneered and perfected a fat transfer technique known as Naturalfill®. It involves a two - step process. First, fat is removed from the buttocks or abdomen using liposuction. Then, this fat is immediately inserted into the breasts to enlarge them. This approach uses the patient's own fat, which can provide a more natural look and feel, and also has the added benefit of body contouring in the area where the fat is harvested.
Top Surgeons in New York City for Breast Augmentation
Newsweek's 2024 Ranking
Newsweek, in partnership with Statista, conducted an annual ranking of America's best plastic surgeons in 2024. In the breast augmentation category, several New York - based surgeons made the list:
| Rank | Surgeon | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | David Hidalgo, MD, FACS | New York - New York |
| 5 | Adam R. Kolker, MD, FACS | New York - New York |
| 10 | Alan Matarasso, MD, FACS | New York - New York |
To compile this ranking, thousands of medical experts with knowledge of plastic surgery were invited to an online survey in March and April 2024. Over 8,400 votes were collected for plastic surgeons representing all surgery categories. Only surgeons from the 20 states with the most plastic surgeons were included, and those who offer only reconstructive or non - elective corrections were excluded.
Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He has an impressive educational background, having trained at some of the world's most prestigious medical institutions, 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 stays at the forefront of plastic surgery advancements.
Dr. Kolker specializes in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures addressing all aspects of the body. He is highly skilled in both scientific and artistic aspects of plastic surgery, enabling him to deliver beautiful, natural, and proportional results. He has been featured in New York Magazine's best doctors issues from 2008 - 2024 and is also recognized as one of America's best plastic surgeons by Newsweek from 2021 - 2024, being listed in multiple categories including breast augmentation, facelift, eye lift, rhinoplasty, and liposuction.
Dr. John E. Sherman
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon renowned for his commitment to patient care and excellent results. He works closely with patients to develop an individualized approach for breast augmentation. Dr. Sherman has in - depth knowledge of breast implants, having worked closely with Allergan during the development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. He can guide patients through the process of choosing the right implants based on factors such as material, shape, size, and texture.
Technological Advancements in Breast Augmentation
3D Imaging Technology
3D imaging technology has revolutionized breast augmentation. Surgeons can create a virtual model of the patient's body and simulate the potential results of various implant sizes and shapes. This allows patients to visualize how their breasts will look after the surgery, making it easier for them to make informed decisions. It also improves surgical planning and accuracy, leading to better aesthetic outcomes.
High - Quality Implant Materials
In 2024, there have been significant advancements in implant materials. Bio - engineered implants are on the leading edge, offering enhanced durability and a more natural look and feel. These implants may also address issues such as implant rejection and capsular contracture associated with traditional implants.
Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques
Endoscopic and robotic - assisted approaches have become more widely used in breast augmentation surgery. These techniques offer several advantages over traditional open surgery, including smaller incisions, fewer complications, quicker recovery times, and less post - operative pain. They also provide more precise control during the procedure, which can lead to better results.
Patient Considerations
Candidates for Breast Augmentation
Ideal candidates for breast augmentation are typically women in good health. They should be non - smokers or willing to quit until completing recovery, understand what the surgery entails, and be willing to follow pre - and post - operative instructions. Candidates should not be currently pregnant or breastfeeding and have realistic expectations about the results. They should also be aware of the risks and benefits associated with synthetic implants.
Potential Complications
Although breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure, there are potential complications that patients should be aware of:
- Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): Women with breast implants may have a small but increased risk of developing this form of non - Hodgkin's lymphoma. It appears to be associated with textured implants and patients who develop a seroma (accumulation of fluid around the breast). As of now, the number of cases worldwide is approaching 400, and research is ongoing.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): This is a term used to refer to a broad 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 poorly understood and still being investigated.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary depending on several factors, including the surgeon's expertise, the complexity of the operation, and the use of advanced surgical technology. Top surgeons who specialize in custom breast augmentation typically charge higher fees due to their experience and reputation.
Most insurance companies do not cover the cost of elective cosmetic surgeries like breast augmentation, as they consider them non - essential. However, if the procedure is performed for reconstructive purposes, such as after a mastectomy, insurance may cover a portion or all of the costs. Patients should communicate openly with their surgeons and insurance providers to understand their financial responsibility and explore payment plans or financing options.
Conclusion
The plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital for composite endoscopic breast augmentation in New York City stands at the forefront of breast augmentation in a city known for its excellence in plastic surgery. With a wide range of surgical options, top - notch surgeons, and cutting - edge technological advancements, patients in New York City have access to world - class breast augmentation services. However, it is crucial for patients to carefully consider all aspects, including the choice of surgeon, potential complications, and financial implications before undergoing the procedure.
If you are considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to do thorough research, schedule consultations with multiple surgeons, and make an informed decision based on your unique needs and expectations. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in New York City.
