Introduction
Breast fullness enhancement surgery, also known as breast augmentation, is a highly sought - after plastic surgery procedure in New York City. Women opt for this surgery for various reasons, including enhancing their body contour, restoring breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss, correcting asymmetrical breasts, or addressing congenital deformities. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information about breast fullness enhancement surgery, including hospitals, procedures, costs, and important considerations.
Popular Breast Enhancement Procedures
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is one of the most common procedures. It involves the placement of implants to increase the size and improve the shape of the breasts. Mount Sinai plastic surgeons, for example, 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 before scheduling the surgery. Rapaport Plastic Surgery also specializes in this procedure. David P. Rapaport, a board - certified plastic surgeon, is a world - recognized expert in breast augmentation and breast implant revision for women with previous breast surgery.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2020 alone, nearly 200,000 women in the United States underwent breast augmentation. The demand for this procedure shows its popularity and significance in the field of plastic surgery.
Naturalfill (Fat Transfer)
Mount Sinai surgeons have pioneered and perfected a new way to augment breasts called Naturalfill®. It is a two - step procedure. First, fat is removed from the buttocks or abdomen using liposuction. Then, the fat is immediately inserted into the breasts to enlarge them. This method allows patients to use their own fat deposits, which can be a more natural alternative to implants.
Breast Lift
A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is often performed in conjunction with breast augmentation. While breast augmentation mainly focuses on increasing breast size, a breast lift addresses sagging and droopy breasts. Dr. John E. Sherman often recommends a combination of augmentation and a breast lift for patients with significant breast sagging to produce the best possible result.
Breast Implant Revision
Some patients may require breast implant revision surgery. This can be due to issues such as capsular contracture, changes in the appearance of the breasts over time, or the patient's desire for a different size or type of implant. Surgeons like Dr. Rapaport have experience in handling breast implant revision cases.
Types of Breast Implants
Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants consist of a silicone shell pre - filled with a silicone gel. They are known for their natural look and feel, as the gel closely resembles natural breast tissue. In 2020, approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States were performed with silicone implants. However, they require regular monitoring to ensure they remain intact, as they can leak if ruptured. For example, Dr. Brian Bassiri - tehrani of Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery typically uses smooth, round silicone gel implants for their natural shape and feel.
Saline Breast Implants
Saline breast implants have a silicone shell that is filled with sterile saline water once they are placed in the breast tissue. They are the most economical implant option and can be fully tailored to the precise size a woman wants. One drawback is that if they rupture, the saline water will be absorbed by the body, and the appearance of the breasts will change. At Gotham Plastic Surgery, saline implants are one of the options offered to patients.
Cohesive Gel Implants (Gummy Bear Implants)
Also known as gummy bear implants, these devices have a similar texture to gummy bear candies. They tend to be firmer than other implants and will not leak in the event of a tear or rupture. However, they require a slightly longer incision than other implant types. Dr. Sherman worked closely with Allergan during the development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants, which are popular for augmentation and breast reconstruction.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon in New York City
Hospital Reputation and Facilities
When choosing a hospital for breast fullness enhancement surgery, it's important to consider its reputation. Mount Sinai, for instance, is a well - known medical institution with highly qualified and talented board - certified plastic surgeons. The hospital offers a wide range of breast enhancement procedures and uses advanced technologies like the 3D imaging system developed in collaboration with Microsoft and Touch MD. The New York Group for Plastic Surgery also has a good reputation, with over 27 years of experience in the area and surgeons who specialize in cosmetic surgery for women. They use the Vectra XT imaging system to show patients the projected results of their procedure.
Surgeon's Qualifications and Experience
Surgeon's qualifications are crucial. Look for a surgeon who is board - certified in both general surgery and plastic surgery. For example, Dr. Rapaport and Dr. Sherman are board - certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in breast augmentation. It's also important to check if the surgeon attended a well - known east coast medical school and has hospital privileges. Hospital privileges are an indicator of expertise and quality outcomes, as they are granted by hospital review boards.
Surgeon's experience also matters. The amount of experience, which is a combination of years in practice and the number of patients treated, is a key predictor of a successful breast augmentation outcome. Surgeons who have performed a large number of breast augmentation surgeries are more likely to handle any potential complications effectively.
Patient - Surgeon Communication
Effective communication between the patient and the surgeon is essential. A good surgeon takes the time to understand the patient's needs and goals. At Cohen/Winters, the surgeons take the time to understand what's unique about each patient and what they want from their breast surgery. During the consultation, the surgeon should listen to the patient's concerns, answer all questions, and provide honest advice about what can be achieved. For example, the surgeon should be able to tell the patient if their desired breast augmentation outcome is unrealistic based on their body type and health condition.
The Consultation Process
Initial Consultation
The consultation is the first step in the breast augmentation journey. At Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery, the consultation sets the tone for the entire surgical experience. The patient will meet with the surgeon, and key things to experience during this meeting include whether the surgeon makes the patient feel welcome, listens to their concerns, and helps them understand their options.
During the consultation, the following items are typically covered:
- The patient's goals for surgery, including the desired size of the breasts.
- Reviewing "wish pics" and the ideal desired outcome.
- 3D imaging of the expected results, which helps the patient visualize the potential changes.
- Looking at before and after photos of previous patients to get an idea of the surgeon's work.
- Taking measurements and before photos of the patient's breasts.
- Reviewing the patient's medical history, including any pre - existing conditions, allergies, and previous surgeries. The surgeon will also discuss the risks and considerations associated with the procedure.
- Discussing the scheduling of the surgery and follow - up appointments.
- Answering questions about the recovery process, such as how long it will take and what to expect.
Making Decisions Based on the Consultation
After the consultation, the patient should have a better understanding of the procedure, the available options, and what to expect. The patient can then make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the surgery, which type of implant to choose, and other important aspects. It's important to be honest with the surgeon about your goals and expectations and to trust their advice.
The Surgery Process
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation can be performed with general anesthesia or IV sedation (twilight anesthesia). At Rapaport Plastic Surgery, the anesthesia is administered and monitored by a board - certified anesthesiologist. The choice of anesthesia depends on the patient's preference and the surgeon's recommendation.
Incision Placement
The incision for breast augmentation can be placed in different locations. The most common incision sites are:
- Under the breast (inframammary incision): This is a popular choice as it allows for good access to the breast pocket and can result in less visible scarring. However, it may be more difficult to hide the scar if the patient has a shorter breast crease.
- Under the armpit (transaxillary incision): Many patients prefer this option as it removes all scarring from the breast. Surgeons like Dr. Rapaport use an endoscope to perform this scarless breast augmentation procedure, which allows for more precise muscle division and implant positioning.
- Within the areola (periareolar incision): This incision is often used for silicone implants. It can be well - hidden within the natural pigmentation of the areola. However, it may cause some changes in nipple sensation.
Implant Placement
Implants can be placed either over the chest muscle in the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or directly under the muscle (submuscular placement). Submuscular placement may require a slightly longer recovery process, but it often looks the most natural and prevents the implant from interfering with mammogram results. The choice of implant placement depends on the type of implant used, the size of the implant, the size of the patient's natural breast, and the patient's and surgeon's preferences.
Recovery Process
Immediate Post - Surgery
After the surgery, the patient will be monitored in a recovery area until the anesthesia wears off. The patient will typically have a compression garment or bra to support the breasts and help with swelling. Pain medication will be prescribed to manage any discomfort, which is usually most pronounced during the first few days. Patients must have an adult stay with them for the first night after surgery.
Short - Term Recovery
Full recovery from breast augmentation takes approximately two to three weeks, but patients can often return to work in just a few days, depending on their job type. Those with non - strenuous or desk jobs can typically resume work in five days. Strenuous exercise and aerobic activity, including sexual activity, are restricted for the first ten days after surgery. Ice packs may be helpful to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Long - Term Recovery
It may take several months for the implants to fully settle into place. During this time, the breasts may feel firm and tight, but these symptoms will gradually subside. The surgeon will schedule follow - up appointments to monitor the recovery progress and ensure that there are no complications. It's important for the patient to follow the surgeon's post - operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible results.
Cost Considerations
Overall Cost
Breast augmentation in New York City is generally quite pricey. The cost can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the surgeon's experience, the type of implant used, the complexity of the procedure, and the location of the hospital. On average, the cost of breast augmentation in NYC can range from several thousand dollars to over ten thousand dollars.
Additional Costs
In addition to the surgical fee, there may be other costs associated with breast augmentation. These can include the cost of anesthesia, the use of the surgical facility, pre - operative and post - operative medical tests, and the cost of any medications or compression garments. It's important to consider all these costs when budgeting for the surgery.
Financing Options
Many plastic surgery practices offer financing options to help patients afford the procedure. Some patients may also be able to use medical credit cards or personal loans. It's important to discuss financing options with the surgeon's office during the consultation to find a solution that works for you.
Potential Complications
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture occurs when the capsule around the implant contracts and squeezes the implant. This can result in breasts that appear round and high and may feel very hard to touch. To minimize the risk of capsular contracture, surgeons take precautions such as exercising extreme care in minimizing bleeding and avoiding contamination during the operation. For example, Dr. Rapaport uses powder - free gloves and the "no touch" technique for augmentation whenever possible.
Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)
Over the past few years, researchers have found that women with breast implants may have a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL. This is not breast cancer but rather a form of non - Hodgkin's lymphoma that can be effectively treated. It appears to be associated with textured implants and patients who develop a seroma (accumulation of fluid around the breast). Although the actual number of cases worldwide is not confirmed, it is approaching 400 cases.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
Breast implant illness is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that women report after having implants placed. These symptoms include 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.
Conclusion
Breast fullness enhancement surgery in New York City offers women the opportunity to enhance their appearance and boost their self - confidence. With a variety of procedures, implant options, and experienced surgeons available, patients can find a solution that meets their individual needs. However, it's important to carefully consider all aspects of the surgery, including choosing the right hospital and surgeon, understanding the procedure and recovery process, and being aware of the potential costs and complications.
If you are considering breast fullness enhancement surgery, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, you can discuss your goals, ask questions, and make an informed decision about whether this procedure is right for you. Share this guide with others who may be interested in breast augmentation and explore more about plastic surgery options in New York City.
