Introduction

Breast augmentation is one of the most sought - after cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States. Among the various implant options, Allergan breast implants have been a well - known choice for many women. In New York City, a hub of high - end medical services, the search for the best hospitals for Allergan breast implant augmentation is intense. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide, including information on Allergan breast implants, the popularity of breast augmentation, and a potential ranking of hospitals in New York City for this procedure.

Understanding Allergan Breast Implants

Company Overview

Allergan Inc., which is now part of Allergan Aesthetics under AbbVie, is one of the largest breast implant manufacturers globally. It started selling breast implants in 2006. Its biggest markets are the United States, Canada, and Latin America. The company's flagship breast implant brand is Natrelle, and it also previously sold implants under its subsidiaries Inamed and Mcghan.

Product Range

Allergan offers a wide range of breast implant brands and models, including:

Composition and Types

Allergan breast implants have an outer shell made of silicone elastomer, a type of silicone with elastic properties similar to rubber. These shells can be filled with either silicone gel or sterile saline (a saltwater solution). Women can choose between anatomical, tear - drop shaped implants designed to mimic the curve of a natural breast or round implants with a full, round look.

Complications and Safety

Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation with Allergan implants has risks. The FDA classified breast implants as class III, high - risk devices. Key complications may include:

• Reoperation: Some patients may need additional surgeries due to various reasons such as implant malposition or capsular contracture.
• Implant rupture: Silicone - filled implants may rupture, and saline - filled implants may deflate.
• Capsular contracture: Scar tissue can squeeze the implant, causing pain and misshapen breasts.
• Asymmetry: The breasts may not appear symmetrical after the surgery.
• Changes in sensation: Nipple, breast, or skin sensation may change.
• Scarring: Incisions can result in visible scarring.
• Wrinkling/rippling: Folds of the implant may be visible through the skin.

Allergan also faced issues with its textured implants. In July 2019, the FDA requested a worldwide recall of its textured implants after data linked them to hundreds of cancer cases and a dozen deaths. The disease associated with these implants is breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma.

The Popularity of Breast Augmentation

Trends in the United States

Breast augmentation has been one of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States for many years. Data released in November 2023 from the global intelligence platform Statista showed that in 1997, about 900,000 cosmetic surgical procedures took place in the U.S., and by 2022, that number had grown to more than 1.87 million. A greater number of options for safe, less invasive surgeries and an increasing cultural emphasis on self - care and confidence have led to more positive societal attitudes toward plastic surgery.

In 2020 alone, nearly 200,000 women underwent breast augmentation in the United States, even during the onset of a global pandemic, as reported by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Reasons for the Popularity in New York City

In New York City, the desire for breast augmentation is high. Women in the city often want breast implants that are natural - looking, beautifully contoured, and comfortable. They also seek a fast recovery and a subtle result. Additionally, some women prefer a female plastic surgeon who can be discreet about this sensitive topic.

Surgeon and Hospital Rankings

America's Best Plastic Surgeons 2024 - Breast Augmentation

Newsweek partnered with Statista for the fourth annual ranking of America's best plastic surgeons in 2024. In the breast augmentation category, several surgeons from New York were recognized:

• David Hidalgo, MD, FACS (New York - New York)
• Adam R. Kolker, MD, FACS (New York - New York)
• Alan Matarasso, MD, FACS (New York - New York)

The ranking was compiled through an online survey of thousands of medical experts with knowledge of plastic surgery in March and April 2024. More than 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.

Potential Hospital Rankings in New York City for Allergan Breast Implant Augmentation

Columbia Surgery - New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center

This hospital was ranked No. 4 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals. It ranked nationally in 15 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties. In terms of surgical excellence, it has highly ranked adult specialties such as heart surgery, GI surgery, and lung surgery, as well as children's specialties like pediatric heart surgery, pediatric GI surgery, and pediatric lung surgery. Its national ranking in cancer care also reflects the high - quality surgical oncology expertise, including breast surgery. With its reputation for world - class groundbreaking care and a wide range of specialties, it could be a top choice for Allergan breast implant augmentation.

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. This technology allows patients to virtually try on different sizes of breasts, which can help in making a more informed decision. The hospital offers various options for breast augmentation, including silicone and saline breast implants, as well as a fat transfer technique (NaturalFill®) pioneered and perfected by their surgeons. Their patient - centric approach and innovative techniques make them a strong contender in the field of breast augmentation.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery

Before Surgery

Consultation

During the initial consultation, the surgeon will examine, measure, and photograph your breasts. They will discuss your medical history and your desires for surgery. Samples of silicone and saline breast implants will be shown so you can feel the difference between them and choose the type you prefer. You will also have an opportunity to "try on" different sizes of implants to figure out what is right for you. Finally, you will look at many before and after photographs to get a sense of what a typical result looks like in someone with your body type.

Preparation

Patients are usually advised to quit smoking or using any nicotine product, as nicotine can significantly impact the ability to heal. They should also taper off current medications or supplements that may increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John’s wort. It is important to arrange for a trusted family member or friend to pick you up from the hospital and to designate a comfortable space to recover at home with necessary items within reach. Patients should also plan to rest and recuperate for 2 - 3 weeks.

During Surgery

Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure that typically uses general anesthesia. The operation may take anywhere from one hour to several hours depending on the patient and the implant. There are different incision locations, such as periareolar (around the nipple), inframammary (in the breast fold), and axillary or transaxillary (under the arm). Implants can be placed submuscular (under the chest muscle) or subglandular (under breast glands). The choice of incision and placement depends on various factors, including the patient's anatomy and the type of implant.

After Surgery

Recovery Period

In the first 24 - 48 hours, patients may experience a small amount of swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Many patients need to take pain medicine during this time. Most patients spend the first 1 - 2 days resting, reading, watching TV, and going for short walks. After 48 hours, they can shower normally. If the patient has a desk job that does not require strenuous activity, they may be able to return to work by the 3rd or 4th day after surgery. By one month after surgery, the vast majority of patients say they feel "back to normal," although the breasts will still continue to "settle" into their final position over the next few months. By 6 - 8 weeks, patients are usually cleared to do all types of physical activity again, with some exceptions for elite athletes.

Follow - up

Regular follow - up appointments are essential. These appointments allow the surgeon to monitor the recovery process, check for any complications, and ensure that the patient is satisfied with the results. Typical follow - up appointments may be scheduled at one week, four weeks, and 12 weeks after the surgery.

Financial Considerations

The cost of breast augmentation with Allergan implants in New York City can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the hospital, surgeon expertise, geographical location, specific procedure, and the individual patient’s health insurance coverage. Top - rated clinics with a reputation for excellent results and patient satisfaction tend to have higher pricing structures. However, these clinics often offer comprehensive care, ensuring patients receive the best possible outcome.

The fees for the surgeon and the complexity of the procedure also play a significant role in the overall cost. More experienced surgeons or those who specialize in natural - looking breast augmentation may charge more for their services. Additionally, the specific technique used for the augmentation can also affect the price. Geographical location is another factor; clinics in urban areas or regions with a high cost of living generally have higher prices compared to those in rural areas or regions with a lower cost of living.

In terms of financing, many clinics offer various options to help patients afford their procedure. These can range from in - house financing plans to third - party medical loans. Some clinics may also offer discounts for multiple procedures or package deals. Insurance coverage for breast augmentation is typically limited, as most insurance companies consider it a cosmetic procedure. However, there are exceptions in cases where the procedure is deemed medically necessary, such as after a mastectomy due to breast cancer.

Conclusion

Allergan breast implants have been a popular choice for breast augmentation, although they have faced some safety concerns, especially with their textured implants. Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure in New York City, driven by the desire for natural - looking results and enhanced self - confidence. When considering Allergan breast implant augmentation in New York City, it is crucial to choose a reputable hospital and an experienced surgeon. Hospitals like New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center and Mount Sinai offer high - quality services, advanced technologies, and experienced medical teams.

Before undergoing the surgery, patients should have a thorough consultation, understand the risks and benefits, and prepare adequately for the procedure and the recovery period. Financial considerations are also important, and patients should explore different financing options. By making informed decisions, patients can increase the chances of achieving their desired results and having a positive surgical experience.

If you are considering Allergan breast implant augmentation in New York City, take the time to research hospitals and surgeons, read patient reviews, and schedule consultations. Your journey to enhanced self - confidence and a more fulfilling life starts with the right choice. Don't hesitate to reach out to medical professionals for more information and guidance.