Introduction
Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure in New York City. Women from all walks of life desire fuller, more symmetrical breasts to enhance their femininity and boost self - confidence. Endoscopic visible breast augmentation has emerged as a popular technique, offering more precision and potentially less scarring. In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of endoscopic visible breast augmentation in New York City, including the procedure, top surgeons, patient experiences, and more.
What is Endoscopic Visible Breast Augmentation?
Endoscopic visible breast augmentation is a surgical technique that uses an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera, to guide the surgeon during the procedure. This allows for a more accurate and controlled placement of breast implants compared to traditional methods. The endoscope provides a magnified view of the surgical site, enabling the surgeon to visualize the tissues, blood vessels, and muscle layers more clearly. As a result, the surgeon can precisely create a pocket for the implant, reducing the risk of implant malposition and damage to surrounding tissues.
During the procedure, small incisions are made, often in the underarm area. Through these incisions, the endoscope is inserted, and the surgeon can carefully manipulate the tissues to create the optimal space for the breast implant. The ability to visualize the surgical area clearly also helps in minimizing bleeding, which can contribute to a faster and more comfortable recovery for the patient.
Benefits of Endoscopic Visible Breast Augmentation
Precision in Implant Placement
With the endoscopic view, surgeons can place the implants in the most appropriate position for each patient's body. This leads to more natural - looking results and a better fit. For example, the implant can be centered precisely beneath the nipple, enhancing the overall symmetry of the breasts. Surgeons like Dr. William Lao in New York City are known for their expertise in using endoscopic techniques to achieve excellent implant placement. Dr. Lao, a double - board - certified plastic surgeon, has successfully performed over 500 breast surgeries throughout his career, including many using the endoscopic approach.
Reduced Scarring
Endoscopic visible breast augmentation often allows for smaller incisions, which are typically placed in less visible areas such as the underarm. This results in less noticeable scarring compared to traditional breast augmentation methods. For patients who are concerned about scarring, this can be a significant advantage. For instance, Dr. Lao is well - versed in the transaxillary endoscopic breast augmentation technique, which leaves no visible scars on or around the breasts.
Minimized Tissue Damage
The magnified view provided by the endoscope helps the surgeon to precisely divide the muscle and manipulate the tissues, reducing the risk of blunt trauma. This means less damage to the surrounding muscles, blood vessels, and nerves. As a result, patients may experience less pain, swelling, and bruising during the recovery period. Some patients who have undergone endoscopic breast augmentation report being able to return to normal activities earlier than expected.
Top Surgeons in New York City for Endoscopic Visible Breast Augmentation
Dr. William Lao
Dr. Lao is a highly respected plastic surgeon in New York City. He 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 followed by a doctorate of medicine from Johns Hopkins, he has a deep understanding of the female anatomy. He is on a shortlist of surgeons in the country who specialize in the scarless breast augmentation technique using an endoscope through the armpit. He has successfully performed many breast augmentation surgeries, especially catering to Asian patients with his expertise in considering their unique anatomical features.
Dr. David P. Rapaport
Dr. Rapaport is a world - recognized expert specializing in breast augmentation and breast implant revision. As a board - certified plastic surgeon, he uses an endoscope to perform scarless breast augmentation. Instead of bluntly tearing the lower border of the muscle, he precisely divides the muscle under magnified endoscopic visualization, allowing for better control of bleeding and precise implant positioning. He has performed numerous breast augmentation procedures at his New York plastic surgery facility.
Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Antell is a renowned breast augmentation surgeon in New York City. A board - certified plastic surgeon who has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentation surgeries. He is committed to providing beautiful, long - lasting results with a reduced risk of complications. While he offers a variety of breast augmentation techniques, he also incorporates endoscopic procedures when appropriate to ensure the best outcome for his patients.
Types of Breast Implants Used in Endoscopic Visible Breast Augmentation
Saline Implants
Saline implants consist of an empty silicone outer shell that is inserted into the breast pocket through a tiny incision and then filled with a sterile saline liquid. One of the main advantages of saline implants is that they can be filled after placement, which makes them suitable for the endoscopic scarless breast augmentation technique. They are also generally less expensive than silicone implants. However, they may have a less organic feel compared to silicone implants, and in thinner patients, there is a greater potential for a noticeable rippling effect through the skin. Dr. Lao offers saline implants to his New York City breast augmentation patients, along with cohesive silicone gel implants.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are pre - filled with a silicone gel that provides a more natural look and feel. The gel inside creates a more natural movement and has a lesser chance of producing a rippling effect. However, they require a larger incision for insertion and are more expensive than saline implants. Most patients prefer silicone implants for their more realistic appearance. Dr. Antell discusses the pros and cons of silicone implants with his patients to help them make an informed decision based on their anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Here is a comparison table of saline and silicone implants:
| Feature | Saline Implants | Silicone Implants |
|---|---|---|
| Insertion | Empty shell inserted, filled later | Pre - filled, larger incision needed |
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
| Appearance and Feel | Less natural, potential for rippling in thin patients | More natural look and feel |
| Rupture | Saline absorbed by body, breast deflates | Silicone may not be absorbed, "silent rupture" possible |
The Endoscopic Visible Breast Augmentation Procedure
Consultation
The first step in the endoscopic visible breast augmentation process is a consultation with the surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's general health and medical history. They will also assess the current condition of the breasts, including the amount of breast tissue, skin elasticity, and any existing asymmetries. The patient and the surgeon will have an open and honest conversation about the patient's aesthetic goals, expectations, and concerns. The surgeon will then guide the patient through selecting the proper implant type, incision type, implant placement, and size. For example, Dr. Antell spends time with his patients to understand their desires and uses his expertise to recommend the best approach for each individual.
Pre - operative Preparation
Once the patient and the surgeon have agreed on the surgical plan, the patient will receive instructions to prepare for surgery. This may include guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. The patient may be given prescriptions that should be filled prior to the day of surgery. They may also be asked to provide pre - operative clearance from another doctor, depending on their medical history. Since the procedure is usually performed under "twilight" sedation, the patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after surgery and ensure they have someone to assist them for the first few days. Dr. Sherman advises his patients to quit smoking or using any nicotine product before the surgery, as nicotine may significantly impact their ability to heal.
Surgery
On the day of surgery, the patient will arrive at the surgical facility. The board - certified anesthesiologist will administer either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation anesthesia, depending on the patient's preferences. The surgeon will make small incisions, often in the underarm area, and insert the endoscope to visualize the surgical site. Through these incisions, the surgeon will create a pocket for the implant, either behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or behind the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement). Placing the implant behind the muscle may reduce the risk of capsular contracture but may also add a few days to the recovery time. Once the pocket is created, the implant is inserted and centered beneath the nipple. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and the area may be wrapped with a compression garment. The surgery typically takes 1 - 2 hours, but this can vary depending on the complexity of the case.
Recovery
After the surgery, the patient will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a nurse. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia may be used to decrease discomfort. Since breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure, the patient can return home the same day. However, they will need an escort to drive them home and should have someone stay with them for the first night. In the initial days after surgery, it is normal to experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. The patient will be given a prescription for pain medication and a surgical compression bra to wear for the next few weeks. Most patients can return to work in a few days, but strenuous exercise and aerobic activity should be restricted for the first ten days to two weeks. Full recovery typically takes two to three weeks, during which time the swelling will gradually subside, and the implants will settle into place.
Potential Risks and Complications
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is one of the most common complications after breast augmentation. It occurs when the capsule that forms around the implant contracts and squeezes the implant. This can result in breasts that appear round and high and may feel very hard to the touch. To minimize the risk of capsular contracture, surgeons take precautions such as minimizing bleeding during surgery and avoiding contamination of the operation. Dr. Rapaport advises his patients not to engage in aerobic activity for ten days following surgery to reduce the risk of small bleeding. He also uses the “no touch” technique for augmentation and a specially designed insertion funnel (Keller funnel) to avoid implant contamination.
Infection
Infection is another potential risk. It typically presents within a week after surgery and can usually be treated by antibiotics. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed. Surgeons take aseptic precautions during surgery to reduce the risk of infection, such as using powder - free gloves and ensuring the operating area is clean. Dr. Antell provides a thorough discussion of all risks during the initial consultation to ensure patients are aware of the possibility of infection.
Implant Rupture
Implant rupture can occur as a result of injury or from normal compression and movement of the breast causing friction with the man - made shell of the implant. If a saline implant ruptures, the salt - water is harmlessly absorbed by the body, resulting in the breast appearing deflated. With a silicone implant rupture, a revision surgery is usually performed to replace the implant and remove any troublesome scar tissue. Regular check - ups and imaging exams can help detect implant rupture early.
Changes in Sensation
Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation after breast augmentation. This can include numbness, tingling, or hypersensitivity. In most cases, these changes are temporary, but in some cases, they may be permanent. Surgeons discuss this potential risk with patients during the consultation process.
Patient Experiences and Word - of - Mouth in New York City
Many patients in New York City who have undergone endoscopic visible breast augmentation have had positive experiences. They often report an increase in self - confidence and satisfaction with their new appearance. For example, some patients of Dr. Lao have shared their stories of feeling more confident in their clothes and more at ease in social situations after the surgery. His patients have praised his attention to detail, communication skills, and ability to achieve natural - looking results.
Dr. Antell also has a long list of satisfied patients. His breast augmentation patient reviews mention the high level of care they received from him and his staff. Patients appreciate his expertise in the field and his ability to address their concerns and achieve the desired results. Some patients have specifically mentioned that they felt comfortable during the entire process, from the consultation to the recovery period.
On the other hand, it's important for patients to also research and read a variety of reviews to get a balanced view. In some rare cases, patients may have faced complications or not been fully satisfied with the results. However, most surgeons in New York City are committed to providing the best possible care and addressing any issues that may arise.
Cost of Endoscopic Visible Breast Augmentation in New York City
The cost of endoscopic visible breast augmentation in New York City can vary widely depending on several factors. These factors include the type of implants chosen (saline or silicone), the surgical technique used, anesthesia costs, the surgeon's fee, and any additional procedures that may be performed at the same time, such as a breast lift. On average, the cost can range from $7,000 to $20,000 or more. Dr. Lao's breast augmentation surgery prices can vary, and he recommends booking a consultation for the most up - to - date costs. Dr. Greenwald is temporarily offering special prices on breast augmentation surgery, with primary breast augmentation surgery with silicone breast implants costing $8,295.00 and with saline breast implants costing $7,495.00, which include the plastic surgeon's fee, the anesthesiologist's fee, the operating room fee, and the cost of the breast implants.
Conclusion
Endoscopic visible breast augmentation in New York City offers a promising option for women seeking to enhance the size and shape of their breasts. With its benefits of precision, reduced scarring, and minimized tissue damage, it has become a popular choice among patients. However, like any surgical procedure, it is not without risks, and it's crucial for patients to do their research, choose a qualified and experienced surgeon, and have realistic expectations. Top surgeons in New York City, such as Dr. William Lao, Dr. David P. Rapaport, and Dr. Darrick Antell, are known for their expertise in this area and have helped many patients achieve their aesthetic goals.
If you're considering endoscopic visible breast augmentation in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a board - certified plastic surgeon. Take the time to discuss your goals, ask questions, and understand the entire process. You can also read patient reviews and look at before - and - after photos to get a better idea of what to expect. By making an informed decision, you can take the first step towards achieving the beautiful, natural - looking breasts you've always desired.
