Introduction
Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure in New York City. With numerous hospitals and clinics offering these services, it can be overwhelming for individuals to choose the right one. This article aims to provide a comprehensive ranking list and an updated price table of breast - beautifying and breast - augmenting plastic surgery hospitals in New York City, along with in - depth information about the procedure, its costs, recovery, and more.
I. What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as a boob job or breast enlargement, is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing breast size, enhancing shape, or improving symmetry. In New York City, this procedure is carried out by board - certified plastic surgeons in accredited medical facilities, ensuring both safety and quality. It can use implants (such as saline or silicone) or fat transfer to achieve the desired results. Implants come in different shapes, including round and teardrop, and can be placed under the breast tissue or chest muscles.
There are several reasons why people choose breast augmentation. Some want to enhance their body proportions, restore breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss, or undergo reconstruction following breast surgery. It can also significantly boost self - confidence and improve body image.
II. Ranking of Breast - Augmenting Plastic Surgery Hospitals in New York City
A. Sophie Bartsich, MD FACS
Dr. Bartsich is a top - notch cosmetic surgeon in Manhattan. She has excellent surgical skills and takes meticulous care with each step of the operation. Patients praise her for her great bedside manners. With a rating of 5.0, she is highly recommended. Her services at her practice include a high - quality breast augmentation experience. However, the price for breast augmentation is on request.
B. Forest Hills Plastic Surgery
This clinic has a rating of 4.7. Patients have had great experiences here, such as one patient who had an earlobe repair and was extremely satisfied with the quick procedure and detailed explanation from the doctor. For breast augmentation, it offers services with a focus on patient satisfaction, and the price is also on request.
C. Aristocrat Plastic Surgery & Medaesthetics
At Aristocrat Plastic Surgery, the goal is to attain the highest level of patient satisfaction. Dr. Kevin and his team have made the breast augmentation journey smooth for many patients. With a 4.7 rating, patients love their results and the fast - healing process. The price for breast augmentation at this clinic is on request.
D. RR Plastix NY Plastic Surgery Center
Located in Brooklyn, this center offers patients breast augmentation procedures among its total of 31 available procedures, across 2 different specialties. All procedures and treatments are undertaken by the lead specialist at the clinic, and they are accredited by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Currently, there's no pricing information for breast augmentation procedures at RR Plastix NY Plastic Surgery Center, as all prices are available on request only, while the national average price is approximately $5,352.
E. Leonard Grossman, M.D.
Based in Brooklyn, this practice offers breast augmentation procedures among its total of 36 available procedures, across 3 different specialties. The lead specialist undertakes all treatments, but it is not accredited by any recognized accreditations institutes. As with many others, the price for breast augmentation is on request.
F. New York Center for Facial Plastic & Laser Surgery
This Manhattan - based center offers breast augmentation procedures among its total of 39 available procedures, across 4 different specialties. The treatments are carried out by the lead specialist, and it is not accredited by any recognized accreditations institutes. Pricing for breast augmentation is on request, with the national average price around $5,352.
III. America's Best Plastic Surgeons 2024 Ranking in Breast Augmentation (New York City Surgeons)
According to the Newsweek ranking in 2024, some well - known New York City plastic surgeons in the field of breast augmentation include:
- David Hidalgo, MD, FACS - Ranked 4th overall
- Adam R. Kolker, MD, FACS - Ranked 5th overall
- Alan Matarasso, MD, FACS - Ranked 11th overall
These rankings are based on a comprehensive scoring model. In - state and out - of - state recommendations from medical experts account for 45 percent of the overall score. A quality score, based on the assessment of quality of care by participants in the survey, makes up 15 percent of the total score. And plastic surgeons receive 5% towards their total score if they have an American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) certification.
IV. Costs of Breast Augmentation in New York City
A. Factors Affecting the Cost
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary widely. Several factors contribute to these differences:
- Surgeon's Fees: Surgeons with advanced training, extensive experience, and a well - established reputation often charge more. For example, surgeons like those ranked highly in the national lists are likely to have higher fees due to their expertise and the quality of their results.
- Facility Costs: The cost of using the operating facility, including equipment, staff, and overhead expenses, can vary. High - end facilities in prime locations in New York City may have higher costs.
- Type of Implants: Silicone implants are generally more expensive than saline implants. Gummy bear implants, a type of silicone implant with a thicker gel, also tend to be pricier. The size and brand of the implants can also impact the cost.
- Anesthesia Fees: Board - certified anesthesiologists are typically used for breast augmentation surgeries. The length of the surgery and the type of anesthesia required will affect the fee.
- Additional Services: Some clinics may include services such as pre - and post - operative consultations, follow - up visits, and surgical bras in the package, while others may charge extra for these.
B. Price Range
Prices in New York City are competitive, but they can range from $6,000 on the very low end to above $20,000 for very experienced high - quality surgeons on Park Avenue. However, most clinics do not publicly list their prices, and quotes are usually given on a case - by - case basis after an in - person assessment and consultation.
C. Insurance Coverage
Traditional breast augmentation surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure, so it is not covered by insurance. However, if breast augmentation is being performed as part of reconstruction after mastectomy, it is considered medically necessary and likely covered by insurance. It is important to understand the nuances of insurance, such as in - network vs. out - of - network providers, payment schedules, and how the surgeon will plan to bill the insurance company.
V. The Breast Augmentation Procedure
A. Implant Options
Implant Type | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|---|
Saline Implants | Filled with sterile salt water and can be adjusted for size during surgery | Smaller incision size for insertion, any leaks are safely absorbed by the body, and they are approved for patients who are at least 18 years old | May look less natural on some people, can show wrinkles or ripples over time, and visible rippling at the implant edges may be seen in thin women with small amounts of breast tissue |
Silicone Implants | Pre - filled by the manufacturer with a cohesive silicone gel | More natural look and feel, popular choice among patients | Traditionally required larger incisions (although some surgeons use methods to minimize this), FDA suggests MRI scans every few years to monitor the condition of the implant shell, and they are approved for patients who are at least 22 years old |
Gummy Bear Implants | Filled with a thicker silicone gel that maintains its shape even if the implant shell is broken | Provide a natural look and feel, with less risk of rippling | Generally more expensive than other types of implants |
B. Implant Placement
There are two main options for implant placement:
- Sub - glandular Placement: Implants are placed above the muscles behind the breast tissue. This approach is more straightforward and has a less painful recovery. However, the implants may look and feel less natural. It may be a good option for athletic patients due to the level of dynamic muscular activity they experience regularly.
- Subpectoral Placement: Implants are placed between or behind the pectoral muscles. This creates more natural - looking breasts with less risk of visible aspects of the breast implant. Implants placed behind pectoral muscles fall more naturally into the breast pocket and show less obvious rippling.
C. Incision Location
The incision location is decided based on the recommended implant type and size, the patient's anatomy, and any concern about preserving nipple sensation. Common incision locations include:
- Inframammary: In the crease between the breast and chest wall. This approach is discreet, makes placement more direct, and limits time spent during surgery.
- Periareolar: Around the nipple. Incisions here are often well - camouflaged due to the change in skin color and texture in this area.
- Transaxillary: In the armpit. However, some surgeons avoid this method as it has a higher rate of implant malposition.
VI. Recovery and Aftercare
A. Recovery Time
Post - surgery, a recovery period of one to two weeks is generally required, with follow - up visits to the surgeon. It's crucial to follow all post - op instructions for optimal healing. Swelling and discomfort are normal after the operation and should gradually alleviate with time. Patients will be required to wear a compression garment, take prescribed medications, and maintain a healthy lifestyle for an effective recovery.
B. Aftercare Instructions
The initial recovery phase usually includes prescribed medications to alleviate pain and avert infection. Individuals can normally resume everyday activities within a few weeks, depending on their healing pace and bodily responses. However, it is advisable to refrain from vigorous activities for a minimum of six weeks post - procedure. Patients should also attend all follow - up appointments with their surgeon to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.
VII. Success Rate and Risks
A. Success Rate
In New York City, breast augmentation boasts a relatively high success rate, which contributes to its immense popularity among individuals seeking improvements in their physical appearance. Numerous patients have reported satisfaction and enhanced confidence after undergoing the procedure, making it a widely favored cosmetic surgery. Clinical study surveys of breast augmentation patients report a very high rate of patient satisfaction.
B. Risks and Complications
As with any surgical intervention, breast augmentation comes with its own set of risks and potential complications. These may include:
- Infections at the surgical site
- Bleeding during or after the surgery
- Alterations in nipple or breast sensations
- Implant leakage or rupture
- Development of scar tissue (capsular contracture)
- Unsatisfactory outcomes that could necessitate further surgeries
- Complications tied to anesthesia, such as respiratory problems and reactions to medication
Patients should have an extensive conversation with their healthcare provider about these potential risks to make an informed choice.
VIII. Alternatives to Breast Augmentation
If you're considering breast augmentation strictly for cosmetic reasons and prefer non - surgical options, there are several alternatives available in New York City:
A. Fat Grafting
Also known as fat transfer, this involves removing fat from different body parts and injecting it into the breasts. This approach is regarded as safer because it employs the body's tissue, minimizing complications. However, the amount of volume increase may be limited, and multiple sessions may be required.
B. Hormonal Therapy
Some hormonal treatments may have an impact on breast size. However, this approach is not without risks and should be carefully considered under the supervision of a medical professional.
C. Natural Remedies
There are various natural remedies such as certain herbs and supplements that claim to enhance breast size. However, the effectiveness of these remedies is often not scientifically proven, and they may also have side effects.
IX. Preparing for Breast Augmentation
A. Choosing a Surgeon
It is crucial to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation. You can seek referrals from other physicians, friends who have had similar procedures, or research online. Look for a surgeon's education, board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and before/after galleries of their work. Avoid "too good to be true" claims, such as "no downtime surgery" or "no anesthesia required."
B. Pre - operative Consultation
During the pre - operative consultation, your surgeon will discuss your expectations and the anticipated outcomes of your breast augmentation. This will include an in - depth conversation about your medical history, a physical examination, and an outline of the procedure and postoperative care. Open and candid communication with your healthcare provider is crucial at this stage to ensure the treatment matches your objectives.
C. Practical Preparations
Before the surgery, you may need to cease certain medications and habits, such as smoking, weeks before the procedure, as they can influence the healing process. You should also organize for someone to be with you on the day of the surgery, schedule sufficient time off work for recovery, and establish a comfortable space at home for recuperation. Your surgeon's team will advise you on pre - operative fasting and hygiene guidelines.
X. Common Misconceptions about Breast Augmentation
A. Breast Implants are Permanent
In actuality, breast implants may require replacement after 10 - 15 years, with the specific time frame depending on individual health and lifestyle factors. Rupture, capsular contracture, or a change in the patient's aesthetic goals may also necessitate implant replacement earlier.
B. Breast Augmentation is Only for Vanity
While many people choose breast augmentation for cosmetic reasons, it is also a valuable option for breast reconstruction after mastectomy or as part of gender - affirming surgery.
C. Breast Augmentation Hinders Breastfeeding
While a few instances might affect breastfeeding, the majority of individuals with breast implants can successfully breastfeed.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation is a popular and often life - changing procedure in New York City. With a wide range of hospitals and clinics offering these services, it's essential for patients to do their research, understand the costs, risks, and recovery process, and choose a qualified surgeon. Whether you're looking to enhance your appearance, restore breast volume, or undergo reconstruction, there are options available to meet your needs. Remember, the decision to pursue breast augmentation is a personal one, and you should take the time to make an informed choice.
If you're interested in learning more about breast augmentation or scheduling a consultation, reach out to one of the top - rated hospitals or surgeons in New York City mentioned in this article. Share this article with others who may be considering breast augmentation to help them make a well - informed decision.