Introduction

Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure that can significantly enhance a woman's self - confidence and body image. In New York City, a global hub for medical excellence and innovation, there are numerous hospitals and surgeons offering breast - augmentation services. This article will explore the top breast - augmentation plastic surgery hospitals in New York City, delving into their features, surgeons, and patient experiences. We will also discuss relevant factors such as different types of breast implants, the surgical process, and after - care, to provide a comprehensive guide for those considering this life - changing procedure.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Breast - Augmentation Hospital

Selecting the right hospital for breast augmentation is a crucial decision. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

1. Surgeon's Expertise: The experience and skill of the plastic surgeon are paramount. Look for surgeons who are board - certified, have extensive experience in breast - augmentation procedures, and have a good track record of successful surgeries. Research their educational background, training, and any specialized certifications they may hold. For example, some surgeons may be recognized in national or international rankings, which can be an indication of their high - level skills.
2. Hospital Reputation: A hospital's reputation can speak volumes about the quality of its services. Check online reviews, patient testimonials, and industry rankings. Hospitals with a long - standing history of providing excellent plastic surgery services and high patient satisfaction are more likely to offer a safe and successful breast - augmentation experience. You can also look for awards or accreditations the hospital has received, which can indicate its commitment to quality and safety.
3. Range of Services: A good breast - augmentation hospital should offer a wide range of services related to the procedure. This includes different types of breast implants (such as silicone and saline), natural fill options, and the ability to perform breast lift or breast revision surgeries if needed. The hospital should also provide comprehensive pre - operative and post - operative care, including consultations, physical exams, and follow - up appointments to ensure proper healing and patient satisfaction.
4. Technology and Facilities: Advanced technology can enhance the precision and safety of the surgical procedure. Look for hospitals that use the latest imaging technologies, such as 3D imaging, to help patients visualize the potential results of their breast augmentation. Additionally, the hospital should have state - of - the - art operating rooms and recovery facilities to ensure a comfortable and safe environment for patients during and after the surgery.
5. Cost and Financing Options: Breast augmentation can be a significant investment. While cost should not be the only factor, it is important to understand the pricing structure of the hospital. Inquire about all the associated costs, including the surgeon's fee, implant cost, anesthesia fee, and post - operative care. Many hospitals also offer financing options, such as payment plans or working with financing companies like CareCredit, which can make the procedure more affordable for patients.

The Ranking List of Breast - Augmentation Plastic Surgery Hospitals in New York City

1. Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Care

Columbia University's plastic surgery department is one of the best in New York City. As one of the world's top medical centers, it has unparalleled experience in delivering high - quality care for both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.

Features and Services

• Comprehensive Plastic Surgery Programs: They offer a wide range of services, including breast augmentation, breast reconstruction after breast cancer, cleft palate/lip care, orthoplastic surgery care, and more. The cosmetic care program provides surgical and non - surgical options to improve cosmetic health, such as ear and eyelid lifts, tummy tucks, and of course, breast augmentation.
• Expert Surgeons: The clinical staff consists of highly skilled plastic surgeons who are proficient in multiple areas of specialization. For example, Dr. Christine Rohde, the chief of the division of plastic surgery, is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, specializing in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, and breast reconstruction. Dr. Jeffrey A. Ascherman is an experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon who has published over 75 scientific articles and chapters and has been included in multiple prestigious lists of top doctors.
• Research and Innovation: The plastic surgery research laboratory at Columbia is actively involved in numerous research studies, including those related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy for wound healing. This research - driven approach allows the surgeons to stay at the forefront of medical advancements and offer the latest techniques and treatments to their patients.

Patient Experience

Patients at Columbia can expect a high - level of personalized care. The surgeons take the time to understand each patient's goals and concerns and develop customized treatment plans. The hospital also provides educational guides to help patients make informed decisions about their care. After the surgery, patients receive comprehensive post - operative care to ensure a smooth recovery.

2. Mount Sinai's Plastic Surgery

Mount Sinai is another leading institution for breast - augmentation procedures in New York City. Their plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation and use the latest technologies to ensure optimal results.

Features and Services

• Advanced Imaging Technology: Before scheduling the surgery, they use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique body. This allows patients to try on different sizes of breasts virtually and make more informed decisions about the size and shape of their implants.
• Variety of Breast - Augmentation Options: Mount Sinai offers two types of breast implants (silicone and saline) and a non - implant option called NaturalFill®, which uses a fat - transfer technique. Their surgeons will help patients choose the best option based on their body type and desired outcome.
• Personalized Consultation: During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will listen carefully to the patient's desire for enhancing their breast size, explain the procedure in detail, and answer any questions. They will also perform a physical exam and ask health - related questions to confirm that the patient is a candidate for breast augmentation.

Patient Experience

Patients at Mount Sinai often praise the friendly and professional staff. The surgeons are dedicated to ensuring patient satisfaction and take the time to address all concerns. After the surgery, patients are provided with clear instructions on post - operative care and follow - up appointments to monitor their recovery.

3. Cangello Plastic Surgery

Dr. David L. Cangello at Cangello Plastic Surgery is a board - certified plastic surgeon known for his artistic approach to breast surgery. His clinic offers personalized treatment plans to meet each patient's aesthetic goals.

Features and Services

• Artistic Approach: Dr. Cangello combines medical precision with the principles of aesthetics to create elegant, natural - looking results. Whether a patient desires a subtle look or bold cosmetic enhancements, he incorporates their tastes and preferences into the treatment plan. He has also gained the trust of professional models from top agencies, which is a testament to his skills.
• Range of Breast - Surgery Options: In addition to breast augmentation, he offers breast lift, breast revision, and natural augmentation with fat transfer. He takes the time to guide patients through the process of deciding on the size, shape, and type of implants, as well as the implant placement and incision method.
• State - of - the - Art Facilities: The clinic has a state - of - the - art, fully accredited (AAAASF) operating room at its NYC office, where most of the plastic surgery procedures are performed. This ensures the safety and comfort of patients during the surgery. Dr. Cangello also has operating privileges at Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital for patients who prefer a hospital - type setting.

Patient Experience

Patients at Cangello Plastic Surgery report positive experiences, with many commending Dr. Cangello for his attention to detail and patient - centered care. He takes the time to answer all questions during the consultation and provides comprehensive pre - operative and post - operative instructions. Patients also appreciate the comfortable and welcoming environment of the clinic.

Types of Breast Implants

When considering breast augmentation, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right type of breast implant. Here are the main types available:

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone breast implants are pre - filled by the manufacturer with a cohesive, silicone gel. Many patients find that they feel more natural to the touch and look more natural aesthetically. They typically require larger incisions for insertion, but some surgeons use techniques like the Keller funnel method to minimize incision size. The FDA suggests MRI scans every few years to monitor the condition of the implant shell, although this is only a recommendation and not mandated. They are approved for patients who are at least 22 years old.

Saline Breast Implants

Saline breast implants are filled with saline once they've been placed into the treatment site. This allows for a smaller incision size for insertion. Since they do not contain silicone, long - term monitoring is not required. In thin women with small amounts of breast tissue, visible rippling at the implant edges may be seen. In the rare case of a rupture, the saline can be safely absorbed by the body. Saline implants are approved for patients who are at least 18 years old.

NaturalFill (Fat - Transfer Technique)

The NaturalFill technique, pioneered and perfected by some surgeons like those at Mount Sinai, uses a fat - transfer method. First, the surgeon removes fat from the patient's buttocks or abdomen with liposuction. Then, the fat is immediately inserted into the breasts to enlarge them. This option is a win - win as it uses the patient's own fat deposits and can also result in a natural - looking enhancement.

The Breast - Augmentation Surgical Process

The breast - augmentation surgical process typically consists of several stages:

Pre - operative Consultation

During the pre - operative consultation, the patient will meet with the plastic surgeon to discuss their goals, medical history, and expectations. The surgeon will perform a physical exam, including measurements of the breasts and assessment of the patient's overall health. The patient and surgeon will also discuss the type of implants, implant placement, and incision method. The surgeon may use imaging technology to help the patient visualize the potential results. Additionally, the patient will receive instructions on pre - operative preparations, such as dietary changes, medications to avoid, and arrangements for a responsible adult to accompany them to and from the surgery.

The Surgery

Breast - augmentation surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. The surgery typically takes one - and - a - half to two hours. The surgeon will make an incision, either periareolar (around the nipple), inframammary (in the crease between the breast and chest wall), or transaxillary (in the armpit). The implant will then be inserted either under the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement) or the breast tissue (submammary/subglandular placement). After the implant is placed, the surgeon will close the incision and apply a surgical dressing. The patient will then be transferred to a recovery area.

Post - operative Care

After the surgery, the patient will have a surgical dressing over the incisions and will be wearing a post - surgical bra. They may feel achiness or tightness in the breasts, and the surgeon will prescribe pain medication to alleviate any discomfort. The recovery period typically takes approximately four to six weeks. In the first few days, it's normal to experience some pain and tightness. Most patients can resume non - strenuous activities within a week and return to work within a few days if their job is not physically demanding. The patient will need to follow the surgeon's instructions on post - operative care, including rest, avoiding strenuous exercise, and attending follow - up appointments to ensure proper healing.

Potential Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries some risks and potential complications:

• Bleeding and Infection: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, which may require additional treatment. Infection can also occur at the incision site or around the implant. Symptoms of infection may include fever, redness, swelling, and pain.
• Changes in Sensation: Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation, which can be temporary or permanent. This can affect sexual sensitivity or the ability to breastfeed.
• Capsular Contracture: Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue that forms around the implant tightens and squeezes the implant. This can cause the breast to feel hard, look distorted, and may be painful. In some cases, additional surgery may be required to correct the problem.
• Implant Rupture: Although rare, breast implants can rupture. Silicone implants may require more immediate attention as the gel can leak into the surrounding tissue. Saline implants will deflate quickly, and the saline will be absorbed by the body.
• Asymmetry: There may be some degree of asymmetry between the two breasts after the surgery. In most cases, this is minor and can be improved with additional adjustments, but in some cases, a revision surgery may be necessary.

Patient Success Stories

There are many patients in New York City who have had successful breast - augmentation experiences. For example, a patient at Columbia University's plastic surgery department who had breast reconstruction after breast cancer was able to regain her physical and emotional well - being. The combination of cancer experts and reconstructive plastic surgeons provided her with compassionate and personalized care. Another patient at Cangello Plastic Surgery was very satisfied with the natural - looking results of her breast augmentation. Dr. Cangello took the time to understand her aesthetic goals and created a treatment plan that met her expectations. Her experience boosted her confidence and improved her quality of life