Introduction
Allergan breast prosthesis implantation is a significant surgical option for many women in New York City. Whether it's for breast augmentation or reconstruction, finding the right hospital is crucial. In this article, we will not only explore the ranking of 3 hospitals for Allergan breast prosthesis implantation in New York City but also delve into various aspects related to breast implants, hospitals in the area, and relevant factors to consider.
Understanding Allergan Breast Implants
Allergan's Product Portfolio
Allergan is one of the largest breast implant manufacturers in the world. Since 2006, it has been selling breast implants. In 2020, AbbVie acquired Allergan and its aesthetics portfolio. Allergan's flagship breast implant brand is Natrelle, and it also previously sold implants under its subsidiaries Inamed and McGhan. The company offers a variety of products, including:
- Biocell textured saline and silicone - filled implants and tissue expanders
- Natrelle Inspira smooth round gel implants
- Natrelle Inspira textured round gel implants
- Natrelle 410 anatomical gel implants
- Natrelle saline - filled smooth round implants
- Natrelle saline - filled textured implants
- Natrelle 133 tissue expanders
- Natrelle 133 plus tissue expanders
- Various McGhan breast implants and tissue expanders
- Various Inamed breast implants and tissue expanders
Recall and Safety Concerns
In July 2019, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) linked Allergan's textured implants to a rare cancer called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma. As a result, Allergan issued a worldwide recall of its textured implants. Additionally, in September 2022, the FDA issued a safety communication warning consumers about reports of cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and various lymphomas, in the scar tissue around breast implants, which can occur with both smooth and textured implants.
Types of Implants
Allergan breast implants have an outer shell of silicone elastomer and can be filled with silicone gel or sterile saline. Women can choose between anatomical, tear - drop shaped implants that mimic the curve of a natural breast or round implants with a full, round look. Implant shells can be either smooth or textured:
- Smooth implants: Allow the implant to move under the skin or muscle, mimicking the movement of natural breast tissue. Most implants are smooth.
- Textured implants: Allow tissue to grow into the surface of the implant and keep it in place. However, due to the higher risk of BIA - ALCL, Allergan no longer sells textured implants.
General Considerations for Breast Implant Surgery
Determining Cup Size
Allergan measures its implants by the height and width of the implant, how far the implant projects from a woman's body, and the amount of silicone or saline it contains in cubic centimeters (cc). Breast implant sizes don't directly correspond to bra cup sizes as the size and shape of the woman's chest also play a role. Larger implants may cause more problems, such as premature sagging and visible edges if there isn't enough skin to cover them. Allergan's studies showed that some complications were more likely to occur in women with larger implant sizes.
Implant Placement
There are two main ways to place Natrelle implants:
- Submuscular placement: The surgeon places the implant under the chest muscle (pectoralis). This can reduce the risk of capsular contracture, makes breast tissue easier to see in mammograms, and is preferred for women with weakened or thin breast tissue. However, surgery and recovery are longer and may be more painful, and reoperation may be more difficult.
- Subglandular placement: The implant is placed on top of the muscle and under the breast glands. This method has a greater likelihood of capsular contracture and makes it more difficult to see breast tissue in mammograms. It may be suitable for some women as the surgery and recovery may be shorter and less painful, and revision surgery is easier.
Incision Location
There are three common incision sites for Allergan silicone implants:
| Incision Site | Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Periareolar | Around the nipple | More concealed | Higher likelihood of breastfeeding problems, higher risk of change in sensation in nipple, higher risk of infection |
| Inframammary | In the breast fold | Fewer breastfeeding difficulties, best access and control of implant pocket, most commonly used by surgeons | Less concealed |
| Transaxillary | Under the arm | Fewer breastfeeding problems | Less concealed, more difficult, may increase risk of damage to and unexpected location of implant |
Recovery
Women generally feel tired and sore for several days following the operation. As the skin adjusts to the implant, there may be discomfort and tightness. Swelling can decrease feeling in the nipple and breast after surgery. In most cases, women can return to work a few days after breast augmentation, but they should avoid strenuous activities. Recovery may involve using a special bra or other support to help speed up healing, and some women may need pain medication infusion devices.
Reconstruction Surgery with Allergan Breast Implants
Women who have lost tissue due to mastectomy or trauma can use Allergan's Natrelle implants for immediate reconstruction surgery or delayed reconstruction surgery. In immediate reconstruction, the mastectomy and implant placement are done at the same time. Delayed reconstruction requires another operation but gives the woman time to evaluate the cancer risk and heal. Surgeons typically perform reconstruction surgery in two stages. First, a tissue expander is placed in the chest to stretch skin and muscle and create a breast pocket, which usually takes four to six months. Then, the expander is removed, and the implant is placed in the pocket.
Selecting the Right Hospital for Allergan Breast Prosthesis Implantation
Factors to Consider
When choosing a hospital for Allergan breast prosthesis implantation, several factors should be taken into account:
- Expertise and experience: Look for hospitals with specialized breast reconstruction teams comprising board - certified surgeons, oncologists, and reconstructive specialists with extensive experience in performing complex procedures related to breast implants.
- Comprehensive care: A good hospital should offer comprehensive pre - operative evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and comprehensive post - operative support, including access to rehabilitation services, psychological counseling, and support groups.
- Advanced technology and techniques: Hospitals equipped with state - of - the - art technology and advanced surgical techniques can ensure better outcomes, reduced complications, and shorter recovery times.
- Patient - centered approach: Prioritize hospitals that prioritize patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction. Clear communication, empathy, and collaboration between healthcare providers and patients are essential.
Top 3 Hospitals for Allergan Breast Prosthesis Implantation in New York City
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center is one of the leading institutions in the field of cancer treatment and breast reconstruction. It is well - known for its high - quality medical care and extensive research. With a team of highly skilled surgeons and medical staff, patients can expect personalized treatment plans. In the context of Allergan breast prosthesis implantation, they can offer expert advice considering the patient's overall health and specific needs, especially for those who may be undergoing breast reconstruction after cancer treatment. The hospital's reputation for excellence and advanced treatment options make it a top choice. According to data from a definitive healthcare claim analytics product in 2023, it had 2.01% of total patient encounters for breast cancer, indicating a significant patient volume related to breast - related issues.
The Mount Sinai Hospital
The Mount Sinai Hospital is another prominent hospital in New York City. It has a long - standing reputation for providing excellent medical services. The hospital's surgical teams are well - trained and experienced in breast implant procedures. They are equipped with modern technology and use the latest surgical techniques. In terms of post - operative care, they offer comprehensive support, including rehabilitation services and psychological counseling. In 2023, it accounted for 1.27% of total patient encounters for breast cancer, showing its significance in breast - related care. It is also nationally ranked in 11 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties, highlighting its overall medical excellence.
NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals is known for its high - level medical expertise and patient - centered care. The hospital offers a wide range of services related to breast implant surgery, from pre - operative consultations to post - operative follow - ups. Their surgeons are experienced in using Allergan breast implants and can customize the treatment according to the patient's body type and aesthetic goals. The hospital is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties, which demonstrates its comprehensive medical capabilities. With a score of 79.5/100 in the obstetrics & gynecology category in the US News Best Hospitals rankings, it shows a high standard of care in related fields, which is also relevant to breast implant surgeries.
Other Notable Hospitals in New York City for Breast - Related Services
New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mt. Sinai
Dr. Joshua Levine established the first dedicated perforator flap breast reconstruction program in New York City at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mt. Sinai. This hospital has been ranked among “America’s best hospitals” for nine years straight since 2006. It has also achieved Magnet® status by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet Recognition Program® for excellence in nursing services. Although it may be less well - known specifically for Allergan breast prosthesis implantation, its expertise in breast reconstruction and overall high - quality healthcare services make it a viable option for patients seeking related procedures.
Long Island Jewish Medical Center at Northwell Health
This hospital is nationally ranked in 6 adult specialties and 9 pediatric specialties. It offers high - quality medical services related to various aspects of women's health, including breast procedures. With a score of 84.1/100 in the obstetrics & gynecology category in the US News Best Hospitals rankings, it showcases its strong capabilities in this field. It may also have a well - equipped team and advanced facilities for Allergan breast prosthesis implantation.
New York City: A Hub for Medical Tourism and Breast - Related Procedures
About New York City
New York City is the most populous city in the United States and is labeled as the cultural, financial, and media capital of the world. It is also an important center of international diplomacy as it houses the headquarters of the United Nations. The city attracts tourists from all around the globe, and it also welcomes patients from many other countries to undergo cosmetic surgeries and complex or rare procedures. The medical professionals in New York City are highly qualified, skilled, and experienced, although the medical costs might not be the cheapest.
Tourist Attractions and Climate
New York City offers a myriad of attractions. The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of freedom and democracy. Tourists can take a ferry from Battery Park City or New Jersey to access the pedestal and the crown. The Staten Island Ferry offers a stunning landscape of the city and the Statue of Liberty. The Empire State Building is an iconic symbol, and the view from its 86th and 102nd floors is spectacular. Central Park provides an open - space escape from the city's concrete jungle. The city has four seasons. Spring (March - April) has a pleasant temperature with cherry blossoms and festivals. Summer (June - August) is warm, with an average temperature between 25°C to 30°C, and there are free summer concerts. Autumn (September - November) has cooler temperatures and beautiful red and orange leaves. Winter (December - February) can be freezing and snowy, with temperatures dropping as low as - 25°C.
Getting Around and Visa Requirements
The primary international airport in New York City is the John F. Kennedy International Airport. More than ninety airlines operate from this airport. Getting around the city is fairly easy and inexpensive by public transportation, including a vast subway system and buses. The subway requires a metrocard, and fares are $2.75 per trip. Citizens of Canada, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Palau, and Bermuda are given visa exemption access. Holders of passports issued by 38 countries including Australia, Singapore, and the United Kingdom are selected for the visa waiver program. Nationals from other countries need to apply for a visa, and all visitors may stay for a maximum of 90 days.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Allergan breast prosthesis implantation is a significant surgical option with various aspects to consider. Understanding the types of Allergan breast implants, including their features, risks, and sizing, is crucial for patients. When it comes to choosing a hospital in New York City, factors such as expertise, comprehensive care, advanced technology, and a patient - centered approach should be taken into account. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, The Mount Sinai Hospital, and NYU Langone Hospitals stand out as top choices for Allergan breast prosthesis implantation in the city, but there are also other notable hospitals with excellent medical capabilities. New York City, with its vibrant culture, high - quality healthcare, and tourist attractions, is a major hub for medical tourism and breast - related procedures.
If you are considering Allergan breast prosthesis implantation, we encourage you to conduct further research, consult with medical professionals, and visit the hospitals to make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast implants and related hospital rankings in New York City.
