Introduction
Breast reduction surgery is a life - changing procedure for many women in New York City. It can provide relief from physical pain and discomfort caused by overly large breasts, as well as improve self - confidence and overall quality of life. With the release of the ranking of breast reduction hospitals in New York City, patients now have a valuable resource to make more informed decisions about their healthcare. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the top hospitals, surgeons, factors affecting the choice of a hospital, and much more related to breast reduction in New York City.
Top Doctors for Breast Reduction in New York
Healthgrades has identified several outstanding doctors who perform breast reduction in New York. These doctors have a high number of past patient ratings, indicating their experience and the satisfaction of their patients. Here are some of the top doctors and their details:
Doctor's Name | Rating (out of 5) | Address |
---|---|---|
Dr. Peter Henderson, MD | 4.70 | 10 Union Sq E Frnt 2L, New York, NY 10003 |
Dr. Richard Reish | 4.90 | 330 9th St, Brooklyn, NY 11215 |
Dr. Leslie Cohen, MD | 4.70 | 1283 York Avenue 4th floor, New York, NY 10065 |
Dr. Scot Glasberg, MD | 4.60 | 42 E 74th St # A, New York, NY 10021 |
Dr. Nolan Karp, MD | 4.40 | 305 E 47th st rm 1a, New York, NY 10017 |
Dr. Alyssa Golas, MD | 4.60 | 150 55th st, Brooklyn, NY 11220 |
Dr. Mihye Choi, MD | 4.10 | 305 E 47th st rm 1a, New York, NY 10017 |
Dr. Nicolas Tabbal, MD | 4.60 | 521 Park Ave, New York, NY 10065 |
Dr. Basem Azab, MD | 5.00 | 256 Mason Ave Bldg C Fl 3, Staten Island, NY 10305 |
Dr. Evan Matros, MD | 4.80 | 1275 York Ave, New York, NY 10065 |
Dr. Norman Rowe, MD | 4.50 | 820 Park Ave Ste 1b, New York, NY 10021 |
Overview of Breast Reduction
What is Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes approximately 50% of the breast volume. This includes excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to provide the patient with a more proportionate breast size to their body. The main goal is to alleviate discomfort that can come with macromastia (excessively large breasts). It can also improve breast aesthetics, physical comfort, and self - confidence.
Benefits of Breast Reduction
- Better Hygiene: With smaller breasts, it is easier to keep the area clean, reducing the risk of skin irritation and infections.
- Improved Clothing Fit: Patients find that their clothes fit better, as they no longer have to deal with the limitations of large breasts when choosing apparel.
- Enhanced Aesthetic Appearance: A more proportionate breast size can improve the overall appearance of the body.
- More Active Lifestyle: The reduction in breast size reduces the physical burden, allowing patients to engage in more physical activities.
- Better Self - Image: Patients often experience an improvement in self - confidence and self - image after the procedure.
- Pain Relief: Relief from upper back, shoulder, and neck pain caused by the weight of heavy breasts is a significant benefit.
Factors Affecting the Choice of a Breast Reduction Hospital
Surgeon's Expertise
The experience and skill of the surgeon are crucial. Surgeons who specialize in breast reduction surgery are more likely to have the necessary expertise to perform the procedure safely and effectively. Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have a high number of successful breast reduction surgeries under their belt. For example, Dr. William Samson, MD, is a board - certified plastic surgeon and a specialist in breast surgery who has been performing aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries for over a decade.
Hospital Reputation
A hospital's reputation is built on its history of providing high - quality care, successful patient outcomes, and patient satisfaction. Hospitals that are nationally or regionally ranked, such as those recognized by U.S. News & World Report, are generally a good choice. For instance, New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties, which reflects its high - quality medical services.
Range of Services
A comprehensive breast reduction hospital should offer a full range of services related to the procedure. This includes pre - operative consultations, medical evaluations, the surgical procedure itself, and post - operative care. Additionally, some hospitals may offer support services such as counseling to help patients deal with the emotional aspects of the surgery.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an insight into the experiences of other patients at a particular hospital. Look for feedback on the quality of care, the friendliness of the staff, and the overall patient experience. Positive reviews can be a good indicator of a hospital's reliability and quality of service.
Location and Accessibility
The location of the hospital is also an important factor. It should be easily accessible, especially for post - operative follow - up appointments. Consider the distance from your home and the availability of transportation options.
Top Hospitals in New York for General Medical Services
While specific breast reduction rankings may vary, these hospitals are well - known for their high - quality medical services in general, and they are likely to have excellent departments for breast reduction surgeries:
New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell
This hospital is ranked #1 in New York. It is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties. It also has high - performing ratings in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions. US News & World report recognized its excellence in surgical and medical interventions such as colon cancer surgery, lung cancer surgery, and heart failure treatment. Their surgeons also have expertise in various adult and pediatric surgical specialties, which may be beneficial for breast reduction patients in case of any associated or post - operative complications.
Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital is another top - ranked hospital in New York. It is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties and high - performing in 20 procedures/conditions. The hospital's long - standing reputation for medical excellence and its diverse team of specialists make it a viable option for breast reduction surgeries. It is also listed in the top - 20 “honor roll” in the nation for “delivering exceptional treatment across many areas of care.”
NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals are nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties. It is high - performing in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions. The hospital offers a wide range of medical services and has a team of experienced surgeons who can perform breast reduction surgeries with high levels of skill and precision.
The Breast Reduction Procedure
Pre - operative Consultation
The first step in the breast reduction process is a consultation with a surgeon. During this consultation, the patient can express their desires for the procedure and ask any questions they may have. The surgeon will perform a physical examination, discuss the patient's medical history, and recommend the best breast reduction technique for the individual. The surgeon will also create a surgical plan and discuss the expected outcomes and potential risks.
Anesthesia
On the day of surgery, the patient will be administered anesthesia to ensure a comfortable surgical experience. General anesthesia is commonly used for breast reduction surgeries.
Incision Techniques
- Circular Pattern around the Areola: This incision leaves a visible line and permanent scar but can be well concealed beneath a swimsuit or bra.
- Keyhole or Short Scar Breast Reduction: The incision is made around the areola with a vertical line down to the breast crease.
- Inverted T or “Anchor - Shaped” Pattern: Similar to the keyhole, but it includes a transverse incision made in the breast fold. This technique allows for maximal removal of skin and better shaping of the breast.
Post - operative Care
After the surgery, the patient will be wrapped in gauze and a surgical bra to minimize swelling and provide support. A small, thin tube may be left temporarily inserted into an incision to drain excess fluid or blood. Most patients can return to work after 3 - 5 days if they have a desk job. Light cardio can usually be resumed after about a month, and a normal workout routine can be restarted at around 6 weeks. Patients are also advised to wear a sports bra during physical activities to optimize the results of the surgery.
Risks Associated with Breast Reduction
Like any surgical procedure, breast reduction surgery has some risks. These include:
- Allergies to tape, suture materials, glues, blood products, topical preparations, or injectable agents
- Anesthesia risks
- Bleeding (hematoma)
- Blood clots
- Breast asymmetry
- Breast contour and shape irregularities
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation, which may be temporary or permanent
- Damage to deeper structures – such as nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and lungs – which may be temporary or permanent
- Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications
- Excessive firmness of the breast
- Fatty tissue deep in the skin could die (fat necrosis)
- Fluid accumulation
- Infection
- Pain, which may persist
- Poor wound healing
- Possibility of revisional surgery
- Potential inability to breastfeed
- Potential loss of skin/tissue of breast where incisions meet each other
- Potential, partial, or total loss of nipple and areola
- Skin discoloration, permanent pigmentation changes, swelling, and bruising
- Unfavorable scarring
Cost of Breast Reduction in New York City
The cost of a breast reduction procedure in New York City is determined by multiple factors. These include the breast reduction technique, the amount of tissue to be removed, and the level of change being made. After the consultation with the surgeon, the patient coordinator can provide a breakdown of the total cost. Occasionally, insurance companies may cover at least some of the cost of breast reduction surgery, but they usually require certain documentation, especially if the patient has attempted previously failed non - surgical options such as orthopedic, chiropractic, physical therapy, or dermatologic treatments.
Insurance Coverage for Breast Reduction
Some insurance providers may offer financial assistance for breast reduction surgery. For example, at the practice of Dr. William Samson, MD, they accept insurance providers such as Aetna, Cigna, Oxford, and United Healthcare. However, not all patients will be eligible for insurance assistance, and it is important for patients to discuss their insurance options with their provider and the surgeon's office well in advance of the surgery.
Patient Considerations
Best Candidates for Breast Reduction
The best candidates for breast reduction usually meet the following criteria:
- Are at a stable weight
- Are bothered by feeling that their breasts are too large
- Are experiencing back, neck, and shoulder pain caused by the weight of their breasts
- Have minimal excess skin
- Get skin irritation beneath the breast crease
- Have shoulder indentations from bra straps
- Are limited in their physical activity due to breast size
- Maintain realistic expectations of reduction mammoplasty results
- Are non - smokers
- Are overall physically healthy
Breastfeeding After Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery can affect a woman's ability to breastfeed, as the procedure involves removing some of the glandular tissue and ducts in the breast that produce and transport milk. However, it is still possible to breastfeed after the surgery. The extent to which the surgery affects breastfeeding depends on factors such as the amount of glandular tissue removed, the surgical technique used, and the location of the incisions. If a patient plans to have children and breastfeed in the future, it is important to discuss this with the surgeon during the initial consultation.
Weight Loss Before Breast Reduction
If a patient is trying to lose a significant amount of body fat, they should inform their plastic surgeon. The loss of excess fat before or after breast reduction surgery can affect the breast size and the reshaping required during the procedure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breast reduction surgery can be a life - changing procedure for women in New York City. With the release of the rankings of breast reduction hospitals, patients have more information at their disposal to choose the best hospital and surgeon for their needs. Factors such as surgeon expertise, hospital reputation, range of services, patient reviews, and location should all be considered when making this important decision. It is also crucial for patients to understand the breast reduction procedure, its risks, and the associated costs. By taking the time to research and consult with medical professionals, patients can ensure a successful and satisfying breast reduction experience.
If you are considering breast reduction surgery, we encourage you to take the next step. Reach out to the top - ranked hospitals and surgeons in New York City for a consultation. Discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations with them. Remember, a well - informed decision is the first step towards a better quality of life. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast reduction to help them make informed choices as well.