Introduction
Breast reduction surgery has become an increasingly popular choice for many individuals in New York City. Whether it's to alleviate physical discomfort caused by overly large breasts or to enhance self - confidence, finding a top - notch plastic surgery department in a public hospital is crucial. In this article, we will explore the best plastic surgery departments of public hospitals for breast reduction in New York City, along with details about the surgeons, procedures, and patient experiences.
Benefits of Breast Reduction Surgery
Before delving into the rankings, it's important to understand the benefits of breast reduction surgery. For women, large breasts can cause a variety of physical issues such as chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain, poor posture, and skin irritation. According to Mount Sinai, breast reduction can relieve these discomforts and also lead to improved self - confidence and a better quality of life. It can also decrease breast size to be in proportion with the body frame, correct nipple position, and balance the size of the breasts. For men, breast reduction can address gynecomastia, restoring a more masculine appearance and eliminating psychological distress.
Factors Considered in Ranking Plastic Surgery Departments
- Surgeon Experience: The experience of the plastic surgeons in performing breast reduction surgeries is a key factor. Surgeons with extensive experience are more likely to achieve better results and handle complications effectively. For example, Dr. Keith Blechman at the Breast Reduction Center of NYC has been highly praised by patients for his excellent bedside manner and surgical skills, with many patients sharing their positive experiences on various review platforms like Realself and Google.
- Patient Reviews: Feedback from past patients can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, results, and patient satisfaction. High ratings and positive reviews often indicate a department that is committed to providing excellent service. Healthgrades found 1851 doctors who perform breast reduction in New York, and the providers with at least 3 or more past patient ratings, such as Dr. Peter Henderson with a 4.70 rating out of 5 stars, are considered more reliable.
- Technology and Facilities: Modern technology and well - equipped facilities are essential for successful breast reduction surgeries. Hospitals with state - of - the - art operating rooms and advanced surgical equipment can ensure the safety and quality of the procedures. Dr. Zuckerman's office in midtown Manhattan has a state - of - the - art, fully equipped operating room certified by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, Inc. (AAAASF), which offers an equally high standard of care as a hospital.
- Research and Innovation: Public hospitals that are involved in research and innovation in the field of plastic surgery are likely to offer the latest techniques and treatments. Columbia University's plastic surgery division is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery, conducting numerous studies related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy for wound healing.
Top Plastic Surgery Departments in New York City for Breast Reduction
Columbia University's Plastic Surgery Division
Columbia University is one of New York's best hospitals and a world - top medical center. Its plastic surgery division offers a comprehensive range of services, including breast reduction. The department has a team of highly skilled surgeons, each proficient in multiple areas of specialization. For example, Dr. Christine Rohde 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 lists of America's top doctors.
The division also conducts extensive research, with a major focus on applications of gene therapy to wound healing and the use of stem cells for tissue regeneration. Patients at Columbia can expect high - quality care and access to the latest surgical techniques.
Mount Sinai's Plastic Surgery Department
Mount Sinai's team of plastic surgeons is expert at enhancing women's breasts. They take a warm, caring, and supportive approach to patient care, creating an environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns. To be eligible for breast reduction surgery at Mount Sinai, patients should maintain a healthy, stable weight, not plan on future pregnancies that will affect their breasts, and be physically and emotionally mature about their choice. The department helps patients determine the right combination of procedures, such as combining breast reduction with breast lift or as part of a mommy makeover, to achieve their plastic surgery goals.
Top Surgeons in New York City for Breast Reduction
Dr. Keith Blechman
Dr. Blechman at the Breast Reduction Center of NYC has received rave reviews from patients. His bedside manner is highly praised, and he is known for making patients feel comfortable throughout the entire process, from consultation to post - op care. Patients have reported amazing results, with some going from a very large bra size to a much more manageable one. For example, one patient went from a 40H to a 40C and was extremely satisfied with the outcome. His staff is also commended for their help in dealing with insurance matters.
Dr. Zuckerman
Dr. Zuckerman is an expert in aesthetic breast surgery. He trained at elite medical institutions including Brown University and New York University. He uses different techniques for breast reduction, such as the circumvertical (vertical / “lollipop”) and the anchor / wise pattern, depending on the amount of breast tissue to be removed. He strives to achieve high - quality surgical outcomes with natural - looking, round breasts. A study in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal showed that many patients requiring reoperation after breast reduction cited problems with the original surgeon's judgement and technique, so Dr. Zuckerman's expertise is highly valuable. He also has a private in - office operating room in midtown Manhattan that offers privacy, discretion, and convenience to patients.
| Surgeon | Location | Rating | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Keith Blechman | Breast Reduction Center of NYC, 800a 5th Ave, floor 3, suite b, New York, NY 10065 | Highly rated based on patient reviews | Excellent bedside manner, staff helps with insurance, amazing results reported by patients |
| Dr. Zuckerman | Office in midtown Manhattan | Selected as a Super Doctor | Trained at elite institutions, uses advanced techniques, has a certified in - office operating room |
| Dr. Francesco Gargano | 240 w 40th st, 4th floor, New York, NY 10018 | 5.00 | Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the European Board, extensive global training, emphasizes patient care and satisfaction |
The Breast Reduction Procedure
Understanding the breast reduction procedure is essential for patients considering this surgery. At the initial consultation, the surgeon will evaluate the patient's medical history, current health, and goals for the surgery. They will also assess the size and shape of the breasts, as well as the amount of tissue to be removed.
During the surgery, depending on the surgeon's technique, incisions are made in specific patterns. Dr. Zuckerman uses either the circumvertical (vertical / “lollipop”) or the anchor / wise pattern. Excess fat, breast tissue, and skin are removed, and the nipple - areola complex may be repositioned and reduced in size. Liposuction may also be performed in some cases to achieve a more natural - looking result.
After the surgery, patients are typically fitted with a specialty surgical bra to support the breasts and aid in the healing process. The recovery period can vary, but patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks. Some bruising and swelling are normal, and pain medication may be prescribed to manage discomfort.
Patient Experiences and Success Stories
There are numerous success stories from patients who have undergone breast reduction surgery in New York City. Many patients report a significant improvement in their physical health, such as relief from back and shoulder pain. One patient at the Breast Reduction Center of NYC said that the surgery had completely changed her life, allowing her to be more active and confident. Another patient of Dr. Zuckerman was delighted with the natural - looking results and the fact that the scarring was minimal. These success stories highlight the importance of choosing a skilled surgeon and a reliable plastic surgery department.
Insurance Coverage for Breast Reduction
Insurance coverage for breast reduction can be a complex issue. In some cases, if a patient can document health issues related to having overly large breasts, such as back and shoulder pain, they may be eligible for partial or full health insurance compensation. For example, Dr. Zuckerman's staff can assist patients with the insurance approval process. However, each insurance policy is different, and it's important for patients to check with their insurance provider and discuss the matter with their surgeon's office.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgery, breast reduction surgery carries some risks. These can include wound breakdown, alterations in nipple or breast sensation, hypertrophic or raised scarring, bleeding or hematoma formation, infection of the incision sites, remaining breast asymmetry, and fat necrosis. However, when performed by a board - certified plastic surgeon, the risks are generally low. Surgeons take various precautions to minimize these risks, such as using sterile techniques during surgery and providing appropriate post - operative care instructions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New York City offers a range of excellent plastic surgery departments in public hospitals for breast reduction. Factors such as surgeon experience, patient reviews, technology and facilities, and research and innovation should be considered when choosing a department. Top surgeons like Dr. Keith Blechman and Dr. Zuckerman have proven track records of providing high - quality care and achieving great results. Patients considering breast reduction should carefully weigh the benefits, risks, and insurance coverage before making a decision.
If you are considering breast reduction surgery in New York City, we encourage you to research further, schedule consultations with multiple surgeons, and talk to past patients to get a better understanding of what to expect. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning about breast reduction in New York City, and explore related topics such as the latest surgical techniques and post - operative care on our website.
