Understanding Breast Augmentation in New York City
Breast augmentation, a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure, has gained immense popularity in New York City. This surgical enhancement offers women the opportunity to enhance their physical appearance and boost their self - confidence. In this article, we will delve deep into the rankings of public doctor institutions for 330 breast augmentation with prostheses in the city. But first, let's understand the basics of breast augmentation.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing the volume and projection of bilateral breasts. It is typically done through the use of breast implants, either saline or silicone, or in some cases, fat transfer. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, nearly 200,000 breast augmentation surgeries were performed in the United States in 2020 alone, and New York City, being a hub for plastic surgery, is at the forefront of this trend.
There are several reasons why women opt for breast augmentation. Younger women in their 20s and 30s may be bothered by small - breasted appearance, which can lead to self - consciousness. Older women, especially mothers, may choose this procedure to restore the volume and shape of their breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding. In some congenital cases, breast augmentation can also serve as a form of body reconstruction to improve the patient's body image and confidence.
The Growing Popularity of Breast Augmentation in New York City
New York City is known for its fashion, beauty, and high - end lifestyle. This environment has contributed to the growing demand for breast augmentation. With advancements in surgical techniques and technology, the safety and effectiveness of the procedure have improved significantly. Moreover, the city is home to some of the most skilled and experienced plastic surgeons in the world, making it an ideal destination for women seeking breast augmentation.
In recent years, there has been an increasing cultural emphasis on self - care and confidence, which has also driven the demand for plastic surgery, including breast augmentation. Women are more empowered to make decisions about their bodies and are willing to invest in procedures that will help them feel better about themselves.
Ranking Criteria for Public Doctor Institutions in New York City
When it comes to ranking public doctor institutions for breast augmentation in New York City, several factors come into play. These factors ensure that patients can make informed decisions when choosing a surgeon and a facility for their procedure.
Surgeon Experience and Expertise
One of the most important factors is the experience and expertise of the plastic surgeon. Surgeons who have performed a large number of breast augmentation procedures are likely to have better skills and a higher success rate. For example, Newsweek and Statista's rankings of America's Best Plastic Surgeons take into account the number of peer recommendations, which is a strong indicator of a surgeon's reputation and expertise in the field. In the 2024 rankings, doctors like William P. Adams Jr., David Hidalgo, and Adam R. Kolker were recognized for their excellence in breast augmentation.
Board certification is also a crucial aspect. Surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery have completed appropriate training and passed oral and comprehensive written exams covering all plastic surgery procedures. This certification ensures that the surgeon meets the highest standards of education, training, and experience in the field.
Patient Reviews and Satisfaction
Patient reviews and satisfaction play a vital role in the ranking of doctor institutions. Websites like Healthgrades provide patient ratings for doctors who perform breast augmentation in New York. Doctors with higher ratings, such as Dr. Renata Khelemsky with a 5 - star rating, are more likely to provide high - quality care and meet patient expectations. Real - patient testimonials can offer insights into the surgeon's bedside manner, communication skills, and the overall patient experience.
Additionally, positive reviews can indicate that the surgeon is able to achieve natural - looking results and effectively manage any potential complications. Negative reviews, on the other hand, may highlight areas where the surgeon or the institution needs improvement.
Success Rate and Complications
The success rate of breast augmentation procedures and the rate of complications are important factors to consider. A high success rate means that the surgeon is able to achieve the desired results for the patient, such as a natural - looking shape, proper symmetry, and long - lasting results. Low complication rates indicate that the surgeon is skilled in performing the procedure safely and minimizing the risks.
Common complications associated with breast augmentation include breast pain, numbness, implant leakage, and capsular contracture. Surgeons who have a track record of minimizing these complications are more likely to be ranked higher. They may use advanced surgical techniques, high - quality implants, and proper post - operative care to reduce the risk of complications.
Facility Quality and Safety
The quality and safety of the surgical facility are also significant. Accredited facilities are required to meet strict standards for equipment, staffing, and infection control. A well - equipped facility with experienced medical staff can ensure a safe and comfortable surgical experience for the patient.
Some facilities may also offer additional services such as pre - operative consultations, post - operative care, and follow - up appointments to ensure the patient's recovery is smooth. The cleanliness and modernity of the facility can also contribute to the overall patient experience.
Top Public Doctor Institutions and Surgeons for Breast Augmentation in New York City
Healthgrades' Top Surgeons
Healthgrades has identified several top surgeons for breast augmentation in New York. These surgeons have at least 3 or more past patient ratings, which gives an indication of their experience. Here are some of them:
Surgeon | Rating (out of 5) | Location |
---|---|---|
Dr. Mark Sultan, MD | 4.20 | 1100 Park Ave # 1b, New York, NY 10128 |
Dr. Evan Matros, MD | 4.80 | 1275 York Ave, New York, NY 10065 |
Dr. Jeffrey Ascherman, MD | 4.90 | 51 West 51st street suite 380, New York, NY 10019 |
Dr. Jess Ting, MD | 4.30 | 10 Union Sq E # 3 - g, New York, NY 10003 |
Dr. Paul Weiss, MD | 3.30 | 1049 5th ave ste 2d, New York, NY 10028 |
Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons
Newsweek, in partnership with Statista, has released rankings of America's Best Plastic Surgeons. For breast augmentation in 2024, several New York - based surgeons made the list:
Surgeon | Rank |
---|---|
David Hidalgo, MD, FACS | 5 |
Adam R. Kolker, MD, FACS | 6 |
Alan Matarasso, MD, FACS | 11 |
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He has an extensive background in plastic surgery, having trained at some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world, including Harvard Medical School, New York University, and the University of Melbourne in Australia. He is known for his exceptional results in breast augmentation, facelift, eye lift, rhinoplasty, and liposuction. He has been featured in numerous media outlets and has received multiple awards for his work.
Other Notable Surgeons and Practices
There are also other notable surgeons and practices in New York City that are highly regarded for breast augmentation:
- Dr. William Lao: He is one of the top plastic surgeons specializing in breast implants in New York City. He is on a short - list of surgeons in the country who specialize in the scarless breast augmentation technique, where the implants are inserted through the armpit, leaving no visible scar. He has successfully performed over 500 breast surgeries throughout his career and is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in both the USA and Taiwan.
- Norman Rowe, MD: Dr. Rowe is a board - certified plastic surgeon with a well - known practice in New York City's upper east side. He specializes in breast procedures, rhinoplasty procedures, and revision procedures. His extensive experience can help patients who desire any type of face, breast, body, or skin treatments.
- Nadia Afridi, MD: She is a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons in Canada, an associate fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. She is specifically interested in women's health issues as they relate to plastic surgery and has a high focus on breast augmentation.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Types of Breast Implants
There are several types of breast implants available for breast augmentation:
- Saline Implants: These implants consist of an empty silicone outer shell that is inserted into the breast pocket through a tiny incision and then filled with a sterile saline liquid. They are often less expensive and typically have a less organic feel compared to silicone - gel implants. However, if they break, the salt water is absorbed into the body with no side effects.
- Silicone Implants: These implants are pre - filled with a silicone gel that provides a more natural look and feel. The gel inside creates a more natural movement and has a lesser chance of producing a rippling effect. Although they come at a higher price point and require a larger incision, they are more popular among patients.
- Structured Implants: Filled with saline, these implants are placed in an inner mold that makes them feel more like natural breasts.
- Gummy Bear Implants: These implants have a thicker silicone gel consistency and won't lose their shape even if the shell is compromised. Breasts usually feel firmer with these implants compared to traditional ones.
- Natural Breast Augmentation (Fat Transfer): This process involves taking subcutaneous fat from other parts of the body and using it to sculpt the breasts. It offers additional body sculpting benefits as it uses the patient's own fat.
Implant Placement and Incision Options
During breast augmentation, the surgeon has to decide on the implant placement and the incision option:
Implant Placement
- Submuscular Placement: The implant is placed under the chest muscle. This placement usually provides a more natural look as the muscle helps to camouflage the implant. It also has a lower risk of visible rippling and may interfere less with mammography exam results.
- Subglandular Placement: The implant is placed on top of the chest muscle, just below the breast tissue. This placement can enhance cleavage and may result in a quicker recovery. However, it may be more prone to visible rippling, especially in patients with less breast tissue.
Incision Options
- Inframammary Incision: Made under the breast in the natural crease, this incision offers good scar concealment and poses fewer breastfeeding complications. The scar is usually only 1 - 2 inches long.
- Periareolar Incision: Made around the outer edge of the areola, this incision helps to disguise the scar with the areola's natural pigmentation. There is a low risk of it affecting breastfeeding.
- Transaxillary Incision: Made in the armpit, this incision creates the least visible scar tissue. It is the least invasive to the mammary gland, making it a preferred option for younger women who want to retain their ability to breastfeed safely.
The Surgical Process
Breast augmentation is typically an outpatient procedure carried out under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes the chosen incision, creates a pocket for the implant either behind the breast tissue or under the chest muscle, inserts the implant, and then closes the incision with stitches and covers it with a dressing. The average surgery takes about 2 - 3 hours, and patients are usually observed for an additional 1 - 2 hours before being allowed to go home.
Pre - operative and Post - operative Considerations
Pre - operative Preparation
Before undergoing breast augmentation, patients need to take several steps to ensure a successful procedure:
- Consultation: The patient will have an initial consultation with the surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will review the patient's medical history, perform a physical examination of the breasts, take photographs, and discuss the patient's goals and expectations. The surgeon will also help the patient choose the appropriate implant type, size, and placement.
- Medical Clearance: If the patient is over the age of 35 or has a family history of breast cancer, they may need to have a screening mammogram before the surgery. The surgeon may also recommend additional screening tests or request prior approval from the patient's regular medical doctor.
- Lifestyle Changes: Patients are usually advised to stop smoking and taking certain medications, such as blood - thinning medications like ibuprofen or aspirin, several weeks before the surgery. They should also avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
- Arrangements: Patients need to arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and stay with them for at least the first 24 hours. They should also prepare their home for a comfortable recovery, including having a supply of necessary medications and comfortable clothing.
Post - operative Recovery
The recovery process after breast augmentation can take several weeks:
- Immediate Post - operative Period: Patients will need to wear a special surgical bra that provides support and protection. They may experience swelling, bruising, pain, and general discomfort during the early stages of recovery. Pain medication can be provided to manage the pain.
- Rest and Activity Restrictions: Patients should sleep upright, usually in a recliner, for the first 48 hours after surgery. They should avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activity, and raising their arms over their head for several weeks. They may need to take about a week off work to allow their bodies to heal.
- Follow - up Appointments: Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are essential to monitor the healing process, check for any complications, and ensure that the implants are settling properly. The surgeon may recommend breast massages to help the implants settle and reduce tightness.
- Scar Healing: Breast augmentation scars may initially be red or pinkish, and the skin may feel inflamed. It can take up to a year or longer for the scars to heal completely. Patients should follow the surgeon's instructions regarding scar care, such as using scar creams or silicone sheets.
Potential Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation
While breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure, it does come with some risks and potential complications:
- Anesthesia Risks: As with any surgical procedure under general anesthesia, there are risks associated with the use of anesthesia, such as allergic reactions, breathing problems, and adverse reactions to the medications.
- Breast Implant - Associated Complications: These include implant leakage or rupture, capsular contracture (formation of tight scar tissue around the implant), and breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), although this is a very rare condition.
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site or around the implant. Signs of infection may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. In severe cases, the implant may need