Introduction
Silicone breast augmentation has become a popular cosmetic procedure for many women in New York City. It offers the opportunity to enhance the size and shape of the breasts, boosting self - confidence and improving body proportions. With the high demand for this procedure, it's essential to know about the top hospitals and surgeons in the city. In this article, we will explore the reputation list of hospitals for silicone breast augmentation in New York City, providing you with valuable insights to make an informed decision.
Understanding Silicone Breast Augmentation
What is Silicone Breast Augmentation?
Silicone breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that involves inserting silicone - filled implants into the breasts to increase their volume and improve their shape. The silicone implants are made of a silicone shell filled with a silicone gel that closely mimics the texture and feel of natural breast tissue. This type of augmentation is one of the most common aesthetic procedures, with thousands of women undergoing the surgery each year.
Benefits of Silicone Breast Augmentation
- Natural Look and Feel: Silicone implants are known for providing a more natural look and feel compared to saline implants. They move and behave more like natural breast tissue, which makes them a popular choice for many women. For example, as Dr. David P. Rapaport mentions, for those who value a “natural feel” above everything else, silicone will almost always be their choice. These implants are softer than saline implants, allowing for more natural movement. In fact, approximately 70% of Dr. Rapaport’s patients choose silicone implants for their breast augmentation.
- Less Risk of Rupture: Silicone implants are much less likely to rupture than saline implants. Although a ruptured silicone implant requires a more complicated surgery to remove, the risk of rupture itself is relatively low. According to the FDA, ruptured silicone implants are not associated with breast cancer or other diseases.
- Customization: There are various shapes, sizes, and textures of silicone implants available, allowing patients and surgeons to customize the procedure to achieve the desired results. Round implants can add volume higher on the chest, while anatomical (teardrop - shaped) implants replicate the form of the natural breast more closely. Implant sizes range from 120cc to 800cc, and they also come in different widths, heights, and projections.
- Improved Self - Confidence: Many women experience a renewed sense of self - confidence and empowerment after achieving their desired breast size and shape. It can enhance overall body proportions, help create a balanced silhouette, and open up more wardrobe options.
Reputation List of Hospitals for Silicone Breast Augmentation in New York City
1. Columbia University Irving Medical Center
Columbia University Irving Medical Center is one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - top medical center. The plastic surgery division at Columbia offers a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including breast augmentation. Each of the plastic surgeons on the clinical staff is proficient in multiple areas of specialization. The division is also at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery. For breast augmentation, patients can expect high - quality care and a personalized approach. The surgeons work closely with patients to understand their aesthetic goals and choose the most suitable silicone implants.
2. Millennial Plastic Surgery
Millennial Plastic Surgery is known for offering silicone breast implant surgery and other procedures. They have years of experience and a proven track record. Patients who have undergone surgery at Millennial Plastic Surgery have been delighted with the results. Their medical team believes that patients should have the opportunity to choose the type of material for their cosmetic procedures, so they offer both saline and silicone gel breast implants. This allows patients to make an informed decision based on their preferences and needs.
3. Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City specializing in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures. His education and training span some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world, including Harvard Medical School, New York University, and the University of Melbourne in Australia. Dr. Kolker has an extensive list of credentials and has been featured in many top publications as a top plastic surgeon. He combines scientific and technical mastery with artistic creativity to deliver beautiful, natural, and proportional results in breast augmentation surgeries. His patients have reported high levels of satisfaction, with many sharing their success stories of how the surgery has changed their lives.
4. Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He works closely with prospective patients to develop an individualized approach for breast augmentation. Dr. Sherman has a deep understanding of silicone implants, especially the cohesive silicone gel implants (gummy bear implants). He was a select investigator during the original development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. His expertise in choosing the right implants, considering factors such as material, shape, size, and texture, helps patients achieve their desired breast profile.
5. Rapaport Plastic Surgery
Board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. David P. Rapaport at Rapaport Plastic Surgery provides a range of options for breast augmentation, including both saline and silicone breast implants. He works closely with each patient to determine the ideal choice based on their anatomy and aesthetic preferences. Dr. Rapaport prefers to use smooth implants because he believes they are safer and longer - lasting. He is experienced in guiding patients through the decision - making process and explaining the pros and cons of each implant type.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital or Surgeon for Silicone Breast Augmentation
Surgeon's Experience and Credentials
It is crucial to choose a surgeon who is board - certified and has extensive experience in performing silicone breast augmentation surgeries. Look for surgeons who have completed their training at reputable medical institutions and have a good track record of successful surgeries. For example, Dr. Adam R. Kolker's multiple board certifications and his training at world - class medical schools are strong indicators of his expertise. You can also check if the surgeon has been recognized in top medical publications or has won any awards related to plastic surgery.
Hospital Facilities and Accreditation
The hospital or surgical facility where the procedure will be performed should be accredited and have state - of - the - art equipment. Accreditation ensures that the facility meets certain safety and quality standards. For instance, Columbia University Irving Medical Center is well - known for its advanced medical facilities and high - quality care. You should also consider the comfort and privacy of the facility, as well as the availability of post - operative care and support.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an idea of the surgeon's skills and the quality of care provided by the hospital. Look for reviews on multiple platforms, including the hospital's website, third - party review sites, and social media. Positive reviews about the surgeon's bedside manner, communication skills, and the final results of the surgeries are good signs. For example, many patients of Dr. Adam R. Kolker have shared their positive experiences, highlighting how he made them feel comfortable throughout the process and achieved excellent results.
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of silicone breast augmentation can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of implants, the surgeon's fees, and the facility costs. It is important to get a detailed breakdown of the costs from the hospital or surgeon during the consultation. Additionally, find out if there are any financing options available. Some hospitals offer payment plans or work with financing companies to make the procedure more affordable for patients.
Communication and Compatibility
During the consultation, pay attention to how well the surgeon communicates with you. A good surgeon should listen to your concerns, answer all your questions clearly, and explain the procedure and potential risks in a way that you can understand. You should also feel comfortable with the surgeon and have a good rapport. After all, you will be entrusting them with your body and your aesthetic goals.
The Silicone Breast Augmentation Procedure
Consultation
The first step in the silicone breast augmentation process is the consultation. During this appointment, the surgeon will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of your breasts. You will have an open and honest conversation with the surgeon about your expectations, and together, you will create a surgical plan to best achieve your desired outcome. The surgeon will guide you through selecting the proper implant type, incision type, implant placement, and size. For example, Dr. John E. Sherman will review your medical history, examine your breasts, take measurements, and note your existing breast shape and any skin laxity or ptosis before approving you for the surgery.
Preparation
Once you and the surgeon have decided on the surgical plan, you will need to prepare for the procedure. This may include quitting smoking or using any nicotine products, as nicotine can significantly impact your ability to heal after the treatment. You may also need to taper off certain medications or supplements that can increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John’s wort. It is important to arrange for someone to pick you up from the hospital after the surgery and to designate a comfortable space at home to recover. You should also plan to take 2 - 3 weeks off work or other strenuous activities to rest and recuperate.
The Surgery
Silicone breast augmentation is typically an outpatient procedure that takes about 1 - 2 hours to complete. The surgeon will make an incision either below the crease near where the breast meets the chest, around the areola (the darker skin surrounding the nipple), or in the armpit. The choice of incision depends on several factors, including the type of implants, the patient's anatomy, and the desired outcome. The surgeon will then create a pocket either directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or behind the pectoral (chest) muscle (submuscular placement) and insert the silicone implants. Placing the implants behind the chest muscle may reduce the risk of capsular contracture but may also require a longer recovery time. After inserting the implants, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures and may place a layer of gauze and a bandage over the breasts.
Recovery
After the surgery, you will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a nurse until you feel well enough to be discharged. You may feel tired, sore, and experience swelling and bruising in the initial days after the surgery. You will be given a prescription for pain medication to help ease discomfort, and you will need to wear a surgical compression bra for the next few weeks as you heal. Most patients can return to light activities and work within 2 - 3 weeks, and more strenuous activities, such as going to the gym, can be resumed at 6 - 8 weeks. It may take several months for the swelling to fully subside and for the implants to settle into place.
Risks and Complications of Silicone Breast Augmentation
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is one of the most common complications after breast augmentation. It occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to become hard, misshapen, and sometimes painful. The exact cause of capsular contracture is not fully understood, but factors such as infection, trauma, and the type of implant can increase the risk. Treatment may involve removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants. Some surgeons, like Dr. Darrick Antell, use techniques such as placing an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to help prevent capsular contracture.
Infection
Infection is another potential risk after breast augmentation. It typically presents within a week after surgery and can usually be treated with antibiotics. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed. Signs of infection include fever, redness, swelling, and pain at the surgical site.
Implant Rupture
Although silicone implants are less likely to rupture than saline implants, rupture can still occur as a result of injury or normal compression and movement of the breast. If a silicone implant ruptures, a revision surgery is usually performed to replace the implant and remove any troublesome scar tissue. There is no evidence that ruptured silicone implants are associated with breast cancer or other diseases, but it is important to monitor the implants regularly.
Changes in Sensation
Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation after breast augmentation. This can include numbness, tingling, or hypersensitivity. In most cases, these changes are temporary, but in some cases, they may be permanent.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
Breast Implant Illness is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that some women report after having implants placed. These symptoms can include memory loss, “brain fog,” joint pain, and fatigue. However, the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is poorly understood and still being investigated.
Aftercare and Follow - up
Post - operative Instructions
After your silicone breast augmentation surgery, it is crucial to follow all the post - operative instructions provided by your surgeon. This may include taking prescribed medications, wearing a compression garment, and avoiding strenuous activities for a certain period. You should also keep the surgical incisions clean and dry to prevent infection. The surgeon may also recommend breast massages to help the implants settle and reduce the risk of capsular contracture.
Follow - up Appointments
You will need to attend regular follow - up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your recovery and ensure that everything is healing properly. During these appointments, the surgeon will examine your breasts, check for any signs of complications, and answer any questions you may have. They will also advise you on when you can resume normal activities and may provide additional recommendations for aftercare.
Mammograms
It is important to continue having regular mammograms after breast augmentation, as implants do not protect against breast cancer. However, implants can change the way mammograms are performed. You should inform the radiology center that you have implants before your mammogram so that they can use the appropriate technique and take additional views if necessary. Make sure to go to a radiology center with experienced technicians to get a reliable image of your breasts.
Conclusion
Silicone breast augmentation can be a life - changing procedure for many women in New York City, offering the opportunity to enhance their appearance and boost their self - confidence. When considering this procedure, it is essential to choose a reputable hospital and an experienced surgeon. We have explored some of the top hospitals and surgeons in New York City known for their expertise in silicone breast augmentation, including Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Millennial Plastic Surgery, Dr. Adam R. Kolker's practice, Dr. John E. Sherman's practice, and Rapaport Plastic Surgery. By considering factors such as the surgeon's experience, hospital facilities, patient reviews, cost, and communication, you can make an informed decision that is right for you. Remember to also be aware of the potential risks and complications of the procedure and to follow all the aftercare and follow - up instructions provided by your surgeon.
Call - to - Action
If you are considering silicone breast augmentation in New York City, take the time to research the hospitals and surgeons on our reputation list. Schedule consultations with a few different surgeons to discuss your goals, ask questions, and get a feel for their approach. You can also reach out to other patients who have undergone the procedure for their insights. By doing your due diligence, you can ensure a safe and successful breast augmentation experience. Share this article with anyone you know who may be interested in learning more about silicone breast augmentation in New York City.
