Introduction
Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure, especially in a cosmopolitan city like New York City. Women from all walks of life seek to enhance the size and shape of their breasts for various reasons, including improving self - confidence and achieving a more balanced body silhouette. This article aims to explore the best breast augmentation hospitals in New York City and shed light on the related procedures, surgeons, and considerations.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that involves increasing the size and enhancing the shape of the breasts. This can be achieved through the use of breast implants or a fat transfer technique. As reported by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2020 alone, nearly 200,000 women in the United States underwent breast augmentation, despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic. This shows the consistent demand for this procedure.
Types of Breast Implants
There are two main types of breast implants: silicone and saline. Silicone breast implants are filled with a silicone gel that more closely mimics the texture and feel of natural breast tissue. They are the most frequently chosen by women; in 2020, approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States were performed with silicone implants. Saline implants, on the other hand, are filled with a solution of salt and water. They have the advantage of potentially being placed through a slightly shorter incision.
Another type of implant that has gained popularity is the cohesive silicone gel implant, also known as the gummy bear implant. Developed in the 1990s, these implants feature a silicone gel that is thick enough to keep its form and minimize the risk of leakage if the implant becomes compromised. They offer a natural and proportionate breast shape and feel and come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit different chest dimensions.
Fat Transfer Technique
Some hospitals also offer a fat transfer technique, known as Natural Fill®. This method involves removing fat from areas such as the buttocks or abdomen using liposuction and then immediately inserting that fat into the breasts to enlarge them. The advantage of this technique is that it uses the patient's own body fat, reducing the risk of rejection and providing a more natural - looking result. However, it typically achieves a smaller increase in size compared to implants and requires enough donor fat from other body areas. The success rate for fat survival in the transferred area is 60 - 80%.
Top Breast Augmentation Hospitals in New York City
Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They use the latest technologies, such as advanced 3D imaging technology, to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique bodies. Before the surgery, the surgeons consult with patients to understand their desires for breast - size enhancement and help them decide on the best size and shape for their bodies. The hospital offers both silicone and saline breast implants and also has a specialized fat transfer technique (Natural Fill®) pioneered and perfected by its surgeons.
During the consultation, patients can learn about the different implant options and the procedures involved. The surgeons also perform a physical exam and ask a series of health - related questions to confirm that the patient is a candidate for breast augmentation. Mount Sinai aims to give patients a natural shape and size that they will be happy with, and the results are expected to last for many years.
Lara Devgan, MD, MPH, FACS
Dr. Lara Devgan is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York City. Her patients often seek natural - looking, beautifully contoured, and comfortable breast implants. Many women prefer her because she is a female plastic surgeon who can be discreet about this sensitive topic.
During the consultation, Dr. Devgan examines, measures, and photographs the patient's breasts. She discusses the patient's medical history and desires for surgery, shows samples of silicone and saline breast implants for the patient to feel the difference, and allows the patient to "try on" different sizes of implants. She also shows many before - and - after photographs to give the patient an idea of what to expect.
The surgery typically takes one hour and can be performed either in her fully accredited private office operating room or at one of the top local hospitals on the upper east side. The recovery process is relatively fast, with most patients feeling "back to normal" by one month after surgery. Bruising, discomfort, and most swelling disappear, although the breasts will continue to "settle" into their final position over the next few months.
Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a renowned breast augmentation surgeon in New York City. He is board - certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery and has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentation surgeries. He is among the most respected breast augmentation surgeons in the country and has been listed in multiple magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the nation.
Dr. Antell offers a comprehensive approach to breast augmentation. He helps patients choose the right implant type, incision type, implant placement, and size based on their anatomy and desired outcome. He addresses common complications such as capsular contracture and uses advanced techniques and an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to help prevent it. The surgery is usually performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or another form of “twilight” sedation, and patients are monitored by a board - certified anesthesiologist throughout the procedure.
After the surgery, patients recover in Dr. Antell's state - of - the - art recovery suite. He provides a detailed recovery plan and is available to answer any questions patients may have during the recovery process. Most patients can return to daily activities within a few days, but strenuous activity should be avoided for at least two weeks.
Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
As one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - top medical center, Columbia University's plastic surgery division has the experience and resources to deliver high - quality breast augmentation services. The cosmetic care program at Columbia offers breast augmentation as well as a variety of other surgical and non - surgical cosmetic procedures.
The plastic surgeons at Columbia are proficient in multiple areas of specialization. They take a personalized approach to each patient, considering their unique needs and goals. The hospital is also at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery, which may contribute to more advanced and effective breast augmentation techniques in the future.
Dr. John E. Sherman
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon known for his commitment to patient care and excellent results. He works closely with patients to develop an individualized approach for breast augmentation. Dr. Sherman has a deep understanding of breast implants, especially the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants, as he was a select investigator during their original development.
During the consultation, Dr. Sherman reviews the patient's medical history, examines the breasts, and discusses implant options. He helps patients choose the ideal implant material, shape, size, and texture based on their existing breast tissue and desired results. The surgery is performed at an accredited surgical facility or a nearby hospital, and Dr. Sherman provides detailed pre - operative and post - operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
Surgeon's Qualifications and Experience
When choosing a hospital and surgeon for breast augmentation, it is crucial to consider the surgeon's qualifications. Look for a board - certified plastic surgeon, as this indicates that they have met the rigorous standards set by the relevant medical boards. Surgeons with extensive experience in breast augmentation, such as those mentioned above who have performed thousands of procedures, are more likely to achieve better results and handle any potential complications effectively. For example, Dr. Darrick Antell has over ten thousand plastic surgery procedures under his belt, which gives patients more confidence in his skills.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the results achieved by a hospital and surgeon. Reading about the experiences of other patients can help you understand what to expect during the consultation, surgery, and recovery process. For instance, on Dr. Lara Devgan's website, there are numerous patient testimonials that describe their satisfaction with the results and the care they received.
Range of Services and Techniques
A good breast augmentation hospital should offer a range of services and techniques to meet the diverse needs of patients. This includes different types of implants (silicone, saline, gummy bear) and fat transfer techniques. Some hospitals, like Mount Sinai, have developed their own unique fat transfer methods. The availability of advanced technologies, such as 3D imaging, can also enhance the patient experience and help in making more informed decisions.
Cost Considerations
The cost of breast augmentation varies depending on several factors, including the type of implants, the surgeon's fee, operating room and anesthesia fees, and consultation fees. While it is important to find a hospital and surgeon within your budget, it should not be the only determining factor. Cheaper options may not always guarantee high - quality results or the best after - care. Some hospitals may offer financing options to help patients manage the cost of the procedure.
Preparing for Breast Augmentation
Consultation Process
The consultation is a crucial step in the breast augmentation process. During the consultation, the surgeon will examine your breasts, review your medical history, and discuss your aesthetic goals. You should be open and honest about your expectations and any concerns you may have. The surgeon will then recommend the best implant type, size, and placement based on your body type and desired outcome. They will also explain the procedure in detail, including the risks and benefits, and answer all of your questions.
Pre - operative Instructions
Before the surgery, patients are usually given a set of pre - operative instructions. These may include quitting smoking or using nicotine products, as nicotine can significantly impact the ability to heal after the treatment. Patients 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. Arranging for a trusted family member or friend to pick you up from the hospital and designating a comfortable space to recover at home are also important steps.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Breast augmentation is typically an outpatient procedure that takes 1 - 2 hours. The surgeon will make a small incision, either below the breast crease, around the areola, or in the armpit, and create a pocket for the implant. The implant will then be placed either behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or behind the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement). The choice of placement depends on various factors, such as the patient's anatomy, age, and vocation. After the implant is placed, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures and wrap the area with a compression garment.
Recovery and After - care
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, patients may experience some fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Pain medication is usually prescribed to help ease the discomfort. Patients are typically required to wear a surgical compression bra for the first few weeks of recovery. In the first 24 - 48 hours, it is normal to have some swelling and discomfort, and many patients need to take pain medicine during this time. Most patients spend the first 1 - 2 days resting at home.
Return to Normal Activities
If you have a desk job that does not require strenuous activity, you may be able to return to work by the 3rd or 4th day after surgery. However, strenuous activity should be avoided for at least two weeks. By one month after surgery, most patients feel "back to normal," although the breasts will continue to "settle" into their final position over the next few months. It is important to follow the surgeon's instructions regarding activity restrictions and follow - up appointments.
Long - term Results and Follow - up
The final results of breast augmentation become more apparent as the swelling subsides and the implants settle. It may take several months for the breasts to reach their final shape and appearance. Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are important to monitor the healing process and address any concerns. Mammograms should also be continued after breast augmentation, although special techniques may be required.
Risks and Complications
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 painful. This condition can be treated by removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants. Surgeons like Dr. Darrick Antell use advanced techniques and an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to help prevent capsular contracture.
Bleeding, Infection, and Numbness
Other potential risks include bleeding, infection, and numbness. Infection typically presents within a week after surgery and can usually be treated with antibiotics. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed. Numbness in the breasts or nipples may also occur, but it often resolves over time. However, in some cases, it may be permanent.
Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)
Over the past few years, researchers have found that women with breast implants may have a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL. This is a form of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma that can be effectively treated. It appears to be associated with textured implants and patients who develop a seroma (accumulation of fluid around the breast). While the actual number of cases worldwide is not confirmed, it appears to be approaching 400 cases.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
Breast implant illness is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that women report after having implants placed. These symptoms 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.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation is a popular and effective cosmetic procedure that can help women enhance their appearance and boost their self - confidence. New York City is home to several top - notch hospitals and experienced surgeons who offer high - quality breast augmentation services. When considering breast augmentation, it is important to do thorough research, choose a qualified surgeon, and understand the risks and benefits involved. By taking these steps, you can make an informed decision and achieve the results you desire.
If you are interested in learning more about breast augmentation or scheduling a consultation, we encourage you to reach out to one of the hospitals or surgeons mentioned in this article. Take the first step towards achieving your aesthetic goals and enhancing your self - esteem.
