Introduction
Breast augmentation has become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures, offering women the opportunity to enhance their confidence and achieve the breast size and shape they desire. In New York City, a hub of medical excellence, there are numerous high - quality hospitals and surgeons available for breast augmentation surgery. This article will explore the top five and top three hospitals for breast augmentation in New York City, discussing their features, surgeons, and the overall patient experience.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as a boob job, is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing breast size, enhancing shape, or improving symmetry. It can involve using breast implants (either silicone or saline) or a fat - transfer technique. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, nearly 200,000 women underwent breast augmentation in 2020 alone. The desire for fuller, shapelier breasts is prevalent, and breast augmentation provides a solution for many women who feel self - conscious about their breast size or appearance.
Reasons for Breast Augmentation
- Restoring Volume: After pregnancy, weight loss, or due to the natural aging process, breasts may lose volume. Breast augmentation can help restore the lost fullness.
- Enhancing Self - Confidence: Many women find that having the breasts they desire boosts their self - esteem and makes them feel more comfortable in their bodies.
- Correcting Asymmetry: When one breast is significantly smaller than the other, breast augmentation can create a more symmetrical appearance.
Top Three Hospitals for Breast Augmentation in New York City
1. Columbia University Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
As one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - class medical center, Columbia University offers a comprehensive plastic surgery program. The plastic surgeons on the clinical staff are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, including breast augmentation.
Features
- Expert Surgeons: The surgeons are not only highly skilled but also actively involved in clinical and laboratory research. For example, Dr. Christine Rohde is a highly skilled clinician, researcher, and teacher, specializing in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, and breast reconstruction.
- Range of Services: In addition to breast augmentation, the hospital offers other breast - related procedures such as breast reduction, breast lift, and breast reconstruction after cancer. They also provide non - surgical cosmetic procedures and complex reconstructive operations.
- Research - Driven: The plastic surgery research laboratory is conducting studies related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy for wound healing, which can contribute to better surgical techniques and patient outcomes.
Patient Experience
Patients at Columbia University can expect a personalized approach. The surgeons take the time to understand each patient's goals and provide detailed information about the procedure, recovery, and potential risks. The hospital also offers multiple locations across New York, making it convenient for patients to access care.
2. Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They use the latest technologies to help patients visualize the results of their surgery.
Features
- Advanced 3D Imaging: Before scheduling the surgery, the hospital uses 3D imaging technology to show patients what their larger breasts will look like on their unique bodies. This allows patients to make more informed decisions about the size and shape of their implants.
- Implant Options: Patients can choose between silicone breast implants, which look and feel natural, and saline breast implants, which are firmer and rounder. Mount Sinai also offers a fat - transfer technique called NaturalFill®, which uses the patient's own fat to augment the breasts.
- Patient - Centered Care: The surgeons at Mount Sinai take the time to listen to patients' desires and concerns. They help patients choose the best option for their body type and desired outcome, ensuring that the results are natural - looking and satisfying.
Patient Experience
Patients appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to see the potential results before the surgery. The recovery process is also well - supported, with the medical team providing clear instructions and follow - up care.
3. Rowe Plastic Surgery
Dr. Norman Rowe, a board - certified plastic surgeon at Rowe Plastic Surgery, specializes in breast procedures, including breast augmentation. He combines his skills with the latest techniques to provide natural - looking results.
Features
- Customized Approach: Dr. Rowe takes into account each patient's unique anatomy and aesthetic goals to create a personalized treatment plan. He offers a variety of breast augmentation options, such as saline implants, silicone implants, and fat transfer.
- Attention to Detail: The team at Rowe Plastic Surgery is committed to providing meticulous attention to detail during the surgery. They ensure that the incisions are well - hidden and that the implants are placed correctly for the best possible results.
- Patient Satisfaction: Dr. Rowe has received high ratings from patients for his excellent quality of care and treatment. He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, which demonstrates his commitment to professional standards.
Patient Experience
Patients at Rowe Plastic Surgery report a positive experience from the initial consultation to the post - operative care. The staff is friendly and helpful, and Dr. Rowe takes the time to answer all questions and address concerns.
Top Five Hospitals for Breast Augmentation in New York City
1. Columbia University (Continued)
Columbia University's inclusion in the top five is further strengthened by its wide range of plastic surgery services and its commitment to research and education. The hospital's multi - disciplinary approach, involving cancer experts for breast reconstruction cases, ensures comprehensive care for patients.
2. Mount Sinai - New York (Continued)
Mount Sinai's use of advanced technology and its focus on patient - centered care make it a top choice. The availability of different implant options and the fat - transfer technique provides patients with more flexibility in achieving their desired results.
3. Rowe Plastic Surgery (Continued)
Rowe Plastic Surgery's reputation for providing natural - looking results and its patient - focused approach make it stand out. The personalized treatment plans and the attention to detail during surgery contribute to high patient satisfaction.
4. Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice
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.
Features
- Artistic Approach: Dr. Kolker combines scientific and technical mastery with artistic creativity. He believes that "beautiful" should be more important than "size" in breast augmentation and works to achieve a proportionate and natural outcome for each patient.
- Wide Range of Procedures: In addition to breast augmentation, he offers other breast procedures such as breast lift, breast reduction, and breast reconstruction. He also performs facial and body contouring procedures.
- Media Recognition: Dr. Kolker has been featured in over 100 print articles, television segments, and online news. He is listed in New York Magazine's Best Doctors, Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons, and Castle Connolly's Top Doctors.
Patient Experience
Patients who have undergone surgery with Dr. Kolker often praise his attention to detail and his ability to understand their goals. His team provides comprehensive pre - and post - operative care, ensuring a smooth recovery process.
5. Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon known for his commitment to patient care and excellent results in breast augmentation.
Features
- Implant Expertise: Dr. Sherman has a deep understanding of breast implants. He worked closely with Allergan during the development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. He can guide patients through the process of choosing the right implant material, shape, size, and texture.
- Personalized Approach: He develops an individualized approach for each patient, taking into account their medical history, existing breast shape, and aesthetic goals. He also provides detailed information about the procedure, recovery, and potential complications.
- Comprehensive Care: The practice offers a full range of services, from the initial consultation to post - operative follow - up. Dr. Sherman and his team ensure that patients are well - informed and comfortable throughout the entire process.
Patient Experience
Patients appreciate Dr. Sherman's professionalism and his willingness to answer all their questions. The post - operative care is also highly regarded, with patients reporting a smooth recovery and satisfactory results.
Comparing the Hospitals
| Hospital | Special Features | Implant Options | Patient Experience | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia University | Expert surgeons, research - driven, multi - disciplinary approach | Silicone, saline, possible fat - transfer in some cases | Personalized care, multiple locations | Varies based on individual case, additional fees for facilities and services |
| Mount Sinai - New York | Advanced 3D imaging, NaturalFill® fat - transfer technique | Silicone, saline, NaturalFill® | Ability to visualize results, well - supported recovery | Estimated costs can be provided after consultation, includes surgeon's fee, implant cost, etc. |
| Rowe Plastic Surgery | Customized approach, attention to detail | Saline, silicone, fat transfer | Friendly staff, high patient satisfaction | Cost depends on implant type, procedure complexity |
| Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice | Artistic approach, wide range of procedures, media recognition | Silicone, saline | Attention to goals, comprehensive pre - and post - operative care | Consultation required for cost estimate |
| Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice | Implant expertise, personalized approach | Silicone, saline, specialized implants like Natrelle 410 | Professionalism, comprehensive care | Cost is individualized, discussed during consultation |
Considerations Before Choosing a Hospital for Breast Augmentation
Surgeon's Qualifications
It is crucial to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation. Look for surgeons who are members of professional organizations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Check their credentials, including their education, training, and any awards or recognition they have received.
Hospital Reputation
Research the hospital's reputation by reading patient reviews and testimonials. A hospital with a good reputation is more likely to provide high - quality care and a positive patient experience. You can also check if the hospital is accredited by relevant organizations.
Implant Options
Understand the different types of implants available, such as silicone, saline, and specialized implants like gummy bear implants. Consider the pros and cons of each type and discuss with your surgeon which option is best for you based on your body type and aesthetic goals.
Cost
Breast augmentation can be expensive, and the cost can vary depending on factors such as the surgeon's fee, implant cost, facility fees, and anesthesia fees. Make sure to get a detailed cost estimate during your consultation and discuss payment options, including financing if available.
Recovery and Aftercare
Ask about the expected recovery time and the aftercare requirements. A good hospital and surgeon will provide clear instructions on how to care for yourself after the surgery, including pain management, follow - up appointments, and when you can resume normal activities.
Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation
As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation comes with risks and potential complications. Some of the common risks include:
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site or around the implant. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. Prompt treatment with antibiotics is usually required.
- Implant Leak or Rupture: Implants can leak or rupture over time. Saline implants will deflate if they rupture, and the saline will be absorbed by the body. Silicone implants may not show obvious signs of rupture, but they can cause problems if the silicone leaks into the surrounding tissue.
- Scarring: All breast augmentation surgeries will leave scars, although the location and visibility of the scars can vary depending on the incision technique used. Scarring can be minimized by following the surgeon's post - operative care instructions.
- Changes in Sensation: Some women may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation after surgery. This can be temporary or permanent.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII is a term used to describe a range of symptoms that some women report after having breast implants. Symptoms may include fatigue, joint pain, and memory loss. The cause of BII is not fully understood, and more research is needed.
Conclusion
In New York City, there are several high - quality hospitals and surgeons for breast augmentation surgery. The top five and top three hospitals mentioned in this article offer a combination of expert surgeons, advanced technology, a variety of implant options, and excellent patient care. When considering breast augmentation, it is important to do thorough research, understand the risks and benefits, and choose a hospital and surgeon that best meet your needs and goals.
If you are interested in breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon at one of these top hospitals. During the consultation, you can discuss your aesthetic goals, ask questions, and get a better understanding of the procedure. Take the time to make an informed decision and take the first step towards achieving the breasts you've always wanted.
