Introduction
Full - type prosthetic breast augmentation has become an increasingly popular cosmetic surgery option for many women in New York City. With a plethora of hospitals and institutions offering these services, it can be quite challenging for patients to select the most suitable one. In this article, we will explore the top five hospitals for full - type prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City, including public hospitals and chain institutions, to provide patients with a comprehensive guide to make an informed decision.
Understanding Full - Type Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
Full - type prosthetic breast augmentation is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing breast size, enhancing shape, or improving symmetry. There are different types of implants available, such as silicone and saline implants, as well as alternative methods like fat transfer. Before considering any hospital, patients need to understand the procedure, its risks, and the expected outcomes.
Types of Breast Implants
Implant Type | Characteristics | Approved Age |
---|---|---|
Silicone Implants | Pre - filled with a cohesive, silicone gel. They feel and look more natural. However, the FDA suggests MRI scans every few years for monitoring. | At least 22 years old |
Saline Implants | Filled with saline after placement. A smaller incision can be used for insertion. They do not require long - term monitoring and are safe if they rupture. Visible rippling may occur in thin women with little breast tissue. | At least 18 years old |
The Top Five Hospitals for Full - Type Prosthetic Breast Augmentation in New York City
1. Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai is a well - known medical institution in New York City. Their plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation surgeries. They use the latest technologies, such as advanced 3D imaging technology, to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look. This allows patients to virtually try on different sizes of breasts and make a more informed decision about the size and shape they desire.
Mount Sinai offers several options for breast augmentation. There are two main types of breast implants available: silicone and saline. Silicone breast implants look and feel natural in the breasts, while saline breast implants are firmer and rounder. Additionally, Mount Sinai surgeons have pioneered and perfected a fat transfer technique called Natural Fill®. This two - step procedure involves removing fat from the buttocks or abdomen through liposuction and then immediately inserting it into the breasts to enlarge them using the patient's own fat deposits.
Before scheduling the surgery, the plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai will have a detailed consultation with the patient. They will listen carefully to the patient's desire for enhancing breast size, explain the procedure, answer any questions, and perform a physical exam to confirm that the patient is a candidate for breast augmentation. Patients can expect long - lasting results from their breast augmentation, but factors such as pregnancy, nursing, and significant weight changes may cause natural drooping over time, in which case a breast lift or implant replacement may be considered.
2. Columbia University's Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Columbia University is one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - renowned medical center. Their plastic surgery division is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery and is a recognized national and international leader in the field.
The plastic surgeons at Columbia are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, including breast augmentation. The cosmetic care program provides surgical and non - surgical options to improve patients' cosmetic health. In addition to breast augmentation, they also offer ear and eyelid lifts, tummy tucks, and more. The reconstructive care program focuses on issues like breast reconstruction after breast cancer, skin lesion excision, and reconstructive surgery for the nose and ears.
The hospital's team of board - certified surgeons would love the opportunity to meet with patients to discuss their cosmetic goals and determine the appropriate procedure to help them look and feel their best at any age. The division also has a number of experts in different areas. 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, body contouring, cosmetic surgery, and breast, trauma, and cancer reconstruction.
3. NewYork - Presbyterian
NewYork - Presbyterian plastic surgeons are passionate about helping patients feel their best. They provide the full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, including breast reduction surgery, breast lift surgery (mastopexy), breast augmentation with implants, and diep flap surgery.
Starting with the initial consultation, the plastic and reconstructive surgeons at NewYork - Presbyterian work closely with patients to understand their goals and discuss the best options for their needs. Whether patients visit the hospital virtually through a video visit or in person, they can be assured of receiving the highest standards of care with compassion. The hospital has taken every step to keep its facilities safe for patients to continue their care.
4. Weill Cornell Medicine
Weill Cornell Medicine is another excellent choice for full - type prosthetic breast augmentation. Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons are leaders in the field, and the care team is equipped to promote comfort throughout the process. The hospital partners with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S.
The surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine are highly skilled and can help patients achieve the natural look they want. They offer individualized breast surgery for patients of all races, ethnicities, genders, and gender identities. The hospital focuses on patient comfort at every step of the process. Before surgery, patients have time to ask questions and feel comfortable with the procedure. In state - of - the - art surgical suites, the surgeons use the latest anesthetics and medications to help patients recover more quickly and heal faster. After surgery, the care team manages pain with medication and teaches patients how to care for themselves during the healing and recovery process.
The available cosmetic breast surgery options at Weill Cornell Medicine include breast reduction surgery, breast lift surgery (mastopexy), breast augmentation with implants, and diep flap surgery.
5. NYU Langone Health
NYU Langone's plastic surgeons are experts in breast reconstruction and cosmetic breast surgery. They offer all of the latest reconstruction techniques, such as breast reduction using the short scar method, which involves a smaller incision than traditional techniques and results in more cosmetically appealing outcomes. They also perform breast lift surgery (mastopexy) and secondary breast reconstruction and augmentation surgery.
One of the unique features of NYU Langone is the "Breast in a Day" innovative surgery. This is an option for women diagnosed with breast cancer or those at increased risk for cancer. It involves performing a nipple - sparing mastectomy and breast reconstruction using implants at the same time in one day. This reduces the number of surgeries and the time spent in the hospital, which can play a significant role in the patient's physical and emotional recovery.
The hospital uses three - dimensional imaging to assist in preoperative planning, long - term evaluation, and follow - up care after breast reduction, reconstruction, or augmentation. Their team of plastic surgeons has vast expertise using the newest techniques to perform these surgeries.
What to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Augmentation
Surgeon Experience and Expertise
The experience and expertise of the plastic surgeon are crucial factors. Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation surgeries. Check their before - and - after photos, patient testimonials, and any awards or recognition they have received. For example, at Mount Sinai, the surgeons' extensive experience allows them to provide high - quality results, and at Columbia, the surgeons' multiple areas of specialization ensure comprehensive care.
Technology and Facilities
Advanced technology can enhance the surgical experience and improve outcomes. Hospitals like Mount Sinai use 3D imaging technology, and NYU Langone uses three - dimensional imaging for better planning and evaluation. State - of - the - art surgical facilities and the use of the latest anesthetics and medications, as seen at Weill Cornell Medicine, also contribute to a more comfortable and successful surgery.
Range of Services
Choose a hospital that offers a wide range of breast augmentation options, including different types of implants and alternative methods like fat transfer. Hospitals such as Mount Sinai and Columbia University offer multiple choices to meet the diverse needs of patients.
Patient Care and Comfort
Good patient care is essential. This includes pre - operative consultations, where the surgeon listens to the patient's goals and addresses their concerns, as well as post - operative care, which includes pain management and guidance on recovery. Weill Cornell Medicine, for instance, prioritizes patient comfort at every step of the process.
Cost and Insurance
Understand the total cost of the breast augmentation procedure, including surgeon's fees, facility costs, and the cost of implants. In New York City, prices can vary, and factors such as the type of implants and the complexity of the procedure can affect the total cost. Check if your insurance covers any part of the procedure. While breast augmentation is often considered a cosmetic procedure and may not be covered by insurance, in some cases, such as breast reconstruction after cancer, insurance may provide coverage.
The Breast Augmentation Process
Pre - operative Consultation
The pre - operative consultation is a critical step. During this consultation, the plastic surgeon will discuss the patient's expectations and the anticipated outcomes of the breast augmentation. The surgeon will also take a detailed medical history, perform a physical examination, and outline the procedure and postoperative care. Open and honest communication with the surgeon is crucial to ensure that the treatment matches the patient's objectives. For example, at Mount Sinai, the surgeons listen carefully to the patient's desires for breast enhancement, and at Dr. Cangello's practice, he addresses all the patient's questions and concerns during the consultation.
Surgery
The breast augmentation surgery typically involves placing breast implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles. The surgeon will choose the appropriate implant type (silicone or saline) based on the patient's body type and desired outcome. Incisions can be made in different locations, such as around the nipple (periareolar), in the crease between the breast and chest wall (inframammary), or in the armpit (transaxillary). However, some surgeons, like Dr. Cangello, avoid the transaxillary technique due to a higher rate of implant malposition. The surgery usually takes one - and - a - half to two hours.
Post - operative Care and Recovery
After the surgery, patients can expect to experience some swelling and discomfort, which is normal. They will be required to wear a compression garment, take prescribed medications, and maintain a healthy lifestyle for an effective recovery. Most patients need a recovery period of one to two weeks, with follow - up visits to the surgeon. It is advisable to refrain from vigorous activities for a minimum of six weeks post - procedure. For example, at Dr. Cangello's practice, the standard follow - up schedule includes appointments at one week, four weeks, and 12 weeks after the procedure to ensure optimal healing.
Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation
As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation comes with its own set of risks and potential complications. These may include infections, bleeding, alterations in nipple or breast sensations, implant leakage or rupture, development of scar tissue, and unsatisfactory outcomes that could necessitate further surgeries. Some individuals may also encounter complications related to anesthesia, such as respiratory problems and reactions to medication. The psychological ramifications should not be overlooked, as surgical procedures can impact mental well - being. It is important for patients to have an extensive conversation with their healthcare provider about these potential risks before making a decision.
Alternatives to Breast Augmentation
In New York City, there are several alternatives to breast augmentation. If patients are considering breast augmentation strictly for cosmetic reasons and prefer non - surgical options, various suitable methods are available. Alternatives include fat grafting, hormonal therapy, and natural remedies. Fat grafting, also known as fat transfer, involves removing fat from different body parts and injecting it into the breasts. This approach is regarded as safer because it uses the body's tissue, minimizing complications. For example, Mount Sinai offers the Natural Fill® fat transfer technique.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hospital for full - type prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. The top five hospitals mentioned in this article - Mount Sinai, Columbia University's Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, NewYork - Presbyterian, Weill Cornell Medicine, and NYU Langone Health - all offer high - quality services, experienced surgeons, advanced technology, and comprehensive patient care. By understanding the breast augmentation process, the risks and complications, and the alternatives available, patients can make an informed choice that meets their needs and expectations.
If you are considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule consultations with the hospitals on this list. Take the time to discuss your goals, ask questions, and gather all the necessary information. Remember, this is a personal decision, and your comfort and satisfaction are of utmost importance. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in New York City and explore our other related articles for further insights into cosmetic surgery.