Introduction to Breast Augmentation in New York City

Breast augmentation, also known as a boob job or breast enlargement, is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing breast size, enhancing shape, or improving symmetry. In New York City, this procedure is highly sought - after, and there are several top - notch hospitals and surgeons that offer the best in terms of techniques and, at times, preferential prices. Let's explore the top five Mentor breast augmentation hospitals and some related aspects.

What is Breast Augmentation?

The surgery involves placing breast implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles. There are choices between saline or silicone implants, which can be made based on the desired feel and appearance. Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater and are fda - approved for women aged 18 or older. Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel, designed to feel like natural breast tissue, and are approved for women aged 22 or older.

Benefits of Breast Augmentation

• Enhanced Physical Appearance: It can create rounder, more attractive breast symmetry, and give larger, appealing breast proportions. Women who feel their breasts lack volume, symmetry, or shape can improve their figure and gain a more contoured physique.
• Improved Confidence: Many women experience a boost in self - confidence after the procedure. Feeling better about their appearance can positively impact various aspects of their lives, from personal relationships to professional opportunities.
• Restoration after Life Changes: It can renew breasts after childbirth and nursing, or restore aging breasts that have deflated due to factors such as weight loss or the natural aging process.
• Better Clothing Fit: Women often find that they fit better in clothing, with more attractive cleavage, which can make them feel more comfortable and stylish.

The Top Five Mentor Breast Augmentation Hospitals in New York City

1. Dr. David L. Cangello's Practice

Dr. David L. Cangello is a board - certified plastic surgeon who is well - known for his expertise in cosmetic breast surgery. He offers personalized treatment plans to meet each patient's aesthetic goals.

Techniques

Dr. Cangello is experienced in both silicone and saline implants. He uses a “no touch” method with a Keller funnel during breast augmentation with silicone, which allows for easier implant insertion and a smaller incision size, potentially minimizing infection risk. He is also one of only two surgeons in the world trained in fat grafting techniques by one of the pioneers in the field, Dr. Sydney Coleman.

Patient Satisfaction

His superior results have earned the trust of professional models from some of the world’s top agencies, including Wilhelmina Models, IMG Models, and Next Management. Patients often praise his attention to detail and ability to deliver elegant, natural - looking results.

Pricing

While specific pricing for Mentor implants may vary, Cangello Plastic Surgery is committed to providing high - quality care at a reasonable cost. Pricing is usually determined based on factors such as the type of implant, the complexity of the procedure, and the specific needs of the patient.

2. Dr. Lara Devgan's Practice

Dr. Lara Devgan is a well - respected plastic surgeon in New York City. She focuses on providing beautiful, natural results for her breast augmentation patients.

Techniques

During the consultation, she examines, measures, and photographs the patient's breasts. She shows samples of silicone and saline breast implants so patients can feel the difference and choose the type they prefer. Patients also have an opportunity to “try on” different sizes of implants. Her surgeries 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.

Recovery

She provides detailed post - operative care instructions. In the first 24 - 48 hours, patients may have a small amount of swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Most patients spend the first 1 - 2 days resting, and those with desk jobs can often return to work by the 3rd or 4th day. By one month after surgery, the vast majority of patients say they feel “back to normal,” with most swelling and discomfort gone.

Pricing

Although exact Mentor implant prices are on request, her services are known to be in line with the high - end standard of care in New York City, but she offers value for the quality of the results and personalized attention provided.

3. 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, including Harvard Medical School, New York University, and the University of Melbourne in Australia.

Techniques

True artistry in breast augmentation is a key focus for Dr. Kolker. He believes that “beautiful” should be more important than “size” and establishes each individual woman's aesthetic goals, distinct to her body type, to attain a proportionate outcome and the most natural results. He offers a variety of breast procedures, including breast asymmetry correction, breast lift, and breast reduction, in addition to breast augmentation.

Patient Testimonials

Many patients have reported excellent results, with testimonials like “He made the impossible, possible” and “Dr. Kolker changed my life.” His work has been featured in numerous media outlets, including New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues, Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons list, and Castle Connolly's Top Doctors.

Pricing

The cost of breast augmentation with Mentor implants at his practice ranges from $9000 - $11000. However, this can vary depending on factors such as the type of implant and the complexity of the case.

4. Dr. Ronald Espinoza's Practice

Dr. Ronald Espinoza is a board - certified surgeon who specializes in breast procedures and other plastic surgeries, such as body contouring.

Techniques

He performs breast augmentation as an outpatient procedure under IV sedation (general anesthesia may be required if combined with a breast lift). The incision can be placed at the breast crease or around the areola, ensuring that the scar will be well - concealed. He walks patients through their implant options (saline and silicone) and makes a recommendation based on their preferences and goals.

Recovery

Recovery from breast augmentation at his practice should last about one week. Patients' breasts will be wrapped in gauze dressings and an elastic bandage or support bra to minimize swelling and support the breasts as they heal. Specific post - operative instructions are provided, and follow - up appointments are scheduled to ensure proper healing.

Pricing

The cost of breast augmentation varies, generally ranging between $6000 - $15,000. After a consultation, Dr. Espinoza provides a detailed surgical plan, including the exact price for the customized breast augmentation with Mentor implants.

5. Dr. Nadia Afridi's Practice

Dr. Nadia Afridi is a popular surgeon in NYC for breast augmentation. She is known for her professional yet caring approach towards patients.

Techniques

She has four key considerations for breast augmentation surgery: the site of breast implant placement, the site of the incision to insert the breast implant, the type of implant (silicone or saline), and the size of the breast implant. Incisions are usually made in unnoticeable areas like the armpit, the underside of the breast, and around the areola to minimize the visibility of scars. She is experienced with both saline and silicone implants, giving patients a wider option on what gel to use.

Patient Care

Dr. Afridi and her staff are very helpful and accommodating. She is always ready to answer patients' calls post - operation. She also performs breast augmentation for patients who are not satisfied with previous breast augmentation procedures, and can correct various issues such as wrinkling, bottoming out, and implant displacement.

Pricing

The estimated breast augmentation cost with Mentor implants at her practice is around $8900, but this can be subject to change based on individual circumstances.

Comparing the Top Five Hospitals

What to Consider Before Choosing a Hospital

Surgeon's Experience and Credentials

It is crucial to choose a surgeon who is board - certified and has extensive experience in breast augmentation, especially with Mentor implants. Look for surgeons who have trained at prestigious institutions and have a proven track record of successful surgeries. For example, surgeons like Dr. Adam R. Kolker and Dr. David L. Cangello have long - standing reputations in the field.

Technique and Technology

Find out what techniques the hospital and surgeon use. Advanced techniques can lead to better results, less scarring, and faster recovery times. For instance, the “no touch” method used by Dr. Cangello can be beneficial in reducing the risk of infection and minimizing incision size.

Patient Reviews and Testimonials

Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an idea of the patient experience at the hospital. Look for feedback on the surgeon's skills, bedside manner, and the overall satisfaction of the patients with their breast augmentation results. You can often find these reviews on the hospital's website or third - party review platforms.

Pricing and Payment Options

Understand the cost of the breast augmentation procedure, including the price of Mentor implants, surgeon's fees, and any additional costs such as anesthesia and facility fees. Also, inquire about payment options. Some hospitals may accept credit cards, insurance, or offer financing options like CareCredit.

Preparing for Breast Augmentation

Consultation

Schedule a consultation with the surgeon of your choice. During this consultation, you can discuss your goals, expectations, and medical history. The surgeon will examine you, explain the procedure, and answer any questions you may have. They will also help you choose the right type and size of Mentor implants for your body.

Medical Preparations

Your surgeon may ask you to undergo certain medical tests, such as blood tests and mammograms, to ensure you are in good health for the surgery. You may also be advised to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin and anti - inflammatory drugs, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.

Lifestyle Changes

Smoking can have a negative impact on the healing process, so it is recommended to stop smoking at least a few weeks before the surgery. Eating a healthy diet and getting enough rest in the weeks leading up to the surgery can also help your body prepare for the procedure.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure

Anesthesia

Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation, depending on the patient's preference and the complexity of the procedure. The anesthesiologist will monitor your vital signs throughout the surgery to ensure your safety.

Implant Placement

The surgeon will make an incision, either at the breast crease, around the areola, or in the armpit. Through this incision, a pocket will be created either under the breast tissue or the chest muscles, and the Mentor implant will be inserted. The implant will then be centered, and the incisions will be closed with stitches.

Duration of the Procedure

The surgery usually takes about one to two hours, but this can vary depending on the complexity of the case.

Recovery and Aftercare

Immediate Post - Operative Care

After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area where you will be closely monitored. You may have a surgical dressing over your incisions and will be wearing a post - surgical bra. You may feel achiness or tightness in your breasts, and pain medication will be prescribed to alleviate any discomfort.

Recovery Timeline

Most patients can expect to recover within one to two weeks. In the first few days, you may experience swelling, bruising, and pain, which will gradually subside. You will need to take it easy and avoid strenuous activities. It is also important to wear the compression garment as directed by your surgeon. You will be able to return to work within a few days to a week, depending on the nature of your job.

Follow - up Appointments

You will need to schedule follow - up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress. The surgeon will check the incisions, remove stitches if necessary, and ensure that the implants are healing properly. They may also provide you with additional aftercare instructions.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation comes with some risks and potential complications. These may include:

• Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site or around the implant. This can usually be treated with antibiotics, but in severe cases, the implant may need to be removed.
• Bleeding: Some bleeding can occur during or after the surgery. In most cases, it can be controlled, but in rare cases, a second surgery may be required to stop the bleeding.
• Changes in Sensation: You may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation, which can be temporary or permanent.
• Implant - related Complications: These can include implant leakage or rupture, capsular contracture (hardening of the scar tissue around the implant), and implant malposition.
• Anesthesia Risks: There are risks associated with anesthesia, such as allergic reactions, breathing problems, and changes in blood pressure.

Alternatives to Breast Augmentation

If you are considering breast augmentation strictly for cosmetic reasons and prefer non - surgical options, there are several alternatives available in New York City:

Fat Grafting

Also known as fat transfer, this involves removing fat from different body parts, such as the thighs, abdomen, or hips, using liposuction, and then injecting it into the breasts. This approach is regarded as safer because it uses the body's own tissue, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions. However, the results may not be as dramatic as with breast implants, and multiple sessions may be required.

Hormonal Therapy

Some hormonal treatments may promote breast growth, but these are usually associated with other health risks and are not commonly used for cosmetic breast augmentation. Hormonal therapy should only be considered under the guidance of a qualified medical professional.