Introduction
Scarless breast augmentation has emerged as a highly sought - after procedure in New York City, providing women with the opportunity to enhance their breasts without the worry of visible scars. This article will explore the top 5 hospitals in New York City that offer excellent instant scarless breast augmentation services. We'll also discuss the procedure itself, its benefits, candidates, and recovery process.
What is Scarless Breast Augmentation?
Scarless breast augmentation is a surgical technique that aims to increase the volume and improve the shape of the breasts while minimizing or eliminating visible scars on the breast area. Instead of making incisions directly on the breasts, surgeons use alternative entry points, such as the armpit (transaxillary approach), to insert the breast implants. This innovative approach allows patients to achieve their desired breast appearance with a more natural - looking result.
There are mainly two types of breast implants used in this procedure: saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with a sterile saline liquid after being inserted through a small incision, which makes them suitable for the transaxillary approach. Silicone implants, on the other hand, are pre - filled with a silicone gel, providing a more natural look and feel but may require a slightly larger incision.
Candidates for Scarless Breast Augmentation
Women who are considering scarless breast augmentation should meet certain criteria. First, they should be in overall good physical health and have no major underlying medical conditions. Psychological stability is also important, as patients should have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. Some common reasons for seeking scarless breast augmentation include:
- Having naturally small breasts and desiring a more substantial bust
- Experiencing a loss of breast volume due to pregnancy, age, or weight loss
- Wanting to correct breast asymmetry
- Feeling self - conscious about the appearance of their breasts
The Top 5 Hospitals for Instant Scarless Breast Augmentation in New York City
1. Rapaport Plastic Surgery
Dr. David P. Rapaport at Rapaport Plastic Surgery is a pioneer in endoscopic breast surgery. He has over 27 years of experience in performing underarm, endoscopic breast augmentation. His transaxillary endoscopic breast augmentation technique is highly refined. Discreet incisions are hidden neatly in the underarm, and by using a narrow tubular camera, he can accurately place the implants, reducing the risk of complications.
Dr. Rapaport offers a personalized approach to each patient. Before the surgery, he creates a detailed treatment plan that includes the type of implants, incision placement, and whether the implants will be below or above the pectoral muscle. He generally recommends positioning the implants under the pectoralis muscle for a more natural - appearing breast. The clinic uses saline implants for scarless breast augmentation as they can be filled after insertion, allowing for a small incision under the arm.
After the surgery, patients with non - physical jobs can typically return to work in about five days. Pain medication is prescribed for the first two to three days, and patients are advised to keep their activities at a low level during this period. There are strict restrictions on aerobic activity, including sexual activity, for ten days, mild aerobic activity is permitted after about ten days, and full aerobic activity after three weeks.
2. William Lao, MD
Dr. William Lao is one of the top plastic surgeons specializing in breast implants in New York City. He is on a shortlist of surgeons in the country who specialize in the scarless breast augmentation technique, inserting implants through the armpit. He has successfully performed over 500 breast surgeries throughout his career and is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in both the USA and Taiwan, with over 10 years of experience.
Dr. Lao offers a comprehensive consultation process. During the consultation, he discusses the patient's goals, medical history, and answers all questions. He helps patients choose the right breast implants, considering factors such as age, lifestyle, career, natural physique, and body proportions. When it comes to implant selection, he offers both saline and cohesive silicone gel implants. He provides a step - by - step guide for patients to decide on the best implant for them, including choosing the type, size, shape, placement, and incision location.
The surgery usually takes 2 - 3 hours, and most patients return home on the day of surgery and can resume their regular routine in 2 - 3 weeks. After the procedure, patients need to wear a special surgical bra and may experience swelling, bruising, and pain, which can be managed with medication. It takes around six to eight weeks for the swelling to fully subside and for the final results to appear.
3. Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He is well - known for his expertise 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.
In breast augmentation, Dr. Kolker focuses on achieving beautiful, natural, and proportional results. He establishes each individual woman's aesthetic goals, distinct to her body type, to attain the best outcome. For scarless breast augmentation, he uses advanced techniques to ensure minimal scarring. He takes into account the patient's overall body shape and symmetry when choosing the implants and performing the surgery.
Dr. Kolker offers comprehensive consultations, both virtually and in person. He has received numerous awards and recognitions, such as being featured in New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues from 2008 - 2024, America's Best Plastic Surgeons by Newsweek in 2021 - 2024, and Castle Connolly's Top Doctors from 2008 - 2024. Patient testimonials highlight his skill and ability to deliver excellent results.
4. Lara Devgan, MD, MPH, FACS
Dr. Lara Devgan is a well - respected plastic surgeon in New York City, known for her work in breast augmentation. Many women seek her out because she is a female plastic surgeon who can be discreet about this sensitive topic. She focuses on providing beautiful, natural, and feminine results for her patients.
During the consultation, Dr. Devgan examines, measures, and photographs the patient's breasts. She discusses the medical history and desires for surgery, shows samples of silicone and saline breast implants, and allows the patient to "try on" different sizes of implants. She also presents 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. In the first 24 - 48 hours after surgery, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort and may need pain medicine. Most patients with desk jobs can return to work by the 3rd or 4th day. By one month after surgery, the vast majority of patients feel "back to normal," and by 6 - 8 weeks, they are cleared to do all types of physical activity.
5. Dr. John E. Sherman
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He is renowned for his commitment to patient care and excellent results in breast augmentation. He works closely with patients to develop an individualized approach to meet their desired breast profile.
Dr. Sherman has in - depth knowledge of breast implants. He worked closely with Allergan during the development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. When it comes to choosing breast implants, he considers factors such as material, shape, size, and texture. He helps patients understand the pros and cons of different implant options and selects the ones that are most suitable for each patient.
The breast augmentation procedure at his clinic typically takes 1 - 1.5 hours and is an outpatient procedure. He offers different incision options, including inframammary, periareolar, and transaxillary incisions, and decides on the best location based on the patient's unique case. After the surgery, patients can expect to experience fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the initial days. They are given pain medication and a surgical compression bra. Most patients can resume light activities and work in 2 - 3 weeks and more strenuous activities at 6 - 8 weeks.
Comparison of the Top 5 Hospitals
| Hospital | Surgeon Experience | Implant Options | Recovery Time | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rapaport Plastic Surgery | Over 27 years in endoscopic breast augmentation | Saline implants for scarless, also offers silicone | Non - physical job patients can return to work in 5 days | Pioneer in endoscopic underarm technique |
| William Lao, MD | Over 10 years, over 500 breast surgeries | Saline and cohesive silicone gel | Return to regular routine in 2 - 3 weeks | Double - board - certified, offers asian - specific approach |
| Dr. Adam R. Kolker | Well - trained at top institutions | Based on individual aesthetic goals | Varies based on patient and procedure | Multiple awards and recognitions, focuses on natural results |
| Lara Devgan, MD, MPH, FACS | Respected in the field | Silicone and saline, patient can feel samples | Desk job patients can return in 3 - 4 days | Female surgeon, discreet care |
| Dr. John E. Sherman | Experienced and works with implant development | Saline, silicone, including cohesive gel | Resume light work in 2 - 3 weeks, strenuous in 6 - 8 weeks | Individualized approach, in - depth implant knowledge |
Benefits of Scarless Breast Augmentation
Scarless breast augmentation offers several benefits to patients. Firstly, the most obvious advantage is the lack of visible scars on the breasts. This allows patients to feel more confident in their appearance, especially when wearing revealing clothing or during intimate situations. Secondly, the use of endoscopic techniques in many scarless procedures allows for more precise implant placement, which can result in a more natural - looking outcome.
Another benefit is the potential for a faster recovery. Since the incisions are made in less conspicuous areas, the body may heal more quickly, and patients may experience less pain and discomfort during the recovery process. Additionally, scarless breast augmentation can enhance a woman's self - confidence, improve body image, and help her feel more comfortable in her own skin. It can also provide a solution for women who have always been dissatisfied with the size or shape of their breasts.
Risks and Complications
While scarless breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure, like any surgery, it does carry some risks and potential complications. These include:
- Anesthesia risks: All surgeries that use anesthesia carry some level of risk, such as allergic reactions, breathing problems, or adverse reactions to the medications.
- Breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): Although rare, there is a small increased risk of developing this form of non - Hodgkin's lymphoma, especially with textured implants. It is associated with the development of a seroma around the breast.
- Implant leakage or rupture: Over time, implants may leak or rupture, which can require additional surgery to remove or replace the implant.
- Capsular contracture: This is a complication where the body forms a tight scar tissue capsule around the implant, causing the breast to harden and potentially change shape. It may require surgical intervention to correct.
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site or around the implant, which can be treated with antibiotics but may sometimes require implant removal.
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensation, which can range from numbness to hypersensitivity.
Recovery Process
The recovery process after scarless breast augmentation is an important part of the overall experience. Immediately after the surgery, patients will be monitored in a recovery area until the effects of the anesthesia wear off. They will be given pain medication to manage any discomfort, and a surgical compression bra will be provided to support the breasts and reduce swelling.
In the first few days, patients should expect to experience swelling, bruising, and some pain. It is important to rest and avoid strenuous activities during this time. Most patients will need someone to help them with daily tasks, such as cooking and taking care of children. As the days progress, the swelling and pain will gradually subside.
Patients are usually advised to avoid lifting heavy objects, engaging in aerobic activity, and sleeping on their stomachs for a certain period of time. The specific restrictions will vary depending on the surgeon's instructions. After a few weeks, patients can gradually resume light activities, and after about 6 - 8 weeks, they can usually return to normal exercise and physical activity. It may take several months for the breasts to fully settle and for the final results to be visible.
Conclusion
Scarless breast augmentation is a popular and effective way for women in New York City to enhance their breasts without the concern of visible scars. The top 5 hospitals mentioned in this article - Rapaport Plastic Surgery, William Lao, MD, Dr. Adam R. Kolker, Lara Devgan, MD, MPH, FACS, and Dr. John E. Sherman - offer high - quality services, experienced surgeons, and a variety of implant options. Each hospital has its own unique features and advantages, and patients should carefully consider their options based on their individual needs and preferences.
If you are considering scarless breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of these top hospitals. During the consultation, you can discuss your goals, ask questions, and learn more about the procedure and the recovery process. Remember to choose a surgeon who is board - certified, experienced, and has a good reputation. Take the time to make an informed decision, and soon you may be on your way to achieving the breasts you've always wanted.
