Introduction to Allergan Breast Augmentation Prosthetic Surgery

Allergan is a well - known brand in the field of breast implants. Their breast implants come in various types, including saline and silicone devices. Allergan's flagship breast implant brand is Natrelle, with different models such as Natrelle Inspira smooth round gel implants, Natrelle 410 anatomical gel implants, etc. However, in 2019, the company issued a worldwide recall of its textured implants after the FDA linked them to a rare cancer called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).

Breast augmentation with Allergan prosthetics is a popular cosmetic procedure. It involves placing implants to enhance the volume and shape of the breasts. The surgery is typically an outpatient procedure that uses general anesthesia and may take one to several hours depending on the patient and implant.

Importance of Choosing the Right Hospital

Selecting the right hospital for Allergan breast augmentation prosthetic surgery is crucial. A high - quality hospital can provide experienced plastic surgeons, advanced surgical techniques, and comprehensive post - operative care. This not only ensures better surgical results but also reduces the risk of complications. For example, in experienced hands, the choice of incision location (such as periareolar, inframammary, or axillary) can be optimized to minimize scarring and achieve a more natural look. Moreover, proper post - operative care can help patients recover faster and deal with any potential issues in a timely manner.

The Top 3 Hospitals in New York City for Allergan Breast Augmentation Prosthetic Surgery

1. Mount Sinai Hospital

Reputation and Recognition

Mount Sinai Hospital is a well - respected medical institution. In the U.S. News 2023 - 2024 rankings, it was on the Best Hospitals Honor Roll, which recognized hospitals that perform exceptionally well across many specialties and procedures. It is also one of the top hospitals for geriatrics in the 2023 - 2024 rankings. This overall high - level performance reflects its strong medical strength and management capabilities.

Expertise in Breast Augmentation

Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They can use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look. By showing various options on a computer monitor, patients can virtually try on different sizes of breasts, which is very helpful for patients to make more informed decisions.

The hospital offers multiple options for breast augmentation. There are two main types of breast implants: silicone breast implants, which look and feel natural in the breasts, and saline breast implants, which are firmer and rounder. In addition, 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 with liposuction and then inserting it into the breasts to enlarge them. This method uses the patient's own fat deposits, which is a unique and attractive option for some patients.

Patient - Centered Care

Mount Sinai places a high value on patient satisfaction. Before scheduling surgery, surgeons will have in - depth consultations with patients, carefully listening to their desires for enhancing breast size and helping them decide on the most suitable size and shape for their bodies. They will also explain the entire surgical procedure in detail and answer any questions patients may have. During the consultation, a physical exam is performed, including asking a series of health - related questions, to confirm that the patient is a suitable candidate for breast augmentation.

2. Columbia University's Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell)

Hospital Prestige

New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell is also on the U.S. News 2023 - 2024 Best Hospitals Honor Roll. It is recognized as one of the nation's highest - performing hospitals across multiple specialties and procedures. In addition, it ranks among the top hospitals for diabetes & endocrinology, neurology & neurosurgery, and psychiatry in the 2023 - 2024 rankings, indicating its comprehensive medical strength.

Plastic Surgery Expertise

The plastic surgery program at Columbia University has a long - standing reputation. The clinical staff of plastic surgeons is proficient in multiple areas of specialization, ranging from routine non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations. In terms of breast augmentation, it is part of the cosmetic care program. The surgeons have in - depth knowledge and rich experience in breast - related surgeries.

The hospital is also at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery. For example, the plastic surgery research laboratory is conducting numerous research studies related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and the study of bone substitutes. A major focus is on applications of gene therapy to wound healing, which may have potential implications for improving the outcomes of breast augmentation surgeries and reducing complications.

Multidisciplinary Approach

Columbia University's plastic surgery team can collaborate with other departments as needed. For example, in cases where patients may have underlying health conditions related to diabetes or neurological issues, the plastic surgeons can work with endocrinologists or neurologists to ensure a comprehensive and safe surgical plan. This multidisciplinary approach provides more comprehensive care for patients.

3. NYU Langone Hospitals

National Ranking

NYU Langone Hospitals is another well - known medical institution. It is on the U.S. News 2023 - 2024 Best Hospitals Honor Roll. It also ranks highly in multiple specialties. In the 2023 - 2024 rankings, it is among the top hospitals for diabetes & endocrinology, neurology & neurosurgery, pulmonology & lung surgery, and urology, which shows its strong overall medical capabilities.

Plastic Surgery Excellence

NYU Langone's plastic surgery department has a team of experienced and skilled surgeons. The hospital has a good track record in breast augmentation surgeries. Surgeons can provide personalized treatment plans based on each patient's unique body characteristics and aesthetic goals. They are familiar with different types of Allergan breast implants and can guide patients to choose the most appropriate implant based on factors such as body type, desired outcome, and medical history.

NYU Langone also emphasizes continuous learning and improvement. The plastic surgery team keeps up - to - date with the latest research and technological advancements in the field of breast augmentation, ensuring that patients receive the most advanced and effective treatment.

Supportive Environment

The hospital provides a supportive and comfortable environment for patients. From the pre - operative consultation to the post - operative follow - up, patients are well - cared for. The staff is friendly and professional, and they can address patients' concerns and provide necessary emotional support throughout the surgical process.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Allergan Breast Augmentation

Surgeon Experience

The experience of the plastic surgeon is one of the most important factors. Surgeons with extensive experience in Allergan breast augmentation are more likely to handle various surgical situations skillfully. They can accurately assess the patient's body condition, choose the most appropriate implant type and placement method, and minimize the risk of complications. For example, experienced surgeons can better avoid problems such as implant malposition, capsular contracture, and excessive scarring.

It is advisable to check the surgeon's track record, including the number of successful breast augmentation surgeries they have performed, and any special training or certifications they may have. Some surgeons may have participated in research related to breast implants or have received advanced training in breast augmentation techniques.

Technology and Equipment

Advanced technology and equipment can improve the accuracy and safety of the surgery. For example, 3D imaging technology, as used in Mount Sinai Hospital, can help patients and surgeons better understand the expected surgical results. High - quality surgical instruments and anesthesia equipment are also essential for a smooth surgical process. In addition, hospitals with access to the latest research and development in breast implants can offer patients more advanced implant options.

Post - Operative Care

Good post - operative care is crucial for patients' recovery and the long - term success of the surgery. This includes regular follow - up appointments to monitor the healing process, check for any complications, and provide appropriate guidance on post - operative care, such as wearing compression garments, taking medications, and resuming normal activities. Hospitals that offer comprehensive post - operative care programs can help patients recover faster and deal with any potential issues promptly.

Patient Reviews and Testimonials

Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the actual experience of having surgery at a particular hospital. Patients can share their experiences regarding the quality of care, the professionalism of the staff, and the final surgical results. However, it is important to approach these reviews objectively and consider multiple sources of information.

The Process of Allergan Breast Augmentation Surgery

Pre - operative Consultation

During the pre - operative consultation, the patient will meet with the plastic surgeon. The surgeon will first review the patient's medical history, including any pre - existing medical conditions, allergies, and previous surgeries. A physical examination of the breasts will be conducted to assess the current breast tissue, skin condition, and nipple position. The surgeon will also discuss the patient's aesthetic goals, including the desired breast size, shape, and projection.

Based on the patient's situation, the surgeon will recommend the most suitable Allergan breast implant type (such as silicone or saline, round or anatomical) and the appropriate placement method (submuscular or subglandular). The surgeon will also explain the surgical procedure in detail, including the incision location, the length of the surgery, and the expected recovery time. The patient will have the opportunity to ask any questions they may have.

Preparation for Surgery

Before the surgery, patients are usually required to follow certain instructions. They may need to stop smoking or using nicotine products, as nicotine can affect the body's ability to heal. Some medications and supplements that may increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John's wort, may need to be tapered off.

Patients also need to arrange for someone to pick them up from the hospital after the surgery and have a comfortable place at home for recovery. It is recommended to take 2 - 3 weeks off work or other strenuous activities to allow for proper recovery.

The Surgery Itself

Allergan breast augmentation surgery is typically an outpatient procedure. The patient will be administered either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation anesthesia according to their preferences and the surgeon's advice. Once the anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon will make an incision, usually one of the three common sites: periareolar, inframammary, or axillary. The choice of incision site depends on factors such as the type of implant, the patient's body characteristics, and the surgeon's experience.

After the incision is made, a pocket is created for the implant. The implant is then placed either submuscularly (under the pectoral muscles) or subglandularly (above the pectoral muscles). The submuscular placement can reduce the risk of capsular contracture and make breast tissue easier to see in mammograms, while the subglandular placement may result in a shorter and less painful surgery and recovery process. Once the implant is in place, the surgeon will close the incision with sutures and wrap the area with a compression garment.

Post - operative Recovery

In the initial days after the surgery, patients may experience moderate symptoms such as fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Pain medication will be prescribed to help ease the discomfort, which is usually most pronounced during the first few days. A surgical compression bra will be provided and should be worn for several weeks to support the healing process.

Most patients can return to work within a few days, but they should avoid strenuous activities. In 2 - 3 weeks, patients can resume light activities, and at 6 - 8 weeks, they can gradually start more strenuous activities such as going to the gym. It may take a few months for the implants to fully settle into place, and the final results can be evaluated at that time.

Risks and Complications of Allergan Breast Augmentation

General Surgical Risks

Like any surgical procedure, Allergan breast augmentation carries general risks such as infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Infections can occur at the incision site or around the implant, which may require antibiotic treatment or even removal of the implant in severe cases. Bleeding during or after the surgery can lead to hematoma formation, which may need to be drained.

Implant - Related Complications

Allergan breast implants have their own specific complications. One of the well - known issues is breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), which is a rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma associated with textured implants. Although the actual number of cases is relatively small, it is a serious concern. Allergan issued a worldwide recall of its textured implants in 2019 due to this risk.

Other implant - related complications include implant rupture (more common with silicone - filled implants) or deflation (more common with saline - filled implants), severe capsular contracture (where scar tissue squeezes the implant, causing pain and misshapen breasts), asymmetry, changes in nipple or breast sensation, scarring, and wrinkling or rippling of the implant visible through the skin.

Conclusion

When it comes to Allergan breast augmentation prosthetic surgery in New York City, Mount Sinai Hospital, Columbia University's plastic and reconstructive surgery (associated with New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell), and NYU Langone Hospitals are among the top choices. These hospitals have strong reputations, experienced surgeons, advanced technology, and comprehensive patient - centered care. However, patients should carefully consider various factors such as surgeon experience, technology, post - operative care, and potential risks before making a decision.

If you are considering Allergan breast augmentation, it is highly recommended that you schedule consultations with surgeons at these top - ranked hospitals. By discussing your goals and concerns with them, you can make a more informed decision and increase the likelihood of a successful and satisfying surgical outcome. Remember, your health and well - being should always be the top priority. So, take the time to do your research and choose the hospital and surgeon that are right for you.