The Best Breast Augmentation Options in New York City
Breast augmentation, a procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of breasts, is a highly sought - after cosmetic surgery in New York City. With a multitude of medical facilities and skilled surgeons, choosing the right place for this life - changing procedure can be a daunting task. In this article, we will explore the top 5 popular hospitals for breast augmentation in New York City and provide in - depth information about breast augmentation in general.
1. Overview of Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, also known as a boob job or breast enlargement, is a surgical procedure with various purposes. It can be used to enhance the body contour of a woman who feels her breast size is too small, correct a reduction in breast volume due to pregnancy, aging, or weight loss, balance a difference in breast size, correct a congenital deformity, or as a reconstructive technique following breast surgery. As of 2020, nearly 200,000 women in the United States underwent breast augmentation, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The procedure remains one of the top five cosmetic procedures in the country, and its popularity continues to grow.
Types of Breast Implants
- Silicone Implants: These implants are pre - filled and have a more natural look and feel. They are the most frequently chosen type of implant, accounting for approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States in 2020. Developed in the early 1960s, silicone implants have undergone significant improvements over the years, with enhancements in the thickness of the shell and the viscosity of the silicone gel inside. Cohesive silicone gel implants, also known as gummy bear implants, are increasingly popular because they can provide a natural and proportionate breast shape and feel.
- Saline Implants: Saline implants are placed in the breast pocket and are filled to the patient’s desired volume during the procedure. They are a firmer, rounder option and can be a suitable choice for some patients, especially for those considering certain surgical techniques like scarless breast augmentation.
- Natural Fill (Fat Transfer): A relatively new option, this technique involves removing fat from areas such as the buttocks or abdomen using liposuction and then injecting it into the breasts. Mount Sinai surgeons have pioneered and perfected this Natural Fill® procedure, which offers a win - win solution by using the patient's own fat to enhance the breasts.
2. The Top 5 Popular Hospitals for Breast Augmentation in New York City
2.1 Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He is renowned for his commitment to patient care and excellent results. He works closely with each patient to develop an individualized approach to breast augmentation. His practice focuses on helping patients achieve their ideal breast profile.
- Implant Selection: Dr. Sherman has a deep understanding of different types of breast implants. He was a select investigator during the original development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. When choosing implants, he takes into account factors such as material, shape, size, and texture. For example, round implants are great for adding volume higher on the chest, while anatomical implants replicate the form of the natural breast. Implant sizes range from 120cc to 800cc, and their width, height, and projection also play a role in achieving the desired look.
- Patient Consultation: The consultation process with Dr. Sherman is comprehensive. He reviews the patient's medical history, examines the breasts, and discusses the patient's aesthetic goals. He will go over all the details of the procedure, including the incisions, implant placement, and post - operative care. Out - of - town patients can even conduct their consultation online by scheduling a virtual meeting.
- Success Rate and Patient Satisfaction: Many patients have reported high satisfaction with Dr. Sherman's work. His attention to detail and personalized approach contribute to successful surgeries and positive patient experiences. Breast augmentation at his practice has allowed numerous women to gain confidence and achieve their desired appearance.
2.2 Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. The hospital uses the latest technologies to ensure patient satisfaction.
- Advanced 3D Imaging Technology: Before scheduling the surgery, Mount Sinai uses 3D imaging technology to show patients how their larger breasts will look on their unique body. This allows patients to virtually try on different sizes of breasts and make more informed decisions about their breast - size choice.
- Implant Options: The hospital offers a range of breast augmentation options, including silicone and saline implants, as well as the Natural Fill® fat transfer technique. Surgeons at Mount Sinai will advise patients based on their body type and desired outcome, ensuring that they choose the option that is best for them.
- Patient - Centered Care: The plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai consult closely with patients, listening to their desires for enhancing their breast size. They also explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions the patients may have. A physical exam is conducted to confirm that the patient is a candidate for breast augmentation.
2.3 Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He has an outstanding educational background, 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. His expertise in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures is highly regarded.
- Artistic Approach: Dr. Kolker combines scientific and technical mastery with artistic creativity. He believes that true artistry in breast augmentation is based on the concept that "beautiful" should be more important than "size." He establishes each individual woman's aesthetic goals, distinct to her body type, to attain a proportionate outcome and the most natural results.
- Patient Testimonials: Many patients have left positive testimonials about Dr. Kolker's work. He has been able to address various breast - related concerns, such as breast asymmetry, sagging, and size issues. His patients often report increased confidence and satisfaction with their new appearance.
- Comprehensive Services: In addition to breast augmentation, his practice offers a wide range of cosmetic surgery and non - surgical med spa services, including facelifts, eyelid surgeries, and liposuction.
2.4 Rapaport Plastic Surgery
David P. Rapaport, a board - certified plastic surgeon at Rapaport Plastic Surgery, is a world - recognized expert specializing in breast augmentation and breast implant revision for women with previous breast surgery.
- Scarless Breast Augmentation: Dr. Rapaport uses an endoscope to perform scarless breast augmentation. This technique involves making an incision in the underarm and precisely dividing the muscle under magnified endoscopic visualization, allowing for control of bleeding and precise implant positioning. This is a great option for patients who are concerned about visible scars.
- Implant Choices: The practice offers both saline and silicone implants. Dr. Rapaport will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type with the patient and help them determine the best option based on their anatomy and aesthetic goals. Saline implants can be filled after placement, making them suitable for the scarless technique, while silicone implants typically have a more natural look and feel.
- Recovery and Results: Full recovery from breast augmentation at Rapaport Plastic Surgery takes approximately two to three weeks. Patients can often return to work in a few days, depending on their job. Dr. Rapaport prescribes pain medication for the first few days and provides detailed post - operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Most women experience a significant confidence boost after the surgery, with fuller, larger, and more symmetrical breasts enhancing their feminine figure.
2.5 Dr. Lara Devgan's Practice
Dr. Lara Devgan is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York City. Her practice is popular among women who are looking for natural - looking, beautifully contoured breast implants, a fast recovery, and a subtle result.
- Female - Centered Care: Many women seek out Dr. Devgan because she is a female plastic surgeon who can be discreet about this sensitive topic. During the consultation, she takes the time to understand the patient's medical history and desires for surgery. She shows samples of silicone and saline breast implants, allows patients to "try on" different sizes, and presents before and after photographs of similar patients.
- Quick Recovery: Surgery at Dr. Devgan's practice typically takes one hour and can be performed in her fully accredited private office operating room or at a local hospital. In the first 24 - 48 hours, patients may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, but most patients can return to work in a few days if their job is not strenuous. By one month after surgery, the vast majority of patients feel "back to normal."
- Patient Feedback: Many patients have shared positive feedback about their experience with Dr. Devgan. They appreciate her professionalism, attention to detail, and the natural - looking results of their breast augmentation.
3. The Breast Augmentation Procedure
3.1 Pre - operative Preparation
Thorough preparation is crucial for a successful breast augmentation. Before the surgery, patients need to have detailed conversations with their surgeon about their medical background, allergies, current medications, and lifestyle habits such as smoking or alcohol consumption. Smoking should be ceased weeks before the procedure as it can significantly impact the healing process. Patients may also need to taper off certain medications or supplements that may increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John’s wort.
Practical preparations include arranging for someone to pick them up from the hospital on the day of the surgery, scheduling sufficient time off work for recovery, and setting up a comfortable recovery space at home. Surgeons will also provide guidelines on pre - operative fasting and hygiene.
3.2 Surgical Procedure
Breast augmentation is usually an outpatient procedure that takes 1 - 1.5 hours to perform. A board - certified anesthesiologist will administer either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation anesthesia, depending on the patient's preferences.
- Incisions: Surgeons can make incisions in different locations, including under the breast (inframammary incision), around the areola (periareolar incision), or under the armpit (transaxillary incision). The choice of incision depends on factors such as the type of implant, the patient's anatomy, and the desired results.
- Implant Placement: Implants can be placed either under the pectoral muscles (submuscular plane) or above the pectoral muscles (subglandular). For patients with signs of ptosis or sagging skin, implants are typically placed subglandularly. The surgeon will determine the best placement based on the patient's individual case.
- Closure: Once the implants are in place and the desired enhancements are achieved, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures and wrap the area with a compression garment to protect the results.
3.3 Post - operative Recovery
Recovery from breast augmentation usually takes several weeks. In the initial days after surgery, it is normal to experience moderate fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Patients will be prescribed pain medication to help ease the discomfort, and they will need to wear a surgical compression bra for a few weeks.
Most patients can return to light activities and work in 2 - 3 weeks, and more strenuous activities can be resumed at 6 - 8 weeks. However, it is important to follow the surgeon's post - operative instructions carefully, including caring for the surgical incisions, taking prescribed medications, and attending follow - up appointments.
4. Benefits of Breast Augmentation
4.1 Aesthetic Benefits
One of the primary benefits of breast augmentation is the improvement in physical appearance. It can enhance the body contour, create more symmetrical breasts, and give women a fuller and more youthful look. This can lead to increased self - confidence and a more positive body image.
4.2 Psychological Benefits
Many women who undergo breast augmentation report a significant boost in self - esteem and confidence. They feel more comfortable in their own skin and are more willing to engage in activities and wear clothing styles that they may have previously avoided. This procedure can also have a positive impact on mental well - being and quality of life.
4.3 Corrective Benefits
Breast augmentation can be used to correct various breast - related issues, such as congenital deformities, breast asymmetry, and loss of breast volume due to pregnancy or aging. It can help restore a more natural and balanced appearance to the breasts.
5. Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation comes with some risks and potential complications. It is important for patients to be aware of these before making a decision.
- Infection: Infections can occur at the surgical site, which may require antibiotics or even removal of the implants in severe cases.
- Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after the surgery can lead to complications and may require additional medical intervention.
- Altered Sensation: Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensations, which can be temporary or permanent.
- Implant - related Complications: These include implant leakage or rupture, capsular contracture (where the scar tissue around the implant tightens and squeezes the implant), and breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), a rare but serious condition associated with textured implants.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): Some women may experience a variety of symptoms after breast augmentation, such as joint pain, fatigue, and memory loss. The cause of BII is not well - understood and is still being investigated.
6. Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
Selecting the right hospital and surgeon for breast augmentation is of utmost importance. Here are some factors to consider:
- Board Certification: Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified by a recognized medical board, such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This indicates that the surgeon has met the necessary training and experience requirements.
- Experience and Reputation: Look for a surgeon with extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the surgeon's reputation and the quality of their work.
- Technology and Facilities: Choose a hospital or surgical facility that uses the latest technologies and has state - of - the - art equipment. This can contribute to a safer and more successful procedure.
- Personal Connection: It is important to have a good rapport with your surgeon. You should feel comfortable discussing your concerns and goals during the consultation process.
- Cost: While cost should not be the only factor, it is important to understand the pricing structure and what is included in the cost of the procedure. Some surgeons may offer financing options to help manage the cost.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
7.1 When can I sleep on my side after breast augmentation?
You will need to wait at least two to three weeks before sleeping on your side. Sleeping on your side too early can disrupt the implant settling process and may affect the final shape of your breasts. It is best to sleep on your back during the initial recovery period.
7.2 Is breast augmentation safe?
Breast augmentation can be a safe procedure when performed by a qualified surgeon in a suitable medical facility. However, like any surgery, it comes with risks such as infection, bleeding, and implant - related complications. It is important to discuss these risks with your surgeon and make an informed decision.
7.3 How painful is breast augmentation recovery?
Most patients experience mild to moderate pain during the recovery period. Pain medication can be prescribed to manage the discomfort, which is usually most pronounced in the first few days after surgery. Everyone's pain tolerance is different, but the pain generally subsides within a couple of weeks.
7.4 How long does it take to recover from breast augmentation?
The recovery process typically takes between six to eight weeks. During this time, you will need to rest, wear a compression bra, take prescribed medications, and follow your surgeon's post - operative instructions. You can usually return to light activities in 2 - 3 weeks