Introduction
Breast augmentation has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure in New York City, offering women the opportunity to enhance their appearance, boost self - confidence, and achieve their desired aesthetic goals. With a wide range of breast implants and top - notch plastic surgeons available, it can be challenging to navigate through the options. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the top breast implant options and surgeons in New York City, along with all the necessary information you need to make an informed decision.
Benefits of Breast Implants
Breast implants offer numerous benefits for women in New York City and beyond. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Enhanced Self - Confidence: One of the most significant benefits is the boost in self - confidence. Many women who are unhappy with the size or shape of their breasts find that breast augmentation helps them feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies. For example, a woman who has always felt self - conscious about having small breasts may find that after the procedure, she is more willing to wear certain types of clothing and engage in social activities.
- Improved Body Proportions: Breast implants can help create a more balanced and proportionate figure. This is especially beneficial for women with a narrow chest or those who have lost breast volume due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss. A well - placed breast implant can enhance the overall silhouette, making the body look more harmonious.
- Reconstruction After Breast Surgery: For women who have undergone mastectomy or other breast surgeries, breast implants are an essential part of the reconstruction process. They can help restore the appearance of the breast and give the patient a sense of normalcy and femininity.
- Customization: There are various types, sizes, shapes, and textures of breast implants available. This allows women to customize the procedure according to their individual body type, preferences, and aesthetic goals. For instance, a woman with a petite frame may opt for smaller implants, while someone with a larger build may choose larger ones.
Types of Breast Implants
When considering breast implants in New York City, it's important to understand the different types available:
Saline Implants
Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water. Some of their characteristics include:
- Smaller Incisions: They can be inserted into the breast empty and then filled once inside the body, which often allows for smaller incisions. This can result in less visible scarring.
- Safety in Rupture: In the rare case of a rupture, the saline solution is safely absorbed by the body, and the breast will deflate. However, the rupture will be immediately noticeable.
- Firmness and Feel: Saline implants are typically firmer and may not feel as natural as silicone implants. There is also a risk of visible wrinkles and rippling, especially in women with little natural breast tissue.
- Age Approval: They are FDA - approved for use in patients 18 years and older.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel, which has the following features:
- Natural Feel: Silicone gel feels more like natural breast tissue compared to saline, making them a popular choice for many women. They are softer and have a more natural movement.
- Lower Risk of Wrinkling: They have a lower risk of implant wrinkles and rippling, which can be a concern with saline implants. This is particularly important for thinner women with less natural breast tissue.
- Pre - filled: Silicone implants are pre - filled by the manufacturer, eliminating the risk of filling asymmetry or leakage during placement.
- MRI Detection: Although the risk of rupture or leakage is low, if it occurs, it must be detected via MRI. Silicone leaks are rare and non - toxic events.
- Age Approval: They are FDA - approved for use in patients 22 years and older.
Gummy Bear Implants
Also known as form - stable implants, gummy bear implants are a newer type of silicone implant:
- Shape Retention: They hold their shape even if the implant shell breaks, thanks to their thicker silicone gel. This offers a more stable, long - lasting shape, often with a teardrop contour for a more natural look.
- Reduced Risk of Shape Changes: The cohesive gel minimizes subtle changes in implant shape and can help maintain upper pole breast fullness.
- Firmness: However, the high cohesiveness also means they are firmer, and this may not be suitable for all patients.
Ideal Structured Saline Implants
These are a relatively new type of saline implant:
- Improved Structure: They have a more complex structure consisting of multiple shells, which helps avoid excess movement of the saline filling, a drawback of traditional saline implants.
- Similar to Silicone: They are designed to behave more like silicone implants without the possibility of silent failure.
- Cost and Complexity: They are more expensive than most other silicone and saline breast implants and add operative time as they require filling from two different ports during surgery.
Choosing the Right Implant
Selecting the right breast implant is a crucial decision that depends on several factors:
Size
Implants are measured in cubic centimeters (cc). The size that is right for you depends on your existing breast tissue, body frame, and desired aesthetic outcome. It's important to note that bra sizes are not standardized, so it's difficult to directly correlate implant size to bra cup size. A common implant size used by many surgeons is around 350 cc, but implants can range from 120 cc to 800 cc. Surgeons will measure your breast width, base diameter, and other dimensions to help determine the appropriate size and profile for you.
Shape
There are two main shapes of breast implants: round and anatomical (teardrop - shaped). Round implants are used in the majority of augmentations and are suitable for most patients. They provide more upper pole fullness. Anatomical implants, on the other hand, are designed to mimic the natural shape of the breast and may be a better option for women with little natural breast tissue, as they have less volume at the top of the implant.
Texture
Breast implants can have either a smooth or textured surface. Smooth implants are more common and have a more natural movement. Textured implants are thought to help anchor the implant in place and may lower the risk of capsular contracture. However, textured implants are associated with a rare type of cancer called anaplastic large - cell lymphoma (ALCL), so this risk should be carefully considered.
Manufacturer
There are several well - known breast implant manufacturers, including Mentor, Natrelle, and Sientra. Each manufacturer offers a range of implants with different features and qualities. A newer entrant, Ideal Implants, specializes in structured saline implants. Your surgeon can help you choose the right manufacturer based on your needs and preferences.
Top Plastic Surgeons in New York City
New York City is home to some of the best plastic surgeons in the world. Here are some top surgeons and their specialties:
Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Dr. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He has an extensive background, having trained at prestigious institutions such as Harvard Medical School, New York University, and the University of Melbourne in Australia. He is a specialist in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures addressing all aspects of the body. Dr. Kolker is recognized in numerous publications, including New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues from 2008 - 2024, Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons in 2021 - 2024, and Castle Connolly's Top Doctors. His patients have reported highly satisfactory results, with many praising his ability to achieve natural - looking outcomes.
Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Antell is a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who has performed over ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentations. He is trained at Stanford and Cornell and has been honored for his groundbreaking research. He is listed in multiple magazines, such as Harper’s Bazaar and Town and Country, as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Dr. Antell is known for his precision, expertise, and ability to provide long - lasting, beautiful results. He also takes the time to discuss all aspects of the procedure with his patients, including implant options, risks, and recovery.
Dr. John E. Sherman
Dr. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He has worked closely with Allergan and was a select investigator during the development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. He is committed to patient care and takes an individualized approach to each breast augmentation procedure. Before approving a patient for surgery, he reviews their medical history, examines their breasts, and answers all their questions to ensure they make an informed decision. His patients appreciate his attention to detail and the natural - looking results he achieves.
Dr. Ross Ratner
Dr. Ratner is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon with over 15 years of experience and thousands of successful procedures. He is a recognized leader in breast augmentation surgery and uses minimally invasive techniques. His patient - focused approach makes him a top choice in New York City. He is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Ratner offers both implant - based and fat - transfer breast augmentation options, allowing patients to choose the method that best suits their needs.
Dr. David P. Rapaport
Dr. Rapaport is a board - certified plastic surgeon and a world - recognized expert in breast augmentation and breast implant revision. He offers both saline and silicone implants and uses advanced techniques to achieve natural - looking results. For example, he can perform a scarless breast augmentation procedure using an endoscope. He also takes precautions to minimize the risk of capsular contracture, which is rare among his patients. His patients often experience a significant confidence boost after the surgery, thanks to his skill and attention to detail.
Dr. Mark Sultan
Dr. Sultan has a rating of 4.20 out of 5 stars. He is experienced in breast augmentation procedures and has a track record of providing quality care to his patients. He works with his patients to understand their goals and helps them choose the right implant options for their body type and aesthetic preferences.
Dr. Evan Matros
With a high rating of 4.80 out of 5 stars, Dr. Matros is well - regarded in the field of breast augmentation. He is known for his artistic eye and ability to create beautiful, natural - looking breasts. His patients often comment on his professionalism and the personalized care they receive throughout the entire process.
Dr. Jeffrey Ascherman
Dr. Ascherman has an excellent rating of 4.90 out of 5 stars. He is a highly skilled plastic surgeon who is committed to delivering the best possible results for his breast augmentation patients. He takes the time to educate his patients about the procedure, risks, and recovery, ensuring they are fully informed before making a decision.
Dr. Jess Ting
Dr. Ting has a rating of 4.30 out of 5 stars. He is experienced in performing breast augmentation surgeries and focuses on patient safety and satisfaction. He works closely with his patients to develop a treatment plan that meets their specific needs and goals.
Dr. Paul Weiss
Dr. Weiss, with a rating of 3.30 out of 5 stars, also offers breast augmentation services. He brings his medical expertise to the table and provides patients with a range of options to choose from for their breast enhancement journey.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Consultation
The first step in the breast augmentation process is a consultation with your chosen surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will:
- Review your medical history to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
- Examine your breasts, taking measurements and noting the existing breast shape, skin laxity, and any other relevant factors.
- Discuss your aesthetic goals and preferences, including the size, shape, and type of implants you desire.
- Explain the different types of implants, incisions, and implant placement options available.
- Talk about the risks and potential complications associated with the surgery.
- Answer all your questions to help you make an informed decision.
Preparation
Once you have decided to proceed with the surgery, you will need to prepare for it. This may include:
- Quitting smoking or using any nicotine products, as nicotine can significantly impact your ability to heal after the treatment.
- Taper off current medications or supplements that may increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John’s wort.
- Arranging for a trusted family member or friend to pick you up from the surgical facility and stay with you during the initial recovery period.
- Designating a comfortable space at home for recovery and placing necessary items within reach.
- Taking time off work, usually around 2 - 3 weeks, to rest and recuperate.
Surgery
The breast augmentation surgery is typically an outpatient procedure that takes 1 - 2 hours. Here's what happens during the surgery:
- Anesthesia: You will be given either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation anesthesia, depending on your preferences and the surgeon's recommendation. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.
- Incisions: The surgeon will make small incisions to create a pocket for the implant. The incision location can be under the breast (inframammary incision), around the areola (periareolar incision), or in the armpit (transaxillary incision). The choice of incision depends on factors such as the type of implant, your body type, and the surgeon's preference.
- Implant Placement: The implant can be placed either under the pectoral muscles (submuscular plane) or above the pectoral muscles (subglandular). The placement is determined by your anatomy, age, and vocation. For example, women with signs of ptosis or sagging skin may have the implant placed subglandularly.
- Closure: Once the implant is in place, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures and wrap the area with a compression garment to protect the results.
Recovery
After the surgery, you will need to recover at home. The initial recovery period usually involves some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Here are some key points about recovery:
- You will be given a prescription for pain medication to help ease discomfort, which is usually most pronounced during the first few days.
- You will wear a surgical compression bra for the next few weeks as you heal.
- In 2 - 3 weeks, you should be able to resume light activities and work. However, strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for at least 6 - 8 weeks.
- It may take several months for the swelling to completely subside, and the implants to settle into place. You will need to follow up with your surgeon regularly to monitor your progress.
Possible Complications
While breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure, there are some potential complications:
Capsular Contracture
This is one of the most common complications. It occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to become hard, misshapen, and sometimes painful. Treatment may involve removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants. Some surgeons use techniques such as acellular dermal matrix (ADM) to help prevent capsular contracture.