Introduction
Breast augmentation has emerged as one of the most sought - after cosmetic procedures in New York City. It allows women to enhance their body confidence, correct breast asymmetry, or regain breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss. With a plethora of options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right place for long - term prosthetic breast augmentation. This article aims to present the top ten list for long - term prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City in 2025, along with a breakdown of the associated costs.
What is Long - Term Prosthetic Breast Augmentation?
Long - term prosthetic breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that involves inserting breast implants to increase the size, shape, or fullness of the breasts. There are two main types of breast implants: saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water, while silicone implants are filled with a silicone gel. The choice between the two depends on various factors, including personal preference, desired outcome, and the advice of a qualified plastic surgeon.
Differences between Saline and Silicone Implants
Feature | Saline Implants | Silicone Implants |
---|---|---|
Appearance | May look less natural, especially in thinner women, and can sometimes show ripples. | Look and feel more natural, closely mimicking the texture of natural breast tissue. |
Cost | Generally less expensive. | Typically more expensive, especially gummy bear implants. |
Rupture Detection | If a saline implant ruptures, the salt water is harmlessly absorbed by the body, and the implant deflates immediately, making the rupture obvious. | When a silicone implant ruptures, it may not be visible as the gel stays in place. Regular MRI or ultrasound exams are recommended to ensure the integrity of silicone implants. |
Incision Size | Can be inserted through a slightly smaller incision. | Usually require a slightly larger incision site. |
Factors Affecting the Cost of Breast Augmentation
The cost of long - term prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City is influenced by several factors:
1. Surgeon's Experience and Expertise
Surgeons with extensive experience, fellowship training in aesthetic surgery, and certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery tend to charge higher fees. For example, Dr. Darrick Antell, a renowned breast augmentation surgeon in New York City who has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentation surgeries, is likely to have a higher fee compared to a less - experienced surgeon. However, choosing an experienced surgeon can reduce the risk of complications and ensure more satisfying results.
2. Type of Implants
- Silicone Implants: Silicone implants are more popular due to their natural look and feel. Gummy bear implants, a type of silicone implant with a thicker and more cohesive gel, are the most expensive option because of the advanced technology used in their development.
- Saline Implants: These are generally less expensive than silicone implants. They use sterile salt water instead of silicone gel and are a more budget - friendly option for some patients.
3. Anesthesia Fee
The anesthesia fee depends on the anesthesia provider, the type of anesthesia provided, the length of the surgery, and the location. Anesthesia for breast implant surgery performed in a private surgical center is usually less expensive than in a hospital setting. For instance, some surgeons like Dr. Smith operate only with board - certified anesthesiologists in their private surgical facilities, which can impact the overall cost.
4. Facility Fee
The location of the cosmetic procedure, whether it's a hospital or a private surgical facility, greatly influences the facility fee. Hospitals tend to have higher fees as they provide more comprehensive services. The facility fee covers items such as the operating room, recovery area, and necessary supplies and equipment. Longer surgeries also result in higher facility fees as more resources are utilized.
5. Geographical Location
New York City is a major metropolitan area with a high cost of living. This is reflected in the prices of breast augmentation procedures. Quotes can vary widely, from around $12,000 for surgeons just starting their practice to $22,000 for highly experienced and sought - after surgeons. It's important to note that while lower - cost options may be available, it's crucial to balance cost with the quality and expertise of the surgeon.
6. Additional Procedures
Many patients choose to combine their breast implant procedure with other cosmetic surgeries, such as a tummy tuck, breast lift, or lipo 360. Combining procedures can reduce recovery time and may offer cost savings in some cases. For example, a mommy makeover, which combines multiple surgeries to help women regain their pre - baby bodies, is a popular option.
7. Post - operative Care
Comprehensive post - surgery care is an important part of the breast augmentation process. This may include follow - up visits, garments, scar remedies, and potential breast revision surgery. While some of these costs are usually included in the surgical pricing, it's essential to confirm this with the surgeon. Recovery also requires an investment in prescription medications and other recovery aids, as well as taking time off work.
The Top Ten List for Long - Term Prosthetic Breast Augmentation in New York City in 2025
1. Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He has focused his professional career on aesthetic procedures and is among the most respected breast augmentation surgeons in the country. Trained at Stanford and Cornell, he has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentation surgeries. His expertise and precision in breast augmentation surgery ensure safe and natural - looking results. Patients can expect high - quality care and a personalized approach to achieving their aesthetic goals.
2. Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He specializes in breast augmentation and cosmetic surgery procedures addressing all aspects of the body. 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. He has been featured in numerous media outlets and has received many accolades, such as being listed in New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues and Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons.
3. Dr. Darren M. Smith
Dr. Darren M. Smith is a board - certified plastic surgeon with a private clinic in New York City's iconic Ritz Tower. He is known for delivering superb outcomes in a safe, comfortable, and luxurious environment. He has years of proven experience in breast augmentation surgery and can show prospective clients before and after photos of previous procedures. He offers a range of payment options to make breast implants more attainable for his patients.
4. Dr. Nadia S. Afridi
Dr. Nadia S. Afridi is a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons in Canada, an associate fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. She is specifically interested in women's health issues as they relate to plastic surgery. Her practice has a relatively high focus on breast augmentation, with 36% of her service focus dedicated to this procedure.
5. Dr. Nicholas Vendemia (Manhattan Aesthetic Surgery)
At Manhattan Aesthetic Surgery, Dr. Nicholas Vendemia runs a full - service plastic surgery practice specializing in breast augmentation, rhinoplasty, liposuction, laser treatments, and injectables. The practice emphasizes safety, innovation, and personalized care, and 25% of their service focus is on breast augmentation.
6. Dr. Kim (West Village Plastic Surgery)
Dr. Kim at West Village Plastic Surgery has developed an algorithm for facial fillers to restore facial volume naturally. His philosophy at the practice is to provide the highest quality of treatment and service to improve, restore, and harmonize the face and body. The practice has a 28% service focus on breast augmentation.
7. Dr. Joseph A. Racanelli
Dr. Joseph A. Racanelli is a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with offices in New York City and New Jersey. He specializes in cosmetic plastic surgery procedures such as abdominoplasty, breast implants, breast augmentation, liposuction, and tummy tuck. His attention to detail and aesthetic eye help him provide beautiful and natural results for his patients, with a 27% service focus on breast augmentation.
8. Dr. Norman Rowe
Dr. Norman Rowe, MD is a board - certified plastic surgeon by the American Board of Plastic Surgery with a well - known practice in New York City's upper east side. He specializes in breast procedures, rhinoplasty procedures, and revision procedures. His extensive experience can benefit patients seeking any type of face, breast, body, or skin treatments, and 36% of his service focus is on breast augmentation.
9. Dr. Dana Khu Thaila
Dr. Dana Khu Thaila maintains an office for her plastic surgery practice in a convenient midtown Manhattan location. She has a special interest in breast and body contouring, especially surgery following a massive weight loss or after childbirth (mommy makeover). Her practice has a 23% service focus on breast augmentation.
10. Dr. Karlinsky - Bellini (New Look New Life Surgical Arts)
Dr. Karlinsky - Bellini and her husband founded New Look New Life Cosmetic Surgical Arts in 2009. She is a highly - trained cosmetic surgeon. The practice offers breast augmentation among other cosmetic procedures, with a 30% service focus on breast augmentation.
Oral Price List
The cost of breast augmentation in New York City can vary significantly. On average, a breast augmentation procedure done with implants can cost between $12,000 and $22,000. However, this range is influenced by the factors mentioned earlier. Here is a more detailed breakdown:
Implant - Based Breast Augmentation
- Saline Implants: The cost of a breast augmentation with saline implants typically starts from around $12,000. This includes the cost of the implants, surgeon's fee, anesthesia fee, and facility fee. However, the final cost can be higher depending on the surgeon's experience and the complexity of the procedure.
- Silicone Implants: Breast augmentation with silicone implants generally costs more, starting from approximately $15,000. Gummy bear implants, which are a type of silicone implant, are the most expensive option due to their advanced technology and unique properties.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
The average fat transfer augmentation procedure costs between $10,000 and $20,000. The cost depends on the details of the procedure, such as the amount of fat to be transferred and the board - certified plastic surgeon you choose.
It's important to note that these are just estimates, and it's advisable to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon to get an accurate quote based on your specific needs and circumstances.
Complications and Risks of Breast Augmentation
While breast augmentation is a relatively safe procedure when performed by a board - certified plastic surgeon, there are some potential complications and risks:
1. Capsular Contracture
This occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant and shrinks and hardens over time. The severity is rated on a scale from Baker 1 (soft) to 4 (rock hard). In some cases, the capsule may need to be surgically corrected, which involves additional fees for anesthesia, facility use, and the surgeon's time and skill, as well as extra recovery costs.
2. Implant Malposition
If an implant shifts out of place over time, another surgical procedure may be needed to reposition it. This requires additional funds to correct the implant malposition.
3. Implant Rupture
Breast implants are not intended to be lifelong devices. Replacing a ruptured implant is a separate procedure with the cost of a new implant and surgical costs similar to a primary breast augmentation surgery.
4. Infection
A post - op breast infection could require oral or IV antibiotics prescribed by the surgeon. In severe cases, the removal of implants may be necessary for persistent infection, and treatment and medication costs increase with the severity of the infection.
5. Hematoma
Internal bleeding and swelling can occur after surgery, sometimes necessitating drainage in the operating room. There will be additional time under anesthesia and facility fees for this uncommon but potential risk, and generally, there will be no surgeon's fee.
Choosing the Right Surgeon for Long - Term Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
Selecting the right plastic surgeon is crucial for a successful breast augmentation procedure. Here are some steps to help you make an informed decision:
1. Check Credentials
Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Board certification indicates that the surgeon has met the high standards of education, training, and experience required in the field of plastic surgery.
2. Review Experience
Look for a surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation. Ask to see before - and - after photos of previous patients to get an idea of the surgeon's skills and the results they can achieve. You can also read patient reviews and testimonials to learn about other patients' experiences with the surgeon.
3. Consider the Consultation
A good surgeon will take the time to understand your goals and expectations during the consultation. They will perform a thorough evaluation of your health and medical history and discuss the different options available to you, including implant type, incision location, and placement. They should also answer all your questions and address any concerns you may have.
4. Evaluate the Practice Environment
Visit the surgeon's office or surgical facility to get a sense of the environment. The facility should be clean, well - equipped, and staffed with professional and friendly personnel. You should feel comfortable and confident in the care you will receive.
5. Discuss Payment Options
Talk to the surgeon's office about payment options. Some surgeons offer financing plans to make the procedure more affordable. It's important to understand all the costs involved, including the surgeon's fee, implant cost, anesthesia fee, and facility fee, as well as any additional costs for post - operative care.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery process after breast augmentation is an important part of the overall experience. Here's what you can expect:
1. Immediate Post - Surgery
After the surgery, you will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a nurse. You will have a specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia to reduce discomfort. Breast augmentation is usually an outpatient procedure, so you can return home the same day. However, you will need someone to drive you home and assist you for the first few days.
2. Initial Recovery Period
You may feel tired or sore following surgery. Most patients can return to most daily activities within a few days, but strenuous activity should be avoided for at least two weeks. You will be required to wear a compression garment and take prescribed medications to manage pain and prevent infection. Swelling and bruising are normal and will gradually subside over time.
3. Follow - up Visits
You will typically have a follow - up appointment with the surgeon a day after the procedure to evaluate your healing. The surgeon will also monitor your progress over the next few months to ensure that the implants are settling properly and that there are no complications. It's important to attend all follow - up appointments and follow the surgeon's instructions.
4. Long - Term Aftercare
Long - term aftercare includes regular mammograms and check - ups to monitor the health of your breasts and the integrity of the implants. You should also maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced