Introduction
Breast augmentation has become one of the most sought - after cosmetic procedures in New York City. Women from all walks of life are looking to enhance the size and shape of their breasts for various reasons, such as boosting self - confidence, improving body proportions, or restoring breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top three and top five breast augmentation and beautification plastic surgery hospitals in New York City, along with a detailed overview of the associated fees.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as a boob job, is the enlargement of the breasts either through the transfer of fat from a part of the body or through surgical procedures that use breast implants or saline for enlargement. The most common method is the surgical approach, which mainly helps in enlarging or restoring symmetry to the breast. It offers a solution for those who have experienced a reduction in breast size due to weight loss, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, as well as those seeking a more balanced physical appearance (source: Wimgo).
Benefits of Breast Augmentation
- Enhanced Confidence: Many women experience a significant boost in self - confidence after achieving their desired breast size and shape. A study suggests that over 79% of women who undergo breast augmentation report being satisfied with the results (source: Lustaci.com).
- Improved Proportions: Breast augmentation can enhance overall body proportions, creating a more balanced silhouette.
- Rejuvenated Appearance: For women who have lost breast volume due to aging, pregnancy, or weight changes, it can restore fullness and create a youthful contour.
- Corrected Asymmetry: It can help address natural asymmetry, creating a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing breast shape.
- Broader Wardrobe Options: Achieving the ideal breast size opens up more clothing choices, providing a comfortable and flattering fit in a wider variety of styles.
Types of Breast Implants
Type of Implant | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|---|
Saline Implants | Filled with sterile saltwater. Can be filled after placement in the breast pocket during the procedure. | If the implant ruptures, the saline is simply absorbed by the body without harm. May be placed through a slightly shorter incision. | May feel less natural than silicone implants. |
Silicone Implants | Filled with silicone gel. Resemble the natural feel and texture of actual breasts. | More natural look and feel. The most frequently chosen type; in 2020, approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States were performed with silicone implants (source: Dr. John E. Sherman's website). | In the unlikely event of a rupture, there is a small risk of the gel escaping into the breast implant pocket. |
Structured Saline Implants | Saline breast implants with an internal structure. | More natural and realistic appearance compared to regular saline implants. | Not as well - known as traditional saline or silicone implants. |
Gummy Bear Implants | Form - stable silicone breast implants that maintain their shape even when the implant shell breaks. Have a tapered top that resembles the natural structure of the breasts. | Provide a natural and proportionate breast shape and feel. Minimize the risk of leakage if the implant becomes compromised. | May be more expensive than other types of implants. |
Round Breast Implants | Rounded breast implants that are evenly shaped on all sides. | No risk of external projection if they rotate out of place. Can add volume higher on the chest. | May not look as natural as anatomical implants in some cases. |
The Top Three Breast Augmentation and Beautification Plastic Surgery Hospitals in New York City
1. Dr. Adam R. Kolker - New York Plastic Surgery & Non - Surgical Med Spa
Surgeon Background
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon. 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 is also an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. He has been featured as a top plastic surgeon in New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues from 2008 - 2024 and as one of America's Best Plastic Surgeons by Newsweek in 2021 - 2024 (source: Dr. Kolker's website).
Services Offered
Dr. Kolker offers a wide range of breast procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, breast reconstruction, fat transfer breast augmentation, tuberous breast correction, and more. He takes a personalized approach, considering each patient's unique body type and aesthetic goals to achieve natural - looking results.
Fees
The estimated cost of breast augmentation with Dr. Kolker ranges from $9000 – $11000. The price may vary depending on factors such as the type of implants used (silicone breast implants are $1000 more expensive than saline implants), the complexity of the procedure, and the combined effort of the surgical and anesthesia team (source: Lustaci.com).
2. Dr. Nadia Afridi
Surgeon Background
Dr. Nadia 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 and has received impressive reviews from clients due to her quality of work and patient - centered approach (source: Wimgo).
Services Offered
Dr. Afridi offers breast augmentation, mommy makeovers, breast surgery, body contouring, and facial treatments. In breast augmentation, she considers four key factors: the site of breast implant placement, the site of the incision to insert the breast implant, the type of implant (silicone or saline), and the size of the breast implant. She has experience with both saline and silicone implants and can perform corrective surgeries for patients unhappy with previous breast augmentation results.
Fees
The estimated cost of breast augmentation with Dr. Afridi is $8900 (source: Lustaci.com).
3. Dr. Richard Swift
Surgeon Background
Dr. Richard Swift is a board - certified plastic surgeon. He completed his residency in general surgery at St. Barnabas Medical Center in Short Hills, New Jersey. He has earned a number of prestigious awards for his experience and expertise and is dedicated to providing personalized, high - quality care to his patients (source: Wimgo).
Services Offered
Dr. Swift offers breast enhancement, body contouring, facial treatments, and more. He provides detailed consultations on surgical techniques, alternative treatments, and pre - and post - operative care.
Fees
The estimated cost of breast augmentation with Dr. Swift ranges from $5000 - $10000, depending on the extent of surgery and the number of treatments needed (source: Lustaci.com).
The Top Five Breast Augmentation and Beautification Plastic Surgery Hospitals in New York City
4. Dr. John E. Sherman
Surgeon Background
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He worked closely with Allergan during the original development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. He has a deep understanding of breast implants and is committed to providing individualized care to his patients (source: Dr. John E. Sherman's website).
Services Offered
Dr. Sherman specializes in breast augmentation. He guides patients through the process of choosing the right breast implants, considering factors such as material, shape, size, and texture. He also discusses possible complications and candidates for the procedure.
Fees
The cost of breast augmentation with Dr. Sherman varies depending on the patient's unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. After the consultation, the anticipated costs will be broken down, and eligible patients have several options for financing their procedure (source: Dr. John E. Sherman's website).
5. Dr. Darrick Antell
Surgeon Background
Dr. Darrick Antell is a board - certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentation surgeries. He has been listed in multiple magazines, such as Harper's Bazaar and Town and Country, as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country (source: Dr. Antell's website).
Services Offered
Dr. Antell offers breast augmentation and addresses common complications such as capsular contracture. He tailors each breast augmentation to achieve the patient's desired look, considering factors like implant type, placement, and sizing.
Fees
The cost of breast augmentation with Dr. Antell depends on factors such as operating room and anesthesia fees, consultation fee, and the surgeon's fee. Saline implants are the least costly option, but a surprising 85% of patients opt for the more expensive silicone implants. To determine the full cost, patients are advised to reach out for a personal consultation (source: Dr. Antell's website).
Factors Affecting the Cost of Breast Augmentation
Type of Implants
As mentioned earlier, silicone implants generally cost more than saline implants. Gummy bear implants, which are a type of silicone implant, may also be more expensive due to their unique properties. The brand and quality of the implants can also impact the cost.
Surgeon's Experience and Reputation
Highly experienced and well - reputed surgeons may charge more for their services. Surgeons with a long history of successful breast augmentations, numerous accolades, and positive patient reviews are likely to command a higher fee. For example, Dr. Adam Kolker, who has been featured in multiple prominent publications as a top plastic surgeon, may charge more compared to less - established surgeons.
Geographical Location
New York City is a major metropolitan area with a high cost of living. The cost of running a plastic surgery practice, including rent, staff salaries, and equipment expenses, is relatively high. As a result, breast augmentation procedures in New York City are generally more expensive compared to other regions.
Complexity of the Procedure
If a patient requires additional procedures in conjunction with breast augmentation, such as a breast lift to address sagging breasts, the overall cost will increase. Also, patients with more complex anatomical features or specific aesthetic goals may require a more customized approach, which can add to the cost.
Operating Room and Anesthesia Fees
The cost of using an operating room, including the facility fees, equipment, and supplies, is an important factor. Anesthesia fees, which depend on the type of anesthesia used (general anesthesia or intravenous sedation) and the duration of the procedure, also contribute to the total cost.
Considerations Before Choosing a Plastic Surgery Hospital
Surgeon's Qualifications
Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified by a recognized medical board, such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Check their educational background, training, and years of experience in performing breast augmentation procedures. Look for any additional certifications or fellowships related to breast surgery.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the hospital's reputation and the quality of care provided. Look for reviews that specifically mention breast augmentation procedures and pay attention to the patient's satisfaction with the results, the surgeon's bedside manner, and the overall experience at the hospital.
Before - and - After Photos
Request to see before - and - after photos of previous breast augmentation patients. This will give you an idea of the surgeon's aesthetic style and the kind of results they can achieve. Pay attention to the naturalness of the results and how well they match the patient's body type.
Facility Accreditation
Make sure the plastic surgery hospital is accredited by a recognized organization. Accreditation ensures that the facility meets certain standards of safety, quality, and professionalism. It also indicates that the hospital has the necessary equipment and resources to perform breast augmentation procedures safely.
Consultation Process
A thorough consultation process is essential. The surgeon should take the time to understand your goals, concerns, and medical history. They should also explain the procedure in detail, including the type of implants, incision methods, potential risks and complications, and the expected recovery process. A good surgeon will answer all your questions and help you make an informed decision.
Potential Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation
Capsular Contracture
This is one of the most common complications of breast augmentation. It occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing hardening, discomfort, and a misshapen appearance of the breast. Treatment may involve removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants. Surgeons may use techniques such as placing an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) or prescribing medications to reduce the risk of capsular contracture (source: Dr. Antell's website).
Bleeding and Infection
Bleeding can occur during or after the surgery, and it may require additional treatment. Infection typically presents within a week after surgery and can usually be treated with antibiotics. In some cases, the implant may need to be removed if the infection is severe.
Implant Rupture
Although rare, implant rupture can occur due to injury or normal wear and tear. If a saline implant ruptures, the salt - water is harmlessly absorbed by the body, resulting in the breast appearing deflated. With a silicone implant rupture, a revision surgery is usually performed to replace the implant and remove any troublesome scar tissue.
Changes in Sensation
Many patients experience some change or loss in nipple sensation after breast augmentation. This usually resolves over time, typically within about six months, but in some cases, it may be permanent.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
BII is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that women report after having implants placed, such as memory loss, joint pain, and fatigue. However, the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is poorly understood and still being investigated (source: Dr. John E. Sherman's website).
Recovery Process After Breast Augmentation
Immediate Post - Operative Period
After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area until you are fully awake from the anesthesia. You may experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. You will be given a prescription for pain medication to help ease the discomfort, which is usually most pronounced during the first few days. You will also be provided with a surgical compression bra that you will need to wear for the next few weeks as you heal (source: multiple sources including Dr. Antell's and Dr. John E. Sherman's websites).
Return to Normal Activities
Patients can usually return to work within a few days to a week, depending on the nature of their job. However, strenuous activities, including exercise and sexual activity, should be avoided for several weeks. Most residual swelling will resolve itself after a month of recovery, but it may take several months for the implants to fully settle into place and for the final results to be visible (source: New York Group for Plastic Surgery website).
Follow - Up Appointments
You will need to attend follow - up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress