Introduction
Breast reduction surgery is a life - changing procedure for many women in New York City. Those with overly large breasts often experience physical discomfort, including back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as issues related to self - confidence. Fortunately, New York City is home to several top - notch hospitals and clinics that offer high - quality breast reduction services. In this article, we will explore the top three and top five hospitals for breast reduction in the city, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery, also known as mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess fat, skin, and tissue from overly large breasts. The primary goal is to reduce the size of the breasts in proportion to the body frame, alleviating physical pain and improving the patient's quality of life. It can also enhance self - confidence and self - esteem. According to the data, over 90,000 breast reduction surgeries are performed annually in the United States, and a remarkable 80% of women report excellent or very good breast appearance even a year post - surgery.
There are several common breast reduction procedures:
- Pedicle method: The surgeon leaves a pedicle, or attached tissue graft, with nerves and blood vessels intact to supply the breast after reduction.
- Inferior pedicle method: A tissue graft is attached into the inframammary fold where the bottom of the breast meets the chest.
- Superior pedicle method: A pedicle is attached in the upper quadrant of the breast, above the areola.
- Free nipple graft: The nipple is completely removed and replaced in a new, higher position as a skin graft.
- Anchor incision pattern: This incision circles the areola’s parameter and then follows a straight line down the middle of the breast to the crease where the breast meets the chest.
- Le Jour incision pattern: It is popular because it leaves minimal scarring, reducing the size of the breasts through tiny incisions.
Who is a Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?
You may be a suitable candidate for breast reduction surgery if:
- You suffer from the side effects of oversized breasts, such as neck or back pain.
- The size of your breasts is out of proportion with the rest of your body, leading to poor posture.
- The weight of your breasts causes shoulder pain and painful bra indentations on your shoulders.
- The size of your breasts impairs your ability to lead an active lifestyle.
- One of your breasts is larger than the other.
- You are in good health, have realistic expectations about the outcomes, and are not a smoker.
The Top Three Hospitals for Breast Reduction in New York City
1. Breast Reduction Center of NYC
Located on the upper east side in Manhattan, the Breast Reduction Center of NYC is a premier destination for breast reduction plastic surgery. The breast reduction specialist surgeons here are top - rated board - certified or board - eligible plastic surgeons. They perform hundreds of breast reduction surgeries each year for patients from NYC, around the country, and even the world.
One of the unique features of this center is its innovative approach to pain management. Surgeons use a special technique called a nerve block during surgery, which eliminates the need for prescription pain medicine. Patients only need over - the - counter Tylenol and ibuprofen for recovery, even for those with very large breast reduction volumes (some over 7 pounds). Additionally, the surgeons do not use drains in breast reductions, and all the stitches dissolve on their own, simplifying post - op care.
The center offers virtual consultations from anywhere in the world, which is very convenient for patients. It is in - network with Cigna, United Healthcare, and Oxford (with some exceptions), and may accept other plans if you have out - of - network benefits. However, it does not accept Medicare, Medicaid, and some other plans.
Many patients have had excellent experiences at the Breast Reduction Center of NYC. One patient on Google said, “My surgery experience at the breast reduction center was nothing short of perfect. After years and years of agonizing over the decision, I’m so happy I pulled the trigger and had my surgery there. I’m thrilled with the results and could not have had a more positive experience with the entire team.”
2. Rowe Plastic Surgery
Rowe Plastic Surgery offers breast reduction in NYC and NJ. The board - certified plastic surgeons here are among the top reduction mammoplasty specialists, focusing on minimally invasive breast reduction surgery. They are leading experts in macromastia, concentrating on excess breast weight, breast malposition, cosmetic appearance (such as asymmetry and minimal scarring), and rapid recovery.
The team at Rowe Plastic Surgery consists of three expert plastic surgeons, along with a large staff of nurses, physician assistants, and other team members. Dr. Norman Rowe, a highly sought - after plastic surgeon in NYC, is renowned for his expertise in breast reduction surgery. His approach is meticulous, ensuring minimal scarring and maintaining the natural aesthetics of the breasts. Patients appreciate his compassionate care and personalized attention from the initial consultation to post - operative follow - ups.
Before the surgery, patients go through a series of steps, including an initial consultation, a physical exam, and pre - operative requirements such as stopping blood - thinning medications and smoking. The team also informs patients about other related procedures that may be included, like a mastopexy, a nipple reduction procedure, the Stevens laser bra technique, and nipple reconstruction and correction.
After the surgery, most patients should plan on a two - week recovery period. The surgery is an inpatient procedure in a fully equipped ambulatory surgical center. Many patients have been highly satisfied with the results, with common feedback being, “I should have done this much earlier!”
3. Zuckerman Plastic Surgery
Dr. Zuckerman at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery is an expert in aesthetic breast surgery. He can help both women and men overcome the uncomfortable and possibly embarrassing effects of overly large breasts. For women, breast reduction can eliminate back and shoulder pain overnight, and for men, it can restore a more gender - appropriate appearance and eliminate psychological issues.
Dr. Zuckerman uses two different techniques to perform breast reductions: the circumvertical (vertical / “lollipop”) and the anchor / wise pattern. He strives to use the vertical pattern whenever possible to minimize scarring, estimating that 75% of his breast reductions allow for this technique. However, for large reductions, he will recommend the anchor pattern.
After surgery, patients are fitted with a specialty surgical bra to support the breasts and aid in the healing process. Dr. Zuckerman applies a long - acting local anesthetic called Exparel® to minimize postoperative pain and discomfort. He also provides customized postoperative care instructions. Most patients can resume normal activities after two weeks but should avoid strenuous tasks or heavy lifting for up to four weeks.
Dr. Zuckerman has been recognized as a Super Doctor in New York State for plastic surgery and has appeared in various media, indicating his high - level expertise and reputation.
The Top Five Hospitals for Breast Reduction in New York City (Including the Top Three)
4. Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai's team of highly trained and qualified plastic surgeons is expert at enhancing women’s breasts. They take a warm, caring, and supportive approach to patient care, providing an environment where patients feel comfortable discussing private and sensitive concerns about their bodies.
To be eligible for breast reduction surgery at Mount Sinai, patients should maintain a healthy, stable weight, not plan on future pregnancies (as it will affect the breasts), and be physically and emotionally mature about their choice. The surgery can lead to many positive results, such as less neck, back, and shoulder pain, improved self - confidence, and decreased breast size to be in proportion with the body frame.
During the confidential consultation, the surgeon will help patients determine whether breast reduction is the right choice for them and provide all the necessary information to make an educated decision.
5. Columbia Surgery
Columbia Surgery is one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - top medical center. The plastic surgeons on its clinical staff are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, including breast reduction. The division is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery and is a recognized national and international leader in the field.
The hospital offers a comprehensive range of plastic surgery programs and services, including cosmetic care and reconstructive care. For breast reduction, patients can expect high - quality care from experienced surgeons. The team at Columbia Surgery takes a personalized approach to each patient's needs, ensuring the best possible outcome.
The surgeons at Columbia are also involved in various research studies related to plastic surgery, which helps in the continuous improvement of surgical techniques and patient care.
Comparison of the Top Hospitals
| Hospital | Unique Features | Insurance Acceptance | Patient Experience | Surgical Techniques |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breast Reduction Center of NYC | Innovative pain management with nerve block, no drains, dissolving stitches, virtual consultations | In - network with Cigna, United Healthcare, Oxford (with exceptions), may accept some other plans with out - of - network benefits | Highly positive reviews from patients, personalized care | Standard breast reduction techniques with focus on minimizing post - op complications |
| Rowe Plastic Surgery | Team approach of reconstructive and breast surgeons, focus on minimally invasive surgery, personalized treatment plans | Insurance experts to review cases and help with insurance approval process | Patients satisfied with results and surgeon's care, common feedback of life - changing experience | Multiple breast reduction techniques, customized based on patient's needs |
| Zuckerman Plastic Surgery | Dr. Zuckerman's expertise in aesthetic breast surgery, use of long - acting local anesthetic, choice of two incision patterns | Staff can assist with insurance approval process | Good patient satisfaction, recognized as a Super Doctor | Circumvertical and anchor / wise pattern incision techniques |
| Mount Sinai | Warm and supportive patient - care environment, comprehensive evaluation for surgery eligibility | Not specified in the source, but likely to have a range of insurance options | Patient - centric approach, comfortable discussion of sensitive issues | Standard and advanced breast reduction techniques by experienced surgeons |
| Columbia Surgery | World - class medical center, forefront of research in plastic surgery, personalized approach | Not specified in the source, but likely to accept a variety of insurance plans | Patients can expect high - quality care from experienced and research - involved surgeons | Advanced surgical techniques based on the latest research |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Reduction
When choosing a hospital or clinic for breast reduction surgery in New York City, the following factors should be considered:
- Surgeon's Expertise: Look for board - certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in breast reduction surgery. Check their credentials, patient reviews, and success rates.
- Hospital Reputation: Consider the overall reputation of the hospital or clinic, including its history of providing high - quality care and patient satisfaction rates.
- Insurance Coverage: Find out which insurance plans the hospital accepts and whether they can assist you with the insurance approval process.
- Surgical Techniques: Different surgeons may use different techniques. Discuss the available options with the surgeon and choose the one that best suits your needs and aesthetic goals.
- Patient - Centric Care: A hospital that provides personalized attention, addresses your concerns, and makes you feel comfortable throughout the process is important. Look for a hospital that offers a supportive and caring environment.
- Recovery and After - Care: Inquire about the hospital's approach to post - operative care, including pain management, follow - up appointments, and support during the recovery period.
Conclusion
Breast reduction surgery can be a life - changing procedure for those suffering from the discomfort of overly large breasts. New York City is fortunate to have several top - quality hospitals and clinics that offer high - quality breast reduction services. The Breast Reduction Center of NYC, Rowe Plastic Surgery, Zuckerman Plastic Surgery, Mount Sinai, and Columbia Surgery are among the best in the city, each with its own unique features and strengths.
Before making a decision, it is crucial to thoroughly research each hospital, consult with the surgeons, and consider your personal needs and preferences. By doing so, you can ensure that you receive the best possible care and achieve the desired results from your breast reduction surgery.
If you are considering breast reduction surgery, we encourage you to reach out to these hospitals or clinics for a consultation. Take the first step towards a more comfortable and confident life today!
