The Top Three Hospitals for Areola and Nipple Reconstruction Plastic Surgery in New York City: A Look at the Surgical Price List!
Introduction
Areola and nipple reconstruction plastic surgery is a significant procedure for many individuals who have undergone mastectomy, suffered from nipple - related injuries, or seek to enhance their physical appearance. In New York City, there are several hospitals renowned for their expertise in this field. This article will explore the top three hospitals for areola and nipple reconstruction plastic surgery and also provide an in - depth look at the surgical price list. We'll also cover related topics such as different surgical techniques, patient recovery, and insurance coverage.
Top Three Hospitals for Areola and Nipple Reconstruction in New York City
1. Shafer Plastic Surgery
At Shafer Plastic Surgery in New York City, breast reconstruction, including areola and nipple reconstruction, is one of the highly regarded procedures. After an initial breast reconstruction with either implants or the patient's tissue, the nipple and areola can be reconstructed. A mound of tissue is made from nearby skin to create a nipple, which is then surrounded by tattooed coloration. Dr. Shafer, a double - board - certified plastic surgeon, and his team strive to provide personalized care. They begin the reconstruction process after a mastectomy by placing a tissue expander beneath the chest wall muscles and gradually adjusting the breast size. The subsequent nipple and areola reconstruction aims for natural - looking results. Many patients have left positive reviews, appreciating the team's empathy and the high - quality surgical outcomes.
2. Rowe Plastic Surgery
Rowe Plastic Surgery has facilities in Manhattan, Long Island, New Jersey, and the Hamptons. Their board - certified cosmetic surgeons specialize in cosmetic breast procedures. When it comes to nipple reconstruction, they offer different techniques. For example, nipple reconstruction with surrounding skin involves raising skin flaps around the new nipple location and forming them into a nipple shape. Skin grafting can be used if there isn't enough breast tissue. Medical tattooing is also an option to create a natural - looking areola. The surgeons here conduct thorough consultations to understand the patient's needs and goals. They help patients who have had mastectomies, those with inverted nipples, or individuals seeking areola reduction to achieve the desired results. The hospital is known for its patient - centered approach and state - of - the - art facilities.
3. New York Plastic Surgical Group (Long Island Plastic Surgical Group Division)
The breast reconstruction surgery center at the New York Plastic Surgical Group is a “center of excellence.” The plastic and reconstructive surgeons here have extensive experience, having performed over 10,000 breast reconstruction procedures. They offer two main approaches to nipple reconstruction: graft nipple reconstruction and flap nipple reconstruction. In graft nipple reconstruction, skin is taken from a donor site and attached to the new breast. Flap nipple reconstruction creates the nipple from a nearby skin flap, which can preserve the blood supply and reduce scarring. The hospital also provides nipple tattooing as the final step in the reconstruction process. The surgeons work closely with patients during the initial consultation to determine the best treatment plan.
Surgical Price List
Cost of Nipple Reconstruction Surgery
The cost of nipple reconstruction surgery in New York can vary depending on whether it is performed at a surgery center or an outpatient hospital. According to Sidecar Health, the average cash price for nipple reconstruction surgery care in New York is $3,548 at a surgery center versus $6,302 at an outpatient hospital. A common nipple reconstruction surgery at a surgery center facility in New York includes several components:
| Component | Units | Avg Cash Price |
|---|---|---|
| General surgeon visit provider fee (first time visit) | 1 | $144 |
| Provider fee to reconstruct nipple | 1 | $1,011 |
| Surgery center fee to reconstruct nipple | 1 | $1,613 |
| Prescriptions (hydrocodone - acetaminophen) | 30 | $18 |
| Anesthesiologist fee to be "put under" for procedure (level 3) | 1 | $232 |
| Anesthesiologist time to be "put under" for procedure (per minute) | 229 | $528 |
At an outpatient hospital, the components and their costs are as follows:
| Component | Units | Avg Cash Price |
|---|---|---|
| General surgeon visit provider fee (first time visit) | 1 | $144 |
| Provider fee to reconstruct nipple | 1 | $1,011 |
| Outpatient hospital fee to reconstruct nipple (level 1) | 1 | $4,367 |
| Prescriptions (hydrocodone - acetaminophen) | 30 | $18 |
| Anesthesiologist fee to be "put under" for procedure (level 3) | 1 | $232 |
| Anesthesiologist time to be "put under" for procedure (per minute) | 229 | $528 |
Cost of Bilateral Nipple Reconstruction Surgery
The average cash price for bilateral nipple reconstruction surgery care in New York is $4,052 at a surgery center versus $6,806 at an outpatient hospital. A common bilateral nipple reconstruction surgery at a surgery center includes:
| Component | Units | Avg Cash Price |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic & reconstructive surgeon visit provider fee (first time visit) | 1 | $142 |
| Provider fee to reconstruct nipple (bilateral procedure) | 1 | $1,518 |
| Surgery center fee to reconstruct nipple | 1 | $1,613 |
| Prescriptions (hydrocodone - acetaminophen) | 30 | $18 |
| Anesthesiologist fee to be "put under" for procedure (level 3) | 1 | $232 |
| Anesthesiologist time to be "put under" for procedure (per minute) | 229 | $528 |
At an outpatient hospital, the components and costs for bilateral nipple reconstruction are:
| Component | Units | Avg Cash Price |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic & reconstructive surgeon visit provider fee (first time visit) | 1 | $142 |
| Provider fee to reconstruct nipple (bilateral procedure) | 1 | $1,518 |
| Outpatient hospital fee to reconstruct nipple (level 1) | 1 | $4,367 |
| Prescriptions (hydrocodone - acetaminophen) | 30 | $18 |
| Anesthesiologist fee to be "put under" for procedure (level 3) | 1 | $232 |
| Anesthesiologist time to be "put under" for procedure (per minute) | 229 | $528 |
Factors Affecting the Cost of Areola and Nipple Reconstruction
Several factors can influence the cost of areola and nipple reconstruction surgery:
- Combination with other procedures: If the nipple reconstruction is combined with other breast procedures such as breast lift, breast enlargement, or breast reduction, the overall cost will increase. For example, at Rowe Plastic Surgery, patients may choose to have these additional procedures for a more comprehensive breast enhancement, which will add to the expense.
- Surgeon's expertise: Highly experienced and well - known surgeons may charge more for their services. Surgeons at the top - rated hospitals in New York City, like Dr. Shafer at Shafer Plastic Surgery, have extensive experience and a reputation for excellent results, which can be reflected in the cost.
- Location of the hospital: Different areas within New York City may have different cost structures. Hospitals in prime locations with higher operating costs may pass those costs on to the patients.
- Surgical technique: Some techniques, such as skin grafting or more complex flap procedures, may require more time and resources, thus increasing the cost. For instance, the flap nipple reconstruction at the New York Plastic Surgical Group may be more expensive than a simpler approach due to its technical complexity.
Insurance Coverage
According to the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 (WHCRA), insurance plans must cover the cost of breast reconstruction after a mastectomy and other reconstructive procedures. However, it's essential for patients to speak to their surgeon and insurance company before undergoing the surgery. Some insurance companies may require that the nipple reconstruction be done within a specific time period after reconstructing the breast itself. Additionally, not all aspects of the surgery may be covered, and patients may still be responsible for co - pays, deductibles, or non - covered services.
Recovery Process
The recovery process after areola and nipple reconstruction varies depending on the individual and the type of surgery performed. Here are some general aspects of the recovery:
- Immediate post - surgery: Patients can expect some numbness, mild pain, and soreness around the incisions on the breasts. Pain medication or anti - inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to ease the discomfort. At this stage, the reconstructed area is dressed, and a nipple shield or protective dressing may be used to promote healing.
- First few days to weeks: In the first few days, patients are advised to keep the area dry and avoid submerging it in water. One to two weeks after surgery, the sutures are often absorbed by the body. Swelling and bruising may gradually subside during this time. It's important to avoid tight bras and clothing over the nipple to prevent shape changes and infections.
- Long - term recovery: The final results of the reconstruction may not be visible until several weeks or months after the surgery, as the swelling subsides and the nipple settles into its new shape. Patients may be able to return to normal activities and work gradually, but heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks until fully healed.
Benefits of Areola and Nipple Reconstruction
Areola and nipple reconstruction offers several benefits:
- Improved self - image: For many patients, especially those who have undergone mastectomy, the reconstruction of the areola and nipple can significantly boost their self - confidence and body image. It helps them feel more whole and normal, which can have a positive impact on their mental and emotional well - being.
- Enhanced aesthetic appearance: The procedure can create a more natural - looking breast, making the overall appearance more balanced and attractive. Whether it's correcting asymmetry or recreating the nipple after a mastectomy, the results can be very satisfying for the patient.
- Functional improvement: In some cases, such as correcting inverted nipples, the surgery can improve the function of the nipples, which is important for breastfeeding and overall nipple health.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
Selecting the right hospital and surgeon for areola and nipple reconstruction is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Research: Look into the reputation of the hospitals and surgeons. Check patient reviews, before - and - after photos, and success rates. Websites like Healthgrades can provide ratings and reviews of surgeons who perform nipple reconstruction in New York.
- Board certification: Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This indicates that the surgeon has met the high standards of education, training, and experience in the field of plastic surgery.
- Experience: Find out how many areola and nipple reconstruction surgeries the surgeon has performed. A surgeon with more experience is likely to have better skills and be more prepared to handle any complications that may arise.
- Personalized approach: A good surgeon will take the time to understand your needs, goals, and concerns. They will provide a personalized treatment plan and answer all your questions during the consultation process.
Conclusion
Areola and nipple reconstruction plastic surgery is a life - changing procedure for many individuals in New York City. The top three hospitals, Shafer Plastic Surgery, Rowe Plastic Surgery, and the New York Plastic Surgical Group, offer high - quality services with experienced surgeons and state - of - the - art facilities. Understanding the surgical price list, factors affecting the cost, insurance coverage, recovery process, and benefits of the surgery is essential for anyone considering this procedure. By carefully choosing the right hospital and surgeon, patients can achieve the best possible results and improve their quality of life.
If you are interested in areola and nipple reconstruction plastic surgery, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top hospitals mentioned in this article. Discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations with the surgeon to make an informed decision about your treatment.
