Introduction
Breast augmentation with silicone prostheses is a popular cosmetic procedure in New York City. Women often seek this surgery to enhance their body contour, boost self - confidence, and achieve a more proportionate figure. With numerous hospitals and surgeons available, it can be challenging to determine the best options. In this article, we will explore the top three hospitals for breast augmentation with silicone prostheses in New York City, highlighting their features, surgeons, and patient experiences.
Overview of Breast Augmentation with Silicone Prostheses
Breast augmentation has been one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgeries in the United States for nearly 20 years. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2020 alone, nearly 200,000 women underwent breast augmentation. Silicone breast implants have a long history, with the first ones developed in the early 1960s by Dow Chemical. By 2020, approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States were performed with silicone implants. These implants are popular because they closely mimic the texture and feel of natural breast tissue.
There have been ongoing improvements in silicone implants. In the 1990s, cohesive silicone gel implants, also known as gummy bear implants, were developed. These implants can provide a natural and proportionate breast shape and feel, featuring an extensive variety of shapes and sizes to fit different chest dimensions.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Augmentation
Surgeon's Expertise
The skill and experience of the plastic surgeon are crucial. A highly experienced surgeon is more likely to understand the intricacies of breast anatomy, the properties of different silicone implants, and how to achieve the best results. Look for surgeons who are board - certified, have performed a large number of breast augmentation surgeries, and have positive patient reviews.
Hospital Facilities
The quality of the hospital facilities, including the surgical suites, recovery areas, and equipment, is important. State - of - the - art facilities can contribute to a safer and more comfortable surgical experience. Accreditation is also a key factor, as it indicates that the hospital meets certain quality and safety standards.
Patient Care and Support
Good patient care starts from the initial consultation and continues throughout the recovery process. A hospital that provides personalized care, answers patients' questions, and offers support during the healing period can enhance the overall patient experience.
Success Rates and Complications
Research the hospital's success rates in breast augmentation surgeries and the incidence of complications. A lower complication rate is a sign of a high - quality surgical team and proper pre - and post - operative care.
The Top Three Hospitals for Breast Augmentation with Silicone Prostheses in New York City
Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Surgeon Expertise
Columbia University is one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - renowned medical center. The plastic surgeons on its clinical staff are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, including breast augmentation. For example, Dr. Jeffrey A. Ascherman is an experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon who has published over 75 scientific articles and chapters. He has been included multiple times in Castle Connolly’s list of America’s top doctors and in New York Magazine’s annual list of best doctors. Another surgeon, Dr. Christine Rohde, is a highly skilled clinician, researcher, and teacher, trained in the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, with a focus on microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, and breast reconstruction.
Hospital Facilities
The hospital has multiple offices across different locations in New York City, including Washington Heights, Midtown, East Side, Westchester, and New Jersey. This provides convenience for patients. The plastic surgery division is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery, which means that patients may benefit from the latest techniques and treatments. The surgical facilities are likely to be equipped with state - of - the - art technology and adhere to strict safety standards.
Patient Care and Support
Columbia University emphasizes using its many resources to deliver the highest quality care. The plastic surgeons work closely with patients to understand their cosmetic goals and determine the appropriate procedures. The hospital also has a commitment to patient education, providing educational guides to help patients make informed decisions about their breast augmentation and other cosmetic or reconstructive care.
Success Rates and Complications
As a leading medical institution, Columbia University is expected to have high success rates in breast augmentation surgeries. The surgeons' extensive experience and the hospital's focus on research and education contribute to better patient outcomes. While all surgeries carry some risks, the hospital's strict safety protocols and skilled surgical teams aim to minimize complications.
Weill Cornell Medicine Cosmetic Breast Surgery
Surgeon Expertise
Weill Cornell Medicine's plastic and reconstructive surgeons are leaders in their field. They are highly skilled and able to help patients achieve a natural look. The care team is equipped to promote comfort throughout the breast augmentation process. The surgeons work with patients to understand their goals and discuss the best options for their unique bodies.
Hospital Facilities
Weill Cornell Medicine has two Upper East Side locations for cosmetic breast surgery. The surgical suites are state - of - the - art, using the latest anesthetics and medications to help patients recover more quickly and heal faster. The hospital partners with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S., which adds to the credibility and quality of the facilities.
Patient Care and Support
The hospital prioritizes patient comfort at every step. Before surgery, patients have the opportunity to ask questions to feel comfortable with the procedure. After surgery, the care team manages pain with medication and teaches patients how to care for themselves during the recovery period. This comprehensive patient care approach helps patients have a positive experience.
Success Rates and Complications
With a team of expert surgeons and modern facilities, Weill Cornell Medicine is likely to have high success rates in breast augmentation. The hospital's focus on patient - centered care and the use of advanced techniques can help reduce the incidence of complications.
NY Plastic Surgery - Dr. Adam R. Kolker
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City specializing in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures. 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 an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, staying on the cutting edge of advancements in plastic surgery. Dr. Kolker has been featured in multiple best doctors lists, such as New York Magazine's best doctors issues from 2008 - 2024, Newsweek's America's best plastic surgeons in 2021 - 2024, and Castle Connolly's America's top doctors from 2016 - 2025.
Hospital Facilities
Dr. Kolker offers consultations both virtually and in person at his practice located at 710 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10021. While the article does not provide in - depth details about the surgical facilities, his high - profile status and multiple recognitions suggest that he has access to modern and well - equipped facilities.
Patient Care and Support
Dr. Kolker's patients often leave positive testimonials about his personal care and consideration. He takes the time to understand each patient's individual case and establish aesthetic goals distinct to their body type to achieve the most natural results. His team is available to facilitate consultations at a convenient time and location for patients.
Success Rates and Complications
Given his extensive experience and numerous awards, Dr. Kolker is likely to have high success rates in breast augmentation surgeries. His attention to detail and patient - centered approach contribute to better outcomes and lower complication rates.
Comparing the Three Hospitals
| Hospital | Surgeon Expertise | Hospital Facilities | Patient Care and Support | Success Rates and Complications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery | Multiple highly experienced surgeons with extensive publications and industry recognition | Multiple locations, advanced research facilities, state - of - the - art surgical suites | Comprehensive patient education, personalized care throughout the process | High success rates expected due to experienced surgeons and research focus; efforts to minimize complications |
| Weill Cornell Medicine Cosmetic Breast Surgery | Leading plastic and reconstructive surgeons focused on natural results | Two Upper East Side locations, modern surgical suites, partnership with top hospital system | Patient - centered care with emphasis on comfort before, during, and after surgery | High success rates with advanced techniques and patient - centered approach; low complication rates |
| NY Plastic Surgery - Dr. Adam R. Kolker | Double - board - certified surgeon with prestigious education and multiple best doctors recognitions | Not fully detailed but associated with a well - known location and high - profile surgeon | Personalized care, patient testimonials highlighting attention to individual cases | Likely high success rates based on experience and patient testimonials; lower complication rates |
What to Expect During the Breast Augmentation Process
Consultation
During the consultation, the surgeon will review your medical history, examine your breasts, and take measurements. They will discuss your aesthetic goals and recommend the most suitable silicone implants in terms of size, shape, and texture. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions about the procedure, recovery, and potential risks.
Preparation
Patients are usually advised to quit smoking or using nicotine products, as nicotine can affect the healing process. They may need to taper off certain medications or supplements that increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John’s wort. It is also important to arrange for someone to pick you up from the hospital after the surgery and designate a comfortable space at home for recovery.
Procedure
Breast augmentation is typically an outpatient procedure that takes 1 - 1.5 hours. The surgeon will make incisions, either under the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit. The silicone implant will be placed either under the pectoral muscles (submuscular plane) or above the pectoral muscles (subglandular). The incisions will then be closed with sutures, and a compression garment will be applied.
Recovery
In the initial days after surgery, it is normal to experience fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. You will be given pain medication and a surgical compression bra. Most patients can return to light activities and work in 2 - 3 weeks and resume more strenuous activities at 6 - 8 weeks. The swelling will gradually subside, and the implants will settle into place over a few months.
Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation with Silicone Prostheses
BIA - ALCL
Over the past few years, researchers have found that women with breast implants may have a small but increased risk of developing breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). While the actual number of cases worldwide is not confirmed, it appears to be approaching 400 cases. This is not breast cancer but a form of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma that can be effectively treated. It seems to be associated with textured implants and patients who develop a seroma.
Breast Implant Illness
Breast implant illness (BII) refers to a broad variety of symptoms reported by women after having implants placed, including memory loss, “brain fog,” joint pain, and fatigue. However, the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is poorly understood and still being investigated.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to appear misshapen, hard, and sometimes painful. It can be treated by removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants. Surgeons may take precautions, such as using an acellular dermal matrix, to reduce the risk of capsular contracture.
Other Complications
Other potential complications include bleeding, infection, numbness, and implant rupture. Infections typically occur within a week after surgery and can usually be treated with antibiotics. If a saline implant ruptures, the salt - water is harmlessly absorbed by the body, while a silicone implant rupture may require revision surgery.
Conclusion
When considering breast augmentation with silicone prostheses in New York City, the top three hospitals - Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine Cosmetic Breast Surgery, and NY Plastic Surgery - Dr. Adam R. Kolker - offer a combination of expert surgeons, high - quality facilities, and excellent patient care. Each hospital has its own unique strengths, but all are committed to helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals safely and effectively. It is important for patients to thoroughly research their options, have in - depth consultations with the surgeons, and understand the potential risks and rewards of the procedure.
If you are interested in breast augmentation, we encourage you to take the next step. Contact one of these top hospitals for a consultation. Discuss your goals, ask questions, and make an informed decision that is right for you. Share this article with others who may be considering breast augmentation to help them in their research process.
