Introduction
Breast augmentation is a widely sought - after cosmetic procedure in New York City. Among the various types of breast implants, teardrop - shaped prosthetics have gained significant popularity due to their ability to create a more natural look and contour. This article will guide you through understanding teardrop - shaped breast implants and introduce you to some of the top hospitals and surgeons in New York City that offer this service.
Understanding Teardrop - Shaped Breast Implants
Benefits of Teardrop - Shaped Implants
Teardrop - shaped implants, also known as anatomically contoured implants, are designed to mimic the natural shape of the breast. Gravity causes most of the breast mass to be concentrated at the bottom, tapering towards the collarbone, and these implants replicate this natural form. Many women prefer teardrop - shaped implants as they can achieve a more realistic enhancement compared to round implants. According to Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery, teardrop - shaped implants follow the natural contour of the breast while achieving the desired enlargement. They can be an excellent choice for individuals who have minimal or thin breast tissue as they help in creating most, if not all, of the breast contour.
Types of Teardrop - Shaped Implants
- Saline Teardrop - Shaped Implants: These implants are filled with a sterile saline (saltwater) solution enclosed in an outer silicone shell. Approved by the FDA for patients 18 and above, they have been used in breast augmentation for many years. If a saline implant shell leaks or ruptures, the implant will deflate, and the saline solution will be harmlessly absorbed and expelled by the body. As mentioned on 740 Park Plastic Surgery's website, saline implants are a popular choice due to their safety features.
- Silicone Teardrop - Shaped Implants: Filled with a thick silicone gel encased by an outer silicone shell, these implants are FDA - approved for women aged 22 and over and for breast reconstruction patients of any age. They are noted for their natural look and feel and are generally less susceptible to rippling compared to saline implants. Traditional silicone implants can be particularly beneficial for individuals with a thin body frame.
- Cohesive Gel (Gummy Bear) Teardrop - Shaped Implants: These are the newest type of FDA - approved implants in the United States. Composed of a highly durable, form - stable silicone gel, they create an exceptionally natural shape and feel. Key benefits include achieving ideal breast proportions, a diminished rate of rippling, and resistance to leaks in case of a rupture. Gummy bear implants are only available in a teardrop shape, as per Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery.
Potential Drawbacks
One of the main concerns with teardrop - shaped implants is the risk of rotation. Unlike round implants, which can shift into any position without altering the breast shape, if a teardrop - shaped implant rotates, it can cause the breast to adopt an undesirable shape. To prevent this, teardrop - shaped implants are typically textured on the outside. Also, a slightly larger incision is required to insert teardrop - shaped implants compared to most round implants, as stated in the resources from 740 Park Plastic Surgery.
Top Hospitals and Surgeons in New York City for Teardrop - Shaped Breast Augmentation
740 Park Plastic Surgery
At 740 Park Plastic Surgery, board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Stafford R. Broumand offers a wide range of breast implant options, including teardrop - shaped implants. The practice provides “gummy bear” cohesive gel implants, which are ideal for those seeking a natural look and feel. During the consultation, Dr. Broumand presents every implant option available, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each size, shape, type, and surface texture in great detail. He uses advanced Vectra 3D imaging to show patients how various implants may look on their own bodies following the procedure. This personalized approach helps patients make an informed decision based on their specific anatomical needs and cosmetic desires.
Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery
With seven convenient locations in Manhattan, New York City, among other places, Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery offers comprehensive breast implant consultations. Long Island plastic surgeon Stephen Greenberg can help patients determine which kind of breast implant will give them the desired bust line. The practice uses Vectra XT, a complete 3D imaging solution for body, breast, and face, to provide patients with a visual image of themselves exploring the possibilities of the aesthetic procedure. When it comes to teardrop - shaped implants, Dr. Greenberg explains the benefits of a natural - looking enhancement, as well as the unique risk of shifting out of place. He takes into account factors such as the patient's body type, aesthetic goals, and breast tissue amount to recommend the most suitable implant.
Dr. John E. Sherman
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon in New York City. He worked closely with Allergan during the development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants, which have an anatomically shaped silhouette similar to teardrop - shaped implants. Dr. Sherman has a deep understanding of these implants and goes over all the benefits and details with his patients. He takes an individualized approach, considering factors like material, shape, size, and texture when helping patients choose the right implants. For teardrop - shaped implants, he evaluates the patient's current breast shape, amount of breast tissue, and desired results to ensure a satisfactory outcome.
Dr. Oren Lerman
Dr. Oren Lerman in Manhattan is well - versed in breast implant procedures. He helps patients decide between silicone and saline implants and also guides them in choosing between round and teardrop - shaped implants. Many women choose teardrop - shaped implants because they feel their shape more closely mimics a natural breast, and Dr. Lerman can explain in detail how to avoid complications such as rotation. He also considers implant placement (above or below the chest muscle) and the location of incisions to minimize scarring and achieve the best aesthetic result.
Dr. Mark H. Schwartz
Dr. Mark H. Schwartz is one of New York City's most in - demand breast surgeons. During the breast augmentation consultation, he evaluates patients on an individual basis, taking a detailed medical history and performing a comprehensive physical examination. He offers both silicone and saline teardrop - shaped implants. For silicone implants, they are pre - filled with a cohesive gel material that looks and feels most like natural breast tissue. Saline implants, on the other hand, have a silicone outer shell filled with a sterile saltwater solution and can be adjusted in size during the procedure. Dr. Schwartz uses various incision patterns, such as inframammary, periareolar, or transaxillary, to place the implants, ensuring minimal post - operative scars.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Hospital or Surgeon
Surgeon's Credentials
It is crucial to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon. Board certification ensures that the surgeon has completed the necessary training and meets the high standards set by the relevant medical boards. For example, all the surgeons mentioned above are board - certified, which gives patients confidence in their skills and expertise. You can verify a surgeon's credentials through official medical organizations or licensing boards.
Experience with Teardrop - Shaped Implants
Find out how many teardrop - shaped breast augmentation procedures the surgeon has performed. Surgeons with more experience are likely to be more familiar with the unique challenges and benefits of these implants. They can handle potential complications more effectively and achieve better results. You can ask the surgeon about their case studies and before - and - after photos to assess their skills.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you insights into the patient experience at a particular hospital or with a specific surgeon. Look for reviews that mention teardrop - shaped breast augmentation specifically. Positive reviews regarding communication, the surgical process, and the final results are good indicators. You can find these reviews on the hospital's website, online review platforms, or social media.
Hospital Facilities and Technology
Modern and well - equipped hospitals with advanced technology can provide a better surgical experience and outcomes. For example, hospitals that use 3D imaging technology, like Vectra 3D, can help patients visualize the results of the surgery before it is performed. Good facilities also contribute to patient comfort during the pre - and post - operative periods.
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of teardrop - shaped breast augmentation can vary depending on factors such as the type of implant, the surgeon's fees, and the location of the hospital. It is important to get a detailed cost breakdown from the hospital or surgeon. Many practices also offer financing options, such as CareCredit, to help patients afford the procedure. Make sure to understand all the costs involved and the terms of any financing plans.
The Breast Augmentation Process
Consultation
The first step in the breast augmentation process is the consultation. During this appointment, the surgeon will discuss your aesthetic goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have. They will also examine your breasts, taking measurements and noting any existing breast shape, skin laxity, or ptosis. The surgeon will present different implant options, including teardrop - shaped implants, and explain the pros and cons of each. For example, at Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery, they use 3D imaging to help patients visualize the potential results.
Preparation
Once you have decided to proceed with the surgery, you will need to prepare. This may include quitting smoking or using nicotine products, as nicotine can significantly impact your ability to heal. You may also need to taper off certain medications or supplements that can increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John's wort. Arrange to have a trusted family member or friend pick you up from the hospital after the surgery and designate a comfortable space at home for recovery. You will also need to take time off work, usually 2 - 3 weeks, to rest and recuperate.
Procedure
The breast augmentation procedure is typically performed as an outpatient procedure and takes 1 - 1.5 hours. You will be given either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation anesthesia. The surgeon will make a small incision, which can be in the inframammary (under the breast), periareolar (around the areola), or transaxillary (under the armpit) area. The implant will then be placed either submuscularly (under the pectoral muscles) or subglandularly (above the pectoral muscles). Once the implant is in place, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures and wrap the area with a compression garment.
Recovery
In the initial days after surgery, it is normal to experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. You will be given a prescription for pain medication to help ease the discomfort. You will also need to wear a surgical compression bra for a few weeks as you heal. Most patients can return to light activities and work in 2 - 3 weeks, and can resume more strenuous activities, such as going to the gym, at 6 - 8 weeks. It may take a few months for the implants to settle into place, and you will have follow - up appointments with the surgeon to monitor your recovery.
Potential Complications
Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)
Over the past few years, researchers have found that women with breast implants may have a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL. This is not breast cancer but a form of non - Hodgkin's lymphoma. It appears to be associated with textured implants and patients who develop a seroma (accumulation of fluid around the breast). To date, there have only been two cases associated with smooth implants, and those patients had previously placed textured implants. It is important to discuss this risk with your surgeon and stay informed about any new research.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
BII is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that women report after having implants placed. These symptoms include 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. If you experience any of these symptoms after breast augmentation, you should consult your surgeon.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is a condition in which the scar tissue that naturally develops around the implant becomes excessively tight. This can eventually cause the implant to take on a distorted and unnatural shape or even rupture. Subglandular implants are more likely to develop capsular contracture compared to submuscular implants. Surgeons may take steps to prevent this, such as choosing the appropriate implant placement and using anti - scarring medications.
Implant Rupture or Leak
Both saline and silicone implants can rupture or leak. Saline implants will deflate if there is a rupture, and the saline solution will be absorbed by the body. Silicone implants may either keep the gel inside the shell or allow it to move into the breast pocket, and a rupture may not be as obvious. Regular check - ups with your surgeon are important to detect any signs of rupture or leak early.
Conclusion
Teardrop - shaped prosthetic breast augmentation can be an excellent option for women looking to enhance the size and shape of their breasts in a natural - looking way. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals and surgeons who offer this service. When considering the procedure, it is essential to understand the different types of teardrop - shaped implants, the factors to consider when choosing a hospital or surgeon, and the breast augmentation process and potential complications. By making an informed decision and following the surgeon's advice, you can achieve the results you desire and improve your self - confidence.
If you are interested in teardrop - shaped prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the surgeons mentioned in this article. You can also do further research and ask for recommendations from friends or family who have had similar procedures. Take the time to understand the process and make the choice that is right for you.
