Introduction
Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that many individuals in New York City consider to enhance their appearance and boost self - confidence. With numerous hospitals and surgeons offering this service, it can be challenging to select the right one. In this article, we will explore three top - ranked hospitals for breast augmentation in New York City, along with important information about the procedure, including its types, costs, recovery, and associated risks.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as a boob job, is the enlargement of the breasts either through transfer of fat from a part of the body or through surgical procedures which use breast implants or saline for enlargement of the breast. The most common method is the surgical approach, mainly used to enlarge or restore 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 aiming for a more balanced physical appearance.
Types of Breast Augmentation
- Breast Implants: There are two main types - silicone and saline. Silicone breast implants look and feel more natural in the breasts, while saline implants are firmer and rounder. Mount Sinai offers expert advice on choosing the right type based on body type and desired outcome. For instance, they may suggest silicone implants for patients who prioritize a natural look and feel, and saline implants for those who prefer a firmer appearance.
- Naturalfill (Fat Transfer): A two - step procedure where fat is removed from the buttocks or abdomen via liposuction and then immediately inserted into the breasts. Pioneered and perfected by Mount Sinai surgeons, it is a win - win as it uses the patient's own fat deposits and provides additional body sculpting.
3 Top - Ranked Breast Augmentation Hospitals in New York City
1. Columbia University - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Columbia University is one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - renowned medical center. Its plastic surgery division has experienced surgeons proficient in multiple areas, including breast augmentation. The division is also at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery.
Services Offered
- Cosmetic Care: Besides breast augmentation, it offers ear and eyelid lifts, tummy tucks, etc.
- Reconstructive Care: Deals with issues like breast reconstruction after breast cancer, skin lesion excision, and nose and ear reconstruction.
Surgeons
Surgeons such as Christine Rohde, MD, a highly skilled clinician, researcher, and teacher, are part of the team. Dr. Rohde specializes in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, and breast reconstruction. Jeffrey A. Ascherman, MD, is an experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon with numerous publications and a long - standing presence on prestigious doctor lists.
2. Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look, ensuring they are satisfied with the results before the surgery.
Treatments Offered
- Breast Implants: Advice on choosing between silicone and saline implants based on body type and desired outcome.
- Naturalfill: Their pioneered fat - transfer technique for breast augmentation.
Surgeon Consultation
Surgeons at Mount Sinai consult with patients, listen to their desires for breast - size enhancement, and help them decide on the best size and shape for their bodies. They also perform a physical exam and confirm the patient's suitability for the procedure.
3. Rowe Plastic Surgery
Dr. Norman Rowe, MD, a board - certified plastic surgeon at Rowe Plastic Surgery, combines extraordinary skills with knowledge of the latest techniques. He specializes in breast procedures, rhinoplasty, and revision procedures.
Services and Benefits
- Customized Approach: The team at Rowe Plastic Surgery carefully considers patients’ cosmetic goals and provides a personalized treatment plan.
- Wide Range of Options: Offers saline implants, silicone implants, structured implants, gummy bear implants, and natural breast augmentation (fat transfer).
- Comprehensive Care: From the consultation to post - operative care, the team is committed to patient satisfaction and provides detailed instructions and support throughout the process.
Factors to Consider Before Breast Augmentation
Cost
The cost of breast augmentation varies. It depends on factors such as the type of procedure, type of implants, surgeon's fees, and facility costs. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost is about $4,500, but this usually doesn't include additional fees like anesthesiologist's fees, operating room charges, and medications. For example, at some clinics, the cost may range from $3,900 to $6,000, while individual surgeons like Dr. Nadia Afridi charge an estimated $8,900, and Dr. Richard Swift's fees range from $5,000 - $10,000.
Recovery Time
The recovery process after breast augmentation typically takes between six to eight weeks. Immediately after surgery, patients may experience swelling and discomfort, which gradually subside. During this period, patients are advised to rest, wear a recovery bra, take prescribed medications, and follow post - operative instructions carefully. For instance, they may need to sleep upright for the first 48 hours, wait about two weeks before sleeping on their side, and avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few weeks.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation has risks. These may include infections, bleeding, changes in nipple or breast sensations, implant leakage or rupture, development of scar tissue, and unsatisfactory outcomes that may require further surgeries. Some patients may also experience complications related to anesthesia, such as respiratory problems and reactions to medication. For example, implant rupture can occur over time, and patients may need to have the implants replaced. It's crucial to have an in - depth conversation with the healthcare provider about these potential risks before making a decision.
Alternatives
If a patient is considering breast augmentation for purely cosmetic reasons and prefers non - surgical options, alternatives include fat grafting, hormonal therapy, and natural remedies. Fat grafting, or fat transfer, involves removing fat from different body parts and injecting it into the breasts. It is considered safer as it uses the body's own tissue, reducing the risk of complications.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
Selecting the right surgeon is crucial for a successful breast augmentation procedure. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
- Credentials: Look for surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This ensures that they have met the highest standards of education, training, and experience in plastic surgery.
- Experience: Check the surgeon's experience in performing breast augmentation surgeries. Surgeons with a long - standing practice and a high volume of successful procedures are generally more reliable. For example, Dr. Richard Swift has over 25 years of experience.
- Reviews and Testimonials: Read online reviews and testimonials from previous patients. This can give you an idea of the surgeon's reputation, patient satisfaction, and the quality of their work.
- Consultation: Schedule consultations with multiple surgeons. During the consultation, ask questions about the procedure, recovery, risks, and costs. Pay attention to how the surgeon communicates with you and whether they listen to your concerns and goals.
Preparing for Breast Augmentation
Proper preparation is essential for a successful breast augmentation. Here's what you need to do:
- Medical History: Have detailed conversations with your surgeon about your medical background, allergies, current medications, and lifestyle habits such as smoking or alcohol consumption. You may need to stop certain medications and habits weeks before the procedure, as they can affect the healing process.
- Practical Arrangements: Organize for someone to be with you on the day of the surgery, schedule sufficient time off work for recovery, and create a comfortable space at home for recuperation. Your surgeon's team will also provide pre - operative fasting and hygiene guidelines.
- Setting Realistic Expectations: Understand that breast augmentation is not a solution for all breast - related issues. It can enhance size and symmetry, but it may not address other concerns such as sagging. Discuss your expectations with your surgeon to ensure they are realistic.
Post - Operative Care
After breast augmentation, proper post - operative care is essential for optimal healing and long - term results. Here are some important aspects of post - operative care:
- Medication: Take prescribed medications to alleviate pain and prevent infection as directed by your surgeon.
- Compression Garment: Wear a compression garment or recovery bra as recommended. This helps reduce swelling and support the breasts during the healing process.
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise for the recommended period. Gradually increase your activity level as your surgeon advises.
- Follow - up Appointments: Attend all follow - up appointments with your surgeon. These appointments allow the surgeon to monitor your healing progress, address any concerns, and provide further instructions.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation can be a life - changing procedure for many individuals in New York City, offering the opportunity to enhance their appearance and boost self - confidence. Columbia University, Mount Sinai, and Rowe Plastic Surgery are three top - ranked hospitals that offer high - quality breast augmentation services. However, before undergoing the procedure, it's crucial to consider factors such as cost, recovery time, risks, and to choose the right surgeon. By making an informed decision and following all pre - and post - operative instructions, patients can achieve the desired results and enjoy the benefits of breast augmentation.
If you're considering breast augmentation, take the time to research, consult with multiple surgeons, and discuss your goals and concerns thoroughly. We encourage you to share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in New York City. For further reading, you can explore the references used in this article to gain more in - depth knowledge about the topic.
