Introduction
Breast augmentation has emerged as one of the most sought - after cosmetic procedures globally, and New York City, being a hub of medical excellence and beauty standards, offers a plethora of options for women seeking this surgery. Selecting the right hospital for prosthetic breast augmentation is a crucial decision that involves considering factors such as surgeon expertise, patient reviews, advanced techniques, and after - care services. In this article, we will carefully examine three hospitals from the ranking list of prosthetic breast augmentation hospitals in New York City to help you make an informed choice.
1. Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
1.1 Overview
Columbia University's plastic and reconstructive surgery division is renowned as one of New York's best and the world's top medical centers. It has the experience that few other programs can match. The mission of the department is to use its vast resources to deliver the highest quality care for anyone in need of a cosmetic or reconstructive procedure.
1.2 Surgeon Expertise
The clinical staff at Columbia consists of plastic surgeons who are proficient in multiple areas of specialization. This ranges from routine, non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations and body contouring surgery after significant weight loss. Some notable surgeons include:
- Christine Rohde, MD: A highly skilled clinician, researcher, and teacher. She is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, specializing in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, body contouring, cosmetic surgery, and breast, trauma, and cancer reconstruction. She is the chief of microvascular services for the plastic surgery division and has numerous publications and presentations in the field.
- Jeffrey A. Ascherman, MD: 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. He has also been involved in humanitarian surgical missions.
1.3 Services Offered
1.3.1 Cosmetic Care
The cosmetic care program at Columbia provides surgical and non - surgical options to improve cosmetic health. For breast augmentation, it is a part of their comprehensive cosmetic services. Other related services include ear and eyelid lifts, tummy tucks, etc. The breast augmentation here is tailored to individual needs, with surgeons taking into account factors like body type, desired size, and shape.
1.3.2 Reconstructive Care
World - leaders in reconstructive care, the surgeons at Columbia deal with issues like breast reconstruction after breast cancer, skin lesion excision, and reconstructive surgery for the nose and ears. This shows their in - depth knowledge and skills in handling complex cases related to the breast, which can be beneficial for patients who may need secondary or reconstructive procedures post - breast augmentation.
1.3.3 Other Specialized Services
They also offer cleft palate/cleft lip care through their craniofacial surgery program, orthoplastic surgery care that combines orthopedic and reconstructive plastic surgery, and breast reconstructive care dedicated to empowering individuals after breast cancer surgery.
1.4 Patient Experience
As an academic medical center and part of an Ivy League university, Columbia has a strong commitment to patient education. They provide educational guides to help patients make informed decisions about their cosmetic or reconstructive care. Their follow - up services are also comprehensive, with patients having access to experienced surgeons for post - operative consultations. Additionally, the availability of multiple offices in different locations, such as Washington Heights, Midtown, East Side, Westchester, and New Jersey, makes it convenient for patients to visit for appointments.
2. Mount Sinai Plastic Surgery
2.1 Overview
Mount Sinai's plastic surgery department offers specialized breast augmentation services. Their plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation to enlarge breasts and are dedicated to helping patients visualize how their larger breasts will look before the surgery.
2.2 Advanced Technology
One of the significant advantages of choosing Mount Sinai is their use of advanced 3D imaging technology. This technology can demonstrate what the larger breasts will look like on a patient's unique body. By showing various options on a computer monitor, patients can virtually try on different sizes of breasts, allowing them to make a more informed decision about the size and shape they desire.
2.3 Treatment Options
2.3.1 Breast Implants
Mount Sinai offers two main types of breast implants: silicone and saline. Silicone breast implants look and feel more natural in the breasts, closely mimicking the texture of natural breast tissue. Saline breast implants, on the other hand, are firmer and rounder. The surgeons at Mount Sinai advise patients based on their body type and desired outcome, ensuring that the choice of implant is the most suitable for each individual.
2.3.2 Naturalfill (Fat Transfer)
They also offer a new way to augment breasts using a fat transfer technique known as Naturalfill®. This two - step procedure involves first removing fat from the patient's buttocks or abdomen with a liposuction technique and then immediately inserting that fat into the breasts to enlarge them. This is a great option for patients who prefer a more natural approach and want to make use of their own body fat.
2.4 Patient - Centric Approach
Before scheduling the surgery, the surgeons at Mount Sinai consult with patients, listening carefully to understand their desire for enhancing their breast size. They also help patients decide about the size and shape that will look best for their body. A physical exam is performed, including a series of health - related questions, to confirm that the patient is a candidate for breast augmentation.
3. Cangello Plastic Surgery
3.1 Surgeon Expertise
Dr. David L. Cangello is a board - certified plastic surgeon who is well - known for his skills in cosmetic breast surgery. He has perfected the art of breast surgery through extensive experience, meticulous surgical techniques, and an eye for artistic detail. His superior results have earned the trust of professional models from some of the world’s top agencies, such as Wilhelmina Models, IMG Models, and Next Management.
3.2 Artistic Approach
Dr. Cangello takes an artistic approach to breast augmentation that combines medical precision with the principles of aesthetics. He creates elegant results without compromising the integrity of the body’s natural form. Whether a patient desires a subtle look or bold cosmetic enhancements, he incorporates their tastes and preferences into a treatment plan. For example, he carefully considers the natural proportions of the body while enhancing the breasts to ensure a harmonious appearance.
3.3 Treatment Options
3.3.1 Implant Choices
Dr. Cangello offers a variety of breast implant options. There are round and contoured (teardrop) shaped implants. Round implants have volume and fullness all the way around and are softer and feel natural. Contoured implants have a subtle sloping shape to match the curves of natural breasts and require a textured surface to prevent rotation. He also uses both silicone and saline implants. Silicone implants feel more natural and look better aesthetically, while saline implants can be inserted through a smaller incision and are a good option for younger patients (approved for at least 18 - year - olds).
3.3.2 Fat Grafting
He is one of only two surgeons in the world trained in fat grafting techniques by one of the pioneers in the field, Dr. Sydney Coleman. For patients seeking a modest size enlargement without implants, breast augmentation via fat grafting is an option. This technique uses the patient's own fat, which is harvested, purified, and then injected into the breasts.
3.4 Patient Experience
Dr. Cangello provides a warm and welcoming environment in his Park Avenue office in NYC. During the consultation, he addresses all the patient's questions and concerns and determines their suitability for the procedure based on their medical history and current health. He has a state - of - the - art, fully accredited (AAAASF) operating room at his NYC office, where most of his plastic surgery procedures are performed. For added safety, he only works with board - certified anesthesiologists. After the surgery, he provides clear instructions for recovery and schedules follow - up appointments at one week, four weeks, and 12 weeks to ensure optimal healing.
Comparative Analysis of the Three Hospitals
4.1 Surgeon Expertise
| Hospital | Surgeon Specialties | Experience and Reputation |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia University | Multiple areas including microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, breast, trauma, and cancer reconstruction | Highly experienced surgeons with numerous publications and national/international recognition |
| Mount Sinai | Breast augmentation, fat transfer for breast enhancement | Extensive experience in breast - related surgeries and use of advanced 3D imaging technology |
| Cangello Plastic Surgery | Cosmetic breast surgery, artistic approach to breast augmentation, fat grafting | Trusted by professional models, trained in specialized fat grafting techniques |
4.2 Treatment Options
| Hospital | Implant Options | Non - Implant Options |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia University | Standard silicone and saline implants, customized based on patient needs | As part of a comprehensive reconstructive program, may offer options for fat transfer in some cases |
| Mount Sinai | Silicone and saline implants, advice based on body type | Naturalfill® (fat transfer technique) |
| Cangello Plastic Surgery | Round and contoured silicone and saline implants | Breast augmentation via fat grafting |
4.3 Patient Experience
| Hospital | Consultation Process | Post - operative Care |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia University | Educational guides provided, thorough evaluation of patient's medical history | Comprehensive follow - up services, multiple office locations for convenience |
| Mount Sinai | Use of 3D imaging to help patients visualize results, in - depth consultation on size and shape | Surgeons and staff available to answer questions during recovery |
| Cangello Plastic Surgery | Warm and welcoming environment, addressing all patient concerns, personalized treatment plan | Clear recovery instructions, scheduled follow - up appointments at specific intervals |
Considerations for Choosing a Hospital for Breast Augmentation
5.1 Surgeon's Experience and Qualifications
The skill and experience of the surgeon are of utmost importance. A board - certified surgeon with a proven track record in breast augmentation is more likely to deliver satisfactory results. Look for surgeons who have extensive experience in the specific type of breast augmentation you are interested in, whether it's using implants or fat transfer. Check their educational background, professional affiliations, and any awards or recognitions they have received.
5.2 Treatment Options
Consider the range of treatment options offered by the hospital. Different patients have different preferences and needs. Some may prefer silicone implants for a more natural look, while others may opt for saline implants or fat transfer. A hospital that offers a variety of options can better meet your individual requirements.
5.3 Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the hospital's quality of care, the surgeon's bedside manner, and the overall patient experience. Look for reviews that discuss the results of the breast augmentation, the level of satisfaction, and any complications that may have occurred. However, keep in mind that individual experiences can vary.
5.4 Cost and Financing Options
The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on factors such as the type of procedure, the surgeon's fee, and the location of the hospital. It's important to get a detailed breakdown of the costs involved. Additionally, check if the hospital offers financing options, as this can make the procedure more affordable. Some common financing options include in - house financing, third - party medical loans, and payment plans.
5.5 After - care Services
The post - operative period is crucial for achieving the best results and ensuring a smooth recovery. A hospital that provides comprehensive after - care services, such as regular follow - up appointments, guidance on self - care, and emotional support, is highly desirable. This can help minimize complications and ensure that you are well - cared for during the recovery process.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hospital for prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Columbia University, Mount Sinai, and Cangello Plastic Surgery are three excellent options, each with its own unique strengths. Columbia University offers a comprehensive range of plastic and reconstructive services with highly experienced surgeons and a strong academic background. Mount Sinai stands out for its use of advanced 3D imaging technology and diverse treatment options, including fat transfer. Cangello Plastic Surgery is known for its artistic approach to breast augmentation and personalized patient care. Before making a decision, it's important to assess your own needs, preferences, and budget. Consult with the surgeons at these hospitals to get a better understanding of the procedures, the expected results, and the recovery process. Remember to also consider factors such as surgeon expertise, treatment options, patient reviews, cost, and after - care services. We encourage you to take the time to do thorough research and have in - depth consultations with the medical teams. By making an informed decision, you can increase your chances of having a successful breast augmentation experience and achieving the desired results.
