Introduction
Prosthetic breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery that many women in New York City consider to enhance their appearance and self - confidence. With numerous hospitals offering this service, it can be challenging to select the right one. In this article, we will explore some of the highly - rated hospitals in New York City for prosthetic breast augmentation, looking at their services, expertise, and patient satisfaction.
Top - Rated Hospitals for Prosthetic Breast Augmentation in New York City
1. Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties, as per the information from US News Best Hospitals. It is one of the top choices for breast augmentation in New York City.
Services Offered
- Advanced Imaging Technology: The plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai use the latest 3D imaging technology. This technology allows patients to visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique bodies. By showing various options on a computer monitor, patients can virtually "try on" different sizes of breasts, helping them make a more informed decision about their desired outcome.
- Multiple Augmentation Options:
- Silicone Breast Implants: These implants look and feel natural in the breasts. They closely mimic the texture and feel of natural breast tissue.
- Saline Breast Implants: A firmer, rounder option. They have the advantage of potentially being placed through a slightly shorter incision.
- Naturalfill (Fat Transfer): A unique two - step procedure pioneered and perfected by Mount Sinai surgeons. First, fat is removed from the buttocks or abdomen using liposuction. Then, this fat is immediately inserted into the breasts to enlarge them, using the patient's own fat deposits. This option is a win - win as it takes fat from an unwanted area to enhance the breasts.
- Comprehensive Consultation: Surgeons take the time to listen to patients' desires for enhancing their breast size. They also help patients decide about the size and shape that will look best for their bodies. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon explains what happens during the procedure and answers any questions the patient may have. A physical exam and a series of health - related questions are also part of the process to confirm the patient's suitability for breast augmentation.
Expertise of Surgeons
The plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. Their experience, combined with the hospital's state - of - the - art facilities, ensures that patients receive high - quality care and satisfactory results.
Patient Outcomes
Patients can expect their breast augmentation results to last for many years. However, as with natural breasts, factors such as pregnancy, nursing, and significant weight gain or loss may cause natural drooping over time. In such cases, Mount Sinai offers options like breast lifts or implant replacements.
2. Columbia University Irving Medical Center
Columbia is recognized as one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - class medical center. Its plastic surgery department offers excellent breast augmentation services.
Services Offered
- Cosmetic Care Program: In addition to breast augmentation, the cosmetic care program provides surgical and non - surgical options to improve cosmetic health. This includes ear and eyelid lifts, tummy tucks, and more. For breast augmentation, the hospital offers a range of implant options to meet the diverse needs of patients.
- Reconstructive Care: The plastic surgeons at Columbia are world leaders in reconstructive care, including breast reconstruction after breast cancer. Their expertise in breast - related surgeries makes them well - equipped to handle various breast augmentation cases, especially for patients with specific anatomical or medical conditions.
- Multidisciplinary Approach: The hospital brings together experts from different fields to provide comprehensive care. For example, the orthoplastic surgery program combines orthopedic and reconstructive plastic surgery for complex surgeries, offering lower wound complication rates and higher patient satisfaction in recovery.
Expertise of Surgeons
Each plastic surgeon on the clinical staff is proficient in multiple areas of specialization. They are involved in clinical and laboratory research, staying at the forefront of plastic surgery advancements. The surgeons have a wide range of experience, from routine non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations and body contouring surgery after significant weight loss.
Patient Experience
The hospital has a patient - centric approach, focusing on providing compassionate and personalized care. The surgical team takes the time to understand the patient's goals and concerns, and develops a customized treatment plan accordingly. Columbia also offers educational resources to help patients make informed decisions about their cosmetic or reconstructive care.
3. NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals are nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties. They are also a popular choice for breast augmentation in New York City.
Services Offered
- Advanced Implant Technology: NYU Langone offers the latest breast implant options, including both silicone and saline implants. The hospital keeps up with the latest research and advancements in implant technology to provide patients with the best possible results.
- Comprehensive Breast Care: In addition to augmentation, the hospital provides a full range of breast - related services, such as breast reduction, breast lift, and breast reconstruction. This comprehensive approach allows patients to address all their breast - related concerns under one roof.
- Patient - Specific Planning: The plastic surgeons at NYU Langone take a personalized approach to breast augmentation. They consider the patient's body type, aesthetic goals, and medical history to develop a customized treatment plan. This ensures that the final results are natural - looking and proportionate to the patient's body.
Expertise of Surgeons
The plastic surgeons at NYU Langone are highly skilled and experienced in breast augmentation procedures. They are trained at top - tier medical institutions and stay updated on the latest surgical techniques and research. Their expertise allows them to perform complex procedures with precision and achieve excellent patient outcomes.
Patient Support
NYU Langone provides extensive patient support throughout the breast augmentation process. This includes pre - operative counseling, post - operative care, and follow - up appointments to monitor the patient's recovery and ensure their satisfaction with the results.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
Surgeon's Experience and Expertise
The experience and expertise of the plastic surgeon are crucial factors. Look for surgeons who are board - certified, have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures, and have a proven track record of delivering satisfactory results. You can research the surgeon's credentials, read patient testimonials, and view before - and - after photos of their previous patients.
Hospital Reputation
Consider the hospital's reputation in the medical community. Look for hospitals that are nationally ranked, have a history of providing high - quality care, and are recognized for their expertise in plastic surgery. You can refer to rankings such as those from US News & World Report to get an idea of the hospital's standing.
Available Services and Technology
Check the range of services offered by the hospital. A good hospital should offer multiple breast augmentation options, including different types of implants and additional procedures such as breast lifts or reconstructions. Also, look for hospitals that use the latest technology, such as 3D imaging, to help patients visualize their results and make informed decisions.
Patient Experience and Satisfaction
Read patient reviews and testimonials to understand the experiences of previous patients. Look for hospitals that prioritize patient comfort, provide comprehensive pre - and post - operative care, and have a high patient satisfaction rate. A hospital with a good patient experience will ensure that you feel supported throughout the entire breast augmentation process.
Cost and Insurance
Breast augmentation costs can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implants, the surgeon's fee, and the hospital's location. It's important to understand the total cost of the procedure and whether your insurance will cover any part of it. Some hospitals may offer financing options to help make the procedure more affordable.
Types of Breast Implants
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are filled with a silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. They are a popular choice because they look and feel more natural compared to other types of implants. The latest cohesive silicone gel implants, also known as gummy bear implants, are even more popular as they maintain their shape better and have a lower risk of leakage. In 2020, approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States were performed with silicone implants.
Saline Implants
Saline implants are filled with a salt - water solution. They are generally less expensive than silicone implants and have the advantage of being able to be adjusted in volume during the procedure. Saline implants can also be inserted through a slightly smaller incision. However, they may feel firmer and less natural compared to silicone implants.
Textured vs. Smooth Implants
Textured implants have a rough surface that allows the tissues to heal more closely around the implant, preventing it from rotating or becoming displaced. Smooth implants, on the other hand, have a smoother surface and may be more likely to move within the breast pocket. However, textured implants have been associated with a small risk of developing breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), a rare form of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Consultation
The first step in the breast augmentation process is a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During the consultation, the surgeon will review your medical history, examine your breasts, and discuss your aesthetic goals. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about the different types of implants, incision options, and the overall procedure. Some surgeons may use 3D imaging technology to help you visualize your potential results.
Pre - operative Preparation
Before the surgery, you will need to follow certain pre - operative instructions. These may include quitting smoking, avoiding certain medications and supplements that can increase bleeding, and arranging for someone to drive you home after the procedure. You may also need to have a pre - operative physical exam and laboratory tests to ensure that you are in good health for the surgery.
The Surgery
Breast augmentation is typically an outpatient procedure that takes about 1 - 2 hours. You will be given either local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision, either below the crease of the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit. A pocket will be created behind the breast tissue or the pectoral muscle, and the implant will be inserted. The incisions will then be closed with sutures.
Recovery
After the surgery, you will need to recover in a recovery area under the supervision of medical staff. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication. You will be given a surgical compression bra to wear for a few weeks to support the breasts and reduce swelling. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, but strenuous activity should be avoided for at least two weeks. It may take several months for the swelling to completely subside and the implants to settle into place.
Potential Risks and Complications
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is a common complication after breast augmentation. It occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to become hard, misshapen, and sometimes painful. Capsular contracture can be treated by removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, placing new implants. The use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) such as Strattice or Alloderm has shown promising results in preventing capsular contracture.
Infection
Infection can occur after breast augmentation, usually within a week after surgery. Symptoms of infection may include fever, redness, swelling, and pain. Infections can usually be treated with antibiotics, and in some cases, the implant may need to be removed.
Implant Rupture
Implant rupture can occur as a result of injury or normal wear and tear. If a saline implant ruptures, the salt - water is harmlessly absorbed by the body, and the breast will appear deflated. If a silicone implant ruptures, the silicone gel may remain within the breast pocket or migrate to other areas of the body. In either case, a revision surgery is usually required to replace the implant.
Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)
BIA - ALCL is a rare form of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma that has been associated with textured breast implants. Although the actual number of cases worldwide is relatively small, it is important to be aware of this risk. Research is ongoing to better understand the causes and treatment of BIA - ALCL.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
Breast implant illness is a term used to describe a range of symptoms that some women experience after having breast implants. These symptoms may include fatigue, joint pain, memory loss, and “brain fog.” However, the cause of BII is not well - understood, and more research is needed.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hospital for prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Hospitals like Mount Sinai Hospital, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, and NYU Langone Hospitals offer excellent services, experienced surgeons, and advanced technology. When making your decision, it's important to consider factors such as the surgeon's expertise, the hospital's reputation, the available services, patient experience, and the potential risks and complications. By doing thorough research and having open communication with your surgeon, you can increase your chances of achieving your desired results and a positive overall experience.
Call - to - Action
If you are considering prosthetic breast augmentation in New York City, take the time to schedule consultations with the hospitals and surgeons mentioned in this article. Discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations to find the best fit for you. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in New York City, and explore related topics such as the latest advancements in breast implant technology or post - operative care tips.
