Introduction

Breast augmentation with prostheses has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure in New York City. Many women are seeking to enhance their appearance and boost their self - confidence through this surgery. With numerous hospitals and plastic surgeons offering these services, it can be quite challenging for patients to make the right choice. That's why a new hospital ranking for breast augmentation with prostheses in New York City has been announced. This article will explore the top five hospitals on this list, and also provide in - depth information about breast augmentation, including its types, risks, and the selection of hospitals and surgeons.

Understanding Breast Augmentation with Prostheses

What is Breast Augmentation with Prostheses?

Breast augmentation with prostheses, also known as augmentation mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves placing breast implants to increase the size, shape, and fullness of the breasts. This procedure has been one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgeries in the United States for nearly the past 20 years. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2020 alone, nearly 200,000 women underwent breast augmentation, despite the onset of a global pandemic.

Types of Breast Implants

• Saline Implants: These implants are placed in the breast pocket and are filled to the patient’s desired volume during the procedure. They typically have a uniform shape and firmness and come with fewer risks. If they break, the salt - water is absorbed into the body with no side effects.
• Silicone Implants: Silicone implants are pre - filled and are the closest to the real thing in terms of how they feel. Even if a silicone breast implant leaks, the gel usually doesn’t cause the implant to collapse. In 2020, approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States were performed with silicone implants.
• Structured Implants: They are filled with saline but are placed in an inner mold that makes them feel more like natural breasts.
• Gummy Bear Implants: Also known as cohesive silicone gel implants, they won’t lose their shape even if the shell is compromised. The consistency of the silicone gel is thicker, and the breasts are usually firmer than with traditional implants.

Benefits of Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation offers several benefits. It can boost a woman's self - confidence by allowing her to achieve the breast size and shape she desires. It can also enhance a woman's body silhouette, providing better balance between the chest, waist, and hips. Additionally, breast implants have been known to help lessen the appearance of pectus excavatum, a congenital disorder where the chest becomes sunken in.

Possible Complications

While most patients can enjoy their implants without problems, there are some potential complications. One such complication is Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), a form of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma that has been associated with textured implants and patients who develop a seroma. Another concern is Breast Implant Illness (BII), a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms such as memory loss, joint pain, and fatigue that some women report after having implants placed. However, the cause of BII and its link to synthetic implants is still being investigated.

The Top Five Hospitals for Breast Augmentation with Prostheses in New York City

1. Weill Cornell Medicine

Weill Cornell Medicine is a top - ranked institution for breast surgery and reconstruction. Their surgeons are leaders in plastic and reconstructive surgery, and the care team is equipped to promote comfort throughout the process. They offer the full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, including breast augmentation with implants. Weill Cornell Medicine partners with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S.

• Expert Surgeons: The plastic and reconstructive surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine are highly skilled and able to help patients achieve the natural look they want. They work with patients of all races, ethnicities, genders, and gender identities.
• Patient - Centered Care: The team prioritizes the patient's comfort at every step. Before surgery, patients have time to ask questions. In state - of - the - art surgical suites, the latest anesthetics and medications are used to help patients recover more quickly. After surgery, the care team manages pain and teaches patients how to care for themselves during recovery.
• Location: They have facilities on the Upper East Side, at 525 East 68th Street, Starr 8, New York, NY 10065, and 425 East 61st Street, 10th floor, New York, NY 10065. You can call (646) 962 - 4210 for more information.

2. Mount Sinai - New York

Mount Sinai's 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 before the surgery, ensuring patients are happy with the expected results.

• Implant Options: They offer two types of implants (silicone and saline) and a non - implant option called NaturalFill®, which uses a fat - transfer technique. The surgeons will help patients choose the best option based on their body type and desired outcome.
• Personalized Consultation: Surgeons consult closely with patients, listening to their desires for breast enhancement and helping them decide on the size and shape that will look best for their body. They also perform a physical exam to confirm the patient's candidacy for the procedure.

3. New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center

This institution is ranked No. 4 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals. While it is recognized for its excellence in multiple surgical specialties, including surgical oncology expertise in breast surgery, it also offers high - quality breast augmentation services.

• National Ranking: The hospital ranks nationally in 15 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties. Its high - performing surgical and medical interventions are well - recognized, which reflects the quality of care and expertise available for breast augmentation procedures.
• Comprehensive Care: Patients can expect comprehensive care from a team of experts who are involved in various aspects of surgical treatment, including pre - operative assessment, the surgery itself, and post - operative care.

4. Rowe Plastic Surgery

Dr. Norman Rowe, MD, a board - certified plastic surgeon at Rowe Plastic Surgery, combines his skills with knowledge of the latest techniques to provide natural - looking breast augmentation. The clinic has locations in New Jersey, Manhattan, Long Island, and the Hamptons.

• Customized Treatment: The team carefully considers each patient's cosmetic goals to provide superior breast augmentation results. They offer a variety of breast augmentation options, including saline implants, silicone implants, and fat transfer.
• Patient - Oriented Approach: They are committed to patient satisfaction, taking the time to understand each patient's individual goals and needs. They work closely with patients to create a personalized treatment plan.

5. Dr. Aviva Preminger's Practice

Dr. Aviva Preminger is a highly - regarded plastic surgeon who has been selected as a 2023 Top Doctor® by Castle Connolly. Her boutique practice on the Upper East Side of Manhattan specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face, breast, and body.

• Individualized Treatment: Dr. Preminger offers a compassionate approach and is dedicated to providing each patient with a truly individualized treatment plan to achieve their personal cosmetic surgery goals.
• Advanced Techniques: She uses the latest techniques and treatments, staying on the cutting edge of plastic surgery to generate superior outcomes in both surgical and non - surgical cosmetic surgery.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Augmentation

Surgeon's Experience and Expertise

It is crucial to choose a surgeon who is board - certified and has extensive experience in breast augmentation procedures. Surgeons like those recognized in the America's Best Plastic Surgeons 2024 - Breast Augmentation ranking, such as David Hidalgo, MD, FACS, and Adam R. Kolker, MD, FACS in New York, have proven their expertise in the field. Check their credentials, reviews, and before - and - after photos of their previous patients to assess their skills.

Hospital Reputation

Look for hospitals with a good reputation for providing high - quality care in plastic surgery. Hospitals like Weill Cornell Medicine and New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center have established themselves as leaders in the medical field, which can give you confidence in the safety and success of your procedure.

Technology and Facilities

Advanced technology can enhance the accuracy and safety of the surgery. Hospitals like Mount Sinai that use 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize the results are at an advantage. State - of - the - art surgical facilities and the availability of the latest anesthetics and medications also contribute to a better patient experience and recovery.

Patient Reviews and Testimonials

Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the hospital's services, the surgeon's skills, and the overall patient experience. Look for feedback on aspects such as communication, comfort during the process, and the final results.

Cost and Insurance

Breast augmentation is a significant financial investment. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of breast augmentation is about $4,500, but additional fees for the anesthesiologist, operating room, medications, and tests should also be considered. Most insurance policies don't cover breast augmentation as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. However, some may cover reconstruction after a mastectomy or other medical conditions.

Preparing for Breast Augmentation Surgery

Initial Consultation

During the initial consultation, you will meet the medical team and the plastic surgeon. They will evaluate your medical history, perform a physical examination of your breasts, and take photographs for planning. If you have not completed your family, the surgeon will discuss how pregnancy and nursing may impact the outcomes of the breast enhancement.

In the second consultation, the doctor will help you choose the breast implant that will provide the desired silhouette, go through the surgery plan, and explain the recovery process. You will also need to complete the necessary paperwork and may be recommended to stop taking certain drugs or abstain from smoking before the procedure.

Pre - operative Preparation

To ensure the best results, your surgeon will provide you with a list of instructions to follow. This may include stopping smoking and taking certain medications, refraining from blood - thinning medications, avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs, arranging for someone to drive you home after the surgery, and setting realistic expectations for the outcome.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure

Anesthesia

Breast augmentation is usually performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation anesthesia, depending on the patient's preferences and the surgeon's recommendation.

Incisions

There are several incision options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

• Inframammary Incision: Made under the breast in the natural crease, it leaves a tiny scar (often 1 - 2 inches long) and poses the fewest breastfeeding complications.
• Periareolar Incision: Made around the areola's outer edge, it helps disguise the scar with the areola's natural pigmentation change and has a low risk of affecting breastfeeding.
• Transaxillary Incision: Made in the armpit, it creates the least visible scar tissue and is the least invasive to the mammary gland, making it a preferred option for younger women who want to retain their ability to breastfeed.

Implant Placement

Breast implants can be placed either submuscularly (under the pectoral muscles) or subglandularly (above the pectoral muscles). The decision depends on the patient's anatomy, age, and vocation. Patients with sagging skin may typically have their implants placed subglandularly.

Closure and Recovery

After the implant is placed, the incisions are closed with sutures, and the area is wrapped with a compression garment. The patient will stay in the recovery area until they feel comfortable returning home. The recovery process may involve some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the initial days, but with proper care and following the doctor's instructions, patients can gradually resume their normal activities.

Recovery and After - Care

Immediate Post - operative Period

In the first few 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 and a surgical compression bra to wear for a few weeks. You may need to sleep upright for the first 48 hours, return to work within a few days (as long as you don't do heavy lifting), and avoid raising your arms over your head for a couple of weeks.

Long - term Recovery

Within 2 - 3 weeks, your symptoms should subside enough for you to resume light activities and work. At 6 - 8 weeks, you can start more strenuous activities, such as going to the gym. Although your breasts may still feel firm and tight initially, they will gradually settle into place over a few months.

It is important to attend all follow - up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your recovery and ensure that there are no complications. Also, be aware that breast implants are not intended to be permanent, and you may require additional procedures in the future to maintain their shape and position.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hospital and surgeon for breast augmentation with prostheses is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the outcome of the procedure and your overall satisfaction. The top five hospitals in New York City, including Weill Cornell Medicine, Mount Sinai - New York, New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Rowe Plastic Surgery, and Dr. Aviva Preminger's Practice, offer high - quality services, experienced surgeons, and advanced technology. By considering factors such as surgeon expertise, hospital reputation, technology, and cost, you can make an informed choice.

Before undergoing the procedure, make sure to have a thorough consultation with your surgeon, understand the risks and benefits, and follow all pre - and post - operative instructions. If you are considering breast augmentation, take the time to research and find the best option for you. Contact one of these top - ranked hospitals or surgeons for a consultation to start your journey towards achieving your desired breast appearance.