Introduction
Breast augmentation with prostheses is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure for many women in New York City. It can enhance body confidence, correct breast asymmetries, and help women achieve their desired aesthetic. In this article, we will explore the top four popular hospitals in New York City for breast augmentation with prostheses. We will delve into their services, surgical expertise, patient reviews, and what sets them apart from other facilities in the area.
Mount Sinai Hospital
Overview
Mount Sinai is well - known as a leading medical institution in New York City. Their plastic surgery department, specifically for breast augmentation, is staffed with experienced surgeons who are dedicated to providing high - quality care and natural - looking results.
Services Offered
- Advanced 3D Imaging Technology: Before the surgery, Mount Sinai uses state - of - the - art 3D imaging technology. This 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, which helps them make more informed decisions about their desired outcome.
- Multiple Augmentation Options:
- Silicone Breast Implants: These implants look and feel natural in the breasts. They are a popular choice for patients who want a more realistic appearance and texture.
- Saline Breast Implants: Saline implants are firmer and rounder. They can be a good option for certain body types or patient preferences.
- Naturalfill (Fat Transfer): Mount Sinai surgeons pioneered and perfected the Naturalfill® technique. This two - step procedure involves first removing fat from the buttocks or abdomen using liposuction and then immediately inserting that fat into the breasts to enlarge them. It offers the advantage of using the patient's own body fat, resulting in a more natural look and reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
Consultation Process
During the consultation, patients' plastic surgeons listen carefully to understand their desire for enhancing breast size. The doctor will explain the entire procedure, answer any questions, and also help patients decide on the size and shape that will look best for their body. A physical exam is also conducted, which includes asking a series of health - related questions to confirm the patient's suitability for breast augmentation.
Long - Term Results
Patients can expect their breast augmentation results to last for many years. However, factors such as pregnancy, nursing, significant weight gain or loss may cause natural drooping over time. In such cases, Mount Sinai offers follow - up procedures like breast lifts or implant replacements.
Columbia University Plastic Surgery
Overall Reputation
As one of New York's best hospitals and a world - class medical center, Columbia University's plastic surgery department has extensive experience in performing a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including breast augmentation. Their surgeons are proficient in multiple areas of specialization and are at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery.
Range of Services
- Cosmetic and Reconstructive Care: Besides breast augmentation, the department offers ear and eyelid lifts, tummy tucks, and other cosmetic procedures. For reconstructive purposes, they are leaders in breast reconstruction after breast cancer, skin lesion excision, and reconstructive surgery for the nose and ears.
- Specialized Care: They also have programs for cleft palate/cleft lip care and orthoplastic surgery, which brings together leading experts in orthopedic and reconstructive plastic surgery for more personalized treatment options.
Plastic Surgery Team
The team at Columbia consists of highly skilled board - certified surgeons. For example, Dr. Jeffrey A. Ascherman has published over 75 scientific articles and chapters, and 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. The team as a whole ensures that patients receive comprehensive and expert care throughout the breast augmentation process.
Research and Innovation
The plastic surgery research laboratory at Columbia is actively involved in numerous research studies. These include stem cell research, tissue engineering, and the study of bone substitutes. They are also exploring the application of gene therapy to wound healing, which could potentially benefit patients undergoing breast augmentation by improving the healing process.
Rapaport Plastic Surgery
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. David P. Rapaport, a board - certified plastic surgeon, is a world - recognized expert specializing in breast augmentation and breast implant revision for women with previous breast surgery. His extensive experience gives patients confidence in the outcome of their breast augmentation procedures.
Customized Approach
- Breast Augmentation Candidates: Dr. Rapaport carefully evaluates candidates for breast augmentation. The procedure is suitable for women who want to enhance their body contour, correct a reduction in breast volume after pregnancy or with age, balance breast size, correct a congenital deformity, or as part of a reconstructive process after breast surgery. However, he also notes that breast augmentation may not adequately address breast sagging, which may require a breast lift in conjunction with the augmentation.
- Incision Placement: The incision for breast augmentation can be placed in the underarm, under the breast itself, or within the areola. The best placement depends on each patient's needs and preferences. For example, patients who choose silicone implants may require an incision under the breast or areola, while many patients prefer the underarm incision to remove visible scarring from the breast. Dr. Rapaport uses an endoscope to perform a scarless breast augmentation procedure when using the underarm approach, allowing for more precise muscle division and implant positioning.
- Implant Options: He offers both saline and silicone implants. Saline implants can be filled after placement, which is suitable for the scarless breast augmentation technique. Silicone implants typically have a more natural look and feel. Dr. Rapaport discusses these options with patients to help them determine the best type of implant for their anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Procedure and Recovery
Breast augmentation at Rapaport Plastic Surgery can be performed with general anesthesia or IV sedation. Dr. Rapaport generally places the implants under the muscle for a more natural - looking result. Full recovery takes approximately two to three weeks, but patients with non - strenuous jobs can often return to work in just a few days. Strenuous exercise and aerobic activity are restricted for the first ten days, and mild aerobic activity is permitted after ten days, with full activity allowed after three weeks.
Minimizing Risks
Dr. Rapaport takes precautions to minimize the risk of capsular contracture, a common concern with breast implants. He advises patients not to engage in aerobic activity for ten days after surgery to minimize the risk of small bleeding and uses techniques like the “no touch” method with a Keller funnel for implant insertion to avoid contamination.
Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice
Surgeon's Credentials
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board certified plastic surgeon in New York City. His education and training span some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world, including Harvard Medical School, New York University, and the University of Melbourne in Australia. He is also an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, which keeps him at the forefront of advancements in plastic surgery.
Comprehensive Breast Procedures
- True Artistry in Breast Augmentation: Dr. Kolker believes that “beautiful” should be more important than “size” in breast augmentation. He establishes each individual woman's aesthetic goals based on her body type to attain a proportionate outcome and the most natural results.
- Other Breast Procedures: In addition to breast augmentation, he offers breast lift, breast reduction, breast asymmetry correction, breast reconstruction, and tuberous breast correction. This comprehensive range of services allows him to address various breast - related concerns for different patients.
Patient Testimonials
Many patients have reported high levels of satisfaction with Dr. Kolker's work. They praise his ability to listen to their concerns, his artistic skills in achieving natural - looking results, and the overall care they receive during the process. For example, some patients have shared stories of how he was able to correct asymmetrical breasts or help them regain confidence after pregnancy - related breast changes.
Media Recognition
Dr. Kolker has been featured as a top plastic surgeon in New York Magazine's best doctors issues from 2008 - 2024 and as one of America's best plastic surgeons by Newsweek in 2021 - 2024. He is also distinguished in Castle Connolly's America's top doctors lists, which further attests to his reputation and expertise in the field.
Comparative Analysis
| Hospital/Clinic | Unique Services | Surgeon Expertise | Patient - Centric Approach | Research and Innovation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Sinai Hospital | 3D imaging technology, Naturalfill fat transfer technique | Experienced plastic surgeons | Patient - tailored consultations, helping with implant and size selection | Developed and refined unique fat transfer technique |
| Columbia University Plastic Surgery | Comprehensive cosmetic and reconstructive services, specialized care for cleft palate/lip and orthoplastic surgery | Board - certified surgeons with extensive research and publication records | Multidisciplinary approach, personalized treatment plans | Ongoing research in stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy |
| Rapaport Plastic Surgery | Scarless breast augmentation using endoscope, careful consideration of capsular contracture prevention | World - recognized expert in breast augmentation and revision | Customized incision placement and implant selection based on patient needs | Special techniques for minimizing complications like capsular contracture |
| Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice | Artistic approach to breast augmentation, comprehensive breast procedures | Double - board certified, educated at top medical institutions | Listening to patient aesthetic goals, achieving natural - looking results | Keeping up with the latest advancements through academic positions |
Considerations for Choosing a Hospital
Surgeon Qualifications
It is crucial to choose a hospital with board - certified plastic surgeons who have extensive experience in breast augmentation. Look for surgeons who are members of reputable medical associations and have a proven track record of successful surgeries.
Range of Services
Consider hospitals that offer a wide range of breast - related services. This is beneficial in case you may need additional procedures in the future, such as breast lifts or revisions. It also indicates the hospital's comprehensive approach to breast care.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the hospital's quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the overall experience. Positive reviews can give you confidence in your choice, while negative reviews can alert you to potential issues.
Technological Advancements
Hospitals that invest in the latest technology, such as 3D imaging for pre - surgery visualization, can offer a more informed and personalized experience. This can help you make better decisions about your breast augmentation and achieve more satisfying results.
Cost and Payment Options
Breast augmentation can be a significant financial investment. Research the cost of the procedure at different hospitals and explore their payment options. Some hospitals may accept insurance, credit cards, or offer financing plans.
Potential Risks and Complications
It is important to be aware that breast augmentation, like any surgical procedure, comes with potential risks and complications. These may include:
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site or around the implant. Following proper post - operative care instructions, such as taking prescribed antibiotics, can help reduce this risk.
- Bleeding: Some bleeding may occur during or after the surgery. Surgeons take precautions to minimize this risk, but in rare cases, additional treatment may be required.
- Altered Sensation: Patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensations, which can be temporary or permanent.
- Implant - related Issues: These include implant leakage or rupture, capsular contracture (the formation of scar tissue around the implant), and implant malposition.
- Unsatisfactory Results: Despite careful planning, there is a possibility that the final result may not meet your expectations. This may require additional surgeries or adjustments.
Before undergoing breast augmentation, have an in - depth discussion with your surgeon about these potential risks and how they will be managed.
Conclusion
In New York City, Mount Sinai Hospital, Columbia University Plastic Surgery, Rapaport Plastic Surgery, and Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice stand out as top choices for breast augmentation with prostheses. Each of these institutions offers unique services, has highly qualified surgeons, and a patient - centric approach. Whether you are looking for the latest technological advancements, comprehensive breast procedures, or a surgeon with a world - class reputation, these hospitals can meet your needs.
If you are considering breast augmentation, take the time to research these hospitals further, schedule consultations, and discuss your concerns and expectations with the surgeons. By making an informed decision, you can increase the likelihood of achieving the results you desire and a positive overall experience. Take action today and reach out to these top - rated hospitals to start your breast augmentation journey.
