Introduction
Breast augmentation with silicone implants has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure for women looking to enhance their appearance and boost their self - confidence. New York City, a hub of medical excellence, offers a plethora of options for this procedure. In this article, we will explore the top 5 hospitals in New York City that excel in breast augmentation with silicone implants, delving into their services, expertise, and patient satisfaction.
Importance of Choosing the Right Hospital for Breast Augmentation
Selecting the appropriate hospital for breast augmentation is a crucial decision. The right hospital can ensure a safe and successful procedure, as well as satisfactory long - term results. A reputable hospital will have experienced surgeons, state - of - the - art facilities, and a comprehensive approach to patient care. This includes pre - operative consultations, detailed implant selection processes, and thorough post - operative follow - up. Additionally, the hospital's adherence to strict safety and quality standards is of utmost importance to minimize the risk of complications.
Understanding Silicone Breast Implants
Types of Silicone Implants
There are different types of silicone breast implants available in the market. Cohesive silicone gel implants, also known as gummy bear implants, were developed in the 1990s. These implants feature a thick silicone gel that keeps its form and minimizes the risk of leakage if the implant becomes compromised. They are available in an extensive variety of shapes and sizes to mimic most breast shapes and fit a wider range of chest dimensions. Another type is the standard silicone gel implant, which also provides a natural look and feel but may have different consistency and characteristics compared to gummy bear implants.
Benefits of Silicone Implants
- Natural Look and Feel: Silicone implants are known for their ability to provide a more natural look and feel compared to saline implants. They are softer and allow for more natural movement, closely resembling the feel of natural breast tissue. Dr. David P. Rapaport of Rapaport Plastic Surgery notes that for patients who value a “natural feel” above all else, silicone is often the preferred choice. He mentions that a silicone implant can be likened to the feeling of squeezing a down pillow, while a saline implant is more like squeezing a foam pillow.
- Less Visible Rippling: Women with little breast tissue or body fat are more likely to experience visible rippling with saline implants. Silicone implants reduce this risk significantly, as they are less likely to cause rippling that can be seen or felt through the skin.
- Lower Risk of Rupture: Silicone implants are generally less likely to rupture than saline implants. According to the FDA, ruptured silicone implants are not associated with breast cancer or other diseases, although removing a ruptured silicone implant does require a more complicated surgery.
Top 5 Hospitals in New York City for Breast Augmentation with Silicone Implants
Mount Sinai Hospital
Surgeon Expertise
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures. They are well - versed in using the latest technologies and techniques to ensure the best possible results. Before the surgery, they use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients 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.
Implant Options
Mount Sinai offers two main types of breast implants: silicone and saline. For silicone breast implants, they advise patients based on their body type and desired outcome. These silicone implants look and feel natural in the breasts. Additionally, Mount Sinai surgeons have pioneered and perfected a new way to augment breasts using a fat transfer technique known as Natural Fill®, which can be an alternative to implant - based augmentation for some patients.
Patient Care
The hospital emphasizes patient satisfaction and takes a personalized approach to each patient. The surgeons consult with patients to understand their desire for enhancing breast size, help them decide on the size and shape that will look best for their bodies, and explain the entire procedure during the consultation. They also perform a physical exam and ask a series of health - related questions to confirm that the patient is a suitable candidate for breast augmentation.
Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice
Surgeon 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.
Breast Augmentation Approach
Dr. Kolker believes that true artistry in breast augmentation is based on the concept that “beautiful” should be more important than “size.” He establishes each individual woman's aesthetic goals, taking into account her body type, to attain a proportionate outcome and the most natural results. He has extensive experience in breast augmentation and has been featured in numerous media articles and television appearances for his expertise.
Patient Testimonials
Many patients have shared positive testimonials about their experience with Dr. Kolker. Patients have praised him for his ability to make the “impossible, possible,” such as correcting asymmetrical breasts. They also appreciate his attention to detail and personalized approach, which has had a profound impact on their lives and self - confidence.
Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice
Surgeon Experience
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon renowned for his commitment to patient care and excellent results. He has worked closely with Allergan, a leading name in cosmetic pharmaceuticals and devices, and was a select investigator during the original development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants.
Implant Selection Process
Dr. Sherman takes a comprehensive approach to implant selection. He considers factors such as implant material (silicone implants are pre - filled and ready to be inserted), shape (round or anatomical), size (measured in cubic centimeters, with sizes ranging from 120cc to 800cc), and texture (textured implants can prevent rotation). He works closely with each patient to identify the implant specifications that will deliver optimal results.
Patient - Centered Care
The practice offers personalized consultations where Dr. Sherman discusses the patient's aesthetic goals, reviews their medical history, examines their breasts, and takes measurements. He then devises a personalized treatment plan and explains the details of the surgery. He also provides detailed instructions for pre - operative preparation and post - operative recovery.
Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice
Surgeon Background
Dr. Barry Weintraub is a board - certified plastic surgeon who is Ivy League educated at the Weill - Cornell Medical Center. He is a national spokesperson for the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has more than two decades of experience. He is known for his aesthetic judgment and keen eye toward natural beauty.
Breast Augmentation Technique
Whenever possible, Dr. Weintraub performs breast augmentation by inserting the implant through the armpit (transaxillary subpectoral approach). This approach has several advantages, including no jeopardy to nipple sensation, no hindrance to future breastfeeding, no visible scars near the breast, less pain, less post - operative downtime, and less swelling and bruising.
Safety and Patient Support
Dr. Weintraub prioritizes safety during the procedure. He prefers his patients to be in a comfortable state of twilight sleep and insists on the most sterile conditions in the operating room with board - certified anesthesiologists and state - of - the - art monitoring equipment. He also provides detailed post - operative instructions and support to ensure the best possible results.
Rapaport Plastic Surgery
Surgeon's Knowledge
Dr. David P. Rapaport, a board - certified plastic surgeon, has over 25 years of experience examining both saline and silicone implants. He provides a range of options, including both saline and silicone breast implants, and works closely with each patient to determine the ideal choice.
Silicone Implant Advocacy
Dr. Rapaport often recommends silicone implants, particularly for thin women with very little breast tissue. He highlights the benefits of silicone implants, such as their natural look and feel, lower risk of rupture, and reduced visibility of rippling compared to saline implants. However, he also acknowledges that the best implant choice depends on the patient's unique anatomy, circumstances, and aesthetic goals.
Patient - Tailored Decisions
The practice focuses on making patient - tailored decisions. Dr. Rapaport discusses all the options in detail with patients, offering experienced recommendations based on a thorough evaluation and examination. This ensures that patients are well - informed and can make the best choice for their breast augmentation.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Augmentation
Surgeon Qualifications
One of the most important factors is the qualifications of the surgeon. Look for board - certified plastic surgeons who have extensive experience in breast augmentation procedures. Check their education, training, and any additional certifications or awards they may have received. Surgeons with a long - standing reputation in the field are more likely to have the skills and expertise to perform a successful breast augmentation.
Hospital Facilities
The quality of the hospital facilities is crucial. State - of - the - art facilities can ensure a safer and more comfortable surgical experience. Look for hospitals with modern operating rooms, advanced monitoring equipment, and appropriate post - operative recovery areas. The cleanliness and maintenance of the facilities also play a role in preventing infections and other complications.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care at a particular hospital. Look for reviews that mention the surgeon's skills, the overall patient experience, and the long - term results of the breast augmentation. Positive reviews from satisfied patients are a good indication of a hospital's reputation and the likelihood of a successful procedure.
Cost and Insurance
Cost is also an important consideration. The price of breast augmentation can vary depending on factors such as the surgeon's fees, the type of implants used, and the hospital facilities. It's important to get a detailed quote and understand what is included in the cost. Additionally, check if your insurance will cover any part of the procedure, although breast augmentation is typically considered a cosmetic procedure and may not be covered.
Pre - operative and Post - operative Care
Pre - operative Preparation
Pre - operative preparation is essential for a successful breast augmentation. Patients may be required to have a medical clearance from their family physician. They will also need to follow pre - operative instructions, such as quitting smoking or using any nicotine products, tapering off certain medications or supplements that may increase bleeding, arranging for someone to pick them up after the surgery, and designating a comfortable space to recover at home. Some hospitals may also provide custom - made post - surgical garments.
Post - operative Recovery
After the surgery, patients can expect some swelling, discomfort, and bruising in the initial days. They will be given a prescription for pain medication and a surgical compression bra to wear for a few weeks. In 2 - 3 weeks, they can usually resume light activities and work, and at 6 - 8 weeks, they can start more strenuous activities. It's important to follow all post - operative instructions provided by the surgeon, including attending follow - up appointments, to ensure proper healing and the best possible results.
Potential Risks and Complications
General Surgical Risks
As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation with silicone implants carries some general risks, such as infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Infections can occur at the incision site or around the implant, and bleeding may require additional treatment. Adverse reactions to anesthesia can range from mild nausea and vomiting to more serious respiratory problems.
Implant - Specific Risks
There are also implant - specific risks. One such risk is breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), a form of non - Hodgkin's lymphoma that has been linked to textured breast implants. Although the number of cases worldwide is relatively small, it is still a concern. Another risk is breast implant illness (BII), which refers to a variety of symptoms reported by women after having implants placed, such as memory loss, joint pain, and fatigue. The cause of BII is still not fully understood and is being investigated.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New York City offers a wealth of options for women seeking breast augmentation with silicone implants. The top 5 hospitals we have discussed - Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice, Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice, Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice, and Rapaport Plastic Surgery - each have their own unique strengths, including experienced surgeons, advanced technologies, and patient - centered care. When considering breast augmentation, it's important to thoroughly research and evaluate your options based on factors such as surgeon qualifications, hospital facilities, patient reviews, and cost. By making an informed decision and following pre - and post - operative care instructions, you can increase the likelihood of a successful and satisfying breast augmentation experience.
Call - to - Action
If you're interested in learning more about breast augmentation with silicone implants or would like to schedule a consultation at one of the top hospitals in New York City, don't hesitate to reach out. You can visit the websites of the hospitals or surgeons mentioned in this article, or contact them directly by phone. Take the first step towards achieving your aesthetic goals and enhancing your self - confidence today!
