Introduction

Breast volume reduction surgery is a popular and significant procedure for many women in New York City. It can relieve physical discomfort, enhance self - confidence, and improve overall quality of life. However, choosing the right plastic hospital for this surgery is crucial. In this article, we will explore some of the top - level plastic hospitals in New York City that offer high - quality breast volume reduction surgeries.

1. Breast Reduction Center of NYC

1.1 Overview

The Breast Reduction Center of NYC, located on the upper east side in Manhattan, is a premier destination for breast reduction plastic surgery. It is staffed by top - rated board - certified or board - eligible plastic surgeons. What sets it apart is the emphasis on personalized patient care and a beautiful private and relaxed environment. Patients here can enjoy a surgical experience that avoids the impersonal nature and excessive paperwork of large - scale hospitals.

1.2 Services and Features

• High Volume of Surgeries: The center performs hundreds of breast reduction surgeries each year. This high volume indicates the experience and proficiency of the surgeons. For example, they have dealt with a wide range of cases, from mild to severe breast hypertrophy.
• Unique Surgical Techniques: Surgeons at the center do not use drains in breast reductions, and all the stitches dissolve on their own. This makes post - op care much less complicated for patients. Also, they use a special technique called a nerve block during surgery, which eliminates the need for prescription pain medicine. Patients only need over - the - counter Tylenol and ibuprofen for recovery. Even patients with very large breast reduction volumes, some over 7 pounds, can be treated using this technique.
• Insurance and Consultation: The center is in - network with Cigna, United Healthcare, and Oxford (excluding United Healthcare community plan and Oxford metro plans). It may accept the Empire plan (NYSHIP), Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Aetna plans if patients have out - of - network benefits. Unfortunately, it does not accept Medicare, Medicaid, Medi - Cal, Tri - Care, Amida Care, Fidelis, and Metroplus plans. The center offers virtual consultations from anywhere in the world, which provides flexibility for patients. During a complimentary 15 - minute phone consultation, patients can ask questions about surgery, costs, financing, and health insurance coverage.

1.3 Patient Eligibility

Typically, breast reduction surgery at this center may be considered reconstructive and medically necessary when one or more of the following criteria are met:

1. Your breasts are creating medical problems such as shoulder, back, or neck pain.
2. Your bra straps are causing significant grooving in your shoulders.
3. Your breasts are causing bad posture characterized by hunched shoulders and a curved back.
4. You have limitations on physical activity impacting your ability to perform household chores, work duties, or exercise due to your breast size.
5. You experience headaches or nerve compression syndromes due to the weight of your breasts.
6. You develop rashes and/or infections on the trapped skin under your breasts.

1.4 Patient Testimonials

Many patients have had positive experiences at the Breast Reduction Center of NYC. One patient said, “My surgery experience at the breast reduction center was nothing short of perfect. After years and years of agonizing over the decision, I’m so happy I pulled the trigger and had my surgery there. I’m thrilled with the results and could not have had a more positive experience with the entire team. Communication was effortless and I always had my questions answered as soon as they came up, I was checked in on in the most thoughtful ways pre and post - surgery, literally nothing to complain about. It’s been nothing short of life - changing.”

2. Columbia Surgery - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

2.1 Overview

Columbia University's plastic and reconstructive surgery department is one of New York's best hospitals and a world - class medical center. With extensive experience, it uses its vast resources to deliver high - quality care for both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including breast reduction surgery.

2.2 Services and Features

• Diverse Plastic Surgery Programs: The department offers a wide range of plastic surgery programs, including cosmetic care, reconstructive care, cleft palate/cleft lip care, orthoplastic surgery care, and breast reconstructive care. In the context of breast reduction, it combines both surgical expertise and research capabilities.
• Expert Surgeons: Each plastic surgeon on the clinical staff is proficient in multiple areas of specialization. For example, Dr. Christine Rohde is a highly skilled clinician, researcher, and teacher, trained in 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.
• Research - Driven Approach: The plastic surgery research laboratory is actively involved in numerous research studies. It focuses on areas such as stem cells, tissue engineering, bone substitutes, and gene therapy for wound healing. This research - driven approach may lead to better surgical techniques and outcomes for breast reduction patients.

2.3 Cosmetic and Reconstructive Procedures

Columbia Surgery offers a variety of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures related to the breast. In addition to breast reduction, it includes breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reconstruction after mastectomy. The ability to offer a comprehensive range of breast - related procedures allows for a more holistic approach to patient care. For example, if a patient has had breast cancer and also needs a reduction, the center can handle all aspects of the reconstruction and reduction process.

2.4 How to Contact

To get in touch with one of the plastic surgeons at Columbia Surgery, patients can call (212) 305 - 3103 or request an appointment online. The department has multiple offices in New York City, including locations in Washington Heights, Midtown, East Side, Westchester, and New Jersey, providing convenient access for patients from different areas.

3. Mount Sinai - New York

3.1 Overview

Mount Sinai's team of highly trained and qualified plastic surgeons is well - known for breast enhancement, including breast reduction surgery. The hospital provides a warm, caring, and supportive environment for patients to discuss their private and sensitive concerns about their bodies.

3.2 Patient Eligibility

To be eligible for breast reduction surgery at Mount Sinai, patients should:

• Maintain a healthy, stable weight.
• Not plan on future pregnancies which will affect their breasts.
• Be physically mature with fully - developed breasts and emotionally mature about their choice.

3.3 Benefits of Breast Reduction

Women may consider breast reduction at Mount Sinai for several reasons:

• Less neck, back, and shoulder pain caused by the weight of heavy breasts.
• Improved self - confidence about breast size.
• Decreased breast size to be in proportion with their body frame.
• Nipples pointing in a more upward position.
• Relief from chafing and skin irritation caused by sagging breast skin.
• Balanced size of breasts.

Patients may also choose to combine breast reduction with breast lift or as part of a mommy makeover for a more complete enhancement.

4. Park Plaza Plastic Surgery Center

4.1 Overview

Park Plaza Plastic Surgery Center in New York City, led by Dr. George Lefkovitz, is a popular choice for breast reduction surgery. The center focuses on providing detailed information to patients about the procedure, its risks, and benefits.

4.2 Patient Considerations

The age range for the breast reduction procedure at this center varies from young to older age. However, it is more often performed on patients who have finished their pregnancies. Some women may choose to postpone the surgery until they finish expanding their family and breastfeeding their babies, as breastfeeding after breast reduction surgery can be challenging but not impossible. Also, overweight women may be advised to try reducing their weight first, as losing weight may reduce breast size.

4.3 Procedure Details

Breast reduction surgery at Park Plaza Plastic Surgery Center usually includes lifting the breasts. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, either in the hospital or the office operating room. There are two main incision patterns: an incision around the areola with a line down, which is used for most operations, and for patients with extremely large and hanging breasts, an incision in the shape of an anchor or inverted t may be made. Drains are often used but can be removed within 1 - 2 days.

4.4 Costs and Insurance

The total price of breast reduction surgery depends on factors such as the surgeon's experience and reputation, the type of procedure, and the physical location of the clinic. The center accepts most out - of - network major medical insurances for breast reduction, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, and others. Patients should call the office at (212) 750 - 9494 to see if their insurance qualifies.

4.5 Complications and Risks

As with any surgical procedure, there are possible complications following breast reduction at this center. These may include scarring, bleeding, infection, decreased or loss of nipple sensation, inability to breastfeed, opening of the wound, breast asymmetry, and partial or complete loss of nipple and need for revision. However, the surgeons will discuss these risks in detail with patients during the consultation.

5. Comparing the Top Hospitals

5.1 Surgical Techniques

Different hospitals have their unique surgical techniques. The Breast Reduction Center of NYC uses no drains and dissolvable stitches, along with a nerve block for pain management. Columbia Surgery's research - driven approach may lead to the use of innovative techniques. Mount Sinai focuses on patient - centered care and may use techniques based on the patient's specific needs. Park Plaza Plastic Surgery Center has two common incision patterns depending on breast size.

5.2 Insurance and Financing

Insurance coverage varies among the hospitals. The Breast Reduction Center of NYC has a specific list of accepted insurance plans. Columbia Surgery may have its own insurance policies related to plastic surgery. Mount Sinai may help patients understand insurance coverage, and Park Plaza Plastic Surgery Center accepts a range of out - of - network major medical insurances. Some hospitals may also offer financing options, such as CareCredit, to help patients manage out - of - pocket expenses.

5.3 Patient Experience

Patient experience is a crucial factor. The Breast Reduction Center of NYC emphasizes personalized care and a relaxed environment. Columbia Surgery, being an academic medical center, offers a comprehensive range of services and a team of expert surgeons. Mount Sinai provides a warm and supportive atmosphere. Park Plaza Plastic Surgery Center focuses on detailed communication with patients about the procedure and its implications.

5.4 Success Rates and Reputation

The success rates of breast reduction surgeries are often related to the experience and skills of the surgeons. Hospitals like the Breast Reduction Center of NYC, with a high volume of surgeries each year, may have a proven track record. Columbia Surgery's reputation as a world - class medical center adds credibility to its plastic surgery services. Patient testimonials can also give an indication of the success rates and the overall reputation of the hospitals.

6. Preparing for Breast Reduction Surgery

6.1 Consultation

Before undergoing breast reduction surgery, patients should schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During the consultation, the surgeon will ask about the patient's reasons for the operation, current general health, lifestyle, wishes, and expectations. The surgeon will also explain how the operation is performed, what preparations are needed, how the recovery will go, and discuss the postoperative lifestyle. In addition, the financial plan and options will be discussed.

6.2 Medical Preparations

Surgeons may ask for a mammogram before the operation, as well as certain necessary analyzes. They will give instructions on eating, drinking, and taking medication just before the surgery. Patients should quit smoking as soon as possible, organize help for the recovery period, get appropriate support garments, and obtain the necessary medication prescribed by the doctor.

7. Recovery After Breast Reduction Surgery

7.1 Immediate Post - op

After breast reduction surgery, patients may experience mild to moderate pain, swelling, and bruising. Pain can usually be relieved with medication. A bandage or surgical bra may be applied to the breasts, and a drainage tube may be inserted at the incision site, which is commonly removed within a day or two.

7.2 Long - term Recovery

Swelling and bruising typically resolve within six months. Stitches are usually removed within a week. Most patients can resume light activities within one to two weeks but should avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for at least 4 - 6 weeks. It may take a few weeks for the swelling to fully subside, and patients will be able to appreciate the final results of the surgery.

8. Conclusion

When it comes to breast volume reduction surgery in New York City, there are several top - level plastic hospitals to choose from. Each hospital has its own strengths, whether it's unique surgical techniques, insurance coverage, patient experience, or reputation. The Breast Reduction Center of NYC offers personalized care and innovative pain management. Columbia Surgery provides a research - driven approach and a team of expert surgeons. Mount Sinai focuses on patient - centered care, and Park Plaza Plastic Surgery Center emphasizes detailed communication with patients. Before making a decision, patients should thoroughly research each hospital, have consultations with the surgeons, and consider their own needs and preferences.

If you're considering breast reduction surgery, we encourage you to explore the hospitals mentioned in this article further. Schedule consultations, ask questions, and make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast reduction surgery in New York City. Your journey to a more comfortable and confident you starts with the right choice of hospital.