Introduction
Breast augmentation is a life - changing decision for many women. It not only enhances physical appearance but also boosts self - confidence. In New York City, a hub of cosmetic surgery, there are several popular hospitals known for their excellent work in breast augmentation. In this article, we'll explore the top 5 popular hospitals for prosthetic breast augmentation, along with an in - depth look at breast augmentation itself, the types of implants, and other related factors.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that enhances the volume and shape of the breasts. 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. It has been one of the top five cosmetic procedures in the United States for nearly the past 20 years.
There are several reasons why women opt for breast augmentation. Some may feel that their breasts are too small for their body frame, while others may have experienced volume loss due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss. Additionally, it can help correct breast asymmetry, giving a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing look.
Types of Breast Implants
| Type of Implant | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone Gel Implants | Filled with silicone gel, they mimic the texture and feel of natural breast tissue. They are FDA - approved for women 22 years of age or older. | Natural feel, less likely to cause visible rippling, and have a longer lifespan compared to saline implants. | If the implant breaks, it may not be as immediately obvious as with saline implants. They are also slightly more expensive. |
| Saline Implants | Filled with sterile saline (saltwater), they are FDA - approved for women 18 years of age or older. | If the implant ruptures, the saline is absorbed and expelled naturally from the body. They can sometimes be placed through a slightly shorter incision. | May feel less natural compared to silicone gel implants, and there is a slightly higher risk of visible rippling. |
| Cohesive Silicone Gel Implants (Gummy Bear Implants) | The silicone gel in these implants is more cohesive and viscous than traditional silicone implants. They keep their shape even if the implant shell is damaged or broken. | They provide a more natural - looking breast shape, are less likely to break, and offer better projection. | May require a longer incision, and if the implant rotates, it can result in an unnatural appearance, potentially requiring revision surgery. |
Implant Shapes
- Round Implants: They lead to a fuller appearance and more projection. Since they are the same shape in all dimensions, there is no worry about rotation. They are often chosen for their ability to add volume higher on the chest.
- Anatomic (Teardrop) Implants: These implants are tapered towards the top and have more projection towards the bottom, mimicking the natural shape of the breast. However, there is a risk of rotation, which can result in an unnatural appearance.
Implant Sizing
Implant sizes are measured in cubic centimeters (cc), not bra cup size. The ideal implant size depends on several factors, including the amount of breast tissue a woman has before the augmentation and her desired results. Sizes typically range from 120cc to 800cc.
Implant Texture
- Smooth Implants: They have the softest feel and give the breasts a more natural movement. However, over time, they may produce visible rippling of the skin.
- Textured Implants: They develop healthy scar tissue that attaches to the implant, reducing the risk of rotation. Research also shows a lower risk of capsular contracture with textured implants, but they have less natural movement.
Top 5 Popular Hospitals for Breast Augmentation in New York City
1. Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He is renowned for his commitment to patient care and excellent results. He works closely with patients to develop an individualized approach for breast augmentation.
He has a deep understanding of breast implants, especially the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants, as he was a select investigator during their original development. These FDA - approved devices have an anatomically shaped silhouette, closely resembling the curve of a woman's breast and are popular for augmentation and breast reconstruction.
The consultation process with Dr. Sherman involves a detailed discussion of the patient's goals, a review of medical history, and an examination of the breasts. He will explain all the aspects of the procedure, including implant options, incisions, and placement.
Patients can schedule an initial consultation by calling (212) 535 - 2300 or booking an appointment online.
2. Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They use the latest 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique bodies. This allows patients to virtually try on different sizes of breasts before making a decision.
There are three main options for breast augmentation at Mount Sinai: silicone breast implants, saline breast implants, and a fat - transfer technique called Natural Fill®. The surgeons will help patients choose the best option based on their body type and desired outcome.
Silicone breast implants look and feel natural in the breasts, while saline breast implants are firmer and rounder. The Natural Fill® technique, pioneered and perfected by Mount Sinai surgeons, involves removing fat from the buttocks or abdomen and injecting it into the breasts.
Patients can expect the results of breast augmentation at Mount Sinai to last for years, but factors like pregnancy, nursing, or significant weight changes may cause natural drooping over time.
3. Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice
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 specializes in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures addressing all aspects of the body. Dr. Kolker's approach to breast augmentation is based on the concept that "beautiful" should be more important than "size." He establishes each individual woman's aesthetic goals, distinct to her body type, to attain a proportionate outcome and the most natural results.
He has received numerous accolades, including being featured as a top plastic surgeon in New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues from 2008 - 2024, as one of America's Best Plastic Surgeons by Newsweek in 2021 - 2024, and in Castle Connolly's America's Top Doctors lists.
Patients can schedule consultations with Dr. Kolker, both virtually and in person. His office can be reached at (212) 744 - 6500.
4. Dr. Lara Devgan's Practice
Dr. Lara Devgan is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York City. Many women seek her out, especially those who prefer a female plastic surgeon who will be discreet about this sensitive topic. She focuses on providing beautiful, natural results for breast augmentation.
During the consultation, Dr. Devgan will examine, measure, and photograph the patient's breasts. She will discuss the patient's medical history and desires for surgery, show samples of silicone and saline breast implants, and allow the patient to "try on" different sizes of implants. Patients can also view many before - and - after photographs to get an idea of typical results.
The surgery usually takes about one hour and can be performed in her fully accredited private office operating room or at one of the top local hospitals on the upper east side. Recovery is relatively fast, with most patients feeling "back to normal" by one month after surgery.
Interested patients can email her office at info@laradevganmd.com or call (212) 452 - 2400 to arrange a consultation.
5. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice
Dr. Darrick Antell is a renowned breast augmentation surgeon in New York City and a board - certified plastic surgeon. He has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentation surgeries.
Dr. Antell is committed to providing a beautiful, long - lasting result with reduced risk of complications. He tailors each breast augmentation to achieve the patient's desired look, taking into account factors such as the type of implant, incision type, and implant placement.
He has been listed in multiple magazines, including Harper’s Bazaar and Town and Country, as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. His patients can expect a comprehensive consultation process, where he will discuss all aspects of the procedure, risks, and recovery.
Patients can call his office at (212) 988 - 4040 to schedule a consultation.
Procedure and Recovery
Procedure
Breast augmentation is typically an outpatient procedure that takes 1 - 2 hours. Anesthesia options include general anesthesia or intravenous sedation anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision, either under the breast (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), in the armpit (transaxillary), or through the belly button (transumbilical). The implant is then placed either under the pectoral muscles (submuscular) or above the pectoral muscles (subglandular).
The choice of incision and implant placement depends on several factors, including the patient's anatomy, the type of implant, and the desired outcome. For example, patients with less breast tissue may have the implant placed under the muscle for a more natural appearance, while a transaxillary incision may be preferred for larger implants.
Recovery
In the initial days after surgery, it's normal to experience fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Patients will be given a prescription for pain medication and a surgical compression bra to wear for a few weeks. Most patients can return to work within a few days to a week, depending on the type of job. Strenuous activities should be avoided for at least a month, and full recovery may take several months.
It's important to follow all post - operative instructions carefully, including attending follow - up appointments with the surgeon. The surgeon will monitor the healing process, check for any complications, and ensure that the implants are settling properly.
Possible Complications
- Capsular Contracture: This is the most common complication. The body builds scar tissue around the implants, and if it builds too aggressively, it can cause the implants to feel hard or firm and may deform the breasts. Treatment may involve removing the implant and scar tissue and replacing the implant.
- Implant Rupture or Leakage: While rare, implants can rupture or leak. If a saline implant ruptures, the saline will be absorbed by the body, and the breast will appear deflated. A silicone implant rupture may be less obvious and may require imaging to detect. Revision surgery is usually required to replace the implant.
- Loss of Sensation: There is a risk of loss of sensation in the nipple or breast, which may be temporary or permanent.
- Infection: Infections can occur, usually within the first week after surgery. They can usually be treated with antibiotics, and in some cases, the implant may need to be removed.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): Research has shown that women with breast implants may have a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL. It is not breast cancer but a form of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It appears to be associated with textured implants and patients who develop a seroma.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): This is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that women report after having implants placed, such as memory loss, joint pain, and fatigue. However, the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is poorly understood and still being investigated.
Choosing the Right Surgeon and Hospital
Choosing the right surgeon and hospital for breast augmentation is crucial. Here are some factors to consider:
- Credentials: Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified in plastic surgery. Board certification indicates that the surgeon has met the highest standards of education, training, and experience.
- Experience: Look for a surgeon who has extensive experience in performing breast augmentation surgeries. Ask about the number of procedures they have performed and view before - and - after photos of their patients.
- Reputation: Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the surgeon's reputation. You can also ask for referrals from friends, family, or other healthcare professionals.
- Communication: A good surgeon will take the time to listen to your goals and concerns, answer all your questions, and provide clear and detailed information about the procedure, risks, and recovery.
- Hospital or Facility: Make sure the hospital or surgical facility where the procedure will be performed is accredited and has a good reputation for patient safety and quality of care.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that can have a significant impact on a woman's self - confidence and body image. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals and surgeons who can provide excellent results. The five hospitals mentioned above - Dr. John E. Sherman's practice, Mount Sinai - New York, Dr. Adam R. Kolker's practice, Dr. Lara Devgan's practice, and Dr. Darrick Antell's practice - have all demonstrated their expertise and commitment to patient care in the field of breast augmentation.
If you are considering breast augmentation, take the time to research your options, consult with multiple surgeons, and make an informed decision. Remember to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and ensure that you have realistic expectations. Your journey to achieving the breasts you desire can be a positive and life - changing experience.
If you're interested in learning more about breast augmentation or scheduling a consultation with one of the top surgeons in New York City, reach out to the hospitals or surgeons mentioned in this article. Take the first step towards enhancing your natural beauty and boosting your self - confidence today!
