Introduction
Breast augmentation with prosthetics is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure that many women in New York City consider. Whether it's to enhance their appearance, regain confidence, or correct certain physical irregularities, choosing the right hospital and surgeon is of utmost importance. New York City, being a hub of medical excellence, offers a plethora of options for this procedure. In this article, we will explore the top 5 selected hospitals in New York City for breast augmentation with prosthetics in 2025, considering factors such as the expertise of the surgeons, available facilities, patient reviews, and success rates.
What is Breast Augmentation with Prosthetics?
Breast augmentation, also known as a boob job or breast enlargement, is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing breast size, enhancing shape, or improving symmetry. This is typically achieved by placing breast implants under the breast tissue or chest muscles. There are two main types of implants: silicone and saline.
- Silicone Implants: These implants have a silicone shell filled with a flexible silicone gel. They look and feel more natural in the breasts and are the most frequently chosen by women in the United States. In 2020, approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the country were performed with silicone implants.
- Saline Implants: Saline implants consist of a silicone shell filled with a saline solution (salt and water). They are firmer and rounder in shape compared to silicone implants. These implants are placed in the breast pocket and are filled to the patient’s desired volume during the procedure.
Pre - Procedure Considerations
Candidate Qualifications
The ideal breast augmentation candidate is in good health, without breast - related health concerns or other underlying health issues. They should be a non - smoker or willing to quit until completing recovery, understand what the surgery entails, and be willing to follow pre - and post - op instructions. They should not be currently pregnant or breastfeeding and have realistic expectations for what the procedure can achieve. Additionally, they need to be aware of the risks and benefits associated with synthetic implants.
Choosing the Right Implant
When it comes to choosing breast implants, several factors need to be considered:
- Material: As mentioned earlier, silicone and saline are the two main materials. The choice depends on the patient's preference for look, feel, and firmness.
- Shape: Round implants are often chosen for their ability to add volume higher on the chest, while anatomical (teardrop - shaped) implants have a slight slope to replicate the form of the natural breast.
- Size: Implant sizes are measured in cubic centimeters (cc), ranging from 120cc to 800cc. The appropriate size depends on the patient's existing breast tissue and desired results. Different widths, heights, and projections are also available to harmonize with the patient's natural proportions.
- Texture: A textured surface allows the tissues to heal more closely around the implant, preventing rotation or displacement. However, there have been some concerns related to textured implants and breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).
Top 5 Hospitals in New York City for Breast Augmentation with Prosthetics
1. Columbia University Medical Center - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Division
Columbia University Medical Center is one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - renowned medical center. The plastic surgery division at Columbia has extensive experience in both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including breast augmentation.
Surgeon Expertise
The clinical staff consists of board - certified plastic surgeons who are proficient in multiple areas of specialization. For example, Dr. Christine Rohde is a highly skilled clinician, researcher, and teacher. She is 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. 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.
Facilities and Research
The hospital is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery. The plastic surgery research laboratory is conducting numerous studies related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy applications in wound healing. This research - driven approach ensures that patients have access to the latest techniques and technologies in breast augmentation.
Patient Testimonials
While specific breast augmentation patient testimonials were not readily available in the provided resources, the overall reputation of the hospital and the surgeons' expertise suggest that patients are likely to receive high - quality care. The hospital's commitment to patient satisfaction is evident in its comprehensive range of plastic surgery programs and services.
2. Mount Sinai Hospital - Department of Plastic Surgery
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They are dedicated to helping patients achieve their desired results and have advanced technology at their disposal.
Advanced Technology
Before scheduling the surgery, the hospital uses the latest 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look. This technology can demonstrate what different sizes of breasts will look like on the patient's unique body, allowing them to make more informed decisions about the implant size and shape.
Implant Options
Mount Sinai offers two types of implants (silicone and saline) and a non - implant option known as NaturalFill®. This fat transfer technique was pioneered and perfected by Mount Sinai surgeons. In the first step, the surgeon removes fat from the patient's buttocks or abdomen using liposuction. The fat is then immediately inserted into the breasts to enlarge them, providing a more natural alternative for some patients.
Patient - Centered Care
The plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai consult closely with patients to understand their desires for enhancing their breast size. They help patients decide on the size and shape that will look best for their body and answer any questions the patients may have during the consultation process. The hospital also performs a physical exam and asks a series of health - related questions to confirm that the patient is a suitable candidate for breast augmentation.
3. Dr. Adam R. Kolker’s Practice
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City, specializing in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures. His practice combines scientific and artistic expertise to deliver natural and beautiful results.
Medical and Artistic Background
Dr. Kolker's 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 accomplished studio and visual artist, which allows him to approach breast augmentation from an artistic perspective. This combination of scientific and artistic skills enables him to create breast augmentation results that are proportionate and natural - looking.
Multiple Certifications and Awards
Dr. Kolker is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, a plastic surgery specialty fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and a member of several professional organizations. He has also been featured as a top plastic surgeon in New York Magazine's best doctors issues from 2008 - 2024, in Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons in 2021 - 2024, and in Castle Connolly's America's Top Doctors.
Patient Testimonials
Many patients have provided positive testimonials about Dr. Kolker's work. For example, one patient said, “I could not believe my eyes. Dr. Kolker had done something all other surgeons had told me was not possible. He made the impossible, possible i could not believe it took a possibility and turned it into my reality! I will forever be thankful to him for correcting my asymmetrical breasts and making me so happy.”
4. Dr. Lara Devgan’s Practice
Dr. Lara Devgan is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York City who specializes in breast augmentation. Her practice focuses on providing beautiful, natural results with a fast recovery.
Patient - Friendly Consultation
During the consultation, Dr. Devgan examines, measures, and photographs the patient's breasts. She discusses the patient's medical history and desires for surgery. She also shows samples of silicone and saline breast implants so that the patient can feel the difference between them and choose the type they prefer. The patient has an opportunity to "try on" different sizes of implants to figure out what is right for them. Finally, they look at many before and after photographs to get a sense of what a typical result looks like for someone with their body type.
Quick Recovery and Subtle Results
Most women in New York City who come to Dr. Devgan's practice want breast implants that are natural - looking, beautifully contoured, and comfortable, with a fast recovery and a subtle result. Dr. Devgan's surgical technique and post - operative care seem to achieve these goals. In the first 24 - 48 hours after surgery, patients have a small amount of swelling, bruising, and discomfort. If they have a desk job, they can often return to work by the 3rd or 4th day after surgery. By one month after surgery, the vast majority of patients say they feel "back to normal."
Positive Patient Feedback
Patients have left positive feedback about their experiences with Dr. Devgan. For instance, one patient said, “I feel really good. Thank you. And i did the big reveal earlier and i love them! ” Another patient who had a “mommy makeover” (breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, liposuction) said, “Thanks to dr. Devgan, that's a thing of the past... i was scared of what to expect, but i can honestly say it was worth it. I had very little pain and in about three to five days i was back to myself and in love.”
5. Dr. John E. Sherman’s Practice
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon who is committed to providing individualized care for breast augmentation patients.
Implant Expertise
Dr. Sherman worked closely with Allergan during the original development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. These FDA - approved devices feature an anatomically shaped silhouette, with contours that closely resemble the curve of a woman’s breast. He has a deep and thorough understanding of these implants and can explain all the benefits and considerations to patients who are interested in using them.
Personalized Approach
Dr. Sherman works closely with prospective patients to develop an individualized approach. He discusses the patient's aesthetic goals, reviews their medical history, examines their breasts, and takes measurements. Based on this information, he devises a personalized treatment plan and explains the details of the surgery. He also provides detailed instructions for pre - and post - operative care.
Patient Experience
The practice focuses on ensuring that patients have a positive experience throughout the breast augmentation process. From the initial consultation to the recovery period, patients are well - informed and supported. The recovery process at Dr. Sherman's practice typically involves a period of rest and recuperation, with a gradual return to normal activities. In 2 - 3 weeks, patients can resume light activities and work, and at 6 - 8 weeks, they can engage in more strenuous activities.
Post - Procedure Care and Recovery
Recovery Time
The recovery time for breast augmentation varies from person to person. Generally, patients need to expect an extended period of rest immediately following the surgery. In the initial days, it is normal to experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Pain medication is usually prescribed to help ease the discomfort, which is most pronounced during the first few days.
Patients are often required to wear a surgical compression bra for the next few weeks as they heal. In 2 - 3 weeks, they can usually resume light activities and work, and at 6 - 8 weeks, they can continue with more strenuous activities, including going to the gym. By this point, the swelling will have subsided significantly, and the implants will gradually settle into place.
Aftercare Instructions
Post - operative care is critical for the success of a breast augmentation. Patients are typically advised to follow a set of aftercare instructions, which may include:
- Taking prescribed medications to alleviate pain and prevent infection.
- Caring for the surgical incisions as instructed by the surgeon.
- Wearing a compression garment as recommended to support the breasts and reduce swelling.
- Avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercising for a certain period.
- Following a healthy diet to support the healing process.
- Attending all follow - up appointments with the surgeon for check - ups and suture removal (usually one week after the surgery).
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, breast augmentation comes with its own set of risks and potential complications:
- Infection: There is a risk of developing an infection at the surgical site. This can be minimized by following proper aftercare instructions and taking prescribed antibiotics.
- 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.
- Alterations in Nipple or Breast Sensations: Patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation, which can be temporary or permanent.
- Implant Leakage or Rupture: Although modern implants are designed to be safe, there is still a small risk of leakage or rupture. In the case of silicone implants, the leakage may be silent, and an MRI may be required to detect it.
- Development of Scar Tissue: Scar tissue can form around the implant, which may cause the breast to feel hard or change shape. This condition, known as capsular contracture, may require additional surgery to correct.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): Over the past few years, researchers have found that women with breast implants may have a small but increased risk of developing BIA - ALCL. This is a form of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma that is associated with textured implants and the development of a seroma (accumulation of fluid around the breast).
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that women report after having implants placed. These symptoms include memory loss, “brain fog,” joint pain, and fatigue. However, the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is still being investigated.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hospital for breast augmentation with prosthetics in New York City is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the outcome of the procedure and the patient's overall experience. The top 5 hospitals mentioned in this article - Columbia University Medical Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. Adam R. Kolker’s practice, Dr. Lara Devgan’s practice, and Dr. John E. Sherman’s practice - offer a combination of experienced surgeons, advanced facilities, and patient - centered care.
Before making a decision, patients should thoroughly research each option, schedule consultations with the surgeons, and discuss their goals, concerns, and expectations. By doing so, they can make an informed choice and increase their chances of achieving the desired results while minimizing the risks associated with the procedure.
If you're considering breast augmentation with prosthetics in New York City, take the next step and reach out to these top - rated hospitals and surgeons. Schedule a consultation to learn more about the procedure, the available options, and how they can help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Don't hesitate to share this article with others who may be interested in breast augmentation, and continue to explore related topics to stay informed.
