Introduction
Silicone breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure in New York City. Many women turn to it to enhance their breast volume, shape, and overall body confidence. In this article, we will explore the top 5 hospitals in the rankings of silicone breast augmentation hospitals in the Big Apple, taking into account various factors such as surgeon expertise, available technologies, patient satisfaction, and safety protocols.
Overview of Silicone Breast Augmentation
Silicone breast augmentation is a surgical procedure aimed at enhancing the volume and shape of the breasts. It is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgeries in the United States. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2020 alone, nearly 200,000 women underwent breast augmentation, and approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the US were performed with silicone implants that year.
Advantages of Silicone Implants
- Natural Look and Feel: Silicone implants closely mimic the feel of natural breast tissue, providing a more authentic and aesthetically pleasing result. Cohesive silicone gel implants, also known as “gummy bear” implants, are increasingly popular because of their ability to provide a natural and proportionate breast shape and feel. They feature an extensive variety of shapes and sizes that can mimic most breast shapes and fit a wider range of chest dimensions.
- Long - Term Stability: The silicone gel inside the implants maintains its form well, reducing the risk of leakage and migration.
Types of Silicone Implants
Type | Description |
---|---|
Standard Silicone Gel Implants | Pre - filled with a silicone gel, they offer a natural look and feel. These implants have been refined over the years in terms of shell thickness and gel viscosity. |
Cohesive Silicone Gel Implants (Gummy Bear Implants) | These implants are made of a highly cohesive silicone gel that holds its shape even if the implant shell is cut. They provide better projection and are available in a larger range of dimensions, mimicking the natural curve of the breast more effectively. |
Top 5 Selected Hospitals for Silicone Breast Augmentation in New York City
1. 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. As an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, he stays on the cutting edge of plastic surgery advancements.
Expertise in Silicone Breast Augmentation
Dr. Kolker brings extensive experience, finesse, and skill to each breast augmentation surgery he performs. His vast knowledge and expertise have been highlighted in almost 100 media articles and television appearances, including being featured in Bazaar's hot list for providing some of the best breast augmentation in New York City. He 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, distinct to her body type, to attain a proportionate outcome and the most natural results.
Patient Testimonials
Many patients have praised Dr. Kolker for his ability to achieve incredible results. For example, N.S. from New York City 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.”
2. Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They use the latest technologies to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look. The advanced 3D imaging technology can demonstrate what larger breasts will look like on a patient's unique body, allowing patients to virtually try on different sizes of breasts before scheduling the surgery.
Implant Options
They offer two types of implants: silicone and saline, as well as a non - implant option called NaturalFill®, which is a fat transfer technique pioneered and perfected by Mount Sinai surgeons. For silicone implants, they emphasize the natural look and feel they provide. They carefully advise patients based on their body type and desired outcome.
Patient - Centered Approach
The surgeons at Mount Sinai consult closely with patients, listening carefully to understand their desire for enhancing breast size. They also perform a physical exam and ask health - related questions to confirm that a patient is a suitable candidate for breast augmentation.
3. Columbia Surgery
Columbia University's plastic surgery department is one of New York's best and the world's top medical centers. The division is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery and is a recognized national and international leader in the field.
Comprehensive Care
Columbia offers a wide range of plastic surgery programs, including breast augmentation. Their plastic surgeons are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, from routine non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations. In the context of breast augmentation, they can handle various patient needs, whether it's enhancing breast volume or dealing with related aesthetic concerns.
Research - Driven Practice
The plastic surgery research laboratory at Columbia is conducting numerous research studies, including those related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and the study of bone substitutes. This research - driven approach can potentially lead to better surgical techniques and outcomes in silicone breast augmentation.
4. Dr. Lara Devgan's Practice
Dr. Lara Devgan is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York City. Many women in the city seek her out for breast augmentation because they prefer a female plastic surgeon who will be discreet about this sensitive topic. They also appreciate her goal of providing beautiful, natural, and feminine results that are achievable for each patient's body, build, and frame.
Consultation Process
During the initial consultation, Dr. Devgan examines, measures, and photographs the patient's breasts. She discusses the patient's medical history and desires for surgery. She shows samples of silicone and saline breast implants so the patient can feel the difference between them and choose the type they prefer. The patient also has an opportunity to "try on" different sizes of implants to figure out what is right for them, and they can look at many before - and - after photographs to understand typical results.
Recovery and Results
Dr. Devgan's patients generally experience a relatively quick recovery. In the first 24 - 48 hours, there is a small amount of swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Many patients are able to return to work within a few days if they have a desk job. By one month after surgery, the vast majority of patients say they feel "back to normal", and the breasts continue to "settle" into their final position over the next few months.
5. Dr. David L. Cangello's Practice
Dr. David L. Cangello is a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in cosmetic breast surgery. He is known as a highly skilled surgeon who delivers elegant, natural - looking results. His superior results have earned the trust of professional models from some of the world's top agencies, including Wilhelmina Models, IMG Models, and Next Management.
Artistic Approach
Dr. Cangello takes an artistic approach to breast augmentation that combines medical precision with the principles of aesthetics. He incorporates the patient's tastes and preferences into a treatment plan. Whether a patient wants a subtle look or bold cosmetic enhancements, he can create a personalized plan. He offers a full range of cosmetic breast surgery, including breast lift, breast revision, and natural augmentation with fat transfer.
Implant Options and Placement
He offers both silicone and saline implants. For silicone implants, he uses techniques like the “no touch” method with a Keller funnel for insertion, which allows for easier implant insertion and a smaller incision size and may also help minimize infection risk. He guides patients through the process of deciding on the size, shape, and placement of implants based on their anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Silicone Breast Augmentation Hospital
Surgeon's Qualifications
Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have extensive experience in silicone breast augmentation. Their educational background, training, and any special certifications can be good indicators of their expertise. For example, Dr. Adam R. Kolker's double - board certification and training at prestigious institutions like Harvard Medical School speak volumes about his skills.
Available Technologies
Hospitals that use advanced technologies such as 3D imaging (like Mount Sinai) can help patients make more informed decisions about their breast augmentation. Newer techniques for implant insertion can also lead to better results and reduced risks.
Patient Satisfaction
Read patient testimonials and reviews to get an idea of the hospital's track record in providing satisfactory results and a positive patient experience. High patient satisfaction often indicates a combination of good surgical outcomes, attentive care, and effective communication.
Safety Protocols
Ensure that the hospital has strict safety protocols in place. This includes the use of approved implants, proper sterilization of equipment, and the presence of board - certified anesthesiologists during the surgery. For instance, Dr. Cangello's practice only works with board - certified anesthesiologists for added patient safety.
Cost
The cost of silicone breast augmentation can vary from hospital to hospital. It is important to get a detailed breakdown of the costs, including the cost of the implants, surgical fees, and any post - operative care expenses. However, cost should not be the sole determining factor; quality of care and results are also crucial.
Pre - operative Considerations for Silicone Breast Augmentation
Health Assessment
Before undergoing silicone breast augmentation, patients should have a thorough health assessment. This includes a review of their medical history, any pre - existing medical conditions, and current medications. Non - smokers in overall good health are generally better candidates for the procedure.
Lifestyle Changes
Patients may need to make some lifestyle changes before the surgery. This can include quitting smoking or using any nicotine product, as nicotine can significantly impact the ability to heal after treatment. They may also need to taper off certain medications or supplements that may increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John's wort.
Consultation
A consultation with the surgeon is a crucial step. During this time, patients can discuss their aesthetic goals, learn about the different types of silicone implants available, and understand the procedure in detail. The surgeon will also examine the patient's breasts, take measurements, and note any existing breast shape and skin laxity or ptosis.
Post - operative Care and Recovery
Immediate Post - operative Period
After silicone breast augmentation, patients can expect to experience some pain, swelling, and bruising in the initial days. They will be given a prescription for pain medication to help ease the discomfort. A surgical compression bra will also be provided, which should be worn for a few weeks during the healing process.
Activity Restrictions
Patients are usually advised to rest for the first few days after surgery. They should avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise, and sleeping on their stomachs. Returning to work depends on the type of job; patients with desk jobs may be able to return within a few days, while those with more physically demanding jobs may need to take more time off.
Follow - up Appointments
Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are essential to monitor the healing process. These appointments usually occur at one week, four weeks, and 12 weeks after the surgery. The surgeon will check the incisions, the position of the implants, and address any concerns the patient may have.
Potential Complications of Silicone Breast Augmentation
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. It is not breast cancer but a form of non - Hodgkin's lymphoma that can be effectively treated. It appears to be associated with textured implants and patients who develop a seroma (accumulation of fluid around the breast). The FDA has issued alerts and is expanding the database on this condition.
Breast Implant Illness (BII)
BII is a term used to refer to a broad variety of symptoms that women report after having implants placed, such as memory loss, “brain fog”, joint pain, and fatigue. However, the cause of these symptoms and their link to synthetic implants is poorly understood and still being investigated.
Capsular Contracture
This is a complication where the scar tissue (capsule) around the implant tightens. It can cause the breast to feel firm, look distorted, and may be painful. Factors such as implant placement (submuscular placement may have a lower risk) can influence the likelihood of capsular contracture.
Conclusion
Silicone breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure in New York City, and choosing the right hospital is crucial for achieving the desired results and ensuring patient safety. The top 5 hospitals mentioned in this article - Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice, Mount Sinai - New York, Columbia Surgery, Dr. Lara Devgan's Practice, and Dr. David L. Cangello's Practice - each offer unique advantages in terms of surgeon expertise, available technologies, and patient - centered care. However, patients should carefully consider various factors such as surgeon qualifications, safety protocols, and cost before making a decision. By being well - informed and taking all aspects into account, patients can have a successful and satisfying silicone breast augmentation experience.
If you're considering silicone breast augmentation, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with different surgeons, and discuss your concerns and goals openly. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about the best hospitals for silicone breast augmentation in New York City.