Introduction
Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure for women in New York City. It not only enhances physical appearance but also boosts self - confidence. In this article, we will explore the top ten plastic surgery hospitals for women's prosthetic breast augmentation in the city. These hospitals are selected based on factors such as the experience of their surgeons, the variety of techniques they offer, patient satisfaction, and overall reputation in the field.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at enhancing the size and shape of a woman's breasts. There are several reasons why women opt for this procedure. Some may feel that their breast size is too small for their body frame, while others may want to restore breast volume lost due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss. Additionally, it can be used to correct breast asymmetry or a congenital deformity.
There are different methods of breast augmentation, including the use of breast implants and fat transfer. Breast implants are of two main types: silicone and saline. Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue, offering a more natural appearance and softness. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and can be adjusted for size during surgery. Any leaks from saline implants are safely absorbed by the body. Another option, although less common, is the natural fill or fat transfer technique, which involves removing fat from other areas of the body, such as the buttocks or abdomen, and injecting it into the breasts.
Top Plastic Surgery Hospitals for Breast Augmentation in New York City
1. Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They prioritize patient satisfaction by using the latest technologies, such as advanced 3D imaging technology. This technology allows patients to visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique bodies before the surgery.
When it comes to treatment options, they offer both silicone and saline breast implants. Silicone implants are known for looking and feeling natural in the breasts, while saline implants are firmer and rounder. They also pioneer a fat - transfer technique called Natural Fill®, which involves removing fat from an unwanted area of the body and using it to enhance the breasts. The surgeons at Mount Sinai will conduct a physical exam and consult with patients to ensure they are suitable candidates for the procedure and to help them choose the best option for their body type and desired outcome.
2. 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 at the forefront of advancements in plastic surgery.
Dr. Kolker specializes in breast augmentation, among other cosmetic surgery procedures. He approaches breast augmentation as an art form, believing 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 offers a wide range of breast - related procedures, including breast asymmetry correction, breast lift, breast reduction, and breast reconstruction. His work has been highly recognized, as he is featured in New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues, Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons list, and Castle Connolly's Top Doctors list.
3. Rapaport Plastic Surgery
David P. Rapaport, a board - certified plastic surgeon at Rapaport Plastic Surgery, is a world - recognized expert specializing in breast augmentation and breast implant revision for women with previous breast surgery. Breast augmentation is one of the most popular procedures performed at his facility.
For breast augmentation candidates, most women who are unhappy with the size or shape of their breasts and are in overall good health with realistic expectations can be considered. The incision for breast augmentation can be placed in the underarm, under the breast, or within the areola, depending on the patient's needs and preferences. Dr. Rapaport offers both saline and silicone implants and will help patients determine the best type for their anatomy and aesthetic goals. He uses an endoscope to perform a scarless breast augmentation procedure through the underarm incision, allowing for precise implant positioning. The recovery process at his facility is well - managed, with patients typically able to return to work in a few days and fully recover in about two to three weeks.
4. Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice
Dr. Barry Weintraub is a board - certified and Ivy League - educated plastic surgeon. He is a national spokesperson for the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has over two decades of experience. He performs breast augmentation in his NYC facility, preferably using the transaxillary subpectoral approach, which involves making a small incision in the armpit and placing the implant behind the pectoralis major muscle.
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. He only uses implants from well - known companies like Allergan and Mentor, which offer both saline - filled and silicone - filled implants with a smooth silicone shell. Dr. Weintraub emphasizes patient safety and has a meticulous approach to surgery, ensuring that all procedures are carried out in a sterile environment with the best monitoring equipment.
5. Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He is well - known for his commitment to patient care and excellent results in breast augmentation. He works closely with patients to develop an individualized approach to achieve their desired breast profile.
When it comes to breast implants, he has in - depth knowledge of the different types, including cohesive silicone gel implants (also known as gummy bear implants). These implants are popular because they provide a natural and proportionate breast shape and feel. Dr. Sherman was a select investigator during the original development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. He helps patients choose the right implant material, shape, size, and texture based on their body characteristics and aesthetic goals. The recovery process at his practice is carefully guided, with patients being provided with detailed instructions and support.
6. Doctors Plastic Surgery
Doctors Plastic Surgery offers affordable breast augmentation in New York City. They have double - board certified surgeons with thousands of successful procedures and a high patient satisfaction rate. Their approach to breast augmentation is personalized, offering a range of implant sizes and types to meet the unique needs of each patient.
They offer silicone, saline, and gummy bear implants. Silicone implants are known for their natural look and feel, saline implants offer flexibility in size adjustment, and gummy bear implants provide a more stable shape. The surgeons at Doctors Plastic Surgery also ensure transparent pricing and offer flexible financing options to make the procedure more accessible. Dr. Ross Ratner, a dual - board certified plastic & reconstructive surgeon at the facility, is renowned as NYC's best breast augmentation surgeon. He combines surgical expertise with a warm bedside manner and uses the latest surgical techniques.
7. Dr. Nadia Afridi's Practice
Dr. Nadia Afridi is a popular surgeon in NYC for breast augmentation. She is board - certified and has received impressive reviews from clients for her quality of work and patient - centric approach. She treats patients like friends, is always available to answer post - operation calls, and her staff is very helpful and accommodating.
For breast augmentation, she considers four key factors: the site of breast implant placement, the site of the incision, the type of implant (silicone or saline), and the size of the breast implant. Her practice usually lasts 1 - 2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Incisions are made in unnoticeable areas to minimize scarring. She also offers revision surgeries for patients who are not satisfied with previous breast augmentation results or who have complications such as wrinkling, implant displacement, or capsular contracture.
8. Dr. Richard Swift's Practice
Dr. Richard Swift is a board - certified plastic surgeon who offers a variety of cosmetic surgeries, including breast augmentation. He has earned a number of prestigious awards for his experience and expertise. He provides detailed consultations on surgical techniques, alternative treatments, and pre - and post - operative care.
Before the breast augmentation procedure, he gives specific pre - operative instructions, such as refraining from vigorous exercise the day before and showering with antimicrobial soap the night before. After the surgery, he guides patients through the recovery process, including restrictions on activities and the use of a surgical bra. His pricing is fair and in line with other board - certified plastic surgeons in the area, and he has a great team of staff to ensure patient comfort and safety.
9. Dr. Mark Sultan's Practice
Dr. Mark Sultan, with a rating of 4.20 out of 5 stars on Healthgrades, is a plastic surgeon who performs breast augmentation in New York. Although there may not be as much extensive information available as some of the other surgeons mentioned, his patient ratings indicate a certain level of patient satisfaction. He likely follows standard breast augmentation procedures and will consult with patients to understand their needs and goals for the surgery.
10. Dr. Evan Matros's Practice
Dr. Evan Matros, rated 4.80 out of 5 stars on Healthgrades, is also involved in breast augmentation procedures in New York. A high patient rating suggests that he provides quality care and satisfactory results to his patients. He may offer a variety of breast augmentation options and have a personalized approach to each patient's case.
Choosing the Right Plastic Surgery Hospital
When choosing a plastic surgery hospital for breast augmentation, there are several important factors to consider. Firstly, the surgeon's credentials are crucial. Look for surgeons who are board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification ensures that the surgeon has met high standards of education, training, and experience in the field of plastic surgery.
Experience is another key factor. Surgeons with more years of experience in performing breast augmentation are likely to have a better understanding of the various techniques and how to handle different cases. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the surgeon's skill, bedside manner, and the overall patient experience at the hospital. It's also important to consider the range of services offered. Some hospitals may offer additional procedures such as breast lift or breast reduction in combination with breast augmentation, which can be beneficial for patients with more complex needs.
Technology and facilities at the hospital are also significant. Advanced imaging technologies can help patients visualize the results before the surgery, and state - of - the - art operating rooms ensure a safe and sterile environment. Finally, cost is a consideration for many patients. However, it's important not to compromise on quality for a lower price. Make sure to discuss pricing and financing options with the hospital to find a solution that fits your budget.
Preparing for Breast Augmentation
Once you have chosen a plastic surgery hospital and surgeon, the next step is to prepare for the breast augmentation procedure. First, you will need to schedule a consultation with the surgeon. During this consultation, you should openly discuss your aesthetic goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have. The surgeon will conduct a physical examination of your breasts, take measurements, and note any existing breast shape, skin laxity, or ptosis.
You will also need to provide medical clearance from your family physician. If you are a smoker, you may be advised to quit smoking or using any nicotine products, as nicotine can significantly impact your ability to heal after the treatment. You should also taper off current medications or supplements that may increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John's wort.
Arrange for a trusted family member or friend to pick you up from the hospital after the surgery. Designate a comfortable space at home for your recovery and place necessary items within reach. You should also plan to take 2 - 3 weeks off from work and other strenuous activities to rest and recuperate.
After - Care and Recovery
After breast augmentation surgery, it's normal to experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the initial days. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help ease the discomfort, which is usually most pronounced during the first few days. You will also be provided with a surgical compression bra that you should wear for the next few weeks as you heal.
Swelling and bruising will gradually subside over time. Strenuous exercise and aerobic activity, including sexual activity, are restricted for the first ten days after breast augmentation. Most patients with non - strenuous or desk jobs can typically resume work in five days, while full recovery usually takes approximately two to three weeks. After 6 - 8 weeks, you can gradually resume more strenuous activities, such as going to the gym. It may take a few months for the implants to fully settle into place, and during this time, you should follow all post - operative instructions provided by your surgeon to achieve the best results.
Potential Complications and Risks
Although breast augmentation is a relatively common and safe procedure, there are potential complications and risks. One such complication is 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 this form of non - Hodgkin's lymphoma. It appears to be associated with textured implants and in patients who develop a seroma (accumulation of fluid around the breast).
Another concern is 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, "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 is also a possible complication, where the capsule that forms around the implant contracts and squeezes the implant, resulting in a hard - feeling breast. Surgeons take precautions to minimize this risk, such as minimizing bleeding during surgery and using a "no - touch" technique for implant insertion.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation can be a life - changing procedure for many women, enhancing their physical appearance and boosting their self - confidence. In New York City, there are many excellent plastic surgery hospitals and surgeons available for women's prosthetic breast augmentation. The top ten hospitals mentioned in this article offer a wide range of services, experienced surgeons, and advanced technologies to ensure the best possible results.
When considering breast augmentation, it's important to do thorough research, choose a reputable hospital and surgeon, and carefully prepare for the procedure and the recovery process. By taking these steps, you can increase the likelihood of a successful and satisfying breast augmentation experience. If you are considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top surgeons in New York City to discuss your goals and learn more about the procedure.