Introduction
Breast augmentation has been one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for over a decade. In the United States, over 5 million women have undergone breast augmentation, with 90% of them doing it after having kids, and 79% of those who had the procedure reported being satisfied. The shape and size of breasts can significantly impact a woman's confidence. If you're in New York City and considering breast augmentation with prosthetics, this article will introduce you to the top three institutions that might be the right fit for you.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as a boob job, is the enlargement of the breasts either through the transfer of fat from a part of the body or through surgical procedures using breast implants filled with silicone gel or saline solution. The most common method is the surgical approach, which mainly helps in enlarging or restoring symmetry to the breasts. It provides a solution for those who have experienced a reduction in breast size due to weight loss, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, as well as those who want to balance their physical appearance.
Benefits of Breast Augmentation
- Enhanced Confidence: Having the desired breast size and shape can boost a woman's self - confidence and self - esteem.
- Improved Body Proportions: It can create a more balanced and harmonious silhouette.
- Restored Volume: Ideal for women who have lost breast volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss.
- Corrected Asymmetry: Helps to address differences in breast size or shape.
- Wider Wardrobe Options: Allows women to wear a wider variety of clothing styles with a more comfortable and flattering fit.
Types of Breast Implants
Implant Type | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|---|
Saline Implants | Filled with a salt - water solution. Can be filled after being placed in the breast pocket. | Smaller incision may be possible for insertion. If it ruptures, the saline is safely absorbed by the body. Approved for patients aged 18 and above. | May have a firmer feel compared to silicone. Visible rippling may occur, especially in thin women with little breast tissue. |
Silicone Implants | Pre - filled with a cohesive silicone gel. | More closely mimic the texture and feel of natural breast tissue. Aesthetically, they look more natural. Many patients prefer their feel. | Traditionally required larger incisions (although new techniques can minimize this). FDA recommends MRI scans every few years for monitoring. Approved for patients aged 22 and above. |
Cohesive Silicone Gel Implants (Gummy Bear Implants) | A type of silicone implant with a thicker gel that holds its shape better. | Provide a more natural and proportionate breast shape and feel. Reduced risk of leakage if the implant is compromised. | More expensive than other implant types. May require a larger incision for insertion. |
The Top Three Institutions for Farria Breast Augmentation with Prosthetics in New York City
1. Dr. Nadia Afridi's Practice
Dr. Nadia Afridi is one of the most popular surgeons in NYC for breast augmentation. She is a board - certified plastic surgeon and a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons in Canada, an associate fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Services Offered
- Breast Augmentation: Dr. Afridi takes into account four main considerations for breast augmentation surgery: the site of breast implant placement, the site of the incision to insert the breast implant, 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 like the armpit, the underside of the breast, and around the areola to minimize scarring.
- Other Specialties: She also offers mommy makeovers, breast surgery, body contouring, and facial treatments.
Patient Experience
Dr. Afridi is known for her professionalism and caring attitude towards patients. She is always ready to answer patients' calls post - operation, and her staff is very helpful and accommodating. Patients are treated like royalty.
Cost
The estimated breast augmentation cost at her practice is $8900.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Board - certified plastic surgeon Very helpful and informative Staff is very accommodating Offers several breast augmentation procedures Uses “try on the look” to determine the best size and shape for patients Accepts credit card Accepts insurance |
By appointment only |
2. Dr. Richard Swift's Practice
Dr. Richard Swift is a board - certified plastic surgeon in NYC. He offers a variety of cosmetic surgeries and treatments to enhance natural beauty and has earned a number of prestigious awards for his experience and expertise.
Services Offered
- Breast Augmentation: He provides detailed consultations on surgical techniques, alternative treatments, and pre - and post - operative care. Before the procedure, patients are advised to refrain from vigorous exercise the day before and shower with antimicrobial soap the night before, avoiding lotions or creams on the treatment area. After the surgery, patients' breasts will be swollen and tender, but they can usually return to work within a week. However, they need to wear a surgical bra and refrain from strenuous activities until Dr. Swift approves.
- Other Specialties: Breast enhancement, body contouring, facial treatments, and more.
Patient Experience
Dr. Swift has a great team of staff, from the receptionist to the operating room nurse and anesthesiologist. They are all very caring and helpful, ensuring that patients are in safe hands.
Cost
The estimated breast augmentation cost at his practice ranges from $5000 - $10000, which varies depending on the extent of surgery and the number of treatments needed.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery Board - certified by the American Board of Surgery Provides detailed consultations Provides pre - and post - operative care Caring and helpful staff Accepts credit card Over 25 years of experience |
By appointment only |
3. Dr. Adam Kolker's Practice
Dr. Adam Kolker is a double - board certified plastic surgeon in New York City, specializing in breast augmentation and cosmetic surgery procedures addressing all aspects of the body. 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.
Services Offered
- Breast Augmentation: Dr. Kolker takes an artistic approach to breast augmentation, focusing on achieving a proportionate and natural outcome. He offers a number of breast procedures aside from breast augmentation, such as breast asymmetry correction, breast lift, breast reduction, breast reconstruction, fat transfer breast augmentation, tuberous breast correction, and more.
- Other Specialties: He also performs facial procedures (brow lift, eyelid surgery, facelift, etc.), body contouring procedures (arm lift, liposuction, lower body lift, etc.), and non - surgical treatments (injectables & fillers, laser & light treatments).
Patient Experience
Dr. Kolker has received many positive patient testimonials. Patients appreciate his attention to detail and his ability to achieve the desired results. He has also been featured in numerous media outlets and is highly respected in the field of plastic surgery.
Cost
The estimated breast augmentation cost at his practice ranges from $9000 – $11000, which may vary depending on the material used (silicone breast implants are $1000 more expensive than saline implants) and the combined effort of his surgical and anesthesia team.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
American Board of Plastic Surgery certified American Board of Surgery certified Impressive educational background Friendly and helpful staff Offers several breast augmentation procedures Office is nice and clean |
Leaves staff to answer patient’s concerns Surgery is very expensive |
Preparing for Breast Augmentation
Consultation
Before undergoing breast augmentation, it is crucial to have a consultation with your chosen surgeon. During the consultation, you should discuss your aesthetic goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have. The surgeon will perform a physical examination, take measurements of your breasts, and discuss the different options available, such as the type of implants, incision location, and implant placement.
Medical Evaluation
Your surgeon will also review your medical history to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for the surgery. This may include information about your past surgeries, allergies, medications, and any underlying health conditions. You may be required to have certain tests, such as blood tests or a mammogram, depending on your age and medical history.
Lifestyle Changes
- Smoking: If you smoke, you should quit at least a few weeks before the surgery as smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
- Medications and Supplements: You may need to stop taking certain medications and supplements, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John’s wort, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Arrangements: Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and to assist you with daily activities for the first few days of recovery. Designate a comfortable space at home for your recovery and have necessary items within reach.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. A board - certified anesthesiologist will administer and monitor the anesthesia to ensure your safety and comfort during the procedure.
Incisions
There are several options for incision placement, including:
- Inframammary Incision: Made in the crease under the breast. This is a common incision location as it allows for good access to the breast pocket and the scars are usually well - hidden.
- Periareolar Incision: Made around the areola (the dark area around the nipple). This incision can be less visible, especially in women with darker areolas. However, there may be a small risk of changes in nipple sensation.
- Transaxillary Incision: Made in the armpit. This option results in no visible scars on the breast, but it may be more challenging to achieve precise implant placement.
Implant Placement
The implants can be placed either under the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement) or above the muscle, but below the breast tissue (subglandular placement). The choice of placement depends on various factors, such as your anatomy, the type of implants, and your desired outcome.
- Submuscular Placement: This placement can provide a more natural - looking result, especially in women with little natural breast tissue. It also reduces the risk of capsular contracture. However, it may result in a longer recovery time and more post - operative discomfort.
- Subglandular Placement: This placement is generally quicker and has a shorter recovery time. However, there may be a higher risk of visible rippling, especially with saline implants.
Closing the Incisions
Once the implants are in place, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures. A compression garment or surgical bra may be applied to support the breasts and reduce swelling.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post - Operative Period
After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area where you will be monitored until the effects of the anesthesia wear off. You may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising in the breasts, which is normal. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage the discomfort.
First Few Weeks
- Rest: It is important to rest and avoid strenuous activities for the first few weeks. You should wear a surgical bra or compression garment as recommended by your surgeon.
- Medication: Take any prescribed medications as directed, including pain medication and antibiotics to prevent infection.
- Follow - up Appointments: Attend all follow - up appointments with your surgeon so that they can monitor your healing progress and address any concerns.
Long - Term Recovery
Swelling and bruising will gradually subside over the next few months, and the implants will settle into their final position. It may take several months for the breasts to look and feel completely natural. You should avoid wearing underwire bras for the first few months and gradually resume normal activities and exercise as your surgeon advises.
Potential Risks and Complications
Capsular Contracture
This is one of the most common complications of breast augmentation. It occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) around the implant tightens, causing the breasts to feel hard and look distorted. Treatment may involve removing the implant and scar tissue and, if desired, replacing the implant.
Infection
Infection can occur shortly after the surgery. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, and in some cases, the implant may need to be removed.
Implant Rupture
Although rare, implant rupture can occur due to injury, normal wear and tear, or other factors. If a saline implant ruptures, the saline will be absorbed by the body, and the breast will deflate. If a silicone implant ruptures, it may not be as obvious, and an MRI may be required to detect it. Treatment usually involves replacing the ruptured implant.
Changes in Sensation
Some women may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation after the surgery. This can be temporary or permanent and may affect sexual sensation or the ability to breastfeed.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation with prosthetics can be a life - changing procedure for many women, enhancing their confidence and body image. In New York City, institutions like Dr. Nadia Afridi's practice, Dr. Richard Swift's practice, and Dr. Adam Kolker's practice offer high - quality breast augmentation services. Each of these institutions has experienced surgeons, a range of services, and different pros and cons to consider.
If you're considering breast augmentation, take the time to research these institutions, schedule consultations with the surgeons, and ask all the questions you have. Remember, making an informed decision is crucial for a successful outcome. We encourage you to share