Introduction
Silicone breast augmentation has long been a sought - after procedure for women in New York City who desire to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. The plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital is making waves by standing out in this competitive field, securing its position in the top ranks. In this comprehensive article, we will delve deep into the world of silicone breast augmentation, covering everything from the procedure details, benefits, and potential risks to the factors that make the People's Hospital a leading choice in New York City.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
Why Women Opt for Breast Augmentation
There are numerous reasons why women choose to undergo breast augmentation. Many feel that their natural breast size is too small, which can lead to a lack of self - confidence. Pregnancy and breastfeeding often cause a reduction in breast volume, and some women want to restore their pre - pregnancy breast size. Others may have uneven or asymmetrical breasts, and breast augmentation can help to balance them. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2020 alone, nearly 200,000 women underwent breast augmentation in the United States, despite the global pandemic.
Types of Breast Augmentation
There are mainly two types of breast augmentation methods commonly used: breast implants and fat transfer.
- Breast Implants: This is the most common form of breast augmentation. Implants are curved silicone shells filled with either silicone gel or saline (a salt - water solution).
- Fat Transfer: A relatively new technique, it involves removing fat from the patient's buttocks or abdomen using liposuction and then injecting it into the breasts. This is also known as the NaturalFill® technique, pioneered and perfected by Mount Sinai surgeons.
Silicone Breast Implants
Advantages of Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants are the more popular choice for many women considering breast augmentation, accounting for approximately 84% of all breast augmentations in the United States in 2020. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Natural Look and Feel: Silicone implants are known for their softness and ability to mimic the look and feel of natural breast tissue. They allow for more natural movement, and to the touch, they are similar to squeezing a down pillow. As Dr. David P. Rapaport, a board - certified plastic surgeon, explains, for patients with adequate fat and breast tissue, the look and feel of silicone and saline implants can be virtually identical. However, silicone implants are generally preferred for women with little breast tissue or body fat as saline implants in these cases may show ripples more clearly.
- Less Risk of Rupture: Compared to saline implants, silicone implants are much less likely to rupture. According to the FDA, ruptured silicone implants are not associated with breast cancer or other diseases. However, it should be noted that removing a ruptured silicone implant requires a more complicated surgery.
Disadvantages of Silicone Breast Implants
While silicone breast implants have many benefits, they also come with some drawbacks:
- Cost: Silicone implants are generally more expensive than saline implants.
- Requirement for Larger Incision: Inserting silicone implants typically requires a slightly larger incision compared to saline implants.
- Silent Rupture: A rupture in a silicone implant may not be immediately noticeable as the silicone gel tends to stay within the implant's shell, creating a situation known as a silent rupture. This can make it more difficult to detect and address.
Types of Silicone Breast Implants
There are different varieties of silicone breast implants:
- Traditional Silicone Gel Implants: These are the standard type of silicone implants, pre - filled with silicone gel. They come in various sizes and have either smooth or textured shells.
- Gummy Bear Implants: Also known as cohesive silicone gel implants, they are a newer type of silicone implant. The gel in gummy bear implants is more cohesive, meaning it holds its shape better. They are often recommended for patients with very small natural breasts or for breast reconstruction after breast cancer, as they can give a fuller bottom to the breast. However, they are firmer than traditional silicone gel implants and may require a slightly larger scar for insertion.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Consultation
The first step in the breast augmentation process is a consultation with a plastic surgeon. At the People's Hospital, the surgeon will listen to the patient's desires and goals, explain the different types of implants and procedures available, and answer any questions. The surgeon will also perform a physical exam, which includes taking measurements of the breasts, assessing the patient's breast tissue, and asking a series of health - related questions to determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure. For example, the ideal breast augmentation candidate is usually healthy, a non - smoker or willing to quit until recovery, understands the surgery and is willing to follow pre - and post - op instructions, is not currently pregnant or breastfeeding, has realistic expectations, and is aware of the risks and benefits associated with synthetic implants.
Choosing the Right Implant
During the consultation, the patient and the surgeon will discuss the type, size, shape, and texture of the implant. The choice of implant depends on several factors:
- Material: As mentioned earlier, patients can choose between silicone and saline implants. The surgeon will consider the patient's body type, breast tissue, and aesthetic goals when recommending the appropriate material.
- 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). The surgeon will take into account the patient's existing breast tissue, chest wall diameter, and desired results to determine the appropriate size. It is important not to over - augment the breasts to avoid distortion.
- Texture: A textured surface allows the tissues to heal more closely around the implant, preventing it from rotating or becoming displaced. The surgeon will discuss the pros and cons of textured and smooth implants based on the patient's specific situation.
Pre - operative Preparation
Before the surgery, patients are advised to follow certain preparations:
- Quit Smoking: Nicotine can significantly impact the body's ability to heal after surgery, so patients are typically required to quit smoking or using any nicotine products well in advance of the procedure.
- Adjust Medications: Patients may need to taper off certain medications or supplements that can increase bleeding, such as blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John's wort.
- Arrange Support: They should arrange for a trusted family member or friend to pick them up from the hospital and help them during the initial recovery period.
- Prepare Recovery Space: A comfortable recovery space at home should be set up, with necessary items within easy reach.
- Take Time Off: Patients are advised to set aside 2 - 3 weeks for rest and recuperation.
The Surgery
Breast augmentation is usually an outpatient procedure and typically takes 1 - 1.5 hours. The patient will receive either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation anesthesia, administered by a board - certified anesthesiologist.
- Incisions: There are several options for incision placement, including under the breast (inframammary incision), around the areola (periareolar incision), or in the underarm (transaxillary incision). The choice of incision depends on the type of implant, the patient's goals, and other individual factors. For example, only patients who choose to have silicone implants may require an incision under the breast or areola. Some patients prefer the underarm incision as it can remove visible scarring from the breast area.
- Implant Placement: The implant can be placed either under the pectoral muscle (submuscular plane) or above the muscle (subglandular). Submuscular placement is often preferred as it provides increased coverage of the breast implants, softens the upper pole of the breast for a more natural transition, maintains long - term stability of the breast pocket, and decreases the rates of capsular contracture. However, the final decision is based on the patient's anatomy, age, and vocation. Patients with signs of ptosis or sagging skin may have their implants placed subglandularly.
- Closure: Once the implant is in place, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures and wrap the area with a compression garment to protect the results.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, the patient will be monitored in the recovery area until they are fully awake and comfortable. It is normal to experience moderate symptoms such as fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the initial days. The patient will be given a prescription for pain medication to help ease the discomfort, which is usually most pronounced during the first few days. They will also be provided with a surgical compression bra to wear for the next few weeks as they heal.
Returning to Normal Activities
The recovery time varies from person to person, but generally, patients can expect the following timelines:
- Return to Work: Patients with non - strenuous or desk jobs can typically return to work in about 5 days, while those with more physically demanding jobs may need to take 1 - 2 weeks off. For example, Dr. Adam Kolker recommends that patients return to work or studies after seven days, but some with less physically demanding occupations may be able to return as early as 4 - 5 days post - op.
- Resuming Exercise: Light exercise (cardio without impact) may be resumed at 5 - 7 days, and more vigorous physical activity can commence 3 weeks after the surgery. Strength training that excludes pectoralis muscle contraction can resume after 7 days, modified pectoralis exercises at 4 - 6 weeks, and completely unrestricted training begins at 12 weeks.
Long - term Aftercare
Patients will need to attend follow - up appointments with their surgeon. The surgeon will monitor the healing process, check for any signs of complications, and provide information regarding breast health, breast self - examination, and the timing for any breast imaging as required. Most breast implants have an average lifespan of up to 15 years, and the patient may need to consider replacement or removal if necessary in the long run.
Potential Complications
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture occurs when the body forms a capsule around the implant and then contracts, squeezing the implant. This can result in breasts that appear round and high and may feel very hard to the touch. To minimize this risk, surgeons take several precautions, such as minimizing bleeding during surgery (advising patients not to engage in aerobic activity for 10 days following surgery) and avoiding contamination of the operation with particles or bacteria. For example, using powder - free gloves and the “no - touch” technique (using a Keller funnel for implant insertion).
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. While the actual number of cases worldwide is not confirmed, it appears to be approaching 400 cases. This is not breast cancer but a form of non - Hodgkin's lymphoma that can be effectively treated. It is associated with textured implants and patients who develop 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, 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.
Why the People's Hospital in New York City?
Expert Surgeons
The plastic surgery department at the People's Hospital is staffed with highly experienced and board - certified plastic surgeons. These surgeons have in - depth knowledge of the latest techniques and trends in breast augmentation. They are committed to providing personalized care, taking the time to understand each patient's unique goals and desires and developing a customized treatment plan accordingly. For example, they have the expertise to choose the most appropriate implant type, size, and placement for each individual, ensuring the best possible results.
Advanced Technology
The hospital invests in the latest technologies to enhance the breast augmentation process. This includes advanced 3D imaging technology, which allows patients to visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique body. By showing various options on a computer monitor, patients can virtually try on different sizes of breasts, helping them make more informed decisions about their surgery. Additionally, the use of tools like the Keller funnel for implant insertion allows for more precise and less invasive procedures.
Comprehensive Care
From the initial consultation to the long - term follow - up, the People's Hospital offers comprehensive care. The staff provides detailed pre - operative instructions, ensuring that patients are well - prepared for the surgery. During the recovery period, they are available to answer any questions and provide support. The hospital also focuses on patient education, making sure that patients are aware of the potential risks and benefits of the procedure and understand how to take care of themselves after the surgery.
Conclusion
Silicone breast augmentation can be a life - changing procedure for many women, enhancing their appearance and boosting their confidence. The plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital in New York City stands out in the field, thanks to its expert surgeons, advanced technology, and comprehensive care. However, it is important for women considering breast augmentation to thoroughly research the procedure, understand the potential risks and benefits, and choose a qualified and experienced surgeon. By doing so, they can achieve the beautiful and natural - looking results they desire. If you are interested in learning more about silicone breast augmentation at the People's Hospital, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of their plastic surgeons. Take the first step towards enhancing your appearance and feeling more confident in 2025.
