Introduction
Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure in New York City. Allergan, one of the well - known names in the breast implant industry, offers a range of products for this purpose. Understanding its ranking in New York City involves looking at various factors such as product quality, patient satisfaction, surgeon preference, and safety records. This article will explore these aspects in detail to provide a comprehensive view of Allergan's standing in the New York City breast augmentation market.
Allergan: An Overview
Company Background
Allergan Inc. is one of the largest breast implant manufacturers globally. It started selling breast implants in 2006. In May 2020, AbbVie acquired Allergan and its aesthetics portfolio. Its major markets include the United States, Canada, and Latin America. The flagship breast implant brand of Allergan is Natrelle, and it previously sold implants under subsidiaries Inamed and Mcghan.
Product Range
Allergan offers a diverse range of breast implants:
- Silicone and Saline Options: Allergan's breast implants come in both silicone - filled and saline - filled varieties. The outer shell of these implants is made of silicone elastomer. Silicone - filled implants have a silicone gel inside, while saline - filled ones contain a sterile saline solution (saltwater).
- Shape and Texture: There are anatomical (teardrop - shaped) and round implants. The texture of the implant shells can be either smooth or textured. For example, the Natrelle 410 was an anatomical gel implant, but due to concerns related to a rare cancer, textured implants were recalled in 2019.
Factors Affecting Allergan's Ranking in New York City
Product Quality and Reputation
Allergan has built a long - standing reputation for quality in the plastic surgery industry. Its Natrelle line of implants is known for durability and a natural feel. Many patients appreciate the soft, natural look and feel of Allergan breast implants, and with a wide variety of shapes and sizes available, patients can achieve highly personalized results. However, the 2019 worldwide recall of its textured implants due to an association with a rare form of lymphoma, breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), did impact its reputation to some extent. The FDA linked these devices to hundreds of cancer cases and a dozen deaths.
Surgeon Preference
Surgeon preference plays a crucial role in the ranking of Allergan prosthetic breast augmentation. Some well - known plastic surgeons in New York City, such as Dr. Joshua A. Greenwald, have chosen to use Allergan breast implants. Dr. Greenwald, a board - certified New York plastic surgeon, believes that Allergan currently has the most comprehensive line of breast implants available. Surgeons' experience with the product, their comfort level in handling the implants during surgery, and the support they receive from the manufacturer all influence their preference.
Patient Satisfaction
Allergan's data shows that a significant number of patients are satisfied with their breast augmentation results. In a core study of 455 primary augmentation patients, 279 provided a satisfaction rating, and 86% reported they were “definitely satisfied” with their implants. However, it's important to note that satisfaction can be subjective and may vary depending on individual expectations, surgical outcomes, and any complications that may arise.
Safety Record
The safety of breast implants is a top concern for patients and surgeons. While Allergan has a generally strong safety record, the issue of BIA - ALCL associated with its textured implants is a significant drawback. Even after the recall of textured implants, other safety concerns exist. For example, silicone - filled implants can have “silent rupture,” where the implant has ruptured but the patient is not aware of it because the body cannot absorb silicone. This is why the FDA recommends that women with silicone breast implants undergo a breast imaging exam such as an MRI or mammogram every three years, starting the third year after the initial breast enhancement procedure.
Comparison with Competitors in New York City
Versus Mentor
Mentor is also a leading name in breast augmentation. Mentor offers high - quality silicone and saline implants, and its Memory Gel® implants are favored for their softness and natural feel. It provides a limited lifetime warranty, giving patients added peace of mind. In comparison, Allergan's implants offer a wider variety of shapes and profiles. However, Mentor's reputation for safety and patient satisfaction in terms of its non - recalled products may give it an edge in some patients' and surgeons' eyes, especially after Allergan's textured implant recall.
Versus Motiva
Motiva breast implants are a newer option in the U.S. market. They offer innovative technology that mimics the natural feel of breast tissue, and their Ergonomix® implants are designed to adjust with the body's movements. While Allergan has a more established brand and a longer history in the market, Motiva's advanced features may attract patients looking for the latest technology in breast augmentation.
Allergan Breast Augmentation Procedure in New York City
Implant Placement
There are two main ways to place Allergan Natrelle implants:
- Submuscular Placement: The surgeon places the implant under the chest muscle (pectoralis). This technique can reduce the risk of capsular contracture, where scar tissue squeezes the implant. It also makes breast tissue easier to see in mammograms and is preferred in women with weakened or thin breast tissue. However, surgery and recovery are longer and may be more painful, and reoperation may be more difficult.
- Subglandular Placement: The implant is placed on top of the muscle and under the breast glands. This method has a greater likelihood of capsular contracture and makes it more difficult to see breast tissue in mammograms. Women with thin or weakened breast tissue might not do well with this surgery, but the surgery and recovery may be shorter and less painful, and it is easier to perform revision surgery.
Incision Location
Common incision sites for Allergan silicone implants include:
- Periareolar: The incision is made around the nipple. It is more concealed but has a higher likelihood of breastfeeding problems, a higher risk of change in sensation in the nipple, and a higher risk of infection.
- Inframammary: Located in the breast fold, it offers fewer breastfeeding difficulties, the best access and control of the implant pocket, and is the most commonly used by surgeons. However, it is less concealed.
- Axillary or Transaxillary: The incision is under the arm. It has fewer breastfeeding problems but is less concealed, more difficult, and may increase the risk of damage to and unexpected location of the implant.
Recovery
After Allergan breast augmentation surgery in New York City, women generally feel tired and sore for several days. Swelling can decrease feeling in the nipple and breast. Most women can return to work a few days after the surgery, but they should avoid strenuous activities. Recovery may involve using a special bra or other support to help speed up healing, and some women may need pain medication. It may take up to eight weeks for the implants to settle into a more natural position.
Legal and Regulatory Issues Affecting Allergan's Ranking
Lawsuits
Allergan breast implant lawsuits claim that the company did not properly warn women that their textured breast implants carried a risk of BIA - ALCL. These lawsuits can have a negative impact on Allergan's reputation in the New York City market and may make some patients more hesitant to choose Allergan implants.
Regulatory Oversight
The FDA classifies breast implants as class III, high - risk devices. Allergan is required to adhere to strict regulations regarding the safety and labeling of its products. The 2019 recall of textured implants was a result of FDA pressure after data linked the devices to cancer cases. Any future regulatory issues could further affect Allergan's ranking in the New York City breast augmentation market.
Finding a Surgeon for Allergan Breast Augmentation in New York City
Reputable Surgeons
In New York City, there are several well - regarded plastic surgeons who perform Allergan breast augmentation. For example, Dr. Adam R. Kolker, a double - board - certified plastic surgeon, is featured in many prestigious lists such as New York Magazine's Best Doctors and Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Kolker is known for his skill in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures, and he has extensive experience in delivering natural - looking results.
Surgeon Selection Criteria
When choosing a surgeon for Allergan breast augmentation in New York City, patients should consider the following:
- Board Certification: Ensure that the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, which indicates that they have met the highest standards of education, training, and ethical practice.
- Experience: Look for a surgeon with significant experience in performing breast augmentation surgeries, especially with Allergan implants. Surgeons who have performed a large number of procedures are more likely to handle any complications that may arise.
- Patient Reviews: Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the surgeon's bedside manner, the quality of their results, and patient satisfaction.
Conclusion
Allergan prosthetic breast augmentation has a complex standing in New York City. On one hand, the company has a long - established brand, a diverse product range, and many satisfied patients. Surgeons like Dr. Greenwald and Dr. Kolker choosing to use Allergan products speak to the product's potential quality. On the other hand, the recall of textured implants due to the association with BIA - ALCL and the subsequent lawsuits have cast a shadow on its reputation. Compared to competitors like Mentor and Motiva, Allergan faces both advantages and challenges. While its implants offer a variety of options for patients, new technologies from competitors and concerns over safety may influence its ranking.
If you are considering Allergan breast augmentation in New York City, it is essential to do thorough research. Consult with a board - certified plastic surgeon to understand the benefits and risks associated with Allergan implants, and make an informed decision based on your individual needs and goals. Share this article with others who are interested in breast augmentation to help them make a more educated choice.
