Introduction to Breast Augmentation in New York City
Breast augmentation has become one of the most sought - after cosmetic procedures in recent years. In New York City, a hub of beauty and medical innovation, there are numerous hospitals and clinics offering this service. Over 5 million women in the USA have undergone breast augmentation, and 90% of them do it after having kids, with 79% of those who undergo the procedure reporting satisfaction. If you're considering breast augmentation with prostheses in New York City, this article will introduce you to the top three places based on various factors such as doctor expertise, patient reviews, and service focus.
Understanding 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 or saline for enlargement. The most common method is the surgical approach using implants. It helps in enlarging or restoring symmetry to the breasts, providing a solution for those who have experienced a reduction in breast size due to weight loss, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, as well as for those who want to balance their physical appearance.
Types of Breast Implants
- Silicone Breast Implants: They look and feel natural in the breasts. The gel inside gives a more realistic texture and appearance compared to other types of implants.
- Saline Breast Implants: These are firmer and rounder. A saline implant is a silicone shell filled with a salt - water solution. They have the advantage of being able to be adjusted in volume during the procedure.
- Cohesive Silicone Gel Implants (Gummy Bear Implants): Developed in the 1990s, these implants have a thick gel that keeps its form. They are popular because they provide a natural and proportionate breast shape and feel, with an extensive variety of shapes and sizes to mimic most breast shapes and fit different chest dimensions.
Top Three Hospitals for Breast Augmentation with Prostheses in New York City
1. Practices Associated with Dr. Nadia Afridi
Dr. Nadia Afridi is 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. Her service focus includes 36% breast augmentation, which indicates her high level of specialization in this area. Her practice is known for offering comprehensive care in breast augmentation procedures.
Procedure Details
Dr. Afridi's breast augmentation surgery 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, minimizing the visibility of scars. She is experienced with both saline and silicone implants, giving patients a wider range of options. In cases where patients are not satisfied with a previous breast augmentation procedure, she can correct issues such as wrinkling, bottoming out, implant palpability, symmastia, severe implant displacement, and capsular contracture.
Patient Experience
Patients praise Dr. Afridi for her professionalism and friendliness. She and her staff are very helpful and accommodating, treating patients like royalty. She is always ready to answer patients' calls post - operation, which gives patients peace of mind during the recovery process. Her practice has an estimated breast augmentation cost of $8900, and the price may vary depending on the specific requirements of each patient.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Board - certified plastic surgeon | By appointment only |
| 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 |
2. Practices with Dr. Richard Swift
Dr. Richard Swift is a board - certified plastic surgeon who offers a variety of cosmetic surgeries and treatments. His service focus shows that 18% of his practice is dedicated to breast augmentation. He has earned a number of prestigious awards for his experience and expertise in the field.
Pre - and Post - operative Care
Before the breast augmentation procedure, it is recommended that patients refrain from vigorous exercise the day before and shower with antimicrobial soap the night before, avoiding applying lotions, creams, or moisturizers on the area to be treated. After the surgery, the breasts will be swollen and tender. Patients can usually return to work within a week but need to wear a surgical bra when the bandages are removed. They should also refrain from bending, lifting, or engaging in strenuous exercise until Dr. Swift approves it. If patients have young children, they may be advised to make preparations for their care.
Expertise and Team
Dr. Swift is skilled in performing breast augmentation and has a great team of staff, including receptionists, operating room nurses, and anesthesiologists. His price for breast augmentation ranges from $5000 - $10000, which may vary depending on the extent of surgery and the number of treatments needed. However, his prices are fair and in line with other board - certified plastic surgeons.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery | By appointment only |
| 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 |
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 other 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. He is an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, keeping him at the forefront of advancements in plastic surgery.
Range of Breast Procedures
In addition to breast augmentation, Dr. Kolker offers a number of breast procedures such as breast asymmetry correction, breast lift, breast reduction, breast reconstruction, fat transfer breast augmentation, tuberous breast correction, and gummy bear breast implants. His approach is centered around attaining each individual woman's aesthetic goals, distinct to her body type, to achieve a proportionate outcome and the most natural results.
Reputation and Recognition
Dr. Kolker is highly respected in the field and has been featured as a top plastic surgeon in numerous publications. He is listed in New York Magazine's Best Doctors from 2013 - 2024, Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons in 2021 - 2024, and Castle Connolly's America's Top Doctors from 2016 - 2024. His service is quite expensive, with an estimated breast augmentation cost of $9000 – $11000, which includes the combined effort of his surgical and anesthesia team. The price also depends on the material used, with silicone breast implants being $1000 more expensive than saline implants.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| American Board of Plastic Surgery certified | Leaves staff to answer patient’s concerns |
| American Board of Surgery certified | Surgery is very expensive |
| Impressive educational background | |
| Friendly and helpful staff | |
| Offers several breast augmentation procedures | |
| Office is nice and clean |
Considerations Before Undergoing Breast Augmentation
Patient Suitability
The best candidates for breast augmentation surgery are well - balanced, in good general health, and have realistic expectations. They should be highly motivated to make the change, have the ability to pause their daily responsibilities (work, family, school, etc.) to undergo the procedure, and have the financial means to afford an elective cosmetic surgery. Women should also be at least 18 years old or have matured enough to know their desired breast volume.
Financial Considerations
The cost of breast augmentation varies depending on the type of procedure, the type of implants, and the doctor performing the surgery. It usually ranges from $3,900 to $6,000, but this may not cover the cost of implants. Each doctor has different payment plans, and many accept cash, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, etc.), checks, and some also offer financing options. Popular financing options in New York City include CareCredit, which offers no - interest plans up to 24 months and extended payment plans for 24, 36, 48, or 60 months.
Consultation Process
When choosing a surgeon for breast augmentation, patients should check for board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, ensure that the physician has privileges at a major hospital in the community and is in good standing, confirm the surgeon's reputation among other medical professionals, and speak to the surgeon's patients who have undergone similar procedures. During the consultation, patients should ask questions about the procedure, recovery time, type of implants, and any potential risks or complications. Some surgeons offer a free consultation, while others may charge a fee of about $100 - $150.
Recovery and Aftercare
General Recovery Process
The recovery process after breast augmentation usually takes between six to eight weeks. During this time, patients are advised to rest, wear a recovery bra, take prescribed medications, eat a healthy diet, and follow all the instructions provided by their surgeon. In the initial days after surgery, it is normal to experience moderate symptoms of fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Pain medication is usually prescribed to help ease the discomfort, which is most pronounced during the first few days. After 2 - 3 weeks, patients can resume light activities and work, and at 6 - 8 weeks, they can engage in more strenuous activities, including going to the gym.
Do's and Don'ts
- Do's:
- Ensure you rest very well
- Eat healthy food
- Take whatever medication is prescribed by the specialist either to deal with pain or post - op issues
- Do breast massages to help the implants settle well
- Sleep on your back
- Go for a post - op check - up if advised by your specialist
- Don'ts:
- Don't sleep on your stomach
- Don't do heavy lifting
- Don't do intense exercises
- Don't swim
- Avoid smoking as it would delay the healing process
- Don't ignore your specialist's advice post - op
Conclusion
Breast augmentation with prostheses is a popular cosmetic procedure that can enhance a woman's self - confidence and physical appearance. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals and clinics offering this service. Dr. Nadia Afridi, Dr. Richard Swift, and Dr. Adam Kolker are among the leading experts in the field, each with their own unique strengths and areas of specialization. When considering breast augmentation, it is crucial to carefully research your options, consult with a qualified surgeon, and have realistic expectations about the procedure and its outcomes.
If you're considering breast augmentation, take the time to explore these top - rated options further. Contact the clinics for a consultation, ask questions, and discuss your goals with the surgeons. By making an informed decision, you can achieve the beautiful and natural - looking results you desire. Share this article with friends or family who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in New York City.
