Breast Augmentation

What is a breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation (also commonly known as breast implants, breast aug, breast enhancement or a “boob job”) is a plastic surgery procedure designed to increase the size of the breasts through the use of artificial implants underneath the natural breast tissue.  This surgery, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is one of the more popular plastic surgeries for women in both the United States and in New York City (NYC).

Why would someone consider having a breast augmentation or a breast lift?

There are many reasons why a woman would consider breast enhancement surgery.  Breast implants can certainly be of benefit and comfort to a woman who may feel that her natural breasts are smaller then desired and disproportionate with the rest of her figure.  Additionally, a woman may feel her breasts are not uniformly shaped or sized either from birth or as they grow older.  It is very important for women to feel comfortable with both themselves and their appearance and for many, breast augmentation allows them to feel this sense of comfort and pride in the way they look.

What are the different types of breast augmentation and which should I consider?

There are two main types of breast implants used in breast enhancement surgery: silicone and saline implants.  Silicone is a gel based substance while saline is simply a sterile salt water solution.  Depending on what one’s aesthetic objectives are, either type of implant may prove more appropriate or desirable.  This decision will be made collectively by both the patient and the plastic surgeon during an initial consultation.  The major difference between the two is the tactile consistency of the implants.  Silicone gel has a viscosity which closely mirrors that of the natural fat tissue found in the breast while saline is of a much softer constitution.

What is a typical procedure like?

The surgeon will make incisions at the predetermined site of implantation (either directly below the existing breast tissue or beneath both the breast tissue and the chest muscles).  The surgeon will then position the silicone or saline implants in the appropriate area for optimal fulfillment of the desired aesthetic objective.  Once satisfied that the implants are optimally positioned, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures.  The vast majority of operations are conducted as day surgeries with no need for overnight hospitalization.  Depending on the scope of the augmentation, either local or general anesthesia will be administered.

Is there considerable downtime afterwards?

Most patients can return home the same day as their breast enhancement surgery.  However most patients do experience general fatigue over the first 1-3 days and all patients will experience soreness and general discomfort during this time.  After this period, post operative symptoms will gradually improve.  In the post-surgical period of 3-7 days, patients can begin light activity and generally return to work.  All strenuous activity such as heavy lifting and vigorous exercise should be avoided for 4-6 weeks.

What kind of results can I expect?

The results of breast augmentation can be quite dramatic and for a significant percentage of women, life-altering.  Whether it is the confidence to wear outfits they would never have felt comfortable in before surgery or simply the restoration of the youthful appearance they thought had passed them by, breast enhancement has had a profoundly positive psychological and aesthetic effect on many of its recipients.  This explains the lasting popularity of breast implants.

Where is the breast augmentation consultation performed ?

All consultations for breast implants are performed in our New York office in Midtown Manhattan. The actual procedure is performed in a hospital in NYC.

What is the cost in breast augmentation in NYC?

The cost of breast implants varies, but usually price is in the range of $5,000-10,000.

Who performs the breast implants procedure?

Dr. Wolfeld performs all breast augmentation procedures.Dr. Michael B. Wolfeld is a fellowship trained Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon who received his training in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Dr. Wolfeldthen pursued his interest in Aesthetic Surgery and completed a one year aesthetic fellowship at Lenox Hill Hospital and the prestigious Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital.  Dr. Wolfeld believes that beauty is in the details, that each person’s goal is unique and requires a customized approach. He believes that even the smallest improvement can change your outlook on life.   As a cosmetic plastic surgeon, Dr. Wolfeld brings his experience, artistry and extraordinary attention to detail to each individual patient to achieve his or her goals.

To schedule a liposuction consultation with Dr. Wolfeld, please call 212-283-3000.