Breast Augmentation New York City
Introduction to Breast Augmentation
At William Lao, MD, in New York City, breast augmentation is our most popular procedure. As unfortunate or unfair as it is, women don’t have control over the development of their breasts. While there is nothing to be ashamed of, there are many cases in which the natural size of a woman’s breasts just does not satisfy her aesthetic needs. The wonderful news is that with the advancements and techniques that the plastic surgery community has developed, women are able to regain their self-confidence with Breast Augmentation surgery. Dr. William Lao is one of the top plastic surgeons specializing in breast implants in New York City. Dr. Lao is on a shortlist of surgeons in the country who specialize in the scarless breast augmentation technique, in which the implants are inserted through the armpit, leaving no visible scar.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, or augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to increase both the volume and projection of bilateral breasts, especially for women who have naturally small breasts or deflated breasts after breastfeeding. This is typically done through the use of breast implants.
Usually, two age groups of ladies desire breast augmentation in New York City. The first group includes ladies in their 20s/30s who have been bothered by the small-breasted appearance since they were young, while the older age group usually consists of mothers with deflated breasts from previous breastfeeding and other changes as a result of pregnancy. Young ladies with small breasts are often self-conscious about their appearance and constantly feel embarrassed when they go to the beach or wear lighter clothes during the summertime. Breast augmentation offers a way for them to have breasts that better fit their ideal body.
Most moms just want to restore the youthful look they used to have before childbirth. They want to regain the projection of nipples and restore the volume lost. The implants add volume back to the breasts and improve the shape of the breasts, which gives them a more attractive appearance.
In some severe congenital cases, the complete absence or presence of very small breasts can cause social distress in school and work. These kinds of congenital problems are no longer cosmetic in nature but often considered a type of body reconstruction. Breast augmentation procedures can restore their confidence and improve their body image. Another common reason across all age groups in New York is that many ladies hope they can now wear a nice summer dress without a bra to push up their breasts anymore.
Breast Augmentation
Incision Choices
Dr. Lao’s Breast Augmentation Expertise in NYC
- Dr. William Lao has successfully performed over 500 Breast surgeries throughout his career.
- Dr. Lao is a Double-board-certified plastic surgeon in both the USA and Taiwan with over 10 years of experience.
- A double major graduate of Johns Hopkins University, followed by a Doctorate of Medicine from Johns Hopkins.
- Dr. Lao is a member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and is a founding member of the Asian Society for Breast Plastic Reconstructive Surgery.
- Dr. Lao has been Voted Top Doctor in 2022 by NEW BEAUTY
Breast Augmentation at First Glance
- Surgery Time: 2 – 3 hours
- Price: Approximately $9,000 – $20,000 *Please book a consultation for the most up-to-date costs.
- Recovery: Most patients return home on the day of surgery and return to their regular routine in 2 – 3 weeks.
- Results: Instant improvements, with your final results taking a few months as the swelling goes down.
Asian Breast Augmentation
It would be incorrect and unfair to assume that all women can undergo the exact same aesthetic procedure, and this includes Breast Augmentation. This fact is important to consider when you are interested in getting any sort of procedure, as differences in skin type, overall frame, and other features can alter the end result. Typically, women of Asian descent will have smaller frames, so when choosing the ideal implant size, shape, and degree of projection, it is very important to factor in a more petite torso. Dr. Lao offers his NYC female Asian patients this demographically inspired surgery.
In most Asian countries a technique that is commonly used is Transaxillary Endoscopic Breast Augmentation, which is referred to as “scarless breast augmentation”, as the incisions go into the armpit. Even though this is an ideal way of performing the surgery, many surgeons in the US don’t have the experience to correctly perform it. This is where Dr. Lao differs, as his training allows him to effectively perform this surgery with confidence. To perform this procedure properly, the surgeon has to be trained to use endoscopic eqiupments and under the magnified surgical view, Dr. Lao can see all blood vessels clearly and perform a bloodless dissection to create the pocket for breast implants. Transaxillary endoscopic breast augmentation procedure is definitely a more elegant way of performing a breast augmentation in Asian or any patients who worry about potential scarring.
Through his experience and knowledge of both Eastern and Western cultures, Dr. Lao utilizes his attention to detail to provide some of the best Asian Breast Augmentation results in New York City.
What are the Benefits of Breast Augmentation?
There are so many wonderful advantages to this surgery. Below, we’ve included some of the major benefits that we can see in our patients.
-
Many of our patients report that the surgery increases their self-confidence
-
Our patients feel they are able to look sexier in the clothes that they wear
-
The surgery can increase the volume of the breasts
-
The surgery can increase the size of the breasts
-
Rounder, fuller breasts
-
Reduce the sagging of the breasts
America’s
Best Plastic Surgeons
2024
Who are the Best Candidates for Breast Augmentation?
With breast augmentation being one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures in the world, there are many different candidates. We request that our NYC breast implant candidates follow the below criteria:
- Be in overall good, physical health
- Be psychologically stable
- Have breasts that are fully developed
- Maintain realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure
- Not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
You would be a good candidate for this surgery if you are:
- Bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too small
- Dissatisfied with the loss of shape and/or volume in your breasts following pregnancy, weight loss, or with aging
- In possession of elongated or asymmetrical breasts
- Interested in increasing the volume and/or size of your breasts
- Possessing one or both breasts that have failed to develop normally
- Unhappy with the upper part of your breast appearing “empty”
What’s the First Step?
The first step for Breast Augmentation surgery in NYC is to contact us and schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Lao. During your discussion with him, you will be able to discuss your goals for the surgery, have your questions and concerns about the procedure answered, be asked about your medical and health history, and receive a personal evaluation from Dr. Lao himself. After reviewing everything, he will create a customized surgical plan for your breast implant surgery.
If you and Dr. Lao both feel that breast augmentation is the best surgery for you, then you will be able to select the sizing, the type of implants you wish to use, and where incisions will be made. Finally, you will schedule the surgery date with our Patient Coordinator who will also provide you with any pre-surgery instructions that you should follow for an optimal experience.
*Pro-tip: Be very open and honest with Dr. Lao when discussing your medical history. Everything is confidential, and clarity leads to optimal results, a healthy recovery, and minimal potential for risks or long-term side effects for your New York Breast Implant surgery.
Do I need to change my
breast implants every 10 years?
Five Steps To Choosing Your Breast Implants
By using the latest and most advanced saline and silicone-gel breast implants on the market, Dr. Lao is able to enhance your breasts’ appearance significantly. When deciding on the look of your new breasts, you will want to consider a few things, such as your age, lifestyle, career, natural physique, and body proportions. When keeping these factors in mind, these realistic expectations help deliver the best-looking results.
Your breast augmentation surgery goals should include a few things, such as your breast size proportioned to your cleavage volume, which creates a natural appearance and hopefully improve your self-confidence and body image. Dr. Lao’s training and experience have given him the skills and knowledge to provide you with incredible breast augmentation results in New York City.
Below, we’ve listed the 5 basic steps to help you decide which breast implant is best for you!
STEP 1 – Saline or Silicone Implants
Dr. Lao offers his New York City breast augmentation patients two options when it comes to breast implants:
Saline and cohesive Silicone gel. So what are the differences?
- Saline implants: An empty silicone outer shell is inserted into your breast pocket through a tiny incision and filled with a sterile saline liquid. These implants are often less expensive and typically have a less organic feel when compared to silicone-gel implants. This type of implant is not usually recommended for thinner patients since there is greater potential for a noticeable rippling effect through the skin.
- Silicone implants: Although they come at a higher price point and do require a larger incision, these implants are pre-filled with a silicone gel that provides a more natural look and feel. The gel inside creates a more natural movement and has a lesser chance of producing a rippling effect.
While some of our patients like the appeal of saline implants, there is still a broader demand for silicone breast implants. Of course, the final choice is yours at the end of the day, but if you are on the fence about which implant is best for you, Dr. Lao will be able to give you his expert opinion during your consultation.
We provide the following implant brands at our practice:
- Mentor: From Johnson & Johnson, Mentor breast implants are renowned for their quality and safety in cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery. They offer a range of silicone and saline implants with a natural look and feel. Since their debut, more than two million patients have used Mentor-brand implants to improve their chest appearance. Mentor implants are available in a range of shapes and sizes and allow personalized enhancements to suit individual body types. The implants are also designed with advanced technologies to minimize the risk of complications.
- Motiva: The new implant brand from Costa Rica that the FDA recently approved, Motiva, has been used in Asia for years. Known for its innovative design and advanced technology, Motiva combines SmoothSilk® Surface with ProgressiveGel PLUS® to create increased fullness and softness that maintains its round shape regardless of whether you’re standing up or lying down. The unique ergonomic shape also provides a natural feel and appearance and helps reduce the risk of complications, particularly capsular contracture.
Motiva implants in New York City come in various sizes and projections, allowing patients and surgeons to tailor the choice to each individual’s body type and desired look. Motiva also employs a unique temperature-resistant RFID technology, which can help keep track of each implant’s history and ensure traceability in case of a recall or a lost implant ID card. With a commitment to innovation and patient satisfaction, Motiva breast implants are increasingly favored for their combination of aesthetic appeal, safety features, and customizable options, making them a trusted choice in the realm of cosmetic surgery. - Natrelle: Natrelle breast implants are designed to provide a natural look and feel, catering to various aesthetic preferences. Manufactured by Allergan, these implants come in a range of shapes, sizes, and profiles, allowing for personalized results. Natrelle uses a cohesive gel that mimics the softness of natural breast tissue, ensuring comfort and a realistic appearance. The implants are also known for their durability and are backed by extensive clinical research. With a focus on patient satisfaction, Natrelle aims to enhance confidence and body image for those considering breast augmentation.
- Sientra: Sientra breast implants have been used for more than 25 years. In 2012, Sientra received FDA approval for its silicone gel implant that uses a proprietary branded TRUE texture. These implants, affectionately and famously named the “gummy bear” breast implants, are booming in popularity because of their sticky consistency that prevents leaks in the event of a complication. They are also the first and only company in the U.S. to offer a full series of shaped breast implants, which can provide you with a more natural-looking chest after surgery.
STEP 2 – Breast Implant Sizes
Now we’re at the part that many of our patients find to be the most fun when discussing surgical goals. Once the type of implant being used is decided upon, you will be able to choose the size of your implants. Dr. Lao will offer you his recommendation based on your body type, but will certainly regard your personal preference. It is very important to remember that not all breast implant sizes and bra cup sizes are the same.
To provide you with more accurate expectations, Dr. Lao uses Vectra 3D Imaging software to digitally replicate your end results and real implant sizers for an authentic tactile experience. You can also review before-and-after photos of previous patients to see their implant surgery outcomes.
STEP 3 – Breast Implant Shape
Every patient will have different reasons as to why they are looking for breast implants, but every reason is a valid one. Some women are looking for better body proportions, others are looking to add fullness to their busts, while some women just desire larger breasts. Currently almost all implants used are round smooth implants because shaped (tear dropped) implants are all textured and texturing is associated with breast ALCL (anaplastic large cell lymphoma) and are not recommended currently.
STEP 4 – Implant Placement
During this step, you and Dr. Lao will decide if the implants are going to go on top or beneath the muscle, but this is determined by the amount of breast tissue. For our patients who do not possess enough tissue, the implants should be placed below the muscle, however, this provides a more natural look. When there is a sufficient amount of tissue, putting the implants on top of the muscle can enhance your cleavage. Again, Dr. Lao will offer his expertise when choosing the best placement option for you.
STEP 5 – Incision Placement
Finally, the two of you will determine the best placement for the incision. Dr. Lao will already know where he believes the incisions should be based on his experience and your implant choices, but he will discuss the pros and cons of your incision placement options, which are briefly discussed below:
- Inframammary (IMF) placement is made just below the natural fold beneath the crease of your breast, providing Dr. Lao optimal control during surgery and a discreet access point to insert your implant and conceal future scarring. Additionally, the inframammary fold can assist in guiding the placement of implants, ensuring a natural look and feel.
- Periareolar incisions are made along the edge of the nipple and follow the natural contour of the breast, helping conceal the scar and maintaining aesthetic results. Additionally, the periareolar approach can facilitate easier access to both the breast tissue and underlying structures, enhancing Dr. Lao’s ability to achieve optimal outcomes.
- Transaxillary incisions are made through the armpit and hidden within the natural folds of the axilla. Proper surgical planning and technique are essential to ensure effective results and minimize complications. While transaxillary is less common for most surgeons, it leaves no visible scars on the breasts, and if performed by a surgeon of Dr. Lao’s caliber using endoscope, this can be the most optimal approach.
Please bear in mind that there will be scarring regardless of where the incision is placed. Because of Dr. Lao’s attention to detail and skill should be barely noticeable, if at all. Scarring will fade over time but may still be slightly visible even after healing properly.
What to Expect on the Day of Breast Augmentation
There are many ways to perform breast augmentation. The filling materials nowadays are autologous fat, saline, or silicone implants. There are advantages and disadvantages to either material. The most common implant option is silicone because it has a more natural consistency. For implant-based augmentation, there are usually three incisions to choose from including incisions through the axilla (also known as a transaxillary breast augmentation), under the breast, or around the areola-skin border. The implant placement can be either above the Pectoralis Major muscle or below it. There are also indications for anatomical (tear-dropped shaped) implants to improve the aesthetics of specific breast types. Most implants can be placed under direct vision but when using the axillary approach it is best done with the aid of an endoscope.
The best breast augmentation is one with a natural shape, volume, and a well-hidden scar. The nipple should be at the point of maximal projection with a gentle breast slope in the upper pole and a curved lower pole when viewed from the side.
During your initial consultation with Dr. Lao at his New York office, he will ask about the specific issues you have with the size and appearance of your breasts. He will also ask about the kind of results you are looking to attain through surgery. This information will help Dr. Lao determine which techniques and materials to use for your breast augmentation.
Endoscopic Breast Augmentation through the Axilla
For patients who want to avoid any chance of having noticeable post-surgical marks on or around their breasts, endoscopic breast augmentation through the axilla is an option. This unique approach utilizes a tiny incision made around the top of the armpit as the insertion point for the breast implant.
Making the incision along the natural creases of the armpit will help to reduce the visibility of any post-surgical marks. An endoscope is used before the insertion of the implant to allow Dr. Lao to precisely move any tissue and create a pocket where the breast implant will be placed.
This approach can be used for both saline and silicone implants. Dr. Lao will use the information gathered during your initial consultation to determine if you are a good candidate for endoscopic breast augmentation through the axilla, as some factors need to be considered.
A Message from NYC Breast Augmentation Expert, Dr. William Lao:
“Our New York City Breast Augmentation has become one of my favorite plastic surgery procedures to perform. Not only is it a procedure that gives women more confidence, it’s one that I confidently carry out, knowing that every surgery performed is some of my finest work. Since I began practicing, I’ve successfully completed hundreds of breast augmentation surgeries. My office in New York City is a top-of-the-line facility with a chic design and passionate staff. We’re here to answer any questions and guide our patients through the beautiful journey. I’m confident that with my experience and technique I’ll be able to achieve the desired look that many women seek out. I look forward to meeting you!”
BREAST AUGMENTATION SCHEDULE
Surgery
Time: 1-2 hours
General Anesthesia
Recovery
Ambulate the night of surgery
Shower 2 days after surgery
3 to 5 days off work
Restriction
6 weeks from heavy lifting and swimming
Breast Augmentation Recovery
After your procedure, you will need to wear a special surgical bra that will provide support and protection during the initial part of your recovery. You may experience swelling, bruising, pain, and general discomfort during the early stages of your recovery. Medication can be provided to help manage any pain or discomfort.
Most patients take around a week off of work to allow their bodies to heal. It will take around two to three weeks before normal activities can be resumed. Heavy lifting and other strenuous activities will need to be avoided for around four to six weeks.
It may take between six to eight weeks for the swelling to fully ameliorate and for your full results to appear. There may be a feeling of stiffness in the area, and the breasts may feel sensitive for a short time during the initial recovery, but these issues should not be a concern. If you do experience anything concerning, be sure to schedule an appointment with your doctor.
Why Choose Dr. Lao?
Dr. William Lao is a highly regarded plastic surgeon in NYC. He was recently featured as a TopDoc in the publication, NewBeauty. Dr. Lao attended Johns Hopkins University and is a board-certified plastic surgeon. He’s a proud member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons & The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Dr. Lao prides himself on his communication and bedside manner with his patients.
Featured in NewBeauty: As an awarded TopDoc with the magazine, NewBeauty, Dr. Lao routinely discusses different operations with the publication. Check out his recent conversation with NewBeauty on breast augmentation and his technique and surgical approaches on YouTube.
How Much Does Breast Augmentation Cost in New York City?
The average cost of breast augmentation in New York City typically starts at $7,000 and can range up to $20,000 or more. Prices vary based on factors such as the type of implants chosen, the surgical technique used, anesthesia costs, and surgeon fees. For a personalized cost estimate and detailed information about the procedure, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. William Lao. During your consultation, our patient coordinator will provide a tailored quote and address any questions you may have regarding breast augmentation.
FAQs
Can I Combine Breast Augmentation with Other Procedures?
Will the surgery leave scars?
As with all plastic surgery procedures, there will be scars. However, Dr. Lao diligently works to make the scars as inconspicuous as possible, so they are hardly noticed.
How long will my results last?
Unfortunately, breast implants don’t last forever. While you’ll be able to enjoy them for several years, after about 20 years you’ll probably want to have them redone.
How long does breast augmentation surgery take?
The surgery typically takes 2-3 hours to perform. Every patient is different, so the time can fluctuate a bit.
Can I get a Breast Augmentation while Breastfeeding?
What happens when I need new breast implants?
What are the risks associated with Breast Augmentation?
- Anesthesia risks
- Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) or other very rare cancers in the capsule around the
- breast, such as breast implant-associated squamous cell carcinoma (BIA-SCC)
- Bleeding
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation
- Fluid accumulation (seroma)
- Formation of tight scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture)
- Hematoma
- Implant leakage or rupture
- Infection
- Persistent pain
- Poor scarring
- Possibility of revision surgery
- Wrinkling of the skin over the implant
- Wrong or faulty position of the implant
What Is Capsular Contracture?
Schedule Your Consultation
Providing our patients with personalized results that look natural and beautiful is our goal. Dr. Lao specializes in breast augmentation in Manhattan. If you are unhappy with the size and appearance of your breasts and you believe breast implants can help you reach your aesthetic goals, contact our office in New York City to schedule a consultation.
