Breast Augmentation in
New York City
Breast augmentation also referred to as breast enlargement, is a surgical procedure in which saline or silicone breast implants are placed in the breast in order to enlarge them and enhance their appearance. Reasons for undergoing breast augmentation depend on the woman and her individual desires. Many decide to undergo the procedure to increase breast size, while others wish to refine and balance body proportion. It is common for women to want to correct breast asymmetry or restore lost volume. Whatever your own reasons for seeking breast augmentation, New York City plastic surgeon, Alexes Hazen M.D., is an expert in breast surgery and has an eye for ideal aesthetic results. She will listen carefully and help you achieve your cosmetic goals.
Dr. Alexes Hazen on Breast Augmentation (Breast Implants) | Board Certified Plastic Surgeon NYC
Before and After Photos of Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation Procedure
Cosmetic breast enlargement or breast augmentation is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. It may be done under sedation or general anesthesia, depending on patient and physician preference. The incision is typically made along the fold line under the breast, or around the areola (the darkened area around the nipple); these techniques create the most inconspicuous scars.
The implant is placed in one of two locations: between the breast tissue and underlying chest muscle, or under the chest muscle. The operation takes approximately one to two hours. The cost of a cosmetic procedure is rarely covered by insurance. However, if enlargement is part of breast reconstruction for breast cancer or is part of gender-affirming surgery, health plans may pay for some or all of it.
Who is a Candidate for Breast Implants?
There are a number of reasons why women want to increase breast size. An ideal breast augmentation candidate is a woman who desires an improved breast shape and/or symmetry or someone who lacks breast volume due to:
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Underdevelopment
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Pregnancy/breastfeeding
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Weight loss
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Aging
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Mastectomy
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Hormonal Imbalance
Additionally, physicians generally require that their patients be physically and psychologically healthy, not currently pregnant or nursing, aware of the risks and complications associated with breast augmentation, and realistic in their breast implant surgery expectations. Furthermore, ideal patients should be those who are seeking breast augmentation for their own self-image, rather than to please others.
Patients who meet the realistic expectations are the most likely to have a great experience.
During your initial consultation, Dr. Alexes Hazen discusses mental and emotional issues with you to determine if this procedure can provide you with the results that you are seeking. You will also be asked to think about the "ideal" size for you!
Post Surgery Recovery
Following breast augmentation surgery, patients need about a week of downtime with up to 2 weeks to fully recover. Typically within a month, you should be able to resume exercise and physical activities. However, the full effects of breast enlargement surgery may take up to several months, after the breasts have taken on their new shape and scars have faded. Scar management techniques will be utilized by Dr. Alexes Hazen to ensure the best possible scarring and results. Often a post-surgical bra is used to help with swelling and to support the newly augmented breasts.
Why Choose Dr. Hazen
Dr. Hazen is an expert in breast surgery and has an eye for ideal aesthetic results. She has performed hundreds of breast procedures over the past 20 years and authored numerous published, peer reviewed papers on the most innovative, non-invasive methods available. Dr. Hazen works with you to understand your desires and your goals, and then helps you with the entire process so that you can have the most beautiful result with the least scarring possible. Communication is key with your surgeon and Dr. Hazen makes a point of really understanding her patients' unique desires and needs.
What to Expect From Your Consultation
After welcoming you, Dr. Hazen takes a thorough look at your medical history and conditions, including hospitalizations and medications taken. A physical exam is performed. Your goals and desires for surgery are fully explored, and Dr. Hazen gives a comprehensive explanation of the surgical procedures that are possible for you, including complications and risks. Dr. Hazen describes your special recovery process. She now offers to take pre-operative photos of you (saves a visit). Dr. Hazen and you may explore any issues that are blocking or interfering with the surgery actually happening, including anxieties around it. Then a plan is made with a timeline. If the surgery is not covered by insurance, estimated costs for surgery and anesthesia are presented to you.