Is Breast Augmentation Painful?

Patients are often surprised by how manageable recovery is after surgery. Although some swelling, tightness, and soreness can persist for several days to a week, prescribed pain medication will help relieve the discomfort.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

You will need to attend several appointments over the course of several months. These appointments include a consultation, surgery, and follow-up appointments, during which Dr. Antell will check your incisions and healing progress and remove bandages, drains, and dressings.

How Long Until I See Results?

You’ll see and feel an immediate difference in the appearance of your breasts regarding the shape, feeling, and size. Swelling and bruising will cause your breasts to look unnatural, but these side effects will fade and yield final results within 3-6 months.

How Long Do Breast Implants Last?

Breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime, although many patients enjoy their results for over a decade. While there is no set timeline for implant replacement, Dr. Antell recommends regular check-ups to assess implant integrity and overall breast health.

What Will the Scarring Look Like?

Dr. Antell uses carefully placed incisions to minimize visible scarring. Over time, scars will fade and become less noticeable, especially when following post-operative care instructions for optimal healing.

When Can I Exercise Again After My Breast Augmentation?

Prioritize rest during recovery, and avoid exercise until Dr. Antell approves you to resume your regular routine. You’ll be allowed to slowly work your way up from short walks within the first couple of days to rigorous exercise within several weeks to months.

How Soon Can I Travel After Breast Augmentation?

You can take short drives during the first 10-14 days, but you should walk around for a few minutes every 1-2 hours to promote healthy blood flow. Flights are generally acceptable within 2-3 weeks, depending on the flight duration. You shouldn’t lift heavy luggage, which can strain your muscles and cause complications. Pressurized cabins can also increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis and worsen swelling and bruising.

What is Capsular Contracture, and How is It Treated?

Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing hardening or discomfort. Dr. Antell employs advanced techniques and, when necessary, can use an Acellular Dermal Matrix (ADM) to help prevent capsular contracture. If contracture occurs, the implants and scar tissue can be removed or replaced to restore a natural look and feel.

Can Breast Implants Affect Breastfeeding?

Many women are able to breastfeed successfully after breast augmentation. If breastfeeding is important to you, Dr. Antell will discuss surgical options that best preserve milk ducts and sensitivity around the nipples.

What Are the Risks Associated with Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is typically a safe procedure performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. However, as with any surgery, risks remain. The most common complication after breast augmentation is capsular contracture, a condition in which the capsule surrounding the implant restricts the implant, resulting in a misshapen appearance, hardening of the area, and pain. Capsular contracture can be treated by removing the implant and scar tissue, and, if desired, placing new implants. Placing ADM (acellular dermal matrix) such as Strattice or Alloderm has shown very promising results in reducing capsular contracture. This may also be combined with prescribing Accolate to significantly lower capsular contracture rates. Other complications include bleeding, infection, numbness, and implant rupture. Infection typically presents within a week after surgery and can usually be treated by antibiotics and, in some cases, removing the implant. Rupture can occur as a result of injury or from normal compression and movement of the breast, causing friction with the artificial shell of the implant. If a saline implant ruptures, the salt water is harmlessly absorbed by the body, causing the breast to appear deflated. With both saline and silicone implant ruptures, a revision surgery is performed to replace the implant and remove any troublesome scar tissue. There is no evidence that breast implants affect fertility, pregnancy, or the ability to nurse. If you have nursed within a year prior to augmentation, you may produce milk for a few days after surgery. Dr. Antell will provide a thorough discussion of all risks during your initial consultation.

How Do I Find the Best Breast Augmentation Plastic Surgeon in New York City?

The best breast augmentation plastic surgeons in New York City are board-certified and involved with several accredited organizations. They have several years of experience and extensive patient testimonials describing positive experiences. You can also view before-and-after photos on their website to see whether they align with your aesthetic preferences.

Breast Augmentation New York City, NY

Enhance Breast Volume and Shape

Introduction to Breast Augmentation in New York City

Breast augmentation surgery will enhance the size and shape of your breasts.1 By inserting an implant into each breast, your breasts can be increased by one or more bra cup sizes. While breast augmentations are among the most commonly performed aesthetic procedures, the results vary depending on your surgeon.

For a beautiful, long-lasting result, reduced risk of complications, and a look that is perfectly balanced with your frame, consider Dr. Antell, a renowned breast augmentation surgeon in New York City and board-certified plastic surgeon who has performed more than ten thousand plastic surgery procedures, including thousands of breast augmentation surgeries.

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Hands opening purple gift box containing two white ceramic plates with elegant presentation - breast augmentation in New York, NY

What is Breast Augmentation?

A breast augmentation, or augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. It can be performed on individuals looking to add or restore volume and who prefer to use breast implants rather than fat transfer. Sometimes, patients use both to enhance their results with precision and added comfort.

Patients can customize nearly every aspect of their procedure under Dr. Antell’s guidance, helping them feel more comfortable and at ease throughout the process. Whether you are looking for a subtle enhancement or to go a couple of cup sizes up, breast augmentation under Dr. Antell can give you your desired breast appearance and feel.

Combining My Breast Augmentation with Other Procedures

It is common for Dr. Antell’s New York City patients to get more than one procedure when they come to his practice because they have multiple concerns they want to address. You will discuss a full list of options during your consultation, but here are some popular combinations to get started:

Breast augmentation adds volume and shape to the breasts, but it does not add projection. A breast lift, or mastopexy, lifts the breasts and nipples into a higher position on the chest wall, resulting in a more youthful position and increased upper-pole fullness.

What Sets Dr. Darrick Antell Apart as the Premier Breast Augmentation Practice in New York City, NY?

Dr. Antell has been performing breast augmentation on his New York City patients for more than 20 years.
He is board-certified with the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
He is a member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Dr. Antell is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons
Dr. Antell earned his medical degree from the University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, finished his general surgery internship and residency at Stanford University Medical Center, and completed a specialized residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center.
While he would never disclose specifics, his New York City breast augmentation patients have included Playboy Playmates, swimsuit models, and numerous actresses.

Breast Augmentation Quick Facts

Surgery Time:

1-2 hours

Price:

~$9,000 to $12,000 (For an accurate cost, please ask during your consultation).

Recovery:

1-3 weeks

Results:

Immediate initial results, with 3-6 months to see final results

Who Are the Best Candidates for a Breast Augmentation?

Anyone in good health who is suffering from diminished self-confidence due to the desire for fuller breasts is likely a candidate for a breast augmentation. The decision to have a breast augmentation should be based on personal needs, rather than pressure from another individual.

A breast augmentation is ideal for someone in New York City who:

For personal reasons, feels her breasts are too small and wishes to enhance her figure
Wants to correct volume loss after pregnancy and breastfeeding
Wishes to resolve a difference in breast sizes (breast asymmetry)
Desires reconstructive surgery following treatment for breast cancer

What Are the Benefits of Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a uniquely tailored procedure designed to enhance your body’s natural contours and help you reach your aesthetic goals. Whether you want to regain fullness, achieve symmetry, or create a more harmonious silhouette, breast augmentation can deliver stunning, natural results. Here are some of the key benefits to consider:

Enhanced Confidence: Many women experience renewed self-confidence and empowerment after achieving their desired breast size and shape.
Improved Proportions: Breast augmentation can enhance overall body proportions, helping create a balanced silhouette that aligns with your aesthetic goals
Customized Volume and Shape: With options for both saline and silicone implants in various shapes and sizes, Dr. Antell tailors each breast augmentation to achieve the look you desire.2
Rejuvenated Appearance: For women who’ve experienced volume loss due to aging, pregnancy, or weight changes, breast augmentation helps restore fullness and create a more youthful contour.
Corrected Asymmetry: Breast augmentation can help address natural asymmetry, creating a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing breast shape.
Broader Wardrobe Options: Many women find that achieving their ideal breast size opens up more clothing choices, providing a comfortable, flattering fit across a wider variety of styles.

Dr. Antell’s expertise and precision in breast augmentation surgery ensure these benefits are achieved safely, with results that complement each patient’s unique frame and natural beauty.

Dr Antell consulting with patient walking together in modern medical office hallway - in New York, NY

How to Begin Your Breast Augmentation Journey

During your initial New York City consultation, you will meet with Dr. Antell, who will prepare you for your breast augmentation by answering all your questions with an empathetic, patient-focused approach. The consultation is meant to be a supportive experience, and you can take your time making each decision. Here are some aspects of the consultation to expect:

Share your goals and concerns regarding your breasts and any other concerns you want to address
By having an open and honest conversation with Dr. Antell about your expectations, he can guide you in selecting the appropriate implant type, shape, incision type, placement, and size.
Dr. Antell will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of your breasts.
After a detailed discussion of the procedure, Dr. Antell will talk through the risks with you.
You can also gain more information by reading the manufacturer’s insert that comes with the selected implants to ensure you are fully informed.
Please be sure to inform Dr. Antell if you smoke or if you’re taking any medications, vitamins, or drugs.
Together, you will create a surgical plan to achieve your desired outcome best.

Don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Antell any questions about the surgery, recovery, and expected outcome.

5 Steps to Prepare for My Breast Augmentation with Dr. Antell

You will receive instructions to help you prepare thoroughly for surgery, ensuring a safe and effective procedure and recovery. Instructions will include:

Guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications.
You may be given prescriptions that should be filled prior to your day of surgery.
Depending on your medical history, you may be asked to provide pre-operative clearance from another doctor.
Many of our procedures are performed using local anesthesia alone. However, when appropriate, we may recommend sedation (also known as twilight anesthesia) to enhance your comfort. If sedation is indicated for your procedure, you should arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and assist you for the first few days.
Prepare a space at home where you can recover comfortably, including extra pillows and a few easily accessible meals cooked in advance.

Steps of Selecting Your Implants

Customizing your implants can be a fun and exciting process. Dr. Antell will guide you through the process, explain each option during your consultation, and support you every step of the way.

Implant Type

A breast implant is a silicone shell filled with either silicone gel or salt water (saline).

Silicone Gel: Silicone gel implants more closely mimic the texture and feel of natural breast tissue.
Saline: Saline implants have the advantage of potentially being placed through a slightly shorter incision.

Both types of implants are FDA-approved and have been used for many years in breast augmentation surgery. The choice between saline and silicone implants is personal, and Dr. Antell will guide you through the pros and cons of each based on your body type and aesthetic goals. Silicone implants often feel more natural, while saline implants can be adjusted for asymmetry and may require smaller incisions.

Implant Shape

Implants are either teardrop-shaped or round. Teardrop implants offer a sloped contour that closely resembles the natural breast shape, while round implants offer more cleavage and upper-pole fullness, as they distribute more evenly.

Implant Placement

Implants can be placed above the pectoralis muscle but below the breast gland using a subfascial or subglandular technique.

Alternatively, implants can be placed beneath the pectoralis muscle, providing an added cushion of soft-tissue coverage that creates a more natural transition with appropriately selected implants.

Incision Placement

The incision can be placed along the natural crease under the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit. Whichever technique you choose, Dr. Antell’s experience performing the procedure helps minimize scarring and supports natural-looking results.

Where Will My Breast Augmentation Be Performed?

Dr. Antell has privileges at numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but most patients prefer that the procedure take place in his discreet, private operating room just across the street from world-renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. His facility has a private back entrance for maximum discretion, and all members of his staff have been thoroughly trained to provide personalized care. The state-of-the-art outpatient surgery facility is fully accredited, designed for your comfort, and equipped with the latest technology.

What Type of Anesthesia is Used?

Many breast augmentation procedures are performed using local anesthesia alone. However, when appropriate, sedation (also known as twilight anesthesia) may be recommended to enhance your comfort. Dr. Antell will discuss whether sedation is indicated for your procedure during your consultation. When sedation is used, a board-certified anesthesiologist will monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure safety.

What to Expect On the Day of Breast Augmentation Surgery

The chosen incision method and implant placement will be customized to your anatomy to ensure natural-looking results. The incision can be made either below the crease near where the breast meets the chest, around the areola (the darker skin surrounding the nipple), or in the armpit. Every effort will be made to assure that the incision is placed so that any scarring is as inconspicuous as possible.

Working through the incision, Dr. Antell will delicately lift your breast tissue and skin to create a pocket, either directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or behind the pectoral (chest) muscle (submuscular placement). The implants are then centered beneath your nipples.

Placing the implants behind the chest muscle may reduce the risk of capsular contracture. This placement requires a different process than undergoing a mammogram. Placement behind the muscle can add a few days to recovery compared to placement directly under the breast tissue. Women with very little natural breast tissue may achieve a more natural-looking result with the implant placed behind the chest muscle. Dr. Antell will discuss this in full detail during your consultation so that you can make the right decision based on your anatomy and desired outcome.

Multiple layers of internal dissolving sutures are typically used to close the incisions. Dr. Antell may place a layer of gauze and a bandage over your new breasts to speed healing. The surgery usually takes between one and two hours to complete.

Dr Antell in navy suit and tie having serious discussion in office setting - in New York, NY

Breast Augmentation Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Facelift Care

After undergoing the surgery, you will recover in Dr. Antell’s state-of-the-art recovery suite while being monitored by one of his nurses until you feel well enough to be discharged. A specialized, long-lasting local anesthetic is used to reduce discomfort dramatically. Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can return home the same day after the procedure.

When performed with “twilight” sedation, you should be prepared to have an escort to bring you home, as you will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. Upon leaving the facility, you will be provided with thorough discharge instructions that will guide you through the initial postoperative period. Throughout your recovery, Dr. Antell and his staff will be available to answer any questions you may have.

You may feel tired or sore after surgery, but many patients can return to most daily activities within days of the procedure. Most patients take only extra-strength Tylenol and Valium. For women with an infant or young child, bending and using your legs will allow you to pick up your child within 1 to 2 days. While you may feel some discomfort, you will not harm the implants. It is best to avoid vigorous exercise for about 10-14 days, but Dr. Antell will provide an individualized recovery plan based on the specifics of your customized procedure and your healing rate.

Follow all postoperative instructions carefully and avoid activities that could stress your incisions. You will typically return to the office for your first follow-up appointment the day after the procedure so that Dr. Antell can evaluate your healing. Breast swelling will take several months to fully dissipate, with the final result typically visible around 6 months.

Your scars will be firm and pink for at least six weeks. Then, they may remain about the same size for several months or may appear to widen. With time, the scars will begin to fade, although they will never disappear completely.

How Are Mammograms Performed After a Breast Augmentation?

While there is no evidence that FDA-approved breast implants cause breast cancer, implants change how you undergo scheduled mammography. Routine mammograms should be continued after breast augmentation for women in the appropriate age group, although the mammographic technician should use a special technique, and additional views may be required. Be sure to go to a radiology center staffed by experienced technicians to obtain a reliable image of the breast with an implant. Tell the center that you have implants before arriving for your mammogram so they use the correct procedure.

5 Tips for Recovery From Breast Augmentation

Dr. Antell will provide you with a detailed list of recovery tips, including:

Wear a surgical bra and any other bandages or dressings until Dr. Antell removes them
Apply cold compresses on and off to minimize swelling and bruising
Follow Dr. Antell’s exercise and travel guidelines to maintain healthy blood flow and avoid unnecessary risks
Take the prescribed pain medication
Sleep on your back to avoid putting pressure on your breasts, reopening incisions, and shifting the implants.

What Will My Expected Result Be?

For many patients, the result of breast augmentation is satisfying, even exhilarating, as they finally have the plump, rounded breasts they have always wanted. The important thing is how you feel about it; if your body now brings you greater happiness and confidence, then your surgery was a success. Follow-ups with Dr. Antell, along with routine mammograms, will help ensure that any complications, if they occur, can be detected and treated early.

How Much Does a Breast Augmentation Cost in New York City, NY?

Breast Augmentation, or augmentation mammoplasty, is the single most popular cosmetic procedure in the United States and abroad. Millions of patients undergo the procedure each year. Thankfully, it’s not as costly as most patients anticipate, though costs vary from patient to patient and by the type of breast implants selected (saline or silicone).

Saline implants are the least costly of the available options, though a surprising 85% of patients opt for the more expensive saline implants.

To determine the full and final cost of your breast augmentation, a number of factors are considered, including operating room and anesthesia fees, a consultation fee (which rolls into the procedure itself), and, finally, your surgeon’s fee. Please reach out for more information or to schedule a personal consultation.

Why Choose Dr. Antell?

Dr. Darrick Antell is board-certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery. He has focused his professional career on aesthetic procedures. He is among the most respected breast augmentation surgeons in the country. Trained at Stanford and Cornell, he exhibited extraordinary skill and talent throughout his education. Dr. Antell has been honored for his groundbreaking research on identical twins and the aging process, with his work on display at the Smithsonian Museum.

Dr. Antell has been listed in multiple magazines, including Harper’s Bazaar and Town and Country, as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. The surgeons on this list are among the nation’s most accomplished professionals recognized for producing exceptional results. Dr. Antell will also be recognized among Newsweek’s America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2026. If you are considering breast augmentation in New York City, by choosing Dr. Antell, you will be under the care of one of the world’s most acclaimed breast augmentation surgeons.

NYC Plastic Surgeon

Darrick E. Antell

MD, FACS

Dr. Antell: A Reputation for Excellence

Dr. Antell has garnered a reputation for excellence in plastic surgery and is often sought out by New York City patients who demand the highest-quality surgical outcomes. His breast augmentations and breast lifts are performed with advanced techniques, so the outcome appears fully natural. Many of his new patients come from referrals by former patients, which speaks to how satisfied they are with the high level of care he provides.

His extraordinary surgical skills are widely known among the medical community. Throughout his illustrious career, he has repeatedly been asked to lecture, both nationally and internationally, on his plastic surgery techniques.

Breast Augmentation FAQ’S

You can take short drives during the first 10-14 days, but you should walk around for a few minutes every 1-2 hours to promote healthy blood flow.

Flights are generally acceptable within 2-3 weeks, depending on the flight duration. You shouldn’t lift heavy luggage, which can strain your muscles and cause complications. Pressurized cabins can also increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis and worsen swelling and bruising.
Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing hardening or discomfort. Dr. Antell employs advanced techniques and, when necessary, can use an Acellular Dermal Matrix (ADM) to help prevent capsular contracture. If contracture occurs, the implants and scar tissue can be removed or replaced to restore a natural look and feel.
Breast augmentation is typically a safe procedure performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. However, as with any surgery, risks remain. The most common complication after breast augmentation is capsular contracture, a condition in which the capsule surrounding the implant restricts the implant, resulting in a misshapen appearance, hardening of the area, and pain. Capsular contracture can be treated by removing the implant and scar tissue, and, if desired, placing new implants. Placing ADM (acellular dermal matrix) such as Strattice or Alloderm has shown very promising results in reducing capsular contracture. This may also be combined with prescribing Accolate to significantly lower capsular contracture rates.

Other complications include bleeding, infection, numbness, and implant rupture. Infection typically presents within a week after surgery and can usually be treated by antibiotics and, in some cases, removing the implant. Rupture can occur as a result of injury or from normal compression and movement of the breast, causing friction with the artificial shell of the implant. If a saline implant ruptures, the salt water is harmlessly absorbed by the body, causing the breast to appear deflated. With both saline and silicone implant ruptures, a revision surgery is performed to replace the implant and remove any troublesome scar tissue. There is no evidence that breast implants affect fertility, pregnancy, or the ability to nurse. If you have nursed within a year prior to augmentation, you may produce milk for a few days after surgery. Dr. Antell will provide a thorough discussion of all risks during your initial consultation.
The best breast augmentation plastic surgeons in New York City are board-certified and involved with several accredited organizations. They have several years of experience and extensive patient testimonials describing positive experiences.

You can also view before-and-after photos on their website to see whether they align with your aesthetic preferences.

“I recommend him with complete confidence”

It is rare to find a physician who combines exceptional surgical talent with genuine kindness and integrity, but Dr. Antel does exactly that. I recommend him with complete confidence to anyone

Giovanni S.
“I am extremely grateful”

I am extremely grateful for the care I have received over the years and would not hesitate to recommend Dr. Antell and his wonderful team—Rosa, Nancy, and Tiffany—to anyone.

Anonymous
“I’m so pleased and grateful”

I recently underwent a breast augmentation procedure with Dr. Antell at his New York City office. I’m so pleased and grateful for a seamless experience and successful result.

Theresa D.
“Had a fantastic experience”

Had a fantastic experience with Dr. Antell and his entire team in NYC, Manhattan. From start to finish, they made what could have been a stressful process feel smooth, comfortable, and well-managed.

Ben R.
“Highly recommend”

Him and his team has always made me feel comfortable through any process/procedure(shoutout to Nancy and Rosa!). Highly recommend.

Eric L.

Sources

American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (n.d.-a). Breast augmentation. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation
Breast augmentation (Breast implants) | American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. (n.d.-c). American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast/breast-augmentation-surgery/

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