Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States, and for good reason. Whether you’re looking to enhance your natural breast size, restore volume lost due to pregnancy or aging, or achieve better body proportions, breast augmentation can help you feel more confident in your appearance.
At Cangello Plastic Surgery, we understand that choosing to undergo breast augmentation is a deeply personal decision. That’s why Dr. David Cangello and his team take a comprehensive, individualized approach to every patient. With over 20 years of experience performing breast augmentation surgery in Manhattan and throughout New York City, Dr. Cangello has helped thousands of patients achieve beautiful, natural-looking results that enhance their overall appearance and boost their self-confidence.
Whether you’re interested in subtle enhancement or more dramatic transformation, our practice offers a full range of breast augmentation options tailored to your unique goals, body type, and aesthetic preferences.
Why Choose Dr. David Cangello for Breast Augmentation
Dr. David Cangello is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive training and experience in breast augmentation and cosmetic surgery. He is recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, an honor bestowed on less than 1% of physicians in the United States. He has also been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Plastic Surgeons and named one of New York’s Super Doctors year after year. These distinctions reflect his commitment to excellence, patient care, and surgical expertise.
Medical Education and Training:
- M.D. from SUNY Upstate Medical University
- M.S. in Biomedical Engineering from Johns Hopkins University
- Residency in Plastic Surgery at Lenox Hill Hospital and Temple University
- Fellowship in Plastic Surgery (2007-2009)
- Board Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
- Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (F.A.C.S.)
Professional Affiliations and Recognition:
- Attending Plastic Surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital, part of Northwell Health
- Attending Plastic Surgeon at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS)
- Castle Connolly Top Doctor, an honor reserved for less than 1% of U.S. physicians
- Featured in Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, and other leading national publications
- Active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
- Active member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS)
With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Cangello has developed a reputation for delivering exceptional results while prioritizing patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction. His approach combines technical precision with an artistic eye, ensuring that each patient’s augmentation enhances their natural beauty and achieves their desired aesthetic goals. Patients consistently praise his attention to detail, his ability to listen to their concerns, and his commitment to results that look natural and proportionate to their body frame.
What is Breast Augmentation?
- Small or underdeveloped breasts
- Loss of breast volume due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging
- Asymmetry or uneven breast size
- Desire for improved body proportions
- Restoration of breast fullness after weight loss or other life changes
Before and After
Dr. Cangello’s patients consistently achieve beautiful, natural-looking results. Before and after photos showcase the range of transformations possible with breast augmentation, from subtle enhancement to more dramatic changes.
Breast Implant Options
Dr. Cangello offers several breast implant options, each with distinct advantages. During your consultation, he will discuss which option is best suited to your goals and anatomy.
Silicone gel implants are filled with cohesive silicone gel and are the most popular choice among breast augmentation patients. They offer several advantages:
- Natural feel and appearance
- Lower risk of visible rippling
- Excellent longevity and durability
- Wide range of sizes and shapes available
- Proven safety record with decades of clinical use
Silicone implants require regular monitoring through physical exams and imaging (MRI or ultrasound) to ensure implant integrity. The FDA recommends MRI screening every 2-3 years after implant placement.2
Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater solution and offer distinct advantages for certain patients:
- Smaller incision requirements
- Adjustable fill volume during surgery
- If rupture occurs, the saline is safely absorbed by the body
- Lower cost compared to silicone implants
- Easier to detect rupture
Saline implants may be more prone to visible rippling, particularly in patients with less natural breast tissue. They also tend to feel slightly firmer than silicone implants.
Implant Placement Options
Dr. Cangello offers three primary implant placement options, each with distinct advantages.
Dual-plane placement is a specialized technique that combines elements of both over- and under-the-muscle positioning. In this approach, the upper portion of the implant is placed beneath the pectoralis muscle while the lower portion rests directly behind the breast tissue. This technique offers:
- Improved implant coverage in the upper breast
- A smoother, more natural transition from the chest wall to the breast
- Better implant positioning in patients with mild breast sagging
- Reduced risk of visible implant edges in patients with thinner breast tissue
- Enhanced shaping of the lower breast pole
With subglandular placement, the implant is positioned between the breast tissue and the chest wall muscle. This approach offers:
- Shorter recovery time
- Less post-operative discomfort
- Easier to detect implant changes or complications
- Better for patients with adequate natural breast tissue
- More natural upper pole fullness
With subpectoral placement, the implant is positioned partially or fully beneath the pectoralis major muscle. This approach offers:
- Better coverage and support from muscle tissue
- Lower risk of capsular contracture
- More natural appearance in thin patients
- Better mammogram visualization
- Reduced risk of visible rippling
Dr. Cangello will evaluate your anatomy, skin quality, and aesthetic goals to recommend the placement option that will deliver the most natural-looking, long-lasting results.
Incision Techniques
Dr. Cangello uses several incision techniques, each with specific advantages.
The inframammary incision is placed in the natural crease beneath the breast. This is the most common approach and offers:
- Excellent visibility and control during surgery
- Easy access for implant placement and adjustment
- Incision hidden in the natural breast crease
- Lower risk of nipple sensation changes
- Preferred for most breast augmentation cases
The periareolar incision is placed around the areola (the darker skin surrounding the nipple). This approach offers:
- Incision blends with the natural color transition
- Good access for implant placement
- Ideal for patients desiring minimal visible scarring
During your consultation, Dr. Cangello will discuss which incision technique is best suited to your anatomy and aesthetic preferences.
Natural Breast Augmentation with Fat Transfer
For patients seeking a more natural enhancement without implants, natural breast augmentation with fat transfer offers an excellent alternative. This procedure involves using liposuction to gently remove fat from donor areas like the abdomen, thighs, or flanks, purifying it, and strategically injecting it into the breasts to increase volume and improve shape. Fat transfer creates natural-looking results with minimal scarring and requires smaller incisions than traditional implant-based augmentation. This option is ideal for those desiring subtle enhancement and added body contouring benefits.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of your case and whether additional procedures are being performed.
The surgical process includes:
- Anesthesia Administration – You will be placed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
- Incision Creation – Dr. Cangello creates the planned incision using the technique discussed during your consultation.
- Pocket Creation – A pocket is carefully created in the appropriate location (subglandular or subpectoral) to accommodate the implant.
- Implant Placement – The selected implant is carefully positioned within the pocket, ensuring proper alignment and symmetry.
- Incision Closure – The incision is closed using layered sutures to promote optimal healing and minimize scarring.
- Dressing Application – Surgical dressings and a supportive bra are applied to support the breasts during initial healing.
Throughout the procedure, Dr. Cangello maintains meticulous attention to detail, ensuring proper implant positioning, symmetry, and natural appearance.
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Recovery from breast augmentation varies from patient to patient, but most patients can expect the following timeline:
First 24-48 Hours
- Some discomfort, swelling, and bruising is normal
- Pain medication will be prescribed to manage discomfort
- Rest and avoid strenuous activity
- Wear the supportive surgical bra as directed
First Week
- Swelling and bruising will gradually decrease
- Most patients can return to light activities
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise
- Attend your first post-operative follow-up appointment
Two to Four Weeks
- Most patients can return to work and normal daily activities
- Light exercise, such as walking, may be resumed
- Avoid heavy lifting and high-impact activities
Four to Six Weeks
- Most swelling has resolved
- Normal exercise routines can gradually resume
- Final results are beginning to become apparent
Three to Six Months
- Implants continue to settle into their final position
- Final aesthetic results are fully apparent
- All normal activities and exercise can be resumed
Complete healing typically occurs within 3-6 months, and scars continue to fade over 12-18 months. Dr. Cangello provides detailed post-operative instructions and schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and ensure optimal results.
Contact plastic surgeon Dr. David Cangello today at (646) 843-6053 to schedule a consultation at his NYC office.
Am I a Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
- Are at least 18 years old (or 21 for silicone implants)
- Are in good overall health
- Have realistic expectations about surgical results
- Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have adequate skin elasticity
- Desire increased breast size or improved breast shape
- Are committed to following post-operative instructions3
Combining Breast Augmentation with Other Procedures
Many patients choose to combine breast augmentation with complementary procedures to achieve more comprehensive results in a single surgery. Combining procedures can reduce overall recovery time, lower combined costs, and deliver a more harmonious transformation.
Breast augmentation paired with a breast lift is ideal for patients who want to increase volume while also correcting sagging caused by pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or aging. A breast lift repositions the nipple and areola, removes excess skin, and reshapes the breast contour, while the implant restores fullness and projection. The result is a breast that is both lifted and fuller, with a more youthful appearance.
Pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding can significantly change a woman’s body in ways that diet and exercise alone cannot fully address. A Mommy Makeover is a customized combination of procedures designed to restore a woman’s pre-pregnancy figure in a single surgical session. At Cangello Plastic Surgery, Dr. Cangello tailors each Mommy Makeover to the individual patient’s goals. Breast augmentation is one of the most common components, often combined with:
Breast Lift (Mastopexy) – Repositions the nipple and areola, removes excess skin, and reshapes the breast contour. Combined with augmentation, the result is a breast that is fuller, lifted, and naturally youthful.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) – A tummy tuck excess abdominal skin and tightens weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), creating a flatter, firmer midsection. Together with breast augmentation, this addresses two of the most common post-pregnancy concerns in a single surgery.
Liposuction – Targets stubborn pockets of fat in the flanks, abdomen, thighs, hips, or back, creating a slimmer silhouette that complements the enhanced breast profile.
Ideal Mommy Makeover candidates are women who have completed their families, are in good overall health, and are at or near their goal weight. Dr. Cangello recommends waiting until you are finished having children, as future pregnancies can affect results. During your consultation, he will develop a personalized surgical plan and discuss the combined recovery timeline in full.
For patients not seeking a full Mommy Makeover, breast augmentation can be combined with targeted liposuction alone to refine body contours and achieve better overall proportions, without the additional recovery of a tummy tuck.
Is Combining Procedures Right for You?
Many patients choose to combine breast augmentation with complementary procedures to achieve more comprehensive results in a single surgery. Combining procedures can reduce overall recovery time, lower combined costs, and deliver a more harmonious transformation.
What to Expect During Your Consultation
Your breast augmentation journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Cangello. During this appointment, you will:
- Discuss Your Goals – Share your aesthetic goals, concerns, and desired breast size and shape. Dr. Cangello will listen carefully to understand your vision.
- Medical History Review – Discuss your medical history, current medications, allergies, and any previous surgeries.
- Physical Examination – Dr. Cangello will examine your breasts, chest wall, and overall body proportions to assess your anatomy.
- Implant Selection – Review different implant options, sizes, and shapes. Dr. Cangello may use imaging technology or physical models to help you visualize potential results.
- Incision and Placement Discussion – Dr. Cangello will explain the different incision techniques and implant placement options for your specific anatomy.
- Realistic Expectations – Dr. Cangello will discuss realistic outcomes and show you before and after photos of similar cases.
- Risks and Complications – A thorough discussion of potential risks, complications, and how they are managed.
- Pre-Operative Instructions – Detailed instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including medication adjustments, fasting requirements, and activity restrictions.
- Cost and Financing – Your surgical coordinator will discuss the cost of your procedure and available financing options.
Dr. Cangello believes that informed patients make the best decisions. He takes time to answer all your questions and ensure you feel confident and prepared for your procedure.
Risks and Complications
While breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure, like all surgeries, it carries potential risks and complications. Dr. Cangello will discuss these thoroughly during your consultation.
Common Temporary Side Effects:
- Swelling and bruising
- Discomfort and pain
- Temporary numbness or tingling
- Temporary asymmetry due to swelling
Potential Complications (Rare):
- Infection
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Seroma (fluid accumulation)
- Capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around the implant)
- Implant rupture or deflation
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Asymmetry or malposition
- Rippling or wrinkling of the implant
- Anesthesia-related complications
To minimize risks, Dr. Cangello uses sterile surgical techniques, performs surgery in accredited facilities, provides detailed pre- and post-operative instructions, and schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing. If complications do occur, Dr. Cangello is experienced in managing them and will work with you to achieve the best possible outcome.
David L. Cangello, MD, FACS Plastic Surgery New York
Dr. David Cangello is one of the top board-certified plastic surgeons in all of New York City. His approach to treating plastic surgery with an artistic eye has successfully shaped his practice. Dr. Cangello cares about the result of the surgery as much as the patient does. Read more to learn why you should choose Dr. Cangello for your next procedure.
Schedule a ConsultationWhat Patients Are Saying
“Dr. Cangello is the absolute best. I had a breast augmentation in July. He and his staff was amazing. Everyone was very welcoming and made me feel safe and secure. I trusted his expertise and he gave me what I wanted. He is very skillful and knowledgeable and my post op recovery was a breeze. I would 100% recommend him again and again.”
– C.J., Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I recently had a breast augmentation surgery in April and I couldn’t be happier. My recovery post-op was smooth and nearly painless. Dr. Cangello helped me decide on a size that was proportional and so natural on me. I’ve trusted his judgment and their office every step of the way, including when I did my rhinoplasty several months back. They’ve taken the best care of me and I’ve been very open about recommending him to everyone.”
– E.R., Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do breast implants last?
Modern breast implants are designed to last many years. However, they are not considered lifetime devices. Some implants may need to be replaced after 10-20 years or longer, depending on individual factors. Regular monitoring through physical exams and imaging helps ensure implant integrity.4
Will breast augmentation affect my ability to breastfeed?
Breast augmentation typically does not affect your ability to breastfeed. The procedure is designed to preserve breast tissue and milk ducts.5 However, if the periareolar incision is used, there is a slightly higher risk of affecting milk duct function. Discuss your plans for breastfeeding with Dr. Cangello during your consultation.
Can I have breast augmentation if I have a family history of breast cancer?
Yes, you can have breast augmentation even with a family history of breast cancer. Breast implants do not increase breast cancer risk, but they may make breast self-exams slightly more difficult. Regular mammograms and clinical breast exams remain important for early detection. Discuss your family history with Dr. Cangello during your consultation.
What is capsular contracture?
Capsular contracture occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant and tightens, potentially causing the breast to feel firm or appear distorted. Modern surgical techniques and implant designs have significantly reduced its incidence. If capsular contracture occurs, revision surgery can address it.6
Will I have visible scars?
All surgery results in some scarring, but Dr. Cangello uses techniques to minimize visible scarring. Incisions are placed in inconspicuous locations, and scars typically fade significantly over 12-18 months. Most patients find their scars are barely noticeable once fully healed.
When can I return to exercise?
Most patients can resume light exercise, such as walking, after 2-4 weeks. More strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 4-6 weeks. Dr. Cangello will provide specific guidelines based on your individual healing progress.
Can I get pregnant after breast augmentation?
Yes, you can become pregnant after breast augmentation. Pregnancy may cause changes in breast size and shape. Some patients choose to have revision surgery after completing their family.
What if I'm not happy with my results?
Dr. Cangello is committed to patient satisfaction. If you have concerns about your results, discuss them with him during your follow-up appointments. Revision surgery is an option if adjustments are needed.
How much does breast augmentation cost?
The cost of breast augmentation varies based on factors such as implant type, surgical technique, facility fees, and anesthesia. During your consultation, your surgical coordinator will provide a detailed cost estimate and discuss financing options.
Contact Us
Ready to explore breast augmentation and achieve the beautiful, natural-looking results you desire? Schedule your consultation with Dr. David Cangello today. Cangello Plastic Surgery proudly serves patients in Manhattan, New York City, and the surrounding NYC metro area.
References
1 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What is breast augmentation? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation. Accessed March 9, 2026.
2 U.S. Food and Drug Administration. What to Know About Breast Implants. Available: https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/what-know-about-breast-implants#. Accessed March 9, 2026.
3 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Who is a good candidate for breast augmentation? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/candidates. Accessed March 9, 2026.
4 U.S. Food and Drug Administration. What to Know About Breast Implants. Available: https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/what-know-about-breast-implants#. Accessed March 9, 2026.
5 Schiff, M, et al. The impact of cosmetic breast implants on breastfeeding: a systematic review and meta-analysis. International Breastfeeding Journal 2014; 9: 17.10.1186/1746-4358-9-17. Accessed March 9, 2026.
6 U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Risks and Complications of Breast Implants. Available: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/risks-and-complications-breast-implants#Capsular_Contracture. Accessed March 9, 2026.