Introduction
Breast implant capsule contracture repair is a crucial concern for many women in New York City. Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) that naturally forms around a breast implant tightens and squeezes the implant, leading to various issues such as a misshapen appearance, hardening of the area, and pain. Finding the right hospital or doctor for this repair is of utmost importance to ensure a successful outcome. In this comprehensive review, we will explore the top - rated hospitals and doctors in New York City for breast implant capsule contracture repair, taking into account various factors such as expertise, patient reviews, and the available facilities.
Understanding Breast Implant Capsule Contracture
What is Capsular Contracture?
When a breast implant is inserted, the body’s natural response is to form a layer of scar tissue around it. In some cases, this scar tissue can thicken and tighten, a condition known as capsular contracture. It can range from mild to severe, with symptoms that may include visible distortion of the breast, hardening of the breast, pain, and discomfort. The exact cause of capsular contracture is not fully understood, but factors such as bacterial contamination, hematoma (bleeding around the implant), and genetic predisposition may play a role.
Importance of Timely Repair
Timely repair of capsular contracture is essential to prevent further complications and to restore the aesthetic and functional aspects of the breast. If left untreated, severe capsular contracture can cause significant pain, affect the patient’s self - esteem, and even lead to implant rupture in some cases.
Top Doctors for Breast Implant Capsule Contracture Repair in New York City
According to Healthgrades, there are 530 doctors in New York who treat capsular contracture of breast implants. The following are some of the highly - rated doctors in the city:
| Doctor's Name | Rating (out of 5) | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Stephanie Bernik, MD | 4.60 | 425 W 59th st lbby 5, New York, NY 10019 |
| Dr. Lauren Cassell, MD | 4.90 | 114a e 78th st, New York, NY 10075 |
| Dr. Jeffrey Ascherman, MD | 4.90 | 51 west 51st street suite 380, New York, NY 10019 |
| Dr. Clare Hochreiter, MD | 5.00 | 525 east 68th street m - 404, New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Jonathan Villena - Vargas, MD | Not provided separately | 525 east 68th street m - 404, New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Emile Bacha, MD | 3.60 | 525 east 68th street f677, New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. David Otterburn, MD | 5.00 | 525 east 68th street starr 8, New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Amber Guth, MD | 4.70 | 560 1st ave fl 10, New York, NY 10016 |
| Dr. Virgilio Sacchini, MD | 5.00 | 300 e 66th st, New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Alexandra Heerdt, MD | 4.70 | 300 e 66th st, New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Jennifer Lehman, MD | 4.50 | 10 union sq e ste 4, New York, NY 10003 |
| Dr. Kimberly Van Zee, MD | 4.80 | 300 e 66th st, New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Andrea Barrio, MD | 4.80 | 300 e 66th st, New York, NY 10065 |
Top Hospitals for Breast Implant Capsule Contracture Repair in New York City
New York - Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center
Several doctors on the high - rating list, such as Dr. Clare Hochreiter, Dr. Jonathan Villena - Vargas, and Dr. Emile Bacha, are on staff at New York - Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. This institution is well - known for its high - quality medical care and advanced surgical facilities. It has a team of experienced plastic surgeons who are well - versed in breast implant capsule contracture repair procedures. The hospital also has a strong research background, which allows for the implementation of the latest treatment techniques.
Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital's plastic surgeons are experts in breast implant revision, which includes the repair of capsule contracture. They can correct problems such as incorrectly positioned implants, wrinkled implants, and capsular contracture. The hospital offers consultations with nationally recognized specialists who can recommend new materials or meshes to stabilize the area around the breast implant and enhance the natural shape and texture of the breasts.
NYU Langone Hospitals
While NYU Langone Hospitals is highly ranked in multiple specialties according to US News, it also has a reputation for its plastic surgery department. The hospital has a comprehensive approach to breast implant capsule contracture repair, with a focus on patient - centered care. Their surgeons use the latest techniques and technologies to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital or Doctor
Doctor's Expertise
Look for doctors who are board - certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in breast implant capsule contracture repair. Doctors like Dr. Darrick Antell, who is one of the most renowned board - certified plastic surgeons in the world, trained at Stanford and Cornell University, and known for his exceptional surgical skills and use of advanced techniques, are ideal choices. Check their track record, including the number of successful cases they have performed and patient reviews.
Hospital Facilities
The quality of the hospital facilities is crucial. A state - of - the - art outpatient surgery facility, like the one where Dr. Antell performs most of his procedures, which is fully accredited, designed for patient comfort, and equipped with the latest technology, can enhance the surgical experience and recovery process. Also, consider the availability of after - care services at the hospital.
Cost
Cost is an important factor. However, it should not be the only determining factor. Compare the costs of different hospitals and doctors, but also take into account the quality of care and the reputation of the provider. Some insurance plans may cover part of the cost of breast implant capsule contracture repair if it is deemed medically necessary.
Patient Reviews
Reading patient reviews can give you insights into the patient experience at a particular hospital or with a specific doctor. Look for reviews that mention the doctor's bedside manner, the communication during the consultation and recovery process, and the overall satisfaction with the surgical outcome.
The Breast Implant Revision Process
Consultation
During the initial consultation, the doctor will thoroughly evaluate your general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of your breasts. You should bring any information you have about your existing implants and your previous breast augmentation surgery. The doctor will discuss your desired outcome and work with you to create a proper surgical plan, including the selection of the implant type, incision size, implant placement, and size based on your specific anatomy. They will also go through the procedure, the risks, and the recovery in detail.
Pre - operative Preparation
Based on factors such as age and implant condition, the doctor may send you for imaging, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, prior to the procedure. You will be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. You may be given prescriptions to fill before surgery and may be asked to provide pre - operative clearance from another doctor. You should arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and have assistance during the first few days of recovery.
Surgery
The surgery typically involves removing the existing implant and any scar tissue associated with capsular contracture. The doctor will then carefully place a new implant using a no - touch technique. Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures are used to close the incisions, and a layer of gauze and a bandage may be placed over the breasts to speed healing. The surgery usually takes between one and three hours to complete.
Recovery
After surgery, you will recover in a monitored setting until you are well enough to be discharged. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia is used to decrease discomfort. Since it is an outpatient procedure, you can return home the same day. You may feel tired or sore, and it is normal to experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions. You will typically return to the office the day after surgery for a follow - up. External sutures, if used, are usually removed around 7 - 10 days following the procedure. It may take several months for the final results to be visible.
Complications and Risks
While breast implant revision surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon, there are risks involved. The most common complication is the recurrence of capsular contracture. Other complications include bleeding, infection, numbness, and implant rupture. Infection typically presents within a week after surgery and can usually be treated with antibiotics and, in some cases, removing the implant. Implant rupture can occur due to injury or normal compression and movement of the breast, and a revision surgery may be required to replace the implant and remove any troublesome scar tissue.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breast implant capsule contracture repair is a complex procedure that requires careful consideration when choosing a hospital and doctor in New York City. We have explored the top - rated doctors, including those with high patient ratings, and top hospitals such as New York - Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, and NYU Langone Hospitals. Factors such as doctor's expertise, hospital facilities, cost, and patient reviews should be taken into account. Understanding the breast implant revision process, from consultation to recovery, and being aware of the potential complications and risks are also essential for patients.
If you or someone you know is considering breast implant capsule contracture repair, take the time to research and consult with multiple doctors. Look at their before - and - after galleries, read patient testimonials, and don't hesitate to ask questions. By making an informed decision, you can increase the chances of a successful outcome and regain your confidence and comfort.
