Breast Augmentation and Prosthesis Removal in New York City: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
New York City is a hub for plastic surgery, offering a wide range of options for breast augmentation and prosthesis removal. Whether you're considering enhancing your breast size through augmentation or removing existing breast implants, understanding the procedures, risks, and choosing the right surgeon are crucial steps. This guide aims to provide you with in - depth information on breast augmentation, prosthesis removal, and the top hospitals and surgeons in New York City.
Breast Augmentation in New York City
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure to enhance the size and shape of a woman's breasts. It can be done for various reasons, including enhancing the body contour of a woman who feels her breast size is too small, correcting a reduction in breast volume due to pregnancy or aging, balancing uneven or asymmetrical breasts, correcting a congenital deformity, or as a reconstructive technique following breast surgery (Rapaport Plastic Surgery). At Mount Sinai in New York, their plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique body before the surgery.
Types of Breast Implants
There are two main types of breast implants: silicone and saline. Each has its own characteristics, and the choice depends on factors such as body type and desired outcome.
| Implant Type | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicone Breast Implants | A curved silicone shell filled with silicone gel. They look and feel more natural in the breasts (Mount Sinai). | Natural look and feel, less likely to ripple compared to saline implants. | If a rupture occurs, it may be more difficult to detect without proper imaging. |
| Saline Breast Implants | A curved silicone shell filled with a saline solution (a mixture of salt and water). They are firmer and rounder (Mount Sinai). | Less expensive, and if a rupture occurs, the saline solution is absorbed by the body. They can also be filled after placement, which is suitable for certain augmentation techniques (Rapaport Plastic Surgery). | May feel less natural than silicone implants and are more prone to rippling. |
Non - Implant Option: Naturalfill
Mount Sinai surgeons have pioneered and perfected a fat transfer technique called Naturalfill®. It involves two steps. First, fat is removed from the buttocks or abdomen using liposuction. Then, the fat is immediately inserted into the breasts to enlarge them. This method uses the patient's own fat deposits, providing a more natural - looking result and reducing the need for foreign implants.
Consultation and Preparation for Breast Augmentation
Before undergoing breast augmentation, a consultation with a plastic surgeon is essential. At Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery, during the consultation, patients can discuss their goals for surgery, including the desired size. The surgeon will go over "wish pics", perform 3D imaging to show expected results, review medical history, risks, and considerations, and answer questions about recovery. The patient will also have the opportunity to hold sample implants in different sizes.
Pre - operative preparations may include dietary restrictions, such as avoiding food and drink after midnight on the night before surgery, and avoiding certain medications like aspirin and ibuprofen that can increase bleeding. The patient should also arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and have someone to stay with them for at least 24 hours (Mount Sinai).
Breast Augmentation Procedure
Breast augmentation is usually performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision in one of three locations: the underarm, under the breast itself, or within the areola. The choice of incision depends on factors such as the type of implant and the patient's preference. For example, only patients who choose to have silicone implants will require an incision under the breast or areola. At Rapaport Plastic Surgery, the surgeon uses an endoscope to perform a scarless breast augmentation procedure through an underarm incision, which allows for precise muscle division and implant positioning. The implant is then placed either under or over the pectoral muscle, with most surgeons preferring to place it under the muscle for a more natural - looking result. If saline implants are used, they will be filled before the incisions are closed.
Recovery from Breast Augmentation
Full recovery from breast augmentation takes approximately two to three weeks. Patients can often return to work in a few days, depending on the nature of their job. Those with non - strenuous or desk jobs can typically resume work in five days. Dr. Rapaport at Rapaport Plastic Surgery prescribes pain medication for the first few days after surgery, and patients should rest and limit activity during this time. Ice packs may also be helpful to reduce swelling and discomfort. Swelling, bruising, and soreness are normal during recovery. Strenuous exercise and aerobic activity, including sexual activity, are restricted for the first ten days after breast augmentation. Mild aerobic activity is usually permitted after ten days, and full activity after three weeks.
Breast Augmentation Prosthesis Removal in New York City
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are several reasons why a woman may choose to have her breast implants removed:
- Medical Complications: This includes implant rupture, leakage, or capsular contracture. Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue surrounding the implant becomes thick and hard, causing discomfort and distortion of the breast shape. Implant rupture can happen when the silicone or saline filling leaks out of the implant shell into the surrounding tissues (Francis Plastic Surgery).
- Personal Preferences: Some women may no longer be happy with the aesthetic appearance of their implants, or they may want to return to their natural breast size.
- Health Concerns: There are concerns about breast implant illness (BII), a controversial condition where some women report experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog due to their breast implants. Additionally, the FDA has recalled certain textured breast implants due to their association with a heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) (Antell Plastic Surgery).
Types of Breast Implant Removal Surgeries
There are several types of breast implant removal surgeries available in New York City:
- En Bloc Removal: This surgical procedure involves removing the entire implant, including the capsule that forms around it, in one piece. It is recommended for patients who have developed capsular contracture or those who want to remove their implants due to health concerns. En bloc removal reduces the risk of rupturing or spilling of silicone gel into the body during surgery. The surgeon makes an incision around the perimeter of the capsule and carefully dissects it away from surrounding tissues until it can be removed intact (Francis Plastic Surgery).
- Capsulectomy: This procedure involves removing only the capsule that forms around an implant while leaving the implant itself in place. It is typically recommended for patients who want to remove their implants due to cosmetic reasons or discomfort caused by capsular contracture but do not wish to undergo a more invasive surgery like en bloc removal (Francis Plastic Surgery).
- Explantation with Mastopexy: This surgical procedure involves removing the breast implant, excess skin, and lifting the breast tissue to create a more youthful appearance. It is recommended for patients who have experienced sagging or drooping of their breasts after having implants (Francis Plastic Surgery).
- Explantation with Fat Transfer: This procedure involves removing the implant and using the patient's own fat from another area of their body, such as thighs, hips, or abdomen, to reshape and enhance their breasts. It is recommended for patients who want to remove their implants but still desire some degree of breast augmentation (Francis Plastic Surgery).
Choosing a Surgeon for Breast Implant Removal
When choosing a surgeon for breast implant removal, several factors should be considered:
- Qualifications: Look for a board - certified plastic surgeon, such as one certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Surgeons with membership in professional organizations like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) are also a good choice. For example, Dr. Darrick Antell, a top New York plastic surgeon, is a board - certified plastic surgeon and has memberships in many regional and national medical societies, including the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (Antell Plastic Surgery).
- Experience: Choose a surgeon who has extensive experience in performing breast implant removal surgeries. An experienced surgeon will be better equipped to handle any complications that may arise during the surgery. Dr. Antell has been performing custom breast implant removal surgeries for many years and has a high - success rate (Antell Plastic Surgery).
- Patient Reviews: Read online reviews on platforms like RealSelf.com to get an idea of the surgeon's bedside manner, communication skills, and overall patient satisfaction. For instance, many of Dr. Antell's breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which speaks to the quality of his work (Antell Plastic Surgery).
Preparing for Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Preparing for breast implant removal surgery requires careful planning:
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation with your surgeon. During this consultation, discuss your reasons for wanting breast implant removal surgery and determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. The surgeon will also provide you with pre - operative instructions, which may include dietary restrictions and avoiding certain medications. For example, stop smoking at least two weeks before the surgery, as smoking can increase the risk of complications during surgery and slow down the healing process. Avoid taking medications that can increase bleeding, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, for two weeks before the surgery. Also, avoid taking blood - thinning medications for up to six weeks prior to the procedure (Francis Plastic Surgery, NYG Plastic Surgery).
- Medical Clearance: Your surgeon may order additional tests or imaging studies, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, to assess the current condition of your breasts and implants. You may also need to obtain pre - operative clearance from another doctor, depending on your medical history (Antell Plastic Surgery).
- Arrange for Post - operative Care: Breast implant removal surgery is an outpatient procedure, but you will need someone to drive you home after the surgery. Arrange for someone to stay with you for at least 24 hours after the surgery to help you with daily activities. Make sure you have comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and take off after the surgery (Francis Plastic Surgery).
What to Expect During the Breast Implant Removal Surgery
The breast implant removal procedure typically takes around 1 - 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case and whether any additional procedures are being performed. Anesthesia options may include local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's medical history and preferences. The surgeon will make an incision in the same location as the original breast augmentation incision to remove the implant. If there is any scar tissue or calcification around the implant, this will also be removed. The surgeon will then evaluate the remaining breast tissue to determine if any additional procedures are necessary, such as a breast lift or fat transfer to restore volume (Francis Plastic Surgery).
Recovery Process after Breast Implant Removal Surgery
After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where your vital signs will be monitored closely. You may receive pain medication or other treatments as needed to manage any discomfort or side effects. Once you are cleared to leave the recovery room, it is important to take it easy for a few days and avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting. You may experience some swelling, bruising, or soreness in the days following your surgery, but these symptoms should gradually improve over time. Wear a compression garment around your chest area for several weeks following your procedure to help reduce swelling and promote healing. Apply ice packs to the affected area to reduce swelling and relieve discomfort. Get plenty of rest and eat a healthy diet to promote healing. Attend all follow - up appointments with your surgeon as scheduled so that they can monitor your progress and address any concerns that may arise (Francis Plastic Surgery).
Top Hospitals and Surgeons in New York City for Breast Procedures
Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation. They offer a variety of options for breast augmentation, including different types of implants and the Naturalfill® fat transfer technique. They use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize the results before the surgery and ensure patient satisfaction.
Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a widely - regarded plastic surgeon in New York City. He specializes in breast implant removal and is known for his expertise in performing en bloc capsulectomy. He has a high - success rate and is recognized for his exceptional surgical skills and beautiful results. His patients often refer others to him, and he has an impeccable reputation for providing personalized care (Antell Plastic Surgery).
Dr. David P. Rapaport
Dr. David P. Rapaport at Rapaport Plastic Surgery is a world - recognized expert specializing in breast augmentation and breast implant revision. He offers a scarless breast augmentation procedure using an endoscope and takes every precaution to minimize the risk of capsular contracture. His patients often experience a significant confidence boost after breast augmentation (Rapaport Plastic Surgery).
Dr. Barry Weintraub
Dr. Barry Weintraub is known for his breast implant removal and replacement surgeries. He has a unique blend of medical science and artwork, and his attention to detail ensures the best results possible. He performs surgeries in a private, state - of - the - art surgical center and provides personalized care to his patients. He also takes the time to understand each patient's specific needs and desires (Dr. Barry Weintraub's website).
Conclusion
In New York City, you have a wealth of options when it comes to breast augmentation and prosthesis removal. Understanding the procedures, including the types of implants, removal techniques, and the recovery process, is essential. Choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon is the key to achieving the best results and minimizing risks. Whether you're looking to enhance your breasts or remove existing implants, the city's top - notch hospitals and surgeons can provide you with the care and expertise you need.
If you're considering breast augmentation or prosthesis removal, take the time to research your options, schedule consultations with reputable surgeons, and ask plenty of questions. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure a successful plastic surgery experience. Don't hesitate to reach out to the surgeons mentioned in this guide or explore other trusted professionals in New York City. Start your journey towards the breast appearance you desire today!
