Introduction
Breast implant removal is a significant decision for many women in New York City. Whether due to medical complications, personal preferences, or aesthetic concerns, finding the right hospital and surgeon is crucial. In this article, we will review three top hospitals for removing breast implants in New York City, analyzing their services, expertise, and patient experiences. Understanding the process, benefits, and risks associated with breast implant removal can help patients make informed decisions and achieve their desired outcomes.
Overview of Breast Implant Removal
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are several reasons why women may choose to have their breast implants removed. Medical issues such as implant rupture, leakage, capsular contracture, breast implant illness (BII), and breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) can necessitate removal. Cosmetic reasons also play a role, including dissatisfaction with the size, shape, or appearance of the implants, or a desire to return to a more natural look. Additionally, aging implants that have degraded or shifted over time may prompt patients to consider removal.
Types of Breast Implant Removal Surgeries
- En bloc removal: This involves removing the entire implant, including the capsule that forms around it, in one piece. It is recommended for patients with capsular contracture or those removing implants due to health concerns, as it reduces the risk of silicone gel spillage into the body during surgery.
- Capsulectomy: Here, only the capsule that forms around an implant is removed, leaving the implant in place. It is typically for patients wanting to address cosmetic issues or discomfort caused by capsular contracture without undergoing a more invasive surgery.
- Explantation with mastopexy: This procedure removes the implant, excess skin, and lifts the breast tissue to create a more youthful appearance. It is suitable for patients who have experienced sagging or drooping of their breasts after having implants.
- Explantation with fat transfer: The implant is removed, and the patient's own fat from another area of the body is used to reshape and enhance the breasts. It is for patients who want to remove implants but still desire some degree of breast augmentation.
Top 3 Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City
Hospital 1: Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. Darrick Antell is a top - New York plastic surgeon widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as being among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. With over twenty years of experience and more than ten thousand procedures under his belt, he combines meticulous surgical skills, the latest medical technologies, and an artistic eye.
Services Offered
- Custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, removing existing silicone or saline implants from the body.
- En bloc capsulectomy when indicated, to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant.
- Removal of the Allergan textured breast implants recently recalled by the FDA due to their association with BIA - ALCL.
- Pairing explant surgery with other procedures like breast lift (mastopexy) to achieve a more plump, rounded appearance if desired by the patient.
Patient Experience
Many of Dr. Antell's breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which speaks volumes about their satisfaction with the results. He has performed custom breast removal surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons in New York and beyond, maintaining an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results performed with total discretion. His state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited, designed for patient comfort, and equipped with the latest technology. Patients receive personalized care from a thoroughly trained staff.
Hospital 2: Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon. She is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon on the Upper East Side in NYC, with over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal.
Services Offered
- Evaluation of patients with both aesthetic and medical breast implant - related issues, such as implant palpability, rupture, leakage, deflation, capsular contracture, and BIA - ALCL.
- Advice on various surgical options available and the best course of action to help patients achieve their goals. This may include a secondary procedure like a breast lift to achieve the best aesthetic results.
- Removal of breast implants due to complications, whether functional (physical or medical issues) or cosmetic (related to appearance).
Patient Experience
Patients have had exceptional experiences with Dr. Hutchinson and her staff. The atmosphere of her practice is calming, and everything is super clean. She makes patients feel comfortable, and the results are often amazing. Her detailed evaluation and patient - centered approach help patients make informed decisions about their breast implant removal procedures.
Hospital 3: New York Group for Plastic Surgery
Surgeon Expertise
The New York Group for Plastic Surgery has surgeons like Dr. Andrew Salzberg and Dr. Jordan Jacobs. These surgeons are experienced in breast implant removal procedures, providing patients with the necessary information to make educated choices about their bodies.
Services Offered
- Removal of breast implants for various reasons, including leakage, rupture, pain, capsular contracture, and aesthetic concerns.
- Cleaning of the breast pocket and removal of silicone from the implant shell during the procedure.
- Administering either local or general anesthesia based on patient needs and the agreed - upon plan during the consultation.
Patient Experience
The group focuses on patient education, ensuring that patients understand the procedure, risks, and recovery process. The surgical team continuously monitors patients during the procedure to ensure their safety. Patients are provided with post - procedure instructions on how to care for themselves and the incision sites, and are generally well - informed about what to expect during recovery.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Implant Removal
Surgeon Qualifications
It is essential to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast implant removal. Look for surgeons who are members of professional organizations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and have certifications from the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Surgeons with a long - standing reputation for successful procedures and positive patient reviews are more likely to provide high - quality care.
Hospital Facilities
Consider the facilities of the hospital or surgical center. A state - of - the - art facility with the latest equipment and technology can enhance the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. Accredited facilities ensure that they meet certain standards of quality and safety. Additionally, the comfort and privacy of the facility are important considerations for patients.
Patient Reviews
Reading patient reviews can give you insights into the experiences of others who have undergone breast implant removal at a particular hospital or with a specific surgeon. Look for reviews that mention the surgeon's bedside manner, the quality of the results, and the overall patient experience, including pre - and post - operative care.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of breast implant removal can vary widely depending on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's fees, and the facility charges. While cost is an important factor, it should not be the sole determining factor. Some insurance companies may cover the cost of breast implant removal if it is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases of implant rupture or health complications. It is important to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.
Preparing for Breast Implant Removal
Consultation
Schedule a consultation with your chosen surgeon. During this consultation, discuss your reasons for wanting breast implant removal, your medical history, and any current medications or supplements you are taking. The surgeon will evaluate your overall health and the condition of your breasts and provide you with a detailed surgical plan, including the type of procedure, expected results, and potential risks.
Medical Preparation
- Avoid taking medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications for one week prior to the procedure, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Stop taking blood - thinning medications for up to six weeks before the surgery, after consulting with your prescribing physician.
- Undergo any necessary pre - operative examinations, such as imaging tests (ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI) to assess the condition of your implants and surrounding tissues.
Lifestyle Preparation
- Stop smoking at least two weeks before the surgery, as smoking can increase the risk of complications and slow down the healing process.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and stay with you for at least 24 hours to assist with daily activities.
- Prepare comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and take off after the surgery, preferably loose - fitting to avoid rubbing against the incision sites.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Anesthesia
Breast implant removal can be performed under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or with general anesthesia. The choice of anesthesia depends on the patient's medical history, preferences, and the complexity of the procedure. A board - certified anesthesiologist will be monitoring the patient throughout the procedure to ensure their safety and comfort.
Surgical Steps
- Skin preparation: Once the patient is under anesthesia, the surgical area is cleaned with antibacterial soap to prevent infection.
- Placement of incisions: Incisions are typically made in the same location as the original breast augmentation incision, such as the crease under the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit. The surgeon will create the necessary incisions and drain any accumulated fluid.
- Removal of implants: The implants are removed from each breast using various methods, such as prying them out from beneath the breast tissue, cutting through the implant shell if it is stuck to nearby tissues, or using instruments attached to the implant for slow removal.
- Scar tissue removal: Any excess skin or scar tissue around the nipples is removed, and the area is cauterized. This helps to create a more natural appearance.
- Sealing of incisions: The skin is re - attached, stitched, and dressings are applied to prevent infection during the healing process.
Recovery Process
Immediate Post - Operative Period
After the surgery, the patient will recover in a recovery room under the supervision of a registered nurse. Sensation will gradually return to the area, and some discomfort may be experienced. Pain relief medication will be provided. The patient will typically spend about an hour in the recovery room before being allowed to return home.
First Few Weeks
- Patients may experience swelling, bruising, soreness, and sensitivity in the breasts for a few weeks. It is important to wear a compression bra as instructed to reduce swelling and support the breasts.
- Rest is crucial during this time, and strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least two weeks.
- Follow the surgeon's instructions regarding wound care, such as keeping the incisions clean and dry, and taking any prescribed antibiotics.
Long - Term Recovery
Most patients can return to their normal daily activities within one to two weeks, but it may take several months for the final results to be visible. The numbness in the breast area and around the incisions typically fades over time. The scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade. It is important to attend all follow - up appointments with the surgeon to monitor the healing process.
Risks and Complications
Common Risks
- Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during and after the surgery, which may require additional treatment.
- Infection: Infections can occur at the incision site or in the breast tissue. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.
- Changes in breast sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in breast sensation, such as numbness or hypersensitivity.
- Scarring: Incisions will result in scars, although the surgeon will try to minimize their visibility. The appearance of scars can vary depending on individual factors.
Less Common Risks
- Implant - related diseases: There is a risk of developing breast implant illness (BII) or breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), although these are rare.
- Capsular contracture: The formation of scar tissue around the implant pocket can cause discomfort and distortion of the breast shape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breast implant removal is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. The three hospitals in New York City reviewed in this article - Dr. Darrick Antell's practice, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's practice, and the New York Group for Plastic Surgery - offer high - quality services and experienced surgeons for breast implant removal procedures. When choosing a hospital, it is important to consider factors such as surgeon qualifications, hospital facilities, patient reviews, and cost. Proper preparation for the procedure and following the surgeon's post - operative instructions are crucial for a successful recovery. If you are considering breast implant removal, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and achieve the best possible results. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast implant removal in New York City.
