Introduction
Breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation are complex surgical procedures that require the expertise of highly skilled surgeons and state - of - the - art facilities. In New York City, a hub of medical innovation and excellence, there are numerous institutions that offer these services. This article aims to review the top - ranked regular institutions for breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation in the city, providing comprehensive information to help individuals make informed decisions about their breast surgery options.
Understanding Breast Prosthesis Removal and Re - Augmentation
Before delving into the top institutions, it's crucial to understand the reasons for breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation. Breast implant removal can be due to various factors, including implant - related complications such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or breast implant illness. Additionally, some patients may wish to change the size, shape, or type of their implants for aesthetic reasons. Re - augmentation, on the other hand, may be part of the same surgical plan or a separate procedure later on to achieve the desired breast appearance.
Top - Ranked Institutions in New York City
1. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, located at 461 Park Ave S, #7K, New York, NY 10016, is renowned for its top - rated breast surgery team. The center's board - certified plastic surgeons are highly trained in breast implant removal surgery and are world - renowned for their advanced techniques. They offer a variety of breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. Each procedure is customized to fit the unique needs of each patient. The state - of - the - art boutique surgical suite provides a comfortable and safe environment for the surgeries, which typically take about 1 - 3 hours under general anesthesia. Patients can expect swelling and tenderness to subside within six to eight weeks.
Contact: (212) 481 - 0110
2. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice
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 performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery and also addresses medical concerns such as breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). Dr. Antell's patients often refer others due to his exceptional surgical results and the natural - looking outcomes he achieves. He has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but most procedures take place in his discreet, private operating room across from Lenox Hill Hospital. The facility is fully accredited and equipped with the latest technology. He provides a comprehensive consultation process, evaluating general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts to create a personalized surgical plan.
Contact: (212) - 988 - 4040
3. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice
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, she can address both functional and cosmetic issues related to breast implants. She will advise patients on the various surgical options available and may recommend a secondary procedure like a breast lift to achieve the best aesthetic results. Her practice is known for its calming atmosphere, clean environment, and professional staff.
Contact: (212) 452 - 1400
4. Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He specializes in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures addressing all aspects of the body. His education and training span some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world. Dr. Kolker has a unique combination of scientific and technical mastery with artistic creativity, enabling him to deliver beautiful, natural, and proportional results in breast procedures. He is featured in many top medical publications such as New York Magazine's Best Doctors issues and Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons list. He offers comprehensive consultations, both virtually and in person, to understand each patient's aesthetic goals and create a personalized treatment plan.
Contact: 212 - 744 - 6500
5. Dr. Daniel Maman's Practice
Dr. Daniel Maman is a Harvard fellowship - trained and board - certified plastic surgeon specialized in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, body, and face. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of several esteemed medical societies. His practice offers premiere plastic surgery and concierge patient care. The 90 - minute consultation with Dr. Maman includes a thorough review of the medical history, in - depth physical assessment, comprehensive operative plans, review of cost and follow - up visits, and scheduling of surgery. His breast implant revision procedures, which often involve implant removal and re - augmentation, are known for their optimal results and personalized approach.
Contact: Schedule a consultation on his official website
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Institution
Surgeon Expertise
The skill and experience of the surgeon are of utmost importance. Look for board - certified surgeons who have extensive experience in breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation. Surgeons with a long - standing practice and a proven track record of successful surgeries are more likely to deliver satisfactory results. For example, many of the surgeons mentioned above have years of experience and are highly regarded in the medical community.
Range of Services
An institution that offers a wide range of services related to breast surgery is preferable. This includes different types of breast implant removal procedures (en bloc, partial capsulectomy, total capsulectomy) and various options for re - augmentation, such as different implant types and surgical techniques. For instance, the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC offers multiple removal procedures to cater to individual patient needs.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience at a particular institution. Positive reviews regarding the surgeon's skill, the staff's professionalism, and the overall outcome of the surgery are good indicators. Many institutions have patient testimonials on their websites or on third - party review platforms.
Facility Quality
The quality of the surgical facility is crucial for patient safety and comfort. Ensure that the institution has a fully accredited surgical suite equipped with the latest technology. Facilities like Dr. Antell's private operating room and the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC's boutique surgical suite are designed to provide a high - standard environment for surgeries.
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation can vary significantly depending on the institution, surgeon, and the complexity of the procedure. It's important to understand the total cost and inquire about financing options. Some institutions offer in - house financing plans or accept third - party medical loans to help patients afford the procedure.
Procedures Involved in Breast Prosthesis Removal and Re - Augmentation
Breast Implant Removal Procedures
There are several common breast implant removal procedures:
- En bloc removal: The plastic surgeon removes the implants and the surrounding capsule in a single piece. This is often recommended in cases of capsular contracture or when there are concerns about implant - related diseases. For example, in cases of BIA - ALCL, en bloc removal is a preferred method to ensure complete removal of potentially affected tissue.
- Partial capsulectomy: Involves removing the breast implant material and trimming or shaping some of the capsule material to create the desired chest contour. This is suitable for patients who want to remove the implant while maintaining some of the existing capsule structure.
- Total capsulectomy: The surgeon removes the implant, the entire capsule, and any remaining scar tissue. This is a more invasive procedure but may be necessary in certain cases, such as when there is significant scarring or implant - related complications.
| Procedure | Description | When Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| En bloc removal | Removal of implants and capsule as one piece | Capsular contracture, BIA - ALCL concerns |
| Partial capsulectomy | Removal of implant and partial capsule trimming | Desire to maintain some capsule structure |
| Total capsulectomy | Removal of implant, entire capsule, and scar tissue | Significant scarring or complications |
Breast Re - Augmentation Techniques
When it comes to re - augmentation, there are different techniques:
- Implant placement: Using new breast implants of different sizes, shapes, or types. The surgeon will carefully choose the implant based on the patient's body type, aesthetic goals, and the condition of the breast tissue. For example, anatomically shaped implants may be used to mimic the natural slope of the breast.
- Fat grafting: Also known as autologous fat transfer, this involves harvesting fat from another part of the patient's body, purifying it, and then injecting it into the breasts. This technique can provide a more natural - looking and - feeling result, but the amount of volume increase may be limited compared to implant placement.
Pre - operative and Post - operative Care
Pre - operative Care
Before the surgery, patients will typically undergo a comprehensive consultation with the surgeon. The surgeon will evaluate the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. Patients may be required to undergo imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI to assess the implants and surrounding tissue. They will also receive instructions on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. Arrangements should be made for someone to drive the patient home after the surgery and assist with recovery in the first few days.
Post - operative Care
After the surgery, patients will recover in a designated recovery area under the supervision of medical staff. They may experience swelling, tenderness, and some discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication. Patients will be given instructions on how to care for the incisions, wear a support bra, and gradually resume normal activities. It's important to follow all post - operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and optimal results. Most patients can expect swelling and bruising to subside within a few weeks, but it may take several months for the final results to be visible.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation carry some risks and potential complications. These include:
- Bleeding and infection: These are common surgical risks that can be minimized by following pre - and post - operative instructions and using proper surgical techniques. Surgeons will monitor patients closely for signs of bleeding or infection and take appropriate measures if they occur.
- Numbness at the incision site: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent numbness around the incision area. This is usually due to nerve damage during the surgery, and in most cases, the numbness improves over time.
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia: Although rare, some patients may have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used during the surgery. An experienced anesthesiologist will carefully monitor the patient during the procedure to minimize this risk.
- Capsular contracture: This can occur after re - augmentation and is the formation of scar tissue around the implant, which can cause the breast to feel hard and may change its shape. It may require additional treatment, such as massage or further surgery.
- Implant rupture or leakage: There is a risk of the new implant rupturing or leaking, which may require further surgery to replace the implant.
Conclusion
New York City offers a plethora of top - ranked regular institutions for breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation. When considering these procedures, it's essential to thoroughly research the institutions, evaluate the expertise of the surgeons, and understand the potential risks and benefits. By choosing a reputable institution and an experienced surgeon, patients can increase their chances of achieving the desired results and a successful recovery. Remember to have open and honest communication with the surgeon during the consultation process to ensure that your goals and expectations are realistic.
If you're considering breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation, we encourage you to take the time to schedule consultations with the institutions mentioned in this article. By gathering more information and discussing your specific needs, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision about your breast surgery journey. Share this article with others who may find it helpful, and explore related topics on breast health and cosmetic surgery to further educate yourself.
