Introduction
Breast reconstruction surgery is of great significance for patients who have undergone mastectomies or lumpectomies, helping them regain physical shape and emotional confidence. In New York City, several hospitals stand out in providing high - quality breast reconstruction services. This article aims to summarize the top two departments in the ranking list of hospitals for breast reconstruction surgery in New York City, analyzing their advantages, services, and procedures.
New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai
Overall Hospital Reputation
The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai has a remarkable reputation. It has been ranked among “America’s best hospitals” for nine years straight since 2006. Additionally, the hospital has achieved Magnet® status by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet Recognition Program® for excellence in nursing services. These recognitions indicate its high - level medical care and professional nursing staff.
Breast Reconstruction Center
Dr. Joshua Levine established the first dedicated perforator flap breast reconstruction program in New York City, the New York Center for the Advancement of Breast Reconstruction, at this hospital in 2006. Dr. Levine has developed expert surgical teams for state - of - the - art natural breast reconstruction here.
Surgical Teams
The surgical teams are highly skilled. As one of the first surgeons to perform perforator flap breast reconstruction surgery in Manhattan, Dr. Levine trained many of the first wave of DIEP surgeons in the tri - state area. His assisting microsurgeons, such as Robert Allen, M.D., a pioneer of perforator free flap breast reconstruction including DIEP, GAP, PAP, and others, and Julie Vasile, M.D., a board - certified fellowship - trained microsurgeon specialized in these procedures since 2008, ensure the high quality of surgeries. The breast surgeons, including Ranjana Chaterji, M.D., Leah Gendler, M.D., Alyssa Gillego, M.D., and Karen Karsif, M.D., also contribute to comprehensive patient care.
Services for Patients
For traveling patients, the hospital and the associated practice provide comprehensive support. They offer first - class concierge care. Although they cannot schedule flights or reserve hotel rooms, they can make recommendations on where to stay and the best times to fly in for consultations or surgeries. They also provide information on local, domestic, and international travel options around New York City.
Types of Breast Reconstruction
The center likely offers a variety of breast reconstruction options, including implant - based reconstruction, autologous tissue reconstruction (using the patient's own tissue), and possibly a combination of both. Autologous tissue reconstruction techniques like the DIEP flap, which uses a flap of complete tissue from the abdomen to reconstruct the breast, creating a slimmer abdomen and more natural - looking breasts, are likely to be available due to Dr. Levine's expertise in perforator flap procedures.
Hackensack University Medical Center
Hospital Rankings
Hackensack University Medical Center has earned a high position in national hospital rankings. It was recognized as New Jersey’s #1 hospital and is among the top 30 hospitals in the nation to have 10 or more (11) national specialty rankings in U.S. News & World Report’s 2014 - 15 best hospitals rankings. These rankings reflect its overall strength in medical treatment.
Breast Reconstruction Program
It is one of the dedicated natural tissue breast reconstruction centers developed by Dr. Joshua Levine. The hospital likely offers advanced breast reconstruction procedures with the support of Dr. Levine's surgical teams.
Comprehensive Care
Being a large - scale medical center, Hackensack University Medical Center can provide comprehensive pre - operative evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and comprehensive post - operative support. This includes access to rehabilitation services, psychological counseling, and support groups to address the emotional and psychological aspects of recovery, which are crucial for breast reconstruction patients.
Patient - Centered Approach
The hospital probably adheres to a patient - centered approach, prioritizing patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction. Clear communication between healthcare providers and patients, empathy, and collaboration are likely hallmarks of their service, ensuring that individual needs and concerns are addressed throughout the treatment journey.
Technology and Techniques
With its high - ranking status, the hospital is likely to be equipped with state - of - the - art technology and advanced surgical techniques. This enables it to offer the latest innovations in breast reconstruction, leading to improved outcomes, reduced complications, and shorter recovery times.
Comparison between the Two Hospitals
Expertise
Both hospitals have strong connections with Dr. Joshua Levine and his expert surgical teams, which means they share a high level of expertise in natural tissue breast reconstruction, especially in perforator flap procedures. However, the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai has a longer - standing dedicated breast reconstruction program in New York City, with Dr. Levine's long - term influence in training local surgeons.
Location and Accessibility
The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary is located in New York City, which has better access to international and domestic transportation with nearby major airports like JFK, LGA, and Newark. It is more convenient for international patients or patients traveling from afar. Hackensack University Medical Center is in New Jersey, which may be more accessible for local patients in the state and could offer a different patient - flow and local service environment.
Overall Hospital Strength
Hackensack University Medical Center has higher overall national rankings with multiple national specialty rankings. This indicates its comprehensive medical strength in various fields, which could potentially provide better multi - disciplinary support for breast reconstruction patients, especially in cases where there may be associated health issues. The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, while also a well - ranked hospital, is more focused on its excellence in specific areas like eye, ear, and breast reconstruction.
Important Considerations for Patients
Procedure Type
Patients need to consider their preference for implant - based or autologous tissue reconstruction. Autologous tissue reconstruction, such as DIEP flap, is more complex but can provide a more natural look and feel. Implant - based reconstruction is relatively more straightforward but may have different long - term considerations.
Recovery Time
Flap procedures usually require a longer hospital stay, around 5 to 6 days, and a longer recovery period at home with swelling, soreness, and bruising for 2 to 3 weeks. Implant - based reconstruction may have a shorter recovery time, but patients still need to follow post - operative instructions carefully.
Financial Considerations
Breast reconstruction surgery is typically covered by insurance, especially when it is part of the treatment plan following a mastectomy. However, coverage can vary, and patients should check with their insurance providers. Some additional costs may need to be paid out of pocket, and patients should also consider the hospital's payment options and financing plans.
Emotional and Psychological Support
Breast reconstruction is not only a physical procedure but also an emotional journey. Patients should choose a hospital that can provide psychological counseling and support groups to help them cope with the emotional challenges during and after the surgery.
Common Procedures in Breast Reconstruction
Implant - Based Reconstruction
Implant - based reconstruction involves placing a saline or silicone implant to restore the breast's shape and volume. It is often performed in stages. First, a tissue expander is placed to create space for the implant. Once the tissue is ready, the permanent implant is inserted. This approach is relatively straightforward but may require additional follow - up and potential replacement of implants over time.
Autologous Tissue Reconstruction
Autologous tissue reconstruction uses the patient's own tissue from areas such as the abdomen, back, or thighs. The most common flap procedures include the DIEP flap, TRAM flap, and Latissimus dorsi flap. These procedures can provide a more natural look and feel, but they are more complex surgeries with longer recovery times and a small risk of flap loss or other complications.
Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
Reconstruction of the nipple and areola is typically the final step in the breast reconstruction process. It can be achieved through various techniques, including local tissue rearrangement, skin grafting, or tattooing to create a realistic appearance. This step is optional but can significantly enhance the aesthetic outcome of the reconstruction.
FAQs about Breast Reconstruction Surgery
How long does breast reconstruction surgery take?
The surgery typically takes 2 to 6 hours, depending on the type of reconstruction being performed. For example, flap procedures may take longer due to their complexity, while implant - based reconstruction may be relatively quicker.
Will I need multiple surgeries for breast reconstruction?
Some patients may require more than one surgery to achieve the final desired outcome. This can include procedures for nipple reconstruction, adjustments to the reconstructed breast, or symmetry procedures on the opposite breast.
How soon after a mastectomy can I have breast reconstruction?
Breast reconstruction can be done immediately following a mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or at a later date (delayed reconstruction). The timing will depend on your health, cancer treatment plan, and personal preference. For example, if a patient needs chemotherapy or radiation therapy after mastectomy, delayed reconstruction may be a better option.
Is breast reconstruction surgery painful?
Pain is usually managed with medication, and most patients find the discomfort to be manageable. The surgical team will work with the patient to ensure pain is well - controlled during recovery.
What is the difference between implant - based and flap - based reconstruction?
Implant - based reconstruction uses silicone or saline implants to create the new breast mound, while flap - based reconstruction uses tissue from another part of the patient's body, such as the abdomen or back. Implant - based reconstruction is generally less invasive but may have a higher risk of capsular contracture or implant rupture. Flap - based reconstruction provides a more natural look and feel but is more complex and has a longer recovery time.
Will I have scars after breast reconstruction surgery?
Yes, there will be scars, but they typically fade over time. The location and size of the scars depend on the type of reconstruction performed. The surgeon will discuss scar placement and care with the patient during the consultation.
Can I undergo breast reconstruction if I’ve had radiation therapy?
Yes, but radiation can affect the timing and type of reconstruction. The surgeon will work with the oncologist to determine the best approach for the reconstruction. For example, radiation may cause tissue damage, which could complicate autologous tissue reconstruction.
How long does it take to recover from breast reconstruction surgery?
Recovery time varies, but most patients can resume normal activities within 6 to 8 weeks. The surgical team will give detailed post - operative instructions to help the patient recover safely.
Will breast reconstruction surgery affect my cancer treatment?
Breast reconstruction does not interfere with cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation. The surgeon will coordinate with the oncology team to ensure the timing and type of reconstruction support the overall treatment plan.
Can I still have breast reconstruction if I choose a mastectomy on my other breast later?
Yes, if you opt for a bilateral mastectomy later, reconstruction can be done on both sides either simultaneously or separately, depending on your treatment plan and preference.
Conclusion
In New York City, the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai and Hackensack University Medical Center are two top - ranked hospitals for breast reconstruction surgery. The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary has a long - standing reputation in breast reconstruction with Dr. Joshua Levine's early influence, and it offers excellent support for traveling patients. Hackensack University Medical Center, on the other hand, has high overall national rankings and can provide comprehensive multi - disciplinary care. Patients should consider various factors such as procedure type, recovery time, financial situation, and emotional support when choosing a hospital for breast reconstruction.
If you or someone you know is considering breast reconstruction surgery, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with the hospitals mentioned, and make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may benefit from this information, and continue exploring related topics to learn more about breast reconstruction and post - operative care.
