Introduction
New York City is a bustling metropolis known for its world - class healthcare facilities. When it comes to breast implant removal and breast augmentation, there are numerous regular hospitals that offer high - quality services. In this article, we will explore these hospitals, look at their rankings, the surgical techniques they use, and the factors that influence their popularity.
Understanding Breast Implant Removal and Breast Augmentation
Breast Implant Removal
Women may choose to have breast implants removed for various reasons. Some may experience medical complications related to the implants, such as breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). As reported on the Manhattan Implant Removal page, BIA - ALCL is a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma occurring in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. If left untreated, it can spread to nearby lymph nodes, and treatment usually involves surgically removing the implants and surrounding scar tissue. In more serious cases, chemotherapy or radiation may also be necessary.
Other reasons for removal include dissatisfaction with the result of the original breast augmentation and a desire to return to the natural breast size. Some women with textured implants recalled by the FDA due to the heightened risk of BIA - ALCL may also opt for removal.
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, has been a popular cosmetic surgical procedure for decades. By 2024, as detailed in the Plastic Surgeon Manhattan blog, the techniques for performing this surgery had advanced significantly. The breast augmentation techniques could be broadly categorized into four primary types: saline implants, silicone implants, structured saline implants, and composite implants.
- Saline implants consist of a silicone shell filled with sterile salt water. They are known for their safety, as in case of a rupture, the body can safely absorb the saline solution. However, they tend to feel less natural than other types of implants.
- Silicone implants are filled with a silicone gel that mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. The main concern is that a silent rupture could occur, requiring regular check - ups to ensure the implant's integrity.
- Structured saline implants were a newer innovation in 2024. They were designed to overcome the less natural feel of traditional saline implants, offering a more natural look and feel while retaining the safety of the saline solution.
- Composite implants are a combination of saline and silicone implants, offering the benefits of both types. They can be customized to a great extent, allowing for a more personalized approach to breast augmentation.
Popular Hospitals in New York City for Breast Implant Removal and Breast Augmentation
New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center
This hospital has consistently ranked highly in national hospital rankings. It was named the top hospital in New York and ranked no. 4 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals, as mentioned in the Columbia Surgery news. It ranks nationally in 15 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties.
In terms of surgical excellence, US News & World nationally - ranked surgical specialties at NYP/Columbia include adult specialties like heart surgery, GI surgery, and lung surgery, as well as children’s specialties such as pediatric heart surgery, pediatric GI surgery, and pediatric lung surgery. The national ranking in cancer care also reflects the high - quality surgical oncology expertise provided by many of its specialists, including those in breast surgery.
Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai's 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. As described on the Mount Sinai - New York page, they offer two types of implants (silicone and saline) and a non - implant option called NaturalFill®, which is a fat - transfer technique.
For silicone breast implants, they look and feel natural in the breasts, while saline breast implants are firmer and rounder. NaturalFill® involves removing fat from the buttocks or abdomen via liposuction and then inserting that fat into the breasts to enlarge them.
NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals are recognized as one of the top hospitals in multiple specialties. According to the US News best hospitals rankings, it is among the top hospitals for diabetes & endocrinology, neurology & neurosurgery, pulmonology & lung surgery, and urology. Although not specifically highlighted for breast implant removal and augmentation in all resources, its overall high - quality medical care and surgical expertise make it a potential option for these procedures.
Facilities Associated with Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a widely regarded breast surgeon in the New York area and globally. As stated on the Manhattan Implant Removal page, he performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. He has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but most patients prefer for the procedure to take place in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital.
He also performs en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant and removes the allergan textured breast implants recalled by the FDA. Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which speaks to his surgical skills and patient satisfaction.
Popular Incision Locations for Breast Augmentation in 2024
Overview of Incision Locations
The choice of incision location in breast augmentation is an important aspect and is influenced by several factors, including surgical technique, patient anatomy, the type and size of the implant, and patient preference. In 2024, as detailed in the Plastic Surgeon Manhattan blog, there were three major incision locations globally: inframammary, periareolar, and transaxillary.
Regional Preferences
Regional preferences for breast augmentation incisions varied significantly in 2024. In some regions, the inframammary incision was the most popular due to its direct access to the breast tissue and the resulting ease of implant placement. In other regions, the transaxillary incision was preferred because it left no scar on the breast itself, which was considered very important in those cultures.
Areas with advanced healthcare systems and a high level of surgical expertise tended to have a broader range of incision location options available, increasing the probability of patient satisfaction and successful surgical outcomes. Patient education also played a crucial role. In regions where patients were more educated about the different options and their respective pros and cons, they were more likely to make informed decisions about their preferred incision locations.
Popularity in the United States
In the United States in 2024, the most popular incision locations were the inframammary, periareolar, and transaxillary. The inframammary incision was the most popular due to its several advantages. It allowed for direct access to the breast tissue, making the placement of the implant easier and more precise. Additionally, the scar from the incision was hidden in the natural crease beneath the breast, making it less visible.
The periareolar incision was the second most popular location. This incision was made around the edge of the areola, and the scar blended with the color transition between the areola and the breast skin. The transaxillary incision, made in the armpit, was also a popular choice. In 2024, this method was often performed with the aid of an endoscope, a thin tube with a light and a camera that allowed the surgeon to see and work in the breast area.
Factors Influencing the Popularity of Hospitals
Reputation and Rankings
Hospitals with high national rankings, such as New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center, gain more popularity. As reported by U.S. News & World Report, rankings in multiple specialties demonstrate the hospital's overall excellence in medical care. The honor roll recognition given to only a few hospitals out of thousands in the country makes patients more confident in choosing these institutions for their procedures.
Surgical Expertise
The skill and experience of the surgeons play a vital role. For example, Dr. Darrick Antell is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the New York area and globally. His extensive experience in breast implant removal and the high - quality results he has achieved have led to many patient referrals and made his services popular among those seeking these procedures.
Advanced Technology
Hospitals that offer advanced technology are more appealing to patients. Mount Sinai Hospital's use of 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize the results of breast augmentation is an example. This technology allows patients to make more informed decisions about their desired breast size and shape, increasing their satisfaction with the procedure.
Patient Experience
Positive patient experiences, such as personalized care, good communication with medical staff, and a comfortable environment, contribute to a hospital's popularity. Dr. Antell's private operating room with a private back entrance to ensure discretion and his well - trained staff offering personalized care are factors that attract patients.
Choosing the Right Hospital for Breast Implant Removal and Breast Augmentation
Consultation
When considering breast implant removal or breast augmentation, it is essential to schedule a consultation with a surgeon. During the consultation, as described in the Manhattan Implant Removal page, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of the breasts. The patient should discuss any symptoms they may be experiencing if it is related to implant removal due to medical complications.
It is also helpful to bring any information about the existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. An open and honest conversation with the surgeon about the desired outcome will help in creating the proper surgical plan.
Research and Referrals
Patients should research different hospitals and surgeons. Reading patient reviews, looking at before - and - after photos, and seeking referrals from friends, family, or other medical professionals can provide valuable insights. Referrals from former patients, as is the case with Dr. Antell, are a strong indication of the quality of service.
Cost and Insurance
Cost is an important factor. Patients should understand the cost breakdown of the procedure, including surgical fees, anesthesia fees, and post - operative care. Insurance may cover breast implant removal in cases where it is due to medical complications, but breast augmentation is typically considered a cosmetic procedure and may not be covered. It is important to check with the insurance provider in advance.
Recovery and Aftercare
Breast Implant Removal Recovery
After breast implant removal surgery, the recovery process varies from patient to patient. As mentioned on the Manhattan Implant Removal page, patients usually recover in a state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia is used to reduce discomfort.
The procedure is an outpatient one, meaning patients can return home the same day. When performed with “twilight” sedation, patients should arrange for an escort to bring them home as they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. After surgery, the breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage, and patients may feel tired or sore as their body uses energy to heal.
Most patients are able to return to most daily activities within days of the procedure, but it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. It is important to follow all post - operative instructions carefully and refrain from activities that could put stress on the incisions. Some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions is expected, and this numbness typically fades over time. Fluid drainage from the incision site may also occur.
Breast Augmentation Recovery
For breast augmentation, the recovery also has its own timeline. According to Dr. Lara Devgan's page, in the first 24 - 48 hours, patients will have a small amount of swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Many patients need to take pain medicine during this time period. Most patients spend the first 1 - 2 days resting, reading, watching TV, and going for short walks. After 48 hours, they will be able to shower normally.
If the patient has a desk job that does not require strenuous activity, they will likely be able to return to work by the 3rd or 4th day after surgery. By one month after surgery, the vast majority of patients say they feel "back to normal." However, the breasts will still continue to "settle" into their final position over the course of the next few months, and a tiny bit of additional swelling will go away.
Conclusion
In New York City, there are several high - quality regular hospitals and surgeons available for breast implant removal and breast augmentation. Factors such as hospital rankings, surgical expertise, advanced technology, and patient experience all contribute to the popularity of these facilities. When considering these procedures, patients should take the time to research, have consultations with surgeons, and understand the recovery and aftercare processes.
If you are considering breast implant removal or breast augmentation, we encourage you to reach out to a qualified surgeon for a consultation. You can research more about the hospitals and surgeons mentioned in this article to make an informed decision that is right for you.
