Best Hospitals for Removing Breast Implants in New York City in 2025

Introduction

Deciding to remove breast implants is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and the expertise of a skilled medical professional. In New York City, there are numerous options available for those seeking breast implant removal surgery. This article will explore some of the top hospitals and surgeons in the area, providing you with valuable information to make an informed choice.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

There are several reasons why a woman might choose to have her breast implants removed. These can be broadly categorized into medical and aesthetic reasons:

Medical Reasons

• Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens and tightens, causing pain, discomfort, and distortion of the breast shape. As noted in multiple sources, it can lead to the breasts feeling hard and may require implant removal. The rate of capsular contracture is relatively small, about 3 - 4%, but it can increase gradually over the years (Steven Wallach MD, FACS).
• Implant Rupture or Leakage: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture or leak over time. Saline implants may deflate rapidly, while silicone implants may require an MRI to detect a rupture. If left untreated, a ruptured implant can cause further complications such as lumps, pain, and changes in breast shape (NYGPS).
• Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): A rare form of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that can occur in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. It is primarily associated with certain textured breast implants, which have been recalled by the FDA. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and changes in breast size or shape (Antell MD).
• Breast Implant Illness (BII): Although not an officially recognized medical diagnosis, many women report a range of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, and joint pain after breast augmentation. These symptoms are thought to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems or a hyperactive immune system (Olivia Hutchinson MD).

Aesthetic Reasons

• Unsatisfactory Results: The appearance of the implants may not meet the patient's expectations. This could include issues such as the implants being the wrong size, shape, or position, or changes in the breast appearance over time (Marc Everett MD).
• Lifestyle Changes: Some women may decide to remove their implants due to lifestyle changes, such as planning to breastfeed or simply wanting to return to their natural breast size (Marc Everett MD).

Top Surgeons and Their Practices in New York City

Dr. Darrick E. Antell

Dr. Darrick Antell is a premier breast surgeon in NYC. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. With over twenty years of experience and more than ten thousand procedures under his belt, he is known for his meticulous surgical skills, the use of the latest medical technologies, and an artistic eye.

Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. He can remove existing silicone or saline implants and, when indicated, perform an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He also handles the removal of recalled Allergan textured breast implants associated with BIA - ALCL.

During the consultation, Dr. Antell thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. He discusses the procedure, risks, and recovery in detail. Most patients prefer to have the procedure in his private operating room near Lenox Hill Hospital, which is fully accredited and equipped with the latest technology.

The recovery process is closely monitored by Dr. Antell and his staff. Patients typically recover in a state - of - the - art recovery suite and are provided with thorough discharge instructions. While much of the swelling and bruising fade in the first few weeks, it may take several months to see the final results.

Dr. Darren Smith

Dr. Darren Smith performs breast implant removal surgery in a state - of - the - art medical facility in NYC. He helps patients decide whether to have their implants removed based on their individual needs and body goals.

Breast implant removal surgery with Dr. Smith is performed under general anesthesia. He often uses the original incision from the breast augmentation procedure to minimize scarring. He removes the breast implants from the breast capsule and, if necessary, the capsule itself, as well as scar tissue or silicone from implant leaks.

After surgery, patients spend some time in the recovery room for monitoring and are given appropriate support garments. The doctor provides aftercare instructions and prescribes pain medications as needed. Most patients can resume normal activities of daily living shortly after the procedure, but are advised to avoid strenuous movements for two weeks.

Dr. Brian Bassiri - Tehrani at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery

At Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery on Park Avenue, Dr. Brian Bassiri - Tehrani offers capsulectomy and capsulotomy procedures for breast implant removal. He takes an individualized approach, tailoring the breast enhancement to each patient's goals.

During the consultation, Dr. Bassiri - Tehrani listens to the patient's concerns and goals and creates a personalized treatment plan. The surgery takes place in the in - office operating room in Manhattan and usually lasts between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the severity of the breast condition.

The downtime after the procedure is about 1 week, and patients cannot work out for 1 to 2 months. The doctor and his team provide support and guidance during the post - surgery care and schedule a follow - up appointment to assess the recovery and results.

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC, especially on the Upper East Side. With over 20 years of experience, she evaluates patients with breast implant - related concerns and offers surgical options to help them achieve their goals.

She addresses both aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants. For aesthetic issues such as palpable or visible implants, implant rupture, or malposition, and medical issues like severe capsular contracture, BIA - ALCL, and BII, she provides appropriate treatment advice. In some cases, a secondary procedure like a breast lift may be recommended to achieve the best aesthetic results.

Patients have reported exceptional experiences with Dr. Hutchinson and her staff, citing a calming atmosphere, cleanliness, and professionalism.

Dr. Steven Wallach

Dr. Steven Wallach performs breast implant removal surgery by making an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the implant pocket and remove the implants. He also removes implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary.

During the consultation, he discusses the options and techniques available for the procedure, as well as which will provide the best results with the least amount of scarring. He helps patients decide whether to replace the old implants with new ones or pursue other breast enhancement options like a breast lift.

After the procedure, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and mild pain. They need a caregiver to drive them home and stay with them for about a day. Most patients can return to light activity within three to five days and are advised to avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks.

Dr. Marc Everett

Dr. Marc Everett at the Everett Clinic offers breast implant removal consultations at two convenient locations in Manhattan and Queens. He has years of experience in plastic surgery and ensures a healthy and successful outcome for his patients.

Patients may choose to have their implants removed for various reasons, including capsular contracture, change in preferences, unsatisfactory results, or systemic symptoms associated with breast implants (SSBI) or breast implant illness (BII). Dr. Everett can use existing scars in many cases and removes the implant and capsule from the breast using either blunt dissection or electrocautery instruments.

Recovery from the procedure is similar to recovering from implant placement. Bruising and soreness are common, and patients are required to wear a compression garment to minimize swelling. Dr. Everett provides prescriptions for pain medications and antibiotics and monitors the patient's healing at follow - up appointments.

Comparison of Surgeons

Preparing for Breast Implant Removal Surgery

Regardless of which surgeon you choose, there are some general steps you can take to prepare for breast implant removal surgery:

• Medical Evaluation: Your surgeon will evaluate your general health and medical history. You may be asked to have imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI before the procedure.
• Medication Management: Avoid taking medications that can interfere with the procedure, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications for one week prior to the surgery. You may also need to stop taking blood - thinning medications for up to six weeks before the surgery. Inform your prescribing physician about your plans.
• Lifestyle Changes: If you smoke, it is recommended to stop smoking before the surgery as it can affect the healing process.
• Arrange Transportation and Support: Since the surgery is usually performed under sedation or anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
• Bring Information: It is helpful to bring any information you have about your existing implants and your previous breast augmentation surgery to your appointment.

The Surgical Procedure

The breast implant removal procedure generally involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: Breast implant removal can be performed using local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. The type of anesthesia used will depend on various factors such as the patient's health, the size and location of the implants, and the surgeon's preference.
2. Incision Placement: The surgeon will make an incision in one of three locations: the crease under the breast, around the areola, or vertically in the armpit. In many cases, the surgeon will try to use the original incision from the breast augmentation surgery to minimize scarring.
3. Implant Removal: The surgeon will access the implant pocket and remove the breast implants. If there is capsular contracture, a ruptured implant, or textured implants associated with BIA - ALCL, the surgeon may also remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant. This is known as an en - bloc resection.
4. Scar Tissue Removal and Reconstruction: Any excess skin or scar tissue around the nipples may be removed, and the area may be reconstructed to create a more natural appearance.
5. Closure: The incisions are closed using multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and a layer of external sutures if needed. A layer of gauze or a bandage may be placed over the breasts to aid in healing.

Recovery Process

The recovery process after breast implant removal can vary from patient to patient, but there are some common aspects:

• Immediate Post - Surgery: After the surgery, you will recover in a recovery room while being monitored by medical staff. You may experience some discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication. You will be provided with post - procedure instructions on how to care for yourself and the incision sites.
• First Few Days: Most patients experience swelling, bruising, and soreness in the first few days after the surgery. It is important to rest and follow the doctor's instructions regarding activity levels. You may need to wear a compression bra to help reduce swelling.
• Weeks 1 - 2: Many patients can return to most daily activities within a few days, but it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. Your doctor will provide an individualized recovery plan based on your specific procedure and healing rate.
• Long - Term Recovery: It may take several months for the swelling and bruising to completely fade and for the final results to be visible. You may experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. Scars may be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade.

Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, breast implant removal surgery carries some risks:

• Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, which may require additional treatment.
• Infection: Infection 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.
• Numbness: You may experience numbness at the incision site or in the breast area. In most cases, this is temporary, but it can sometimes be permanent.
• Adverse Reaction to Anesthesia: Some patients may have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used during the surgery. This can range from mild nausea and vomiting to more serious complications.
• Unsatisfactory Results: There is a possibility that the final results may not meet your expectations. This could include issues such as asymmetry, scarring, or changes in breast shape.

Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you in detail during the consultation and take steps to minimize them.

Cost Considerations

The cost of breast implant removal in New York City can vary widely depending on several factors:

• Surgeon's Fee: The experience and reputation of the surgeon can affect the fee. More experienced and well - known surgeons may charge higher fees.
• Operating Facility: The cost of using an operating room or surgical facility can vary. Private operating rooms or state - of - the - art facilities may be more expensive.
• Anesthesia Fee: The type of anesthesia used and the length of the procedure