Introduction
In New York City, both public and private hospitals play crucial roles in the medical field, especially when it comes to breast implant removal. With a high - demand for cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries, the competition among hospitals to offer top - notch breast implant removal services is fierce. In 2025, several public and private institutions have managed to secure spots within the top three rankings for breast implant removal. This article will explore the reasons behind this achievement, the associated risks and procedures, as well as the renowned surgeons at these hospitals.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Medical Complications
There are numerous medical complications that can lead a patient to seek breast implant removal. One of the most severe is breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). As of July 24, 2019, the recall of certain textured implants, such as those made by Allergan (including Natrelle® and Inspira® textured breast implants), was initiated due to the incidence of BIA - ALCL. Although extremely rare, this type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma occurs in the scar tissue surrounding the implant and, if left untreated, can spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Another common medical issue is severe capsular contracture. When the soft tissue envelope around the implant hardens, it can cause pain and discomfort, along with distorting the appearance of the breasts. Chronic pain associated with breast implants, infections, and bleeding are also significant concerns that may prompt removal.
Aesthetic Concerns
Aesthetic issues are equally important reasons for breast implant removal. For example, when a breast implant becomes palpable or visible, showing folds, ripples, or wrinkles, it can be an unsightly appearance for the patient. Implant rupture, leakage, or deflation can also occur, altering the shape and symmetry of the breasts. The implant may move from its original position, leading to a “double bubble” appearance or “symmastia,” where the implants appear to touch in the middle. Breast asymmetry, unsightly or widened scars, nipple or areola enlargement, distortion, and asymmetry are other aesthetic factors that patients may find displeasing.
| Reasons for Removal | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical Complications | BIA - ALCL, severe capsular contracture, chronic pain, infection, bleeding |
| Aesthetic Concerns | Palpable/visible implants, rupture, leakage, deflation, implant malposition, asymmetry, scars, nipple/areola issues |
Top Surgeons for Breast Implant Removal in NYC
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon on the Upper East Side in NYC. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns. As a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon, she is committed to providing the finest surgical results for her patients. Dr. Hutchinson has the skills and knowledge to address both aesthetic and medical implant - related issues and will advise patients on the various surgical options available, including when a secondary procedure like a breast lift may be necessary to achieve the best aesthetic outcome.
Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a widely regarded top New York plastic surgeon, both in the local area and worldwide. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery and is skilled in en bloc capsulectomy, the removal of the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He also handles the removal of the recalled Allergan textured breast implants due to their association with BIA - ALCL. Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, a testament to his exceptional surgical skills and beautiful results.
Top - Ranked Public Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal
NYC Health + Hospitals
NYC Health + Hospitals is the largest municipal health care system in the nation. It has made a significant mark in the field of breast implant removal. The public hospitals under this system have been named on the U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 - 2025 ‘Best Hospitals’ list for excellence in treating various conditions. While their focus on other medical conditions is well - recognized, their surgical teams are also proficient in breast implant removal. They offer high - quality, comprehensive health care to all New Yorkers, and the hospitals’ success in breast implant removal can be attributed to their experienced medical staff, state - of - the - art facilities, and commitment to patient care.
Hospitals such as NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue, which is recognized for treating heart failure and heart attack, also have a skilled surgical department capable of handling breast implant removal. Their doctors are well - trained in handling the various complications associated with breast implants and can provide personalized treatment plans for patients.
Top - Ranked Private Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal
New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center
Ranked as the top hospital in New York and No. 4 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals, New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center offers world - class care in breast implant removal. The hospital has a team of highly skilled surgeons and medical staff. Its surgical excellence is evident in its nationally - ranked surgical specialties, including heart surgery, GI surgery, and lung surgery. For breast implant removal, the surgeons use the latest techniques and equipment to ensure the best possible outcome for patients. They also take into account the patient's overall health and aesthetic goals when planning the procedure.
NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals is another top - ranked private institution in New York City. Nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties, it has a reputation for providing high - quality medical services. The hospital's plastic surgery department is well - equipped to handle breast implant removal procedures. The surgeons here are experts in the field, and they work closely with patients to understand their concerns and achieve the desired results. They also offer a comprehensive range of follow - up care to ensure a smooth recovery process.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Consultation
The first step in the breast implant removal process is the consultation. Surgeons like Dr. Antell and Dr. Hutchinson will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of the breasts. Patients should bring any information they have about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. During this conversation, patients can openly discuss their desired outcome, and the surgeon will create a personalized surgical plan. In some cases, the surgeon may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift, to achieve a more plump and rounded appearance.
Pre - operative Preparation
Based on factors such as age and implant condition, the patient may be sent for imaging, like an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI. The surgeon will provide guidelines on eating, drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. Prescriptions may be given to be filled before the surgery, and depending on the patient's history, pre - operative clearance from another doctor may be required. Since the procedure is usually performed under “twilight” sedation, patients need to arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and have assistance during the first few days of recovery.
Surgery
If possible, the surgeon will remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. However, in cases of capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or BIA - ALCL, it may be necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant, known as en - bloc resection. Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and sometimes a layer of external sutures, are used to close the incisions. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer. A layer of gauze or a bandage is placed over the breasts to speed healing.
Recovery
After the surgery, patients recover in a state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, so patients can return home the same day. They will receive thorough discharge instructions. Some discomfort, swelling, and bruising are normal. Patients may feel tired or sore, and it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. The majority of patients do not require a breast lift after surgery, as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally. Numbness in the breast area and around the incisions may occur but typically fades over time. It may take several months before the final results are visible, and scars will gradually fade.
Risks Associated with Breast Implant Removal
While breast implant removal surgery is generally considered safe when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon, there are still risks involved. These include bleeding, infection, numbness at the incision site, or an adverse reaction to the anesthesia. Surgeons will thoroughly discuss all risks with patients during the initial consultation, and patients can reduce their risks by closely following the surgeon's pre - and post - operative instructions.
Cost of Breast Implant Removal
The cost of breast implant removal can vary depending on several factors. In the United States, the average price of breast implant removal is $4751, with a minimum of $3000 and a maximum of $6450. The total cost is calculated individually, taking into account the patient's medical issue, the doctor's qualification, the procedure complexity, and any related complications. Each patient should schedule a consultation with a doctor to get an exact price.
Conclusion
In 2025, both public and private hospitals in New York City have demonstrated their excellence in breast implant removal by ranking among the top three. These hospitals, with their experienced surgeons, advanced facilities, and commitment to patient care, offer high - quality services for patients seeking breast implant removal. Whether it's due to medical complications or aesthetic concerns, patients can trust these institutions to provide the best possible treatment. The process of breast implant removal, from consultation to recovery, is well - structured and designed to ensure patient safety and satisfaction. However, it is crucial for patients to be well - informed about the procedure, its risks, and the associated costs.
If you are considering breast implant removal in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon at one of these top - ranked hospitals. Learn more about the process, discuss your concerns, and make an informed decision that is right for you. Share this article with others who may find it helpful in their journey towards breast implant removal.
