Top Five Hospitals for Silicone Breast Implant Removal in New York City

Breast implant removal has become a more sought - after procedure in recent years in the United States, and New York City is no exception. Whether it's due to medical complications like implant rupture or capsular contracture, or simply a change in aesthetic preferences, many women are looking for the best hospitals to carry out this procedure. In this article, we'll explore the top five hospitals in New York City for silicone breast implant removal.

1. Steven Wallach MD, FACS

About the Practice

Dr. Steven Wallach is a well - known plastic surgeon conveniently located to serve the areas of New York. As breast augmentation has grown in popularity, the demand for implant removal has also increased. His practice offers services to women who want or need their breast implants removed for either cosmetic or medical reasons, and these procedures can be combined with other breast procedures.

Candidates for the Procedure

Good candidates for breast implant removal are generally healthy individuals who desire to have their implants removed. Those with medical issues may need medical clearance from their primary care physician. Non - smokers or those who stop smoking before the procedure, and those who discontinue blood - thinning medications prior to surgery are also ideal candidates.

Procedure Details

The breast implant removal surgery by Dr. Wallach is the inverse of breast augmentation. He usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach, which could be along the breast fold, the periareola region, or through a transaxillary incision in the armpit. If necessary, he will also remove implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants. The surgery can be performed under intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia. After removing the implant, he may also remove the scar capsule surrounding it.

Recovery

Immediately after the procedure, patients will experience swelling and bruising around their breasts and may have mild pain. A caregiver is required to drive the patient home and stay with them for about a day. Most patients can resume light activity within three to five days, but aerobic activity should be avoided for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks.

Cost

The cost of the procedure will increase if breast implant replacement, a lift, or a more complex procedure is required. The fee may start out at $5000, but it varies depending on the extent of the work.

Research and Patient Testimonials

According to the available data, Dr. Wallach has a high success rate in breast implant removal procedures. Many patients appreciate his attention to detail and the natural - looking results he achieves. His office encourages patients to visit the before - and - after photo gallery to see the kind of results they can expect.

2. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson

Reputation

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as one of the top breast implant removal surgeons in NYC, with over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns. Her practice is on the Upper East Side and has received rave reviews from patients.

Reasons for Removal

Women may choose to have their breast implants removed for a variety of reasons. Aesthetic issues include the implant becoming palpable or visible (folded, rippled, or wrinkled), rupture, leakage, deflation, movement from the original position, capsular contracture, breast asymmetry, unsightly scars, nipple or areola enlargement/distortion, and implant malposition. Medical issues can involve severe capsular contracture, chronic pain, breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), breast implant illness (BII), infection, and bleeding.

Procedure and Advice

Dr. Hutchinson has the experience and skill to address any implant - related concern. She will advise patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to achieve their goals. In some cases, a secondary procedure such as a breast lift may be necessary to achieve the best aesthetic results.

Special Considerations: BIA - ALCL

Over the last few years, a rare cancer called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) has been identified in relation to breast implants. Some women with textured implants made by Allergan may want their implants removed or replaced due to a recall in 2019. BIA - ALCL is mostly treatable with surgical removal of the tumor, capsule, and breast implant.

Patient Experience

Patients who have visited Dr. Hutchinson praise the calming atmosphere of her office, the professionalism of her staff, and the amazing results of the surgery. She makes patients feel comfortable throughout the entire process.

3. Dr. Darrick Antell

Accomplishments

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 has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as being among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery and has an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results.

Candidates

Any healthy person who wishes to have their existing implants removed is likely a candidate for explant surgery. This includes women experiencing medical complications related to the implants without wanting a replacement, those unhappy with the result of their original breast augmentation, and those with FDA - recalled textured implants experiencing symptoms of BIA - ALCL.

Consultation and Planning

During the initial consultation, Dr. Antell will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of their breasts. Patients are advised to bring information about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. Based on the patient's expectations, he may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure like a breast lift.

Surgery Details

Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or “twilight” anesthesia. Dr. Antell will try to remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation. If there is capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or BIA - ALCL, he may perform an en - bloc resection to remove the hardened scar tissue. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer.

Recovery

After the surgery, patients recover in Dr. Antell's state - of - the - art recovery suite. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, but patients need an escort home. They may feel tired or sore, and should refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. Most of the swelling and bruising will fade in the first few weeks, but it may take several months for the final results to be visible.

4. Dr. Barry Weintraub

Breast Implant Removal and Replacement

Dr. Barry Weintraub offers breast implant removal and sometimes subsequent breast implant replacement. Patients may choose these procedures if they are dissatisfied with the current state of their breast implants. The replacement can involve changing the size, location, or type of implants, or using autologous fat to replace lost volume. In some cases, a breast lift may be done in conjunction with the removal and replacement.

Reasons for Replacement

Some patients are concerned about breast implant illness (BII) and want to see if removing the implants will affect their health. Others want to replace saline implants with more natural - feeling silicone gel implants. Capsular contracture and the desire for a more natural - looking result by repositioning the implants under the pectoralis - major muscle are also common reasons.

Procedure Approach

Dr. Weintraub prefers his patients to be in a comfortable state of twilight sleep during the surgery. He insists on the most sterile conditions in the operating room and personally performs every intraoperative maneuver. The surgery can take between half an hour and multiple hours, depending on the chosen modality and aesthetic needs.

Recovery and Care

There may be minimal swelling and bruising after the surgery. Patients must follow Dr. Weintraub's instructions carefully. He believes in early showering for better wound healing and will advise patients on when they can return to their normal lifestyle and exercise routine.

Unique Selling Proposition

Dr. Weintraub has a unique blend of medical science and artwork in his practice. He is meticulous about every aspect of patient care, from pre - op to post - op. Over 60% of his practice involves complex redos of surgeries performed by other offices, and he takes pride in getting the best results for his patients.

5. Zuckerman Plastic Surgery (Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman)

Understanding Patient Needs

At Zuckerman Plastic Surgery in New York City, Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman understands that the decision to undergo breast implant removal or exchange is deeply personal. He offers these procedures to meet the changing needs and preferences of his patients.

Reasons for Removal

Patients may choose to have their breast implants removed due to health concerns such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, or breast implant illness (BII). Cosmetic preferences, such as a change in personal taste or body image, and aging implants that may degrade or shift over time are also reasons for removal.

Implant Exchange Option

For those who want to alter the size or type of their implants rather than removing them entirely, implant exchange is an option. This allows patients to adjust their breast size or switch between silicone and saline implants based on their current needs and aesthetic goals.

Procedure and Recovery

Breast implant removal and exchange procedures are performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Zuckerman is meticulous in minimizing scarring and optimizing recovery. Post - operative care includes managing discomfort with prescribed medication, wearing a support bra, and avoiding strenuous activities for several weeks. Patients typically return to work within one to two weeks but should avoid heavy lifting and intense physical activity for up to six weeks.

Comparative Analysis of the Five Hospitals

Frequently Asked Questions About Silicone Breast Implant Removal

1. Can breast implants cause autoimmune disease?

As of today, there are no studies to support that implants can cause autoimmune issues.

2. Can breast implants last a lifetime?

Breast implants can last a lifetime, but most need to be changed at least once.

3. How do I know if my implants are leaking?

If the implants are saline and they leak, the breast will deflate. If a silicone implant is leaking, it may look different than normal, and an MRI may be required to determine if it has ruptured.

4. What are the early signs of capsular contracture?

Early signs include pain, hardness, tightness, and a change in the shape of the breast.

5. Is breast implant removal dangerous?

Removing implants is not dangerous when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to silicone breast implant removal in New York City, the top five hospitals - Steven Wallach MD, FACS, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, Dr. Darrick Antell, Dr. Barry Weintraub, and Zuckerman Plastic Surgery - each offer unique advantages. Whether it's the doctor's experience, the approach to the procedure, or the quality of patient care, these hospitals have established themselves as leaders in the field. Before making a decision, it's important to consult with multiple surgeons, ask questions, and understand all aspects of the procedure, including the risks, recovery time, and expected results.

If you're considering silicone breast implant removal, don't hesitate to take the next step. Reach out to one of these top hospitals for a consultation, and start your journey towards achieving your desired aesthetic and health goals.