Introduction
Breast augmentation has been a popular cosmetic surgery in the United States, but over time, there is an increasing demand for the removal of injectable breast augmentation materials. In New York City, there are numerous skilled doctors who specialize in this area. This article will provide doctor rankings for the department of removing injectable breast augmentation materials in New York City, along with case - sharing to help individuals make informed decisions.
Reasons for Removing Injectable Breast Augmentation Materials
There are various reasons why patients may choose to have their injectable breast augmentation materials removed. Some are medical reasons, while others are for aesthetic or lifestyle changes.
Medical Reasons
- Capsular Contracture: Capsular contracture is the hardening of scar tissue that forms around an implant after it is placed in the body. Normally, this tissue is soft and unnoticeable, but it can become hard and painful, while also distorting the appearance of the breasts. The rate of capsular contracture is about 3 - 4% and gradually increases over the years.
- Implant Rupture or Leakage: For saline implants, a leading sign of rupture is the rapid decrease in the size of the breast due to the sterile saline solution leaking out and being absorbed by the body. If a silicone implant is leaking, it may look different than normal, and an MRI may be required to determine if it has ruptured.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): It is a rare cancer specifically related to breast implants. It often presents as a mass or fluid accumulation that manifests late, usually several years after the initial breast surgery. Some textured breast implants, especially those made by Allergan, have been associated with a higher risk of BIA - ALCL, leading to their recall by the FDA.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII refers to a wide variety of symptoms that patients may report after undergoing breast augmentation or reconstruction with implants. These symptoms include fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression or anxiety, rashes, pain and discomfort, brain fog, and other non - specific complaints. Although it's uncertain what causes BII, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
Aesthetic and Lifestyle Reasons
- Desire for Natural Look: Over time, patients may change their aesthetic preferences and prefer to return to their natural breast size and shape.
- Unsatisfactory Results: The results of the initial breast augmentation may not meet the patient's expectations, such as an unnatural appearance, asymmetry, or the implant being palpable or visible.
- Lifestyle Changes: For active individuals, large breast implants may cause discomfort or limit physical activities. They may choose to have the implants removed to improve their quality of life.
Top Doctors in New York City for Removing Injectable Breast Augmentation Materials
Based on patient reviews, experience, and professional credentials, here are some of the top doctors in New York City for removing injectable breast augmentation materials:
Dr. Steven Wallach
Dr. Steven Wallach is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York. He has extensive experience in breast implant removal surgery. When performing the procedure, he usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket created for the implants and removes them before sealing the incision site with sutures. He also removes implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary. Good candidates for his procedure are generally healthy, non - smokers, or those who stop smoking prior to the procedure and stop taking blood - thinning medications. The surgery may be performed under intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia, and the recovery time varies for different patients. Most patients can go back to light activity within three to five days, but they need to avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns. She can address both functional and cosmetic issues related to breast implants. For example, she can handle cases of capsular contracture, implant rupture, and implant malposition. If necessary, she may recommend a secondary procedure such as a breast lift to achieve the best aesthetic results. Her patients often praise her for her exceptional skills and patient - centered approach.
Dr. Maura Reinblatt
Dr. Maura Reinblatt is a board - certified plastic surgeon serving patients in NYC, Westchester, and White Plains. She offers advanced techniques to address medical issues associated with breast implants, such as en bloc capsulectomy and open capsulotomy. The en bloc capsulectomy is a procedure to remove both the implant and surrounding scar tissue in one piece, which can minimize the risk of any remaining scar tissue causing complications. Open capsulotomy, on the other hand, is designed to address issues associated with capsular contracture or discomfort caused by scar tissue around breast implants. Her personalized approach to patient care and refined skills make her a popular choice among patients considering breast implant removal.
Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery and can also perform an en bloc capsulectomy when indicated. He has an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results, performed with total discretion. Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients. He has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, and most patients prefer to have the procedure in his private operating room.
In addition to the above - mentioned doctors, Healthgrades has found 90 doctors who perform breast surgical procedures in New York. Here are some of them with high ratings:
| Doctor's Name | Rating | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Wendy - Ann Olivier, MD | 4.60 out of 5 stars | 1 Hanson Pl Ste 710, Brooklyn, NY 11243 |
| Dr. Donna Marie Manasseh, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 745 64th St, Brooklyn, NY 11220 |
| Dr. Ashley Tsang, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 1090 Amsterdam Ave Fl 10, New York, NY 10025 |
| Dr. Joshua Levine, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 3 Columbus Cir Ste 1410, New York, NY 10019 |
Case Sharing
Case 1: Capsular Contracture
Ms. Smith had breast augmentation several years ago. Over time, she started to experience pain and a change in the shape of her breasts. A diagnosis of capsular contracture was made. She decided to consult Dr. Steven Wallach. After a thorough consultation, Dr. Wallach recommended a breast implant removal surgery. The surgery was performed under general anesthesia, and he carefully removed the implants and the surrounding scar tissue. After the surgery, Ms. Smith's pain subsided, and her breasts gradually returned to a more natural shape. She was able to resume her normal activities within a few weeks, following Dr. Wallach's post - operative instructions.
Case 2: Breast Implant Illness
Ms. Johnson had been experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and headaches after breast augmentation. She suspected that it might be related to her breast implants and sought the help of Dr. Maura Reinblatt. Dr. Reinblatt performed a detailed evaluation and diagnosed her with breast implant illness. She recommended an en bloc capsulectomy. During the surgery, Dr. Reinblatt removed the implants and the surrounding capsule in one piece. After the surgery, Ms. Johnson's symptoms gradually improved. She reported feeling more energetic and having less pain, and her overall quality of life was significantly enhanced.
Case 3: Aesthetic Change
Ms. Davis was initially satisfied with her breast augmentation results, but as her aesthetic preferences changed over time, she decided that she wanted to return to her natural breast size. She consulted Dr. Olivia Hutchinson. Dr. Hutchinson discussed the various options with her, including breast implant removal and possible breast lift if needed. Ms. Davis chose to have just the implant removal. The surgery was successful, and Ms. Davis was very happy with the result, as her breasts returned to a more natural and comfortable state.
Pre - operative Considerations
Before undergoing the removal of injectable breast augmentation materials, patients need to take several important considerations into account:
Consultation
Choose a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast implant removal. During the consultation, the doctor will evaluate your general health, medical history, and the current condition of your breasts. You should discuss your desired outcome, any symptoms you may be experiencing, and the possibility of combining the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift. Bring any information you have about your existing implants and your previous breast augmentation surgery to the appointment.
Medical Evaluation
Based on your age and implant condition, the doctor may send you for imaging, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, prior to the procedure. This can help the doctor better understand the situation and plan the surgery accordingly.
Preparation
You will be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. Stop smoking and avoid blood - thinning medications to reduce the risk of complications. Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and have someone to assist you in the first few days of recovery.
Procedure and Recovery
Procedure
The breast implant removal surgery is usually performed under intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia. The doctor will make an incision through which he or she can access the breast pocket and implant. The implant will be removed, and in some cases, the scar capsule surrounding it will also be removed. If the implant has leaked or ruptured, the doctor will take extra care to remove any sterile silicone gel that may have seeped out. After the implants have been removed, if you have elected to get them replaced, the doctor will insert the new implants according to the agreed - upon surgical plan, then close the incisions and bandage the incision sites. The surgery usually takes between one to three hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
Recovery
Immediately after the procedure, you will have swelling and bruising around your breasts and may be in mild pain. A caregiver should drive you home, and you will need someone to stay with you for about a day. Most patients can go back to light activity within three to five days, but they should avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks. The doctor will provide pain medication to manage discomfort. You may also experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. The final results may take several months to become visible, and your scars will gradually fade over time with proper care.
Conclusion
Removing injectable breast augmentation materials is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. In New York City, there are many excellent doctors who can provide high - quality services for this procedure. Understanding the reasons for removal, the top doctors, and real - life case studies can help patients make more informed choices. By following pre - operative and post - operative instructions, patients can achieve satisfactory results and improve their overall well - being.
If you are considering the removal of injectable breast augmentation materials, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon in New York City. Do your research, ask questions, and take the time to make the best decision for your health and aesthetic goals.
