New York City is a global medical hub, offering a plethora of options for breast prosthesis removal. Whether you're dealing with medical complications, aesthetic concerns, or other issues related to your breast implants, choosing the right hospital is crucial. This article provides a comprehensive ranking list of hospitals in New York City for breast prosthesis removal, along with in - depth information about the procedure, relevant doctors, and more.
Understanding Breast Prosthesis Removal
Breast prosthesis removal, also known as explant surgery, is a procedure where the existing breast implants are removed from the body. There are various reasons why a woman might choose to have this surgery:
- Medical Reasons:
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): A rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, or a change in the size or shape of the breasts. The FDA has recalled certain textured breast implants due to an increased risk of BIA - ALCL. Treatment usually involves removing the implants and the surrounding scar tissue.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): This refers to a wide range of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, and more. It is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
- Infection and Bleeding: Complications that can occur after breast augmentation and may require implant removal.
- Severe Capsular Contracture: When the tissue around the implant hardens, causing pain, discomfort, and a distorted appearance of the breasts.
- Aesthetic Reasons:
- Unsatisfactory Results: For example, the implants may be the wrong size, have moved from their original position, or cause an unnatural appearance such as a “double bubble” or symmastia.
- Desire to Return to Natural Breast Size: Some women may no longer want the enhanced size provided by the implants.
Ranking List of Hospitals for Breast Prosthesis Removal in New York City
While there isn't a single definitive ranking for breast prosthesis removal, we can evaluate hospitals based on their overall reputation, surgical expertise, patient outcomes, and relevant specialties. Here are some of the top hospitals in New York City:
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New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center
This hospital has been highly ranked in the U.S. News & World Report's Best Hospitals. It was named the top hospital in New York and ranked no. 4 (in one instance) and no. 7 (in another instance) in the nation. It is recognized for its excellence in 14 - 15 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties. The surgical specialties at NYP/Columbia include heart surgery, GI surgery, lung surgery in adults, and pediatric heart, GI, and lung surgeries. In terms of cancer care, it reflects high - quality surgical oncology expertise in areas such as breast surgery. The doctors at this hospital have extensive experience and the hospital uses advanced technologies for patient treatment.
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Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
It is ranked #2 in cancer hospitals in New York according to U.S. News. While it is well - known for cancer treatment, it also has a high - level of expertise in breast - related surgeries. Since breast prosthesis removal may be related to breast - associated medical issues like BIA - ALCL, this hospital's oncology specialists can offer comprehensive care. The hospital is involved in extensive research, which means patients may have access to the latest treatment options.
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Perlmutter Cancer Center at NYU Langone Hospitals
Ranked #19 in cancer hospitals in New York. The breast cancer center at NYU Langone is a pioneer in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. It offers a wide range of breast - related services, including preventive treatment, diagnosis of all stages and types of breast cancer, and treatment options. The team of specialists, including surgeons, oncologists, geneticists, etc., work together to provide highly individualized treatment plans. For breast prosthesis removal, they can offer a comprehensive approach considering any underlying medical conditions.
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Mount Sinai Hospital
Ranked #28 in cancer hospitals in New York. It is nationally ranked in 11 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties. The hospital has a reputation for providing high - quality medical care. Its surgical and medical teams are well - trained to handle breast prosthesis removal procedures, and they can also manage any associated complications.
Renowned Surgeons for Breast Prosthesis Removal in New York City
Here are some well - known surgeons in New York City who specialize in breast prosthesis removal:
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Dr. Darrick E. Antell
He is a top New York plastic surgeon with over twenty years of experience and has performed more than ten thousand procedures. He is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. He can also perform an en bloc capsulectomy when needed. Many of his patients are referred by former patients, and he has operated on many celebrities. He is known for his extraordinary experience, surgical skills, and beautiful results.
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Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC, she 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. In some cases, she may recommend a secondary procedure such as a breast lift to achieve the best aesthetic results.
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Dr. Barry Weintraub
He has a strong aesthetic sense and combines medical science with artistry. Dr. Weintraub prefers to perform breast implant removal and replacement in a private, state - of - the - art surgical center. He ensures the safety of his patients by using the latest anesthesia techniques and operating in a sterile environment. Over 60% of his practice involves complex redo surgeries of cases done by other offices.
What to Expect During the Breast Prosthesis Removal Process
Consultation
During the initial consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate your general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of your breasts. If you have any symptoms related to medical complications, it is important to discuss them with the surgeon. It is also helpful to bring information about your existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. The surgeon will work with you to create a surgical plan based on your desired outcome. For example, if you want a more natural - looking result, the surgeon may recommend repositioning the implant or performing a breast lift in conjunction with the removal.
Pre - operative Preparation
The surgeon may send you for imaging such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI before the procedure. You will be given guidelines on eating, drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. You may need to provide pre - operative clearance from another doctor. It is also necessary to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and to assist you in the first few days of recovery.
The Surgery
Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or “twilight” anesthesia. The surgeon will try to remove the implant through the existing incisions from your initial breast augmentation surgery if possible. If there is capsular contracture, a silicone implant rupture, or BIA - ALCL, the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant may also be removed (en - bloc resection). The surgery usually takes between one to two hours, but an en - bloc resection can take longer.
Recovery
After the surgery, you will recover in a recovery suite under the monitoring of a registered nurse. You may feel tired or sore, and it is normal to experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, as well as fluid drainage from the incision site. Most patients can return home the same day as the procedure but will need an escort. You should 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. You will typically return to the office the day after surgery for the surgeon to monitor your healing process.
Potential Risks and Complications
While breast implant removal is generally a safe procedure when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon, there are still some potential risks and complications:
- Bleeding: This can occur during or after the surgery and may require additional treatment.
- Infection: Infections at the incision site or in the breast tissue can delay the healing process and may require antibiotics.
- Numbness at the Incision Site: Some patients may experience long - term or temporary numbness around the incisions.
- Adverse Reaction to the Anesthesia: Although rare, patients may have an allergic reaction or other complications related to the anesthesia.
Comparing Hospitals and Surgeons
When choosing a hospital and surgeon for breast prosthesis removal, you can consider the following factors:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Reputation | Look at hospital rankings, patient reviews, and the surgeon's reputation among other medical professionals. Hospitals with high rankings in cancer or surgical specialties are often a good choice for breast - related surgeries. |
| Experience | Check the surgeon's years of experience in performing breast prosthesis removal surgeries. Surgeons with more experience are likely to handle complex cases better. |
| Specialty | Some hospitals and surgeons may have a particular focus on breast - related surgeries or oncology. If you have a specific medical condition related to your breast implants, it is beneficial to choose a specialist in that area. |
| Technology and Facilities | Modern hospitals and surgical centers are equipped with the latest technology, which can improve the safety and effectiveness of the surgery. Consider the quality of the facilities and the availability of advanced imaging and surgical equipment. |
| Cost | Breast prosthesis removal can vary in cost depending on the hospital, surgeon, and the complexity of the procedure. Make sure to discuss the cost and payment options with the hospital and surgeon before the surgery. |
Conclusion
Choosing the right hospital and surgeon for breast prosthesis removal in New York City is a crucial decision. By understanding the reasons for the procedure, the process involved, and the potential risks, you can make an informed choice. Hospitals like New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Perlmutter Cancer Center at NYU Langone Hospitals, and Mount Sinai Hospital offer high - quality care. Surgeons such as Dr. Darrick E. Antell, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, and Dr. Barry Weintraub have extensive experience in this field.
If you are considering breast prosthesis removal, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with multiple surgeons, and ask as many questions as possible. This will help you find the best fit for your needs and ensure a successful outcome. Don't hesitate to reach out to these hospitals and surgeons to learn more about their services and how they can assist you in your journey towards breast health.
