Introduction
Breast augmentation has become a popular cosmetic procedure in recent years. However, there are cases where patients may choose to have their breast implants removed. This could be due to various reasons such as complications, aesthetic dissatisfaction, or health concerns. In New York City, a hub of medical excellence, there are several hospitals and doctors renowned for their expertise in breast implant removal. In this article, we will evaluate five hospitals and the doctors associated with them in the context of breast implant removal.
Understanding Breast Implant Removal
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are numerous reasons why a woman might decide to have her breast implants removed. Some of the common ones include:
- Complications: Issues like capsular contracture, where the scar tissue around the implant hardens and can cause pain and distortion of the breast. There is also the risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), a rare form of non - Hodgkin’s lymphoma related to breast implants, although it is primarily associated with textured implants.
- Aesthetic Dissatisfaction: The implant may have shifted from its original position, become palpable or visible, resulting in a less than desirable appearance. As mentioned in one source, issues like a “double bubble” appearance or asymmetry can lead to patients seeking removal.
- Health Concerns: Breast implant illness (BII) is a term used to describe a wide variety of symptoms that some patients report after getting breast implants. These symptoms can include fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, and migraines. Although the exact cause of BII is still being investigated, it can be a reason for implant removal.
Procedure and Recovery
The breast implant removal procedure typically involves making an incision, either under the breast, around the areola, or under the armpit, and then carefully removing the implant and, in some cases, the surrounding capsule. After the procedure, patients can expect a recovery period that may involve pain, swelling, and bruising. Most patients can resume light activities in 2 - 3 weeks and more strenuous activities after 6 - 8 weeks.
Top 5 Hospitals and Doctors in New York City for Breast Implant Removal
Columbia Surgery (New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center)
Overview
This hospital is ranked number 4 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals. It has national rankings in 15 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties, including surgical specialties such as heart surgery, GI surgery, and lung surgery. In the context of breast surgery, its national ranking in cancer care reflects the high - quality surgical oncology expertise, which is relevant when it comes to breast implant removal in cases where there may be associated health risks.
Doctors
While specific doctors for breast implant removal are not detailed in the provided source, the overall reputation of the hospital's surgical department suggests that they have highly skilled surgeons. Surgeons at Columbia would likely have access to advanced clinical technologies and the latest research, which can be beneficial for breast implant removal procedures.
Advantages
- National recognition for surgical excellence, which can give patients confidence in the quality of care.
- A wide range of specialties means that in case of any complications during or after the procedure, there is a comprehensive support system in place.
- Research - driven approach, as a part of a renowned university medical center, which may lead to the use of innovative techniques.
Hospitals Associated with High - Rated Breast Surgical Procedure Doctors
Doctors in General
Healthgrades lists 90 doctors who perform breast surgical procedures in New York. Among them, we can analyze some in the context of breast implant removal:
| Doctor | Rating | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Wendy - Ann Olivier, MD | 4.60 out of 5 stars | 1 Hanson Pl Ste 710, Brooklyn, NY 11243 |
| Dr. Christina Weltz, MD | 3.20 out of 5 stars | 1176 5th Ave #1235, New York, NY 10029 |
| Dr. Donna Marie Manasseh, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 745 64th St, Brooklyn, NY 11220 |
| Dr. Sarah Cate, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 325 W 15th St fl 1, New York, NY 10011 |
| Dr. Ashley Tsang, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 1090 Amsterdam Ave fl 10, New York, NY 10025 |
Analysis
Doctors with high ratings like Dr. Donna Marie Manasseh and Dr. Ashley Tsang are likely to have significant experience and a high level of patient satisfaction. Their practices could be associated with well - equipped hospitals or surgical centers in New York City. For example, these doctors may have access to the latest medical technologies and follow best practices in breast implant removal procedures.
Advantages
- Patient - rated information provides a real - world perspective on the quality of care provided by these doctors.
- High - rated doctors may have a lower risk of complications during the procedure due to their experience and skills.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice
Overview
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC. She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal. Her focus on cosmetic breast surgery and a desire to ensure the finest surgical results for her patients make her a notable choice.
Specialties
She is well - versed in dealing with both functional and cosmetic issues related to breast implants. This includes addressing problems like capsular contracture, implant rupture, and asymmetry. In cases where a secondary procedure such as a breast lift may be necessary to achieve the best aesthetic results, Dr. Hutchinson has the expertise to handle it.
Advantages
- Extensive experience in breast implant removal, which gives patients confidence in her abilities.
- Specialization in cosmetic breast surgery means she can provide comprehensive care to meet both functional and aesthetic goals.
- Positive patient testimonials, such as one patient stating that every detail of her experience was exceptional and the results were amazing, suggest a high level of patient satisfaction.
Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice
Overview
Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He is featured in multiple best - doctor lists, including New York Magazine's Best Doctors from 2013 - 2024, America's Best Plastic Surgeons in 2021, 2022, and 2023 by Newsweek, and Castle Connolly's Top Doctors. His education and training span some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world.
Breast - Related Specialties
Dr. Kolker specializes in breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reconstruction, and breast reduction. His expertise in these areas also likely translates well to breast implant removal. He understands the female form in depth and can provide a personalized approach to each patient.
Advantages
- Numerous prestigious awards and recognitions indicate a high level of skill and reputation in the field of plastic surgery.
- A combination of scientific knowledge and artistic creativity, which can result in better aesthetic outcomes for patients.
- Positive patient testimonials, such as patients stating that he made the impossible possible and changed their lives, highlight his ability to meet patients' expectations.
Dr. John E. Sherman's Practice
Overview
Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon. He is renowned for his commitment to patient care and excellent results in breast augmentation, but his knowledge of breast implants also makes him a viable option for breast implant removal. He works closely with patients to develop an individualized approach.
Knowledge of Breast Implants
Dr. Sherman has a deep understanding of breast implants, having worked closely with Allergan during the development of the Natrelle 410 cohesive gel breast implants. This knowledge can be beneficial when it comes to removing implants, as he can accurately assess the type of implant and any associated risks.
Advantages
- Personalized approach to patient care, which can lead to better - tailored treatment plans for breast implant removal.
- In - depth knowledge of breast implants allows for more informed decision - making during the removal process.
- A focus on patient satisfaction and achieving the desired results, as evidenced by his reputation in breast augmentation procedures.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital and Doctor for Breast Implant Removal
Doctor's Experience and Qualifications
Look for doctors with extensive experience in breast implant removal. Board certifications, especially from well - recognized organizations like the American Board of Plastic Surgery, are also important. Additionally, any awards or recognitions can be an indication of a doctor's skill and reputation.
Hospital Reputation
As demonstrated by Columbia Surgery's high ranking, a hospital's reputation can matter. Well - ranked hospitals often have better access to advanced technologies, more comprehensive support systems, and a team of experts across different specialties.
Patient Reviews
Reading patient reviews can provide insights into the patient experience. Positive reviews about the doctor's bedside manner, the quality of care, and the results can give you confidence in your choice.
Cost and Insurance
Breast implant removal costs can vary. It's important to understand the total cost, including any associated fees such as hospital charges, anesthesia fees, and follow - up care. Also, check if your insurance will cover any part of the procedure.
Conclusion
In New York City, there are several excellent hospitals and doctors available for breast implant removal. Columbia Surgery offers national - level surgical excellence and a wide range of specialties. High - rated breast surgical procedure doctors listed on Healthgrades provide patient - rated options. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, Dr. Adam R. Kolker, and Dr. John E. Sherman each bring their unique skills and experience to the table. When choosing a hospital and doctor for breast implant removal, consider factors such as doctor's experience, hospital reputation, patient reviews, and cost.
If you are considering breast implant removal, take the time to research and schedule consultations with different doctors. This will allow you to make an informed decision and choose the best option for your needs. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning about breast implant removal in New York City and encourage them to explore further and make the right choice for their health and well - being.
