Introduction
Breast prosthesis removal has become an increasingly relevant topic in New York City. Many women who have previously undergone breast augmentation or reconstruction are now considering removing their implants. There can be numerous reasons behind this decision, ranging from medical issues to personal aesthetic preferences. In this article, we will delve into the details of breast prosthesis removal in New York City, including expert rankings, available projects, procedures, and recovery processes.
Reasons for Breast Prosthesis Removal
Medical Reasons
- Capsular Contracture: When a breast implant is placed in the body, the body forms a capsule of scar tissue around it. In some cases, this capsule can tighten and harden, causing pain, distortion of the breast shape, and discomfort. According to Steven Wallach MD, the rate of capsular contracture is about 3 - 4% and increases gradually over the years. The early signs of capsular contracture include pain, hardness, tightness, and a change in the shape of the breast.
- Implant Rupture or Leakage: Saline implants can leak, causing the breast to deflate rapidly as the sterile saline solution is absorbed by the body. Silicone implants may also rupture, although detecting a silicone implant rupture may require an MRI as it may not always be as obvious as a saline implant rupture. Dr. Wallach mentions that implant rupture rates are about 5%.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): A rare cancer specifically related to breast implants. It is primarily associated with certain textured breast implants, such as those made by Allergan. The FDA has recalled these specific textured implants due to the heightened risk of BIA - ALCL. Symptoms include pain, swelling around the breasts, and a difference in the size or shape of the breasts.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): Patients may experience a wide variety of symptoms after breast augmentation or reconstruction with implants, such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression or anxiety, rashes, pain and discomfort, and brain fog. It is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems and is also referred to as “autoimmune / inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA).”
Aesthetic Reasons
- Desire for Natural Appearance: As time passes, some women may change their aesthetic preferences and prefer a more natural - looking breast without implants. They may feel that the implants no longer fit their body type or lifestyle.
- Unsatisfactory Results from Previous Surgery: The initial breast augmentation may not have achieved the desired results, such as uneven breast size, incorrect implant placement, or visible implants (folded, rippled, or wrinkled).
Expert Ranking of Breast Prosthesis Removal Surgeons in New York City
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 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 surgery, including en bloc capsulectomy when indicated. Many of his patients are referred by former patients, and he has performed surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons. His facility is a state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center located near Lenox Hill Hospital, offering personalized care and the latest technology.
Dr. Barry Weintraub
Dr. Barry Weintraub has a strong aesthetic sense and a unique blend of medical science and artwork. He has over 60% of his practice dedicated to complex redos of surgeries performed by other offices. He always places implants under the pectoralis - major muscle to achieve a natural - looking result. His surgical facility is a hospital - grade, state - of - the - art center attached to his office at 800a Fifth Avenue. He provides comprehensive care from pre - op to post - op and beyond, ensuring the best results for his patients.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon. She is considered one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the Upper East Side in NYC. With over 20 years of experience, she evaluates patients with breast implant - related concerns and provides personalized surgical options. She can also address secondary procedures such as breast lifts to achieve the best aesthetic results.
Dr. Steven Wallach
Dr. Steven Wallach performs breast implant removal surgery using the previous breast implant surgical approach. He explains all the options and techniques available during the consultation, aiming to provide the best results with the least amount of scarring. He also answers patients' questions about various aspects of breast implants, such as their potential health effects and longevity.
Available Projects for Breast Prosthesis Removal
En Bloc Capsulectomy
During an en bloc breast implant removal surgery, the plastic surgeon removes the implants and the surrounding capsule in a single procedure. This approach is often recommended when there are concerns about BIA - ALCL or when the capsule is hardened due to capsular contracture. For example, Dr. Antell performs en bloc capsulectomy when indicated, ensuring the complete removal of the implant and the related tissue.
Partial Capsulectomy
A partial capsulectomy involves solely removing the breast implant material and trimming or shaping some of the capsule material to create the patient’s desired chest contour. This procedure is suitable for patients who do not want to remove the entire capsule but still want to adjust the appearance of their breasts after implant removal.
Total Capsulectomy
A total capsulectomy consists of removing the implant, the capsule, and the remaining scar tissue. The procedure begins with the removal of the breast implants, followed by a complete removal of the capsule and associated scar tissue. This approach is used when there is significant scarring or when the patient desires a more thorough removal of all implant - related tissue.
Breast Implant Replacement
Some patients may choose to have their breast implants replaced with new ones at the same time as removal. This could be due to a change in implant type (e.g., switching from saline to silicone), size, or position. For example, a patient may want to reposition the implants under the pectoralis - major muscle for a more natural - looking result. Dr. Weintraub often performs breast implant replacement procedures, considering the patient's aesthetic needs and providing personalized solutions.
Breast Lift
A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, can be performed in conjunction with breast implant removal or at a future date. This procedure helps to lift and reshape the breasts, giving them a more youthful and perky appearance. It is often recommended for patients who have experienced breast sagging due to the presence of implants or natural aging processes.
Breast Prosthesis Removal Procedure
Consultation
During the initial consultation, the plastic surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. The patient should bring any information about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. The surgeon will discuss the patient's desired outcome, explain the available procedures, risks, and recovery processes. For example, Dr. Antell spends time with the patient to understand their goals and create a personalized surgical plan. If the patient is experiencing medical complications, the surgeon will also assess the symptoms and may recommend additional tests such as an MRI or ultrasound.
Preparation
Based on the patient's age, implant condition, and other factors, the surgeon may send the patient for imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI. The patient will be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. They may also be given prescriptions to fill before the surgery. If necessary, the patient may need to provide pre - operative clearance from another doctor. Additionally, the patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and assist them during the initial recovery period.
Surgery
Breast implant removal is typically performed under local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or “twilight” anesthesia. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the procedure. If possible, the surgeon will remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. However, if there are complications such as capsular contracture or silicone implant rupture, it may be necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant. After removing the implant and any necessary tissue, the incisions are closed with multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and an external layer of sutures if needed. The surgery usually takes between one to three hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure.
Recovery
After the surgery, the patient will recover in a recovery suite under the supervision of a registered nurse. The breasts may be covered with a layer of gauze or a bandage. The patient may feel tired and sore, and there may be swelling and bruising around the breasts. The majority of patients can return home the same day as the procedure, but they should have an escort as they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. Most patients can return 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. It is important to follow all post - operative instructions carefully, and the surgeon will monitor the patient's healing process during follow - up appointments. The final results may take several months to become visible, and the scars will gradually fade over time.
Cost of Breast Prosthesis Removal
The cost of breast prosthesis removal can vary depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, the type of anesthesia used, the surgeon's experience, and the location of the surgical facility. If breast implant replacement or a breast lift is also performed, the cost will increase. For example, Dr. Wallach mentions that the fee for breast implant removal may start at $5000, but it can vary depending on the extent of the work. It is best to schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon to get an accurate quote based on individual circumstances.
Conclusion
Breast prosthesis removal in New York City offers a range of options for women who wish to remove their breast implants. Whether due to medical reasons or aesthetic preferences, there are highly skilled plastic surgeons available to provide personalized care and achieve the desired results. By understanding the reasons for removal, the expert ranking of surgeons, available projects, procedures, and recovery processes, patients can make an informed decision about their breast implant removal journey. It is important to consult with a board - certified plastic surgeon, discuss all concerns and expectations, and follow the pre - and post - operative instructions carefully.
If you are considering breast prosthesis removal in New York City, we encourage you to take the next step and schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. Research the available experts, read patient reviews, and gather all the necessary information to ensure a safe and successful procedure. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast prosthesis removal, and explore related topics such as breast health and cosmetic surgery.
