Breast implant removal has become an increasingly sought - after procedure in New York City for various reasons, such as aesthetic dissatisfaction, health concerns, or aging implants. This article presents a comprehensive guide to the top 5 hospitals and their associated surgeons for breast implant removal in NYC.
1. Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are numerous factors that lead women to consider breast implant removal. These can be broadly classified into aesthetic and medical reasons:
Aesthetic Reasons
- Change in personal taste: Over time, a woman's aesthetic preferences may change. What once seemed like the ideal breast size or shape may no longer fit her current self - image. For example, she may have grown tired of the look of large implants or prefer a more natural - looking breast.
- Visible implant flaws: Issues like implant rippling, folding, or wrinkling can make the implants palpable or visible under the skin. Capsular contracture, which causes distortion and abnormal appearance of the breasts, can also be a major aesthetic concern.
- Asymmetry: Unequal appearance of the breasts, whether due to implant placement or shifting, can be a significant issue for some women. Nipple or areola enlargement, distortion, or asymmetry are also problems that may prompt removal.
Medical Reasons
- Capsular contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens, squeezing the implant and causing pain and discomfort. Severe cases can have a significant impact on the cosmetic result as well.
- Breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): Although rare, it is a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that can occur in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. The FDA's recall of certain textured implants due to an increased risk of BIA - ALCL has made many women more aware of this potential complication.
- Breast implant illness (BII): A collection of symptoms that some women experience after breast augmentation, including fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, and depression. While the exact cause is still uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
- Implant rupture or leakage: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture or leak over time, which can cause pain, swelling, and deformity.
2. The TOP5 Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in NYC
2.1. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon on the Upper East Side in NYC. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing the removal procedure. Her practice focuses on ensuring the finest surgical results for her patients.
Advantages
- She has extensive experience dealing with a wide range of breast implant - related issues, including both aesthetic and medical complications.
- Dr. Hutchinson provides personalized advice on surgical options and the best course of action to achieve the patient's goals. In some cases, she may recommend a secondary procedure such as a breast lift to enhance the aesthetic outcome.
- Patients have reported exceptional experiences with her and her staff. The atmosphere is calming, and the facilities are clean and professional.
Contact Information
If you are interested in breast implant removal with Dr. Hutchinson, you can contact her office at (212) 452 - 1400 to book a consultation.
2.2. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice
Dr. Darrick Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon who 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, including the removal of recalled Allergan textured breast implants associated with BIA - ALCL.
Advantages
- He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country, which speaks to his high level of skill and expertise.
- Dr. Antell has an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results, and many of his patients are referred by former patients. He has also performed surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons.
- His practice offers a state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center that is fully accredited and equipped with the latest technology. The facility provides personalized care and total discretion.
Contact Information
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Antell, you can call his office at (212) - 988 - 4040.
2.3. New York Group for Plastic Surgery
The New York Group for Plastic Surgery offers breast implant removal (explant) procedures. Patients can choose between two experienced plastic surgeons, Dr. Andrew Salzberg or Dr. Jordan Jacobs.
Advantages
- They provide solid information to patients, allowing them to make educated choices about their breast implant removal. This includes detailed pre - procedure counseling on what to expect during the surgery and recovery.
- The surgical team is experienced in various breast implant removal techniques, including the removal of leaking or ruptured implants, as well as the treatment of capsular contracture.
- They offer comprehensive post - operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery process for patients.
Contact Information
You can request a consultation online or call them at 888 - 664 - 8381 (New York City) or 914 - 366 - 6139 (Tarrytown).
2.4. Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice
Dr. Barry Weintraub is a highly skilled plastic surgeon who offers breast implant removal and replacement procedures. He places a strong emphasis on safety, aesthetics, and patient satisfaction.
Advantages
- Dr. Weintraub has a unique blend of medical science and artwork, and his attention to detail ensures the best possible results. He has extensive experience in correcting aesthetic problems from previous surgeries.
- He performs breast implant - revision surgery in a private, hospital - grade surgical center attached to his office, providing patients with a high level of privacy and comfort.
- He takes the time to understand each patient's specific needs and desires, and works closely with them to develop a customized surgical plan.
Contact Information
To discuss breast implant removal and replacement with Dr. Weintraub, you can call his office for a private consultation.
2.5. Dr. Darren Smith's Practice
Dr. Darren Smith is one of the top reconstructive surgeons in New York City, with over 20 years of specialized surgical experience in breast augmentation and reconstruction. He offers individualized breast implant removal procedures.
Advantages
- Dr. Smith takes a personalized approach, thoroughly understanding each woman's unique goals and medical history. His techniques produce natural - looking results, which are highly praised by patients.
- He has a state - of - the - art facility in Manhattan that ensures privacy, comfort, and safety throughout the process. He also provides comprehensive post - operative care and is always available to address patients' concerns.
- Patients consistently rave about their experiences under his care, with hundreds trusting him to skillfully remove their implants.
Contact Information
You can book a personalized consultation with Dr. Smith by calling (212) 633 - 0627 or booking an appointment online.
3. Comparing the Top 5 Hospitals
| Hospital/Surgeon | Years of Experience | Specialty Areas | Patient Reviews | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Olivia Hutchinson | Over 20 years | Evaluating and treating all types of breast implant - related concerns, secondary procedures like breast lift | Patients report exceptional experiences, calming atmosphere, and amazing results | (212) 452 - 1400 |
| Dr. Darrick Antell | Over 20 years, over ten thousand procedures | Custom breast implant removal, removal of recalled implants, en bloc capsulectomy | Highly regarded in the industry, many patient referrals, celebrity clientele | (212) - 988 - 4040 |
| New York Group for Plastic Surgery (Dr. Andrew Salzberg/Dr. Jordan Jacobs) | Details not provided | Removal of leaking/ruptured implants, capsular contracture treatment | Provide solid pre - procedure information and comprehensive post - operative care | 888 - 664 - 8381 (NYC), 914 - 366 - 6139 (Tarrytown) |
| Dr. Barry Weintraub | Not specified, but long - standing career | Breast implant removal and replacement, correcting previous surgical errors | Attention to detail, artistic approach, high - end private surgical facility | Call for private consultation |
| Dr. Darren Smith | Over 20 years | Individualized breast implant removal, adjunct procedures like breast lift and fat transfer | Patients rave about personalized care and natural - looking results | (212) 633 - 0627 or online booking |
4. The Breast Implant Removal Process
Initial Consultation
The first step in the breast implant removal process is an initial consultation with the surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will:
- Thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history.
- Assess the current condition of the breasts, including the type of implants, their placement, and any existing complications.
- Discuss the patient's reasons for wanting the implants removed and their aesthetic goals.
- Provide information about the surgical options available, the risks and benefits of the procedure, and the expected recovery process.
Pre - operative Preparation
Once the patient decides to proceed with the surgery, they will need to make some preparations:
- Avoid taking certain medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications for about a week before the procedure, as these can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Stop taking blood - thinning medications for up to six weeks prior, after consulting with their prescribing physician.
- Undergo any necessary imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, to assess the condition of the implants and surrounding tissues.
- Arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and stay with them for at least 24 hours.
The Surgical Procedure
The breast implant removal surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with intravenous sedation. The steps involved in the procedure may include:
- Incisions: The surgeon will make incisions in one of three locations: the crease under the breast, around the areola, or vertically in the armpit. If possible, the surgeon will use the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery.
- Removal of implants: The implants will be carefully removed from the breast pocket. In some cases, such as when there is capsular contracture or a ruptured implant, the surgeon may also need to remove the surrounding scar tissue (capsulectomy). En bloc capsulectomy, where the implant and capsule are removed as a whole, may be performed when appropriate.
- Closure of incisions: After the implants and any necessary scar tissue are removed, the incisions will be closed with multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and an external layer of sutures if needed.
Post - operative Recovery
After the surgery, patients can expect the following during the recovery process:
- Immediate post - operative period: Patients will recover in a recovery suite under the supervision of a registered nurse. They may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with pain medication.
- Compression garment: A compression garment or support bra will be worn to reduce swelling and help shape the breasts.
- Activity restrictions: Patients should avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise for several weeks. Non - strenuous work can usually be resumed within one to two weeks, but full recovery may take several months.
- Follow - up appointments: Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon will be scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure that there are no complications.
5. Considerations When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Implant Removal
Surgeon's Experience and Credentials
It is crucial to choose a surgeon who is board - certified and has extensive experience in breast implant removal. Look for a surgeon who has a good reputation and has performed a large number of successful procedures. Check their education, training, and any awards or recognitions they have received.
Hospital Facilities and Technology
The quality of the hospital facilities and the available technology can significantly impact the surgical outcome and patient experience. Choose a hospital that has state - of - the - art equipment, a fully accredited operating room, and a comfortable recovery environment.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an idea of the quality of care and the results achieved by the surgeon and the hospital. Look for reviews that mention the surgeon's skill, the friendliness of the staff, and the overall patient satisfaction.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of breast implant removal can vary depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's fees, and the cost of the hospital facilities. In most cases, breast implant removal procedures are not covered by health insurance, but it is worth checking with your insurance provider to see if there are any exceptions.
Conclusion
Breast implant removal is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. The top 5 hospitals and surgeons in New York City offer a high level of expertise, personalized care, and excellent results. By understanding the reasons for breast implant removal, the surgical process, and the factors to consider when choosing a hospital, you can make an informed decision about your breast implant removal procedure.
If you are considering breast implant removal, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top surgeons mentioned in this article. Take the time to discuss your concerns and goals, and trust your instincts when choosing the right surgeon and hospital for you. Your well - being and satisfaction are of utmost importance.
