Guide to selecting plastic surgery hospitals for silicone breast implant removal in New York City!

Introduction

Silicone breast implants have been a popular choice for breast augmentation for many years. However, there are various reasons why individuals might consider having their silicone breast implants removed. These reasons could range from medical complications such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, or breast implant illness, to personal preferences like a desire for a more natural look or lifestyle changes. In New York City, there is a wide array of plastic surgery hospitals offering silicone breast implant removal services. Selecting the right hospital is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the outcome of the procedure and the patient's overall experience. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information to help you make an informed choice when it comes to selecting a plastic surgery hospital for silicone breast implant removal in New York City.

Reasons for Silicone Breast Implant Removal

Medical Complications

• Implant Rupture: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture. In the case of silicone implants, a rupture might not be as immediately obvious as with saline implants, as the silicone gel tends to stay within the breast pocket. However, a ruptured silicone implant can lead to a range of problems, including pain, swelling, and changes in breast shape. According to medical studies, the risk of implant rupture increases over time, and regular check - ups are recommended to detect any potential issues early.
• Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant tightens and hardens. It can cause discomfort, pain, and distortion of the breast shape. Severe cases of capsular contracture may require implant removal and in some cases, additional treatment to remove the scar tissue.
• Breast Implant Illness (BII): Although still a topic of research and debate in the medical community, some women report experiencing a range of symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, and autoimmune - like symptoms after getting breast implants. Removing the implants may alleviate these symptoms for some patients.
• Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that can occur in the scar tissue surrounding breast implants. It is associated with textured breast implants. Treatment typically involves surgically removing the implants and surrounding scar tissue.

Personal Preferences

• Desire for a Natural Look: Over time, some individuals may develop a preference for a more natural - looking breast appearance. They may feel that the implants no longer align with their aesthetic goals or self - image.
• Lifestyle Changes: Certain lifestyle changes, such as a more active sports lifestyle, may make the presence of breast implants uncomfortable or impractical. For example, high - impact sports may cause discomfort or potential damage to the implants.

Types of Silicone Breast Implant Removal Procedures

Explant Surgery

Explant surgery involves the removal of the breast implants from the body. It is typically performed under local anesthesia, and smaller incisions are made to remove the implant. This procedure can be done for various reasons, including complications with the implant or dissatisfaction with the results. During the surgery, if there is any scar tissue or calcification around the implant, it may also be removed. The surgeon will then evaluate the remaining breast tissue to determine if any additional procedures are necessary, such as a breast lift or fat transfer to restore volume.

En Bloc Capsulectomy

En bloc capsulectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the breast implant and its surrounding capsule in one piece. This technique is recommended for patients who have developed capsular contracture or those who want to remove their implants due to health concerns. It reduces the risk of rupturing or spilling of silicone gel into the body during surgery. The en bloc removal technique requires a skilled surgeon who has experience with this type of procedure. It involves making an incision around the perimeter of the capsule and carefully dissecting it away from surrounding tissues until it can be removed intact.

Capsulectomy

Capsulectomy is another surgical option for breast implant removal. Unlike en bloc removal, this procedure involves removing only the capsule that forms around an implant while leaving the implant itself in place. This method is typically recommended for patients who want to remove their implants due to cosmetic reasons or discomfort caused by capsular contracture but do not wish to undergo a more invasive surgery like en bloc removal. During a capsulectomy procedure, an incision is made around the perimeter of the capsule and then carefully dissected away from surrounding tissues until it can be removed intact. The surgeon will then inspect both sides of the removed capsule to ensure complete excision of all scar tissue.

Explantation with Mastopexy

Explantation with mastopexy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the breast implant, excess skin, and lifting the breast tissue to create a more youthful appearance. This technique is recommended for patients who have experienced sagging or drooping of their breasts after having implants. During this procedure, an incision is made around the perimeter of the areola or underneath the breast fold. The implant is then removed along with any surrounding scar tissue. The surgeon will then lift the remaining breast tissue to create a more youthful appearance before closing the incisions.

Explantation with Fat Transfer

Explantation with fat transfer is a procedure where the implant is removed, and the patient's own fat from another area of their body, such as thighs, hips, or abdomen, is used to reshape and enhance the breasts. This method is typically recommended for patients who want to remove their implants but still desire some degree of breast augmentation. During the procedure, an incision is made around the perimeter of the areola or underneath the breast fold. The surgeon will then remove the implant along with any surrounding scar tissue before harvesting fat from another area of the body through liposuction techniques. The fat is then purified before being injected into the breast tissue to create a more natural - looking and fuller appearance.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Plastic Surgery Hospital

Surgeon Qualifications

• Board Certification: It is essential to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). ASPS member surgeons meet rigorous standards, including board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, at least six years of surgical training following medical school with a minimum of three years of plastic surgery residency training, passing comprehensive oral and written exams, graduating from an accredited medical school, and completing continuing medical education each year. For example, Dr. Darrick Antell, a top New York plastic surgeon, is board - certified and has memberships in many regional and national medical societies, including the ASPS.
• Experience: Look for a surgeon who has extensive experience in performing silicone breast implant removal procedures. Experienced surgeons are more likely to handle any complications that may arise during the surgery and provide better outcomes. Surgeons like Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery in New York City have a wealth of experience in breast implant removal and exchange procedures.
• Reputation: Research the surgeon's reputation by reading patient reviews and testimonials. Positive reviews from previous patients can give you an idea of the surgeon's skills, bedside manner, and the overall patient experience. You can find patient reviews on platforms like RealSelf.com and Yelp.

Hospital Facilities

• Accreditation: Ensure that the plastic surgery hospital is accredited by recognized organizations. Accreditation indicates that the hospital meets certain standards of quality and safety. A fully accredited outpatient surgery center, such as the one where Dr. Antell performs his procedures, is designed for patient comfort and is equipped with the latest technology.
• State - of - the - Art Equipment: The hospital should have modern and up - to - date equipment for pre - operative imaging, such as MRI, ultrasound, and mammogram, which are crucial for accurately assessing the condition of the implants and surrounding tissues. Advanced equipment also ensures a more precise and safer surgical procedure.
• Comfort and Privacy: A comfortable and private environment can contribute to a positive patient experience. Look for a hospital that offers private operating rooms and recovery suites, like Dr. Antell's facility, which has a private back entrance to ensure total discretion.

Cost and Insurance

• Cost Factors: The cost of silicone breast implant removal can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of procedure, the complexity of the case, the surgeon's fees, the cost of the operating facility, post - care essentials, tests used, and prescription medication cost. It is important to get a detailed quote from the hospital and understand all the components of the cost.
• Insurance Coverage: In most cases, breast implant removal for cosmetic reasons is not covered by insurance. However, if there are medical reasons, such as complications or implant rupture, insurance coverage may apply. Check with your insurance provider beforehand to determine if your procedure will be covered.

Patient Support and Aftercare

• Pre - operative Consultation: A thorough pre - operative consultation is crucial. During the consultation, the surgeon should assess your medical history, current health status, and your reasons for wanting the implant removal. They should also discuss the surgical plan, risks, and expected outcomes in detail. For example, Dr. Antell conducts a comprehensive evaluation during the initial consultation and works with the patient to create a customized surgical plan.
• Post - operative Care: Good post - operative care is essential for a smooth recovery. The hospital should provide detailed instructions on how to care for yourself after the procedure, including pain management, wound care, and when it is safe to resume normal activities. A surgeon like Dr. Stafford Broumand at 740 Park Plastic Surgery gives personalized post - operative care instructions to facilitate a comfortable recovery.
• Follow - up Appointments: Regular follow - up appointments allow the surgeon to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise. Make sure the hospital schedules follow - up appointments at appropriate intervals and provides easy access to the surgeon and support staff.

Top Plastic Surgery Hospitals in New York City for Silicone Breast Implant Removal

New York Group for Plastic Surgery

The New York Group for Plastic Surgery offers breast implant removal services. Their plastic surgeons, Dr. Andrew Salzberg and Dr. Jordan Jacobs, are experienced in performing the procedure. They provide solid information to patients before the procedure, ensuring that patients can make an educated choice about their bodies. The hospital follows strict protocols for pre - operative preparation, such as advising patients to avoid certain medications and arranging for post - operative care. They also offer various types of anesthesia options during the surgery and closely monitor patients during the procedure to ensure safety.

Francis Plastic Surgery

Francis Plastic Surgery in New York City specializes in breast implant removal. The surgeons here are well - versed in different types of implant removal procedures, including en bloc removal and capsulectomy. They take into account the patient's specific needs and goals and provide personalized treatment plans. The hospital is equipped with state - of - the - art facilities and offers a comfortable environment for patients. Their post - operative care program helps patients recover smoothly and achieve the best possible results.

Dr. Barry Weintraub

Dr. Barry Weintraub is a renowned plastic surgeon in New York City. He performs breast implant removal and replacement procedures with a focus on safety and aesthetic results. Dr. Weintraub prefers his patients to be in a comfortable state of twilight sleep during the surgery and insists on the most sterile conditions in the operating room. His facility is hospital - grade and attended by a team of board - certified anesthesiologists and fully licensed operating - room staff. He provides comprehensive pre - operative and post - operative care, including advising patients on lifestyle changes before the surgery and guiding them through the recovery process.

Dr. Darrick Antell

Dr. Darrick Antell is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the New York area and worldwide. He performs custom breast implant removal surgery, including en bloc capsulectomy when indicated. Dr. Antell takes the time to thoroughly evaluate patients during the consultation, considering their general health, medical history, and current breast condition. His private operating room, located near Lenox Hill Hospital, offers discretion and a high level of personalized care. He provides detailed pre - operative preparation guidelines and is available to answer any questions patients may have during the recovery process.

Zuckerman Plastic Surgery

Zuckerman Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman, offers breast implant removal and exchange procedures. The surgeons at this hospital are meticulous in their techniques to minimize scarring and optimize recovery. They understand that the decision to undergo implant removal or exchange is deeply personal and provide compassionate care throughout the process. The hospital offers comprehensive pre - operative consultations and post - operative care instructions to ensure patients have a positive experience.

740 Park Plastic Surgery

At 740 Park Plastic Surgery, under the leadership of Dr. Stafford Broumand, patients can expect high - quality breast implant removal services. Dr. Broumand tailors the procedure to meet the specific needs of each patient, whether it is due to medical reasons or personal preferences. The hospital conducts a thorough pre - operative evaluation and provides personalized pre - operative and post - operative instructions. They also offer follow - up appointments to monitor the patient's healing progress and address any concerns.

Preparing for Silicone Breast Implant Removal

Medical Consultation

Schedule a consultation with your chosen surgeon. During this consultation, be open and honest about your reasons for wanting the implant removal, any medical conditions you have, and any medications or supplements you are taking. The surgeon will assess your general health, perform a physical examination of your breasts, and may order additional tests such as an MRI, ultrasound, or mammogram to evaluate the condition of the implants and surrounding tissues.

Lifestyle Changes

• Stop Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of complications during surgery and slow down the healing process. It is recommended to stop smoking at least two weeks before the surgery. If you are having trouble quitting, talk to your doctor about options for quitting.
• Avoid Certain Medications: Some medications can increase bleeding or interfere with anesthesia. Avoid taking medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications for one week prior to your procedure. Also, avoid taking blood - thinning medications for up to six weeks prior to the surgery. Inform your prescribing physician about your plans to undergo breast implant removal so that they can recommend when to stop taking the medications.

Arrange for Post - operative Care

Since breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, you will need someone to drive you home after the surgery. Arrange for someone to stay with you for at least 24 hours after the surgery to help you with daily activities. Make sure you have comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and take off after the surgery, and stock up on any necessary supplies such as pain medication, ice packs, and a compression bra.

What to Expect During the Silicone Breast Implant Removal Procedure

Anesthesia

The type of anesthesia used during the procedure will depend on various factors, including the patient's medical history, preferences, and the complexity of the case. Options may include local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. Local anesthesia with sedation involves numbing only a specific area of the body while the patient remains conscious but relaxed. General anesthesia puts the patient into a deep sleep so that they do not feel anything during surgery. A board - certified anesthesiologist will be present to monitor the patient's vital signs throughout the procedure.

Surgical Steps

• Skin Preparation: Once the patient is under the effects of anesthesia, the surgeon will prepare the surgical area. The area around the breasts will be cleaned with antibacterial soap to guard against infection.
• Placement of Incisions: The incisions for breast implant removal can be made in one of three locations: the crease under the breast, around the areola, or vertically placed in the armpit. The surgeon will create the necessary incisions and drain any accumulated fluid in the area.
• Removal of Implants: The surgeon will remove the implants from each breast using various methods, such as prying out implants from beneath breast tissue, cutting through the shell of the implant if it is sticking to nearby tissues, or using instruments attached to the breast implant for slow removal through pulling. If an en bloc capsulectomy is being performed, the implant and the surrounding capsule will be removed in one piece.
• Scar Tissue Removal: After removing the implants, the surgeon may remove any excess skin or scar tissue around the nipples and cauterize the area. This helps in achieving a more natural appearance.
• Sealing of Incisions: The surgeon will re - attach the skin, stitch it,