Top 3 Hospitals for Nipple Protective Resection and Reconstruction in New York City
For those in need of nipple protective resection and reconstruction in New York City, there are several outstanding hospitals to consider. Nipple protective resection and reconstruction are crucial procedures for patients who have undergone mastectomies or those with nipple - related issues, as they can significantly improve the patient's physical appearance and emotional well - being. In this article, we will explore the top 3 hospitals in New York City that offer these services.
Weill Cornell Medicine
Location and Contact Information
Weill Cornell Medicine has multiple locations in the upper east side of New York City. One location is at 525 East 68th Street, Starr 8, New York, NY 10065, and another is at 425 East 61st Street, 10th floor, New York, NY 10065. The contact number is (646) 962 - 4210.
Expertise and Experience
Weill Cornell Medicine has been at the forefront of breast reconstruction, especially nipple - sparing mastectomies with concurrent reconstruction, for the past 20 years. This long - standing experience positions them as leaders in this technique. Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons are exemplary in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery.
They offer individualized breast reconstruction based on each patient's unique body. The hospital's multidisciplinary team, which includes oncologists, geneticists, and nurses specializing in breast cancer care, ensures that patients of all races, ethnicities, genders, and gender identities receive comprehensive care and feel confident in their appearance after reconstruction.
Comfort and Patient - Centered Care
The hospital places a high priority on patient comfort. Before surgery, patients have the opportunity to ask questions and fully understand what to expect during the procedure. In state - of - the - art surgical suites, the latest anesthetics and medications are used to help patients recover more quickly and heal faster. After surgery, the care team manages pain with medication and teaches patients how to care for themselves during the healing process.
Breast Reconstruction Options
Almost all breast reconstructions at Weill Cornell Medicine are performed on the same day as the mastectomy. There are two main types of reconstruction: autologous reconstruction (using the patient's own tissue) and implant - based reconstruction.
- Autologous Reconstruction: This uses tissue from different areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. Nerves can be reconstructed to increase sensory recovery in the breasts, which may be numb after the mastectomy. A novel reinnervation procedure can be performed during breast reconstruction, taking about 20 minutes, where a nerve in the abdominal flap is reconnected to a nerve in the chest. Preservation of the nipple and mastectomy skin sensation following mastectomy is associated with improved patient quality of life.
- Implant - Based Reconstruction: Surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine perform breast reconstruction using tissue expanders and implants based on the patient's unique needs. They utilize both saline and silicone breast implants from all implant manufacturers to best meet clinical needs. Pioneered techniques include direct - to - implant reconstruction and tissue expander reconstruction without the use of drains.
Reasons to Choose Weill Cornell Medicine
| Reasons | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Exemplary Surgeons | The surgeons are leaders in plastic and reconstructive surgery, with the ability to provide high - quality care and achieve excellent results. |
| Individualized Care | Reconstruction is tailored to each patient's unique body, ensuring the best possible outcome. |
| Multidisciplinary Team | Patients have access to a network of doctors and specialists, providing comprehensive care. |
| Patient Comfort | Priority is given to patient comfort throughout the entire process, from pre - surgery to post - surgery care. |
Mount Sinai - New York
Location and Contact Information
The Dubin Breast Center at Mount Sinai offers breast reconstruction services. At the Mount Sinai West breast reconstruction program, the address is 425 West 59th Street, 7th floor, New York, NY 10019, and the phone number is 212 - 523 - 8700.
Expertise and Team
The program is led by Hani Sbitany, MD, an internationally renowned leader in breast reconstruction. The plastic surgeons work closely with breast surgeons and oncologists to offer seamless and advanced breast reconstruction options. They pay close attention to both medical and aesthetic outcomes.
The team at Mount Sinai West works closely with breast oncology surgeons to provide comprehensive breast care, including stephanie bernik, MD, breast surgery, and jennifer casher lehman, MD, breast surgery.
Breast Reconstruction Approaches
Reconstruction can generally be categorized into two types: implants and autologous tissue (using the patient's own tissue). With either procedure, nipple reconstruction is performed at a later date.
- Implant Reconstruction: At the time of the mastectomy, a tissue expander (a temporary inflatable implant) is placed in the breast. It is inflated in the plastic surgeon's office soon after surgery. Patients usually stay in the hospital for a day or two. Return to work may be possible in two to three weeks. About three months after the initial surgery, a second ambulatory surgery is performed to remove the tissue expander and place a permanent implant (which can be filled with silicone or saline) in the breast.
- Autologous Reconstruction: Several types of reconstruction using the patient's own body tissue are available. For example, the DIEP flap (using skin and fat from the lower abdomen, similar to a “tummy - tuck”) and the latissimus dorsi flap (using skin and muscle from the back). The initial surgery is generally longer than with an implant, and the hospital stay is typically five days. Patients may be able to return to work four to six weeks after the procedure.
Reasons to Choose Mount Sinai - New York
| Reasons | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Renowned Leader | Under the leadership of an internationally renowned breast reconstruction expert, patients can expect high - level expertise. |
| Comprehensive Team | The collaboration between plastic surgeons, breast surgeons, and oncologists ensures comprehensive care. |
| Diverse Reconstruction Options | Offering both implant and autologous tissue reconstruction options allows patients to choose the method that suits them best. |
New York Plastic Surgical Group (Long Island Plastic Surgical Group)
General Information
The breast reconstruction surgery center, a “center of excellence” within the New York Plastic Surgical Group, a division of Long Island Plastic Surgical Group, is well - known for nipple reconstruction. Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons are experts in every aspect of breast reconstruction, having performed more than 10,000 procedures, including all major breast reconstruction techniques.
Nipple Reconstruction Approaches
Nipple reconstruction is performed as a separate surgery after the flap or implant breast reconstruction surgery is complete. The reconstruction of the nipple and areola allows for the creation of the most natural - looking breast reconstruction results possible.
- Graft Nipple Reconstruction: The plastic surgeon takes skin from a donor site and attaches it to the newly constructed breast. For a single - breast mastectomy, the donor site for the nipple can be the nipple of the other breast, or for a double mastectomy, it can be the earlobe or labia. The donor site for the areola can come from areas such as the scar from a flap reconstruction procedure, the crease of the buttock, or the inner thigh.
- Flap Nipple Reconstruction: This involves creating the nipple from a skin flap taken from the area directly beside the region where the new nipple will be placed. It has the advantage of keeping the original blood supply flowing into the new nipple and provides a greater chance for the successful acceptance of the graft. It typically results in less scarring around the area of the reconstructed nipple and areola.
Nipple Tattooing
The group offers nipple tattooing on an outpatient basis, which is the final step in the nipple reconstruction process. Medical tattooing involves using typical tattooing equipment to create a natural - looking nipple that complements the skin color and tone. The team mixes a variety of pigments to match the color of the remaining nipple or the patient's preoperative photos.
Reasons to Choose New York Plastic Surgical Group
| Reasons | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Extensive Experience | With over 10,000 breast reconstruction procedures, the surgeons have a wealth of experience. |
| Specialty - Trained Surgeons | The surgeons are specialty - trained in a range of breast reconstruction treatments, including nipple reconstruction. |
| Comprehensive Services | Offering both nipple reconstruction and nipple tattooing provides a complete solution for patients. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital
Surgeon Expertise
The expertise of the plastic and reconstructive surgeons is of utmost importance. Look for surgeons who have extensive experience in nipple protective resection and reconstruction, as well as other breast - related surgeries. Check their training, certifications, and the number of procedures they have performed.
Reconstruction Options
Different hospitals may offer different reconstruction options. It is essential to understand the available techniques, such as autologous reconstruction, implant - based reconstruction, and the various methods of nipple reconstruction (graft or flap). Choose a hospital that can provide the option that best suits your body type and personal preferences.
Multidisciplinary Care
Breast reconstruction often requires the collaboration of multiple specialists, including oncologists, geneticists, and nurses. A hospital with a multidisciplinary team can ensure comprehensive care, addressing both the medical and emotional aspects of the patient's journey.
Patient Comfort and Support
Going through a surgical procedure can be a stressful experience. A hospital that prioritizes patient comfort, provides clear pre - and post - operative instructions, and offers emotional support can significantly enhance the patient's overall experience.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Cost is a practical consideration. The cost of nipple protective resection and reconstruction can vary depending on the type of procedure, the surgeon's fees, and the hospital's charges. Additionally, according to the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 (WHCRA), insurance plans must cover the cost of breast reconstruction after a mastectomy and other reconstructive procedures. However, it is important to confirm with your insurance provider and the hospital regarding coverage.
Common Questions about Nipple Protective Resection and Reconstruction
Is nipple reconstruction permanent?
Nipple reconstruction is generally permanent. The tissue used for the new nipples comes from the patient's own body, and it continues to grow and form the desired shape. However, drastic changes in weight may cause corresponding changes in the nipples.
Can I breastfeed after nipple reconstruction?
If it is a nipple correction surgery that does not affect the glands responsible for milk production or the milk ducts, a patient can usually breastfeed after healing. However, a nipple reconstruction after a mastectomy creates a nipple in appearance only, and breastfeeding is not possible with this type of nipple.
How long is the recovery period?
The recovery period can vary depending on the type of procedure. After nipple reconstruction, patients can expect some pain, numbness, and soreness around the incisions for a week or two. The reconstructed area usually takes about 10 days to heal fully. Patients may need to avoid tight bras and clothing, heavy lifting, and strenuous tasks for several weeks until fully healed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Weill Cornell Medicine, Mount Sinai - New York, and the New York Plastic Surgical Group (Long Island Plastic Surgical Group) are three top - notch hospitals in New York City for nipple protective resection and reconstruction. Each hospital has its own strengths, including experienced surgeons, a wide range of reconstruction options, multidisciplinary care, and a focus on patient comfort. When choosing a hospital, it is important to consider factors such as surgeon expertise, reconstruction options, multidisciplinary care, patient comfort, and cost. By making an informed decision, patients can achieve the best possible results and improve their physical and emotional well - being.
If you or someone you know is considering nipple protective resection and reconstruction, we encourage you to reach out to these hospitals for more information. You can schedule a consultation to discuss your specific needs and options. Share this article with others who may benefit from this information and help them make an informed decision about their healthcare journey.
