Top 5 Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City

When it comes to breast implant removal, choosing the right hospital and surgeon is crucial. In New York City, there are several renowned institutions that offer high - quality services for this procedure. Here, we present the top 5 hospitals for breast implant removal in 2025, along with their key features and what makes them stand out.

1. New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center

Overall Reputation

New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center has an outstanding reputation. It was named the top hospital in New York and ranked No. 7 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals. This institution has been providing excellent care for over 20 years and is recognized for its excellence in 14 adult specialties and 8 children’s specialties. This wide - ranging expertise likely extends to breast implant removal as well.

Surgical Expertise

The surgical team at this hospital is highly skilled. In surgical specialties, it has national rankings in areas such as heart surgery, GI surgery, and lung surgery. For breast implant removal, the hospital's specialists are well - versed in handling various cases. They are likely to have extensive experience in dealing with complications that may arise during or after breast augmentation, such as capsular contracture or implant rupture. The advanced surgical techniques used can ensure a more precise and successful removal process. For example, if an en - bloc capsulectomy is required, the surgeons here have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform it safely and effectively.

Research and Innovation

As an academic medical center, New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center is involved in pioneering research. This research can lead to the development of new treatment methods and technologies for breast implant removal. For instance, they may be researching ways to reduce the scarring after the removal procedure or improving the patient's recovery time. The integration of research findings into clinical practice ensures that patients receive the most up - to - date and effective care.

Patient Care

The hospital is committed to providing the best, groundbreaking care for its community. The staff is likely to be highly trained and dedicated to patient well - being. They will take the time to understand each patient's specific needs and concerns, providing personalized treatment plans. From pre - operative evaluations to post - operative follow - up, patients can expect comprehensive and compassionate care at every step of the process.

2. Mount Sinai Hospital

National Rankings

Mount Sinai Hospital is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties. This indicates a high level of overall medical excellence. For breast implant removal, this comprehensive medical background can be beneficial as it means that the hospital has access to a wide range of resources and expertise. For example, if a patient experiences any complications during the recovery period related to other medical issues, the hospital's diverse specialists can collaborate to provide the best possible care.

Dubin Breast Center

The Dubin Breast Center of the Tisch Cancer Institute at Mount Sinai is a significant asset. It offers integrated and compassionate care for every phase of breast health, all in one location. This includes breast imaging, breast pathology, breast surgery, and breast reconstruction. For patients considering breast implant removal, the center can provide a comprehensive evaluation of their breast health before and after the procedure. The team of breast cancer experts works together to provide seamless, personalized, and holistic care. If there are any concerns related to breast cancer or other breast - related conditions during the implant removal process, the center has the necessary expertise to handle them.

State - of - the - art Facilities

The hospital is equipped with state - of - the - art facilities. This includes advanced imaging technologies for pre - operative assessment and modern surgical suites for the removal procedure. The facilities are designed to ensure patient comfort and safety. For example, the use of the latest anesthetic techniques and monitoring equipment during the surgery can minimize the risks and make the patient's experience more comfortable.

Clinical Trials

If appropriate, patients at the Dubin Breast Center may have the opportunity to receive emerging therapies as part of a clinical trial. This can be an exciting option for patients who are looking for the latest and most innovative treatment methods. For breast implant removal, it could mean access to new surgical techniques or post - operative care protocols that are not yet widely available.

3. NYU Langone Hospitals

Multispecialty Expertise

NYU Langone Hospitals is nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties. Its high - performing status in 21 procedures/conditions shows its wide - ranging medical capabilities. In the context of breast implant removal, this means that the hospital can address any potential complications or co - existing medical conditions. For example, if a patient has a pre - existing medical condition such as diabetes or heart disease, the hospital's specialists can work together to manage these conditions during the implant removal process, ensuring a safe and successful outcome.

Experienced Surgeons

The hospital has a team of experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeons. These surgeons are likely to have a deep understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the breast. They are skilled in performing various breast implant removal techniques, including the removal of different types of implants such as silicone or saline implants. They can also handle cases where there are issues like implant rupture or capsular contracture. For instance, they may be able to perform an en - bloc resection when necessary, which involves removing the implant and the surrounding scar tissue as a single unit.

Patient - centered Care

NYU Langone Hospitals focuses on patient - centered care. From the initial consultation, the medical team takes the time to listen to the patient's concerns and goals. They will provide detailed information about the procedure, including the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes. After the surgery, the hospital offers comprehensive post - operative care, including pain management and follow - up appointments to monitor the patient's recovery. This ensures that the patient feels supported throughout the entire process.

Advanced Research

As a leading academic medical center, NYU Langone Hospitals is actively involved in research. This research can contribute to the improvement of breast implant removal techniques and patient outcomes. For example, they may be studying the long - term effects of breast implant removal on breast health or developing new methods to prevent complications such as infection or scarring.

4. North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health

National Specialties Ranking

North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health is nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties. This ranking reflects the hospital's high - quality medical services. In breast implant removal, this means that the hospital has a solid foundation of medical expertise. The hospital's overall experience in different medical fields can be applied to the unique challenges that may arise during breast implant removal, such as dealing with complex anatomical structures or managing potential medical complications.

Skilled Surgical Team

The surgical team at North Shore University Hospital is well - trained and experienced. They are familiar with the latest techniques in breast implant removal. They can perform a thorough pre - operative evaluation to determine the best approach for each patient. For example, if a patient has had multiple previous breast surgeries or has complex breast implant - related issues, the surgeons can develop a customized treatment plan. After the surgery, they provide close follow - up to ensure a smooth recovery process.

Comprehensive Patient Services

The hospital offers comprehensive patient services. This includes pre - operative counseling to address the patient's concerns and questions. They also provide post - operative care, such as physical therapy and psychological support if needed. For example, some patients may experience body image issues after breast implant removal, and the hospital can offer resources to help them cope with these feelings.

Research and Education

North Shore University Hospital is involved in research and education. This helps to keep the medical staff updated on the latest advancements in breast implant removal. The hospital may also participate in clinical trials to test new treatment methods. By being at the forefront of medical research, the hospital can offer patients the most innovative and effective care options.

5. Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health

National Ranking in Specialties

Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health is nationally ranked in 10 specialties. This indicates a high level of specialization and expertise. In breast implant removal, the hospital's diverse range of specialties can be an advantage. For example, if a patient has a medical condition that may affect the implant removal process, such as a blood disorder or a respiratory problem, the hospital can draw on the expertise of different specialists to ensure a safe and successful procedure.

Experienced Plastic Surgeons

The plastic surgeons at Lenox Hill Hospital have extensive experience in breast implant removal. They are proficient in using various surgical techniques to achieve the best possible results. They take into account the patient's aesthetic goals as well as their overall health. For example, if a patient wishes to have a breast lift in conjunction with the implant removal, the surgeons can perform a combined procedure safely and effectively.

Patient - focused Environment

The hospital provides a patient - focused environment. The staff is dedicated to making the patient's experience as comfortable as possible. From the moment the patient enters the hospital, they are greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The medical team takes the time to build a good relationship with the patient, ensuring that they feel confident and at ease throughout the treatment process.

Advanced Medical Technology

Lenox Hill Hospital is equipped with advanced medical technology. This includes high - resolution imaging systems for pre - operative planning and advanced surgical equipment for the removal procedure. The use of the latest technology can improve the accuracy of the surgery and reduce the risk of complications. For example, 3D imaging technology can help the surgeons better visualize the breast anatomy and plan the removal more precisely.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

There are several reasons why a woman may choose to have her breast implants removed:

Aesthetic Reasons

• Visible or Palpable Implants: Over time, breast implants can become visible or palpable. They may appear folded, rippled, or wrinkled, which can be a cosmetic concern for some women. For example, a patient may notice that the texture of the implant is now visible through the skin, leading to an unnatural appearance.
• Implant Rupture, Leakage, or Deflation: Implants can rupture, leak, or deflate, which can change the shape and size of the breast. This can be a sudden or gradual change. A silicone implant rupture may be more difficult to detect compared to a saline implant rupture, as the silicone gel may remain in the breast or leak into the surrounding tissue.
• Implant Malposition: The implant may move from its original position, either up, down, to the side, or towards the middle of the chest. This can result in an uneven or abnormal appearance of the breasts. For instance, a “double bubble” appearance may occur when the implant is not centered under the breast, or “symmastia” may happen when the implants appear to touch in the middle.
• Breast Asymmetry: Sometimes, breast implants can cause asymmetry between the two breasts. This can be due to differences in implant size, placement, or how the body responds to the implants. The unequal appearance of the breasts can be a source of dissatisfaction for the patient.
• Unsightly or Widened Scars: The scars from the initial breast augmentation surgery may become widened, thickened, or discolored over time. These scars can be visible and may cause the patient to feel self - conscious.
• Nipple or Areola Issues: There may be enlargement, distortion, or asymmetry of the nipple or areola. This can be a result of the implant placement or the body's reaction to the implants.

Medical Reasons

• Severe Capsular Contracture: Capsular contracture occurs when the soft tissue envelope around the implant hardens. In severe cases, significant scar tissue forms around the implants, causing pain and discomfort in addition to affecting the cosmetic results. The patient may experience tightness, a firm breast, and changes in the shape of the breast.
• Chronic Pain: Some women may experience chronic pain in the breasts after having implants. This pain can be caused by a variety of factors, such as nerve irritation, capsular contracture, or changes in the breast tissue.
• Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): Although rare, BIA - ALCL is a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that can occur in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. It often presents as a mass or fluid accumulation that manifests late, usually several years after the initial breast surgery. Treatment typically involves surgically removing the tumor, capsule, and breast implant. In more serious cases, chemotherapy or radiation may also be necessary.
• Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII refers to a wide variety of symptoms that patients may occasionally report after undergoing breast augmentation or reconstruction with implants. These symptoms include fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression or anxiety, rashes, pain and discomfort, brain fog, and other non - specific complaints. While the exact cause of BII is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
• Infection and/or Bleeding: There is a risk of infection or bleeding during or after breast augmentation surgery. In some cases, these complications may persist or occur later, leading the patient to consider implant removal.

The Breast Implant Removal Procedure

Consultation

During the initial consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history. They will also assess the current condition of the breasts. If the patient desires to have the implants removed due to medical complications, it is important to discuss any symptoms they may be experiencing. The patient should bring any information they have about their existing implants and their previous breast augmentation surgery. The surgeon will have an open and honest conversation with the patient about their desired outcome and create a proper surgical plan. Based on the patient's expectations, it may be recommended to pair the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift.

Pre - operative Preparation

Based on factors such as age and implant condition, the surgeon may send the patient for imaging, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, prior to the procedure. The patient will be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. They may be given prescriptions that should be filled prior to the surgery. Depending on the patient's history, they may be asked to provide pre - operative clearance from another doctor. Since the procedure is often performed under “twilight” sedation, the patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and ensure they have someone to assist them in the first few days of recovery.

Anesthesia

Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another type of “twilight” anesthesia. The patient will be asleep and comfortable throughout the entire operation, and a board - certified anesthesiologist will be monitoring them. In some rare cases, implants can be removed with only local anesthesia.

Surgical Procedure

If possible, the surgeon will remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. However, this may not be possible if the implants were placed with an armpit incision. If the patient has capsular contracture, a silicone implant rupture, or textured breast implants and is experiencing BIA - ALCL, it is often necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant. When the implant and scar tissue are all removed simultaneously, this is called en - bloc resection. Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and a layer of external sutures, if needed, will typically be used to close the incisions. The surgeon may place a layer of gauze or a bandage over the new breasts to speed healing. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer.

Recovery

After the surgery, the patient will recover in a state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse until they feel well enough to be discharged. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia will be used to reduce discomfort. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, so the patient can return home the same day. The patient should be prepared to have an escort to bring them home, as they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. Upon leaving the facility, the patient will be provided with thorough discharge instructions. Throughout the recovery process, the patient's breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage. They may feel tired or sore following surgery, and it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. The patient may experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. There may also be some fluid