Hospitals for Breast Reconstruction Surgery in New York City: Public vs. Private
Introduction
Breast reconstruction surgery is a significant procedure for many women who have undergone mastectomies due to breast cancer or other medical reasons. It not only restores the physical appearance but also plays a crucial role in enhancing self - confidence and emotional well - being. New York City is home to numerous hospitals and medical facilities that offer breast reconstruction services. When choosing a hospital, patients often face the dilemma of whether to opt for a public or private institution. This article will explore the top hospitals for breast reconstruction in New York City, taking into account netizens' reviews, and analyze the pros and cons of public and private hospitals.
Top Doctors and Their Affiliations in New York City
Healthgrades has identified 279 doctors who perform breast reconstruction in New York. Here are some of the highly - rated doctors:
| Doctor's Name | Rating | Number of Ratings | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Alexander Swistel, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 225 | 425 E. 61st st. 8 - 11th floor New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Rache Simmons, MD | 4.60 out of 5 stars | 76 | 1283 York avenue 4th floor New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Jess Ting, MD | 4.30 out of 5 stars | 40 | 10 Union sq e # 3 - g New York, NY 10003 |
| Dr. Derek Brinster, MD | 4.20 out of 5 stars | 21 | 130 E 77th st fl 4 New York, NY 10075 |
| Dr. Philip Torina, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 19 | 5 E 98th st # 2 New York, NY 10029 |
| Dr. Alexandra Heerdt, MD | 4.70 out of 5 stars | 30 | 300 E 66th st New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Mark Sultan, MD | 4.20 out of 5 stars | 37 | 1100 Park ave # 1b New York, NY 10128 |
| Dr. Kimberly Van Zee, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 32 | 300 E 66th st New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Evan Matros, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 25 | 1275 York ave New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Lloyd Gayle, MD | 4.20 out of 5 stars | 30 | 1150 Park ave Ste 1f New York, NY 10128 |
| Dr. Elisa Port, MD | 4.20 out of 5 stars | 34 | 5 E 98th st # 2 New York, NY 10029 |
These doctors are affiliated with different hospitals in the city, and their high ratings suggest a high level of expertise and patient satisfaction.
Top Hospitals for Breast Reconstruction in New York City
Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai offers a comprehensive breast reconstruction program. Led by Hani Sbitany, MD, an internationally renowned leader in breast reconstruction, the program at Mount Sinai West provides the full range of breast reconstruction options. They have specialized expertise in advanced muscle - sparing and microsurgical techniques.
- Reconstruction Options: There are two main categories - those involving breast implants and those using the patient's own tissue (autologous). The procedures can be performed either at the same time as the mastectomy or at a later date.
- Team: The breast reconstruction program works closely with breast oncology surgeons to offer comprehensive breast care. The team includes Hani Sbitany, MD (plastic and reconstructive surgery), Stephanie Bernik, MD (breast surgery), and Jennifer Casher Lehman, MD (breast surgery).
- Contact Information: Address: 425 West 59th street 7th floor New York, NY 10019; Phone: 212 - 523 - 8700; Office hours: Tuesday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Weill Cornell Medicine
Weill Cornell Medicine is another leading institution for breast reconstruction. Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons offer the most advanced breast reconstruction surgery options and techniques.
- Reasons to Choose:
- Exemplary Surgeons: Their surgeons are leaders in plastic and reconstructive surgery, and the care team is focused on patient comfort.
- Individualized Care: Surgeons are able to reconstruct the breast according to each patient's wishes, taking into account the unique body type.
- Multidisciplinary Team: The plastic and reproductive surgeons are part of a multidisciplinary group that includes oncologists, geneticists, and nurses specialized in breast cancer care.
- Patient Comfort: The team prioritizes patient comfort throughout the process, from pre - surgery consultations to post - surgery care.
- Reconstruction Options: Most breast reconstructions are performed on the same day as the mastectomy. They offer autologous reconstruction (using the patient's own tissue from areas like the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks) and implant - based reconstruction. They also have techniques for breast reinnervation to improve sensation.
- Contact Information: Upper East Side: 525 East 68th street, Starr 8 New York, NY 10065; Call (646) 962 - 4210; Upper East Side: 425 East 61st street, 10th floor New York, NY 10065; Call (646) 962 - 4210
NYC Health + Hospitals
This public hospital system offers a wide range of breast surgery services, including breast reconstruction.
- Services Offered: They perform operations such as excisional biopsies for benign tumors, mastectomies, nipple - sparing mastectomies, lumpectomies, and breast reconstructions (both diep flap reconstruction and implant - based). They also offer access to clinical trials, patient navigation, social work, genetic testing, and other support services.
- Breast Surgery Team: The team includes Kathie - Ann Joseph, MD (Chief, breast surgery service, NYC Health + Hospitals / Bellevue) and Erica Friedman, MD (Breast surgery attending, NYC Health + Hospitals / Bellevue). Contact: (212) 562 - 2911 – breast pa office; Physician assistant: Aline Bedrosian, pa; Email: aline.bedrosian@nychhc.org
Breast Reconstruction Center NYC
This private facility is known for its best - in - class plastic surgeons who perform aesthetic and reconstructive breast surgery procedures.
- Services: They offer a full spectrum of surgical options for breast reconstruction, including immediate breast reconstruction, delayed breast reconstruction, and revisions of breast reconstructions. Other services include areola reshaping, breast implant removal, nipple (areola) correction, and more.
- Surgeons' Qualifications: The surgeons are board - certified and have memberships in various professional societies, indicating their high level of expertise and commitment to the field.
- Insurance and Consultations: Insurance is accepted when applicable. They offer in - person and virtual consultations, and a doctor's referral is not necessary for a consultation, second opinion, or treatment.
- Contact Information: 590 5th ave, ste 1124, New York, NY 10036; Consultations: (646) 350 - 1675
Public vs. Private Hospitals for Breast Reconstruction
Cost
One of the most significant differences between public and private hospitals is the cost.
- Public Hospitals: Generally, public hospitals like NYC Health + Hospitals are more affordable, especially for patients with limited financial resources. They may accept a wider range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and other government - sponsored programs. However, the out - of - pocket costs for patients without insurance may still be a burden.
- Private Hospitals: Private hospitals often charge higher fees. The cost of breast reconstruction in a private facility can be significantly more expensive, but they may offer more personalized payment plans and financing options. Some private hospitals also have agreements with certain insurance companies, and patients with good insurance coverage may find that their costs are partially or fully covered.
Wait Times
- Public Hospitals: Due to a high volume of patients, public hospitals may have longer wait times for appointments, surgery, and follow - up care. Patients may need to wait weeks or even months to get an initial consultation or to schedule a breast reconstruction surgery.
- Private Hospitals: Private hospitals usually have shorter wait times. They can often schedule consultations and surgeries more quickly, which is beneficial for patients who want to start the reconstruction process as soon as possible.
Facilities and Amenities
- Public Hospitals: Public hospitals focus on providing essential medical services. While they have modern medical equipment and facilities, the amenities may be more basic. Patient rooms may be shared, and the overall environment may be more crowded.
- Private Hospitals: Private hospitals typically offer a higher level of comfort and luxury. They often have private patient rooms, better - equipped recovery areas, and additional amenities such as concierge services, gourmet dining options, and access to private lounges.
Expertise and Specialization
- Public Hospitals: Public hospitals have a diverse group of medical professionals, including highly skilled surgeons. They also have access to large patient populations, which allows doctors to gain extensive experience in different types of breast reconstruction procedures. However, the focus may be more on general medical care rather than highly specialized treatments.
- Private Hospitals: Private hospitals may have a higher concentration of specialized surgeons who focus specifically on breast reconstruction. They may also invest more in research and development of new techniques, offering patients access to the latest and most advanced treatments.
Patient - Doctor Relationship
- Public Hospitals: Due to the high patient load, doctors in public hospitals may have less time to spend with each patient. The patient - doctor relationship may be more transactional, with a focus on providing necessary medical treatment.
- Private Hospitals: Private hospitals often emphasize personalized care. Doctors have more time to discuss the patient's concerns, answer questions, and develop a customized treatment plan. This can lead to a stronger patient - doctor relationship and better patient satisfaction.
Conclusion
When considering hospitals for breast reconstruction surgery in New York City, patients have a wide range of options, including both public and private institutions. Each type of hospital has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, wait times, facilities, expertise, and patient - doctor relationship. It is essential for patients to carefully evaluate their needs, financial situation, and personal preferences before making a decision. Whether you choose a public or private hospital, the most important factor is to select a facility with experienced surgeons and a supportive medical team to ensure a successful breast reconstruction and a positive recovery experience.
If you are considering breast reconstruction surgery, we encourage you to schedule consultations with multiple hospitals and doctors. This will allow you to compare the services, costs, and treatment approaches offered by different providers. You can also reach out to other breast cancer survivors or support groups to get their recommendations and insights. Share this article with others who may be facing similar decisions, and together, we can help more women make informed choices about their breast reconstruction journey.
