Introduction
Breast implant removal has become a relevant procedure for many women in New York City, whether due to medical complications, aesthetic preferences, or other personal reasons. In this article, we will introduce the top 5 hospitals on the list for removing breast augmentation prostheses in New York City, exploring their key features, expertise, and the services they offer. This guide aims to help individuals make informed decisions when considering breast implant removal.
Top 5 Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City
1. Columbia University - Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Columbia University is one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - renowned medical center. Its plastic surgery division has highly experienced plastic surgeons proficient in multiple areas, including breast implant removal.
- Surgeon Expertise: The clinical staff consists of board - certified surgeons with extensive training and a wealth of experience. For example, Dr. Christine Rohde is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, specializing in microsurgery and breast reconstruction. Dr. Jeffrey A. Ascherman has published over 75 scientific articles and is included in lists of top doctors.
- Comprehensive Services: The hospital offers both cosmetic and reconstructive care. In the context of breast implant removal, they can handle various cases, whether it's due to complications like capsular contracture or for aesthetic reasons. They may also combine the removal with additional procedures such as a breast lift to achieve better aesthetic results.
- Research - Driven Approach: The plastic surgery research laboratory at Columbia conducts numerous studies related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy for wound healing. This research - driven approach may translate into better surgical techniques and patient outcomes in breast implant removal procedures.
2. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
This center in Manhattan is highly specialized in breast - related surgeries, including breast implant removal.
- Advanced Techniques: The top - rated board - certified plastic surgeons at the center are well - versed in different breast implant removal procedures. They offer en bloc removal (removing the implants and capsule in one piece), partial capsulectomy (trimming some of the capsule material), and total capsulectomy (removing the implant, capsule, and remaining scar tissue). The choice of procedure is customized according to the patient's unique anatomy and desired post - operative goals.
- State - of - the - Art Facility: The breast implant removal surgery is performed at their state - of - the - art fully accredited surgical suite. Patients can expect a high - level of care and modern amenities during their surgical experience.
- Patient - Centered Care: During the initial consultation, the plastic surgeons explain each variation of the breast implant removal procedure in detail. They work closely with patients to create a treatment plan that reflects the patients' desired results, ensuring that patients are well - informed and comfortable throughout the process.
3. Zuckerman Plastic Surgery
Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery offers breast implant removal and exchange procedures to meet the changing needs and preferences of patients.
- Individualized Approach: The center understands that the decision to remove or exchange breast implants is deeply personal. Dr. Zuckerman tailors the procedures according to each patient's specific reasons, whether it's health concerns (such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, or breast implant illness), cosmetic preferences, or aging implants.
- Minimally Invasive Techniques: Dr. Zuckerman is meticulous in employing techniques that aim to minimize scarring and optimize recovery. Breast implant removal and exchange procedures are performed under general anesthesia, and the complexity and duration are adjusted based on the patient's case.
- Post - operative Care: Post - operative care is crucial at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery. Patients are provided with instructions on managing discomfort with prescribed medication, wearing a support bra, and avoiding strenuous activities for several weeks. The center also offers detailed guidance on recovery to ensure a smooth and successful healing process.
4. Dr. Reinblatt's Practice
Dr. Maura Reinblatt is a board - certified plastic surgeon serving patients in NYC, Westchester, and White Plains. She is an ideal choice for breast implant removal.
- Addressing Medical Issues: Dr. Reinblatt offers advanced techniques to address medical issues associated with breast implants. For example, en bloc capsulectomy is used to remove both the implant and surrounding scar tissue in one piece, which is beneficial for patients with capsular contracture or breast implant illness. Open capsulotomy is also available as a less - invasive alternative in certain cases.
- Patient - Focused Care: Her personalized approach to patient care ensures that each patient's unique needs and goals are addressed. She is committed to patient satisfaction and works closely with patients to achieve the best possible outcomes in breast implant removal procedures.
- Notable Credentials: Dr. Reinblatt has dual board certifications in plastic surgery and surgery. She is an active member of esteemed professional organizations such as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, which reflects her high - level of expertise and dedication to the field.
5. Dr. Antell's Practice
Dr. Darrick E. Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon widely regarded as an experienced breast surgeon both in the New York area and worldwide.
- Exceptional Experience: Dr. Antell has a career spanning over twenty years and has performed more than ten thousand procedures. He has an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results, and many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients. He has also performed custom breast removal surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons.
- Specialized Techniques: He performs custom breast implant removal surgery, including en bloc capsulectomy when indicated. He also specializes in removing the Allergan textured breast implants recalled by the FDA due to their association with a heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).
- Private and State - of - the - Art Facility: Most patients prefer for the breast implant removal procedure to take place in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. The facility is fully accredited, equipped with the latest technology, and offers personalized care.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are several reasons why women in New York City may consider breast implant removal. These reasons can be broadly classified into medical and aesthetic categories.
Medical Reasons
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): Some women experience a range of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, and more after getting breast implants. Although the exact cause of BII is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens and hardens, causing pain, discomfort, and distortion of the breast shape. In severe cases, it may require the removal of the implant and the surrounding capsule.
- Implant Rupture or Leakage: Over time, breast implants can rupture or leak, especially saline implants which are more prone to leakage due to their valve system. A rupture or leakage can lead to changes in the breast appearance and may cause health concerns.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): Although rare, this type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma can occur in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. It is primarily associated with certain types of textured breast implants, and treatment typically involves surgically removing the implants and surrounding scar tissue.
Aesthetic Reasons
- Dissatisfaction with Appearance: Some women may be unhappy with the size, shape, or position of their implants. For example, the implants may have moved from their original position, or the patient may want a more natural look.
- Aging and Lifestyle Changes: As women age or experience lifestyle changes, they may no longer desire breast implants. For instance, an active individual may find that the implants are a hindrance during physical activities.
Types of Breast Implant Removal Surgeries
There are several surgical techniques available for breast implant removal, and the choice of procedure depends on various factors such as the patient's condition, the reason for removal, and the surgeon's recommendation.
En Bloc Removal
This technique involves removing the entire implant, including the capsule that forms around it, in one piece. It is recommended for patients who have developed capsular contracture or those who want to remove their implants due to health concerns. En bloc removal reduces the risk of rupturing or spilling of silicone gel into the body during surgery and ensures complete removal of all implant - related material.
Capsulectomy
Unlike en bloc removal, capsulectomy 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.
Explantation with Mastopexy
This surgical procedure involves removing the breast implant, excess skin, and lifting the breast tissue to create a more youthful appearance. It is recommended for patients who have experienced sagging or drooping of their breasts after having implants.
Explantation with Fat Transfer
This procedure involves removing the implant and using the patient's own fat from another area of their body (such as thighs, hips, or abdomen) to reshape and enhance their breasts. It is suitable for patients who want to remove their implants but still desire some degree of breast augmentation.
What to Expect During the Breast Implant Removal Process
Consultation
During the initial consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history. If the patient desires to have the implants removed due to medical complications, it is important to discuss any symptoms with the surgeon. The patient should also bring any information about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. The surgeon will then explain the different surgical options, the risks involved, and the expected recovery process. Based on the patient's expectations, a personalized surgical plan will be created.
Surgery
The breast implant removal surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with intravenous sedation. The surgeon will make an incision, typically in the same location as the original breast augmentation incision, to remove the implant. If there is scar tissue or calcification around the implant, it will also be removed. The procedure may take between one to three hours, depending on the complexity of the case and whether any additional procedures are being performed.
Recovery
After the surgery, the patient will recover in a recovery room under close observation. Pain medication will be provided to manage any discomfort. The patient may experience swelling, bruising, and soreness in the days following the surgery, which should gradually improve over time. The patient will be advised to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and promote healing. Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for a few weeks, and follow - up appointments with the surgeon are essential to monitor the healing progress.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Implant Removal
Selecting the right hospital for breast implant removal is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the outcome of the procedure. Here are some important factors to consider:
Surgeon's Expertise
Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified and has extensive experience in performing breast implant removal surgeries. Check their credentials, professional memberships, and patient reviews. A skilled surgeon will be able to handle any complications that may arise during the surgery and provide the best possible results.
Hospital Facilities
The hospital should have state - of - the - art facilities and equipment. A modern operating room with the latest technology can enhance the safety and precision of the surgery. Additionally, a comfortable and well - equipped recovery area is important for the patient's post - operative care.
Reputation
Research the hospital's reputation in the field of breast implant removal. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous patients to get an idea of the quality of care provided. A hospital with a good reputation is more likely to offer high - quality services and achieve satisfactory outcomes.
Range of Services
Choose a hospital that offers a comprehensive range of services related to breast implant removal. This may include different surgical techniques, post - operative care, and the ability to handle any associated medical issues. The hospital should also be able to provide additional procedures such as breast lift or fat transfer if needed.
Cost
While cost should not be the sole determining factor, it is important to consider. Get a clear understanding of the total cost of the breast implant removal procedure, including surgery fees, anesthesia fees, and post - operative care costs. Compare the costs of different hospitals, but also keep in mind that quality and experience are equally important.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breast implant removal is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. The top 5 hospitals in New York City for breast implant removal - Columbia University, Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, Zuckerman Plastic Surgery, Dr. Reinblatt's Practice, and Dr. Antell's Practice - each offer unique advantages in terms of surgeon expertise, facilities, and services. By understanding the reasons for breast implant removal, the different surgical techniques available, and what to expect during the process, patients can make informed decisions about their breast health. Additionally, considering factors such as surgeon expertise, hospital facilities, reputation, range of services, and cost when choosing a hospital is essential for a successful outcome.
If you are considering breast implant removal, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the hospitals mentioned above. Take the time to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and ensure that you are comfortable with the surgeon and the hospital before proceeding with the procedure. Your journey towards a more comfortable and satisfying breast appearance starts with an informed decision.
