Introduction

Breast implant capsular contracture is a significant concern for many women who have undergone breast augmentation. It can cause discomfort, pain, and changes in the appearance of the breasts. In New York City, several hospitals stand out for their expertise in treating this condition. This article will introduce you to five such hospitals, providing detailed information about their services, medical staff, and treatment approaches.

Understanding Breast Implant Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture occurs when the fibrous scar tissue that naturally forms around a breast implant tightens and constricts the implant. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including unusual firmness of the breast, change in the shape or position of the breast implant, discomfort or pain in the affected breast, and visible distortion in severe cases. The condition is classified into four grades based on severity:

Knowing the grade of capsular contracture is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment.

5 Hospitals in New York City for Breast Implant Capsular Contracture

1. New York - Presbyterian / Weill Cornell Medical Center

New York - Presbyterian / Weill Cornell Medical Center is a leading medical institution in New York City. It has a team of highly skilled doctors who are experienced in treating breast implant capsular contracture. Some of the doctors on staff at this hospital who treat this condition include Dr. Clare Hochreiter, Dr. Jonathan Villena - Vargas, and Dr. Emile Bacha.

• Medical Staff: Dr. Clare Hochreiter has a 5.00 - star rating. Her office is located at 525 East 68th Street M - 404, New York, NY 10065, and the contact number is (212) 582 - 3422. She is on staff at the hospital, and patients can call (212) 922 - 1515 for an appointment. Dr. Jonathan Villena - Vargas is also located at the same address with the same contact details. Dr. Emile Bacha, with a 3.60 - star rating, has his office at 525 East 68th Street F677, New York, NY 10065.
• Treatment Approaches: The hospital uses advanced surgical techniques for treating capsular contracture. For patients with subglandular implants, they may perform a “pocket change,” removing the implant and surrounding capsule and placing a new implant under the muscle. For submuscular implants, a capsulectomy and the creation of a new submuscular pocket for new implants may be done. They also take preventive measures during surgery, such as using submuscular placement, drain - free techniques, antimicrobial irrigation, a funnel device to place the implants (no - touch), and acellular dermal matrix (Strattice) to prevent scar tissue growth.

2. Greenwald Plastic Surgery

Greenwald Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Joshua Greenwald, offers expert care for capsular contracture. Dr. Greenwald is a board - certified, fellowship - trained plastic surgeon with extensive experience in this field.

• Medical Staff: Dr. Joshua Greenwald is the main doctor at this practice. He is committed to providing personalized care to each patient, empathetically evaluating the breast and determining the grade of capsular contracture.
• Treatment Approaches: For early - stage capsular contracture, non - surgical options are the first approach. Leukotriene inhibitors, such as Singulair, can help reduce inflammation and soften scar tissue, often paired with a low - dose antibiotic. For grades III or IV and certain cases of grade II, a breast surgery called capsulectomy is typically the best approach. Dr. Greenwald customizes surgery based on the implant placement. After surgery, patients generally need to take Singulair and an antibiotic for several months while maintaining a daily breast massage schedule. His unique techniques, particularly using Strattice, lower the recurrence rate to just 5%.

3. Zuckerman Plastic Surgery

Zuckerman Plastic Surgery in NYC is dedicated to addressing and treating capsular contracture. Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman, an expert in corrective breast surgery, employs the latest techniques and treatments to manage and correct this condition.

• Medical Staff: Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman is at the forefront of the practice. He has in - depth knowledge and experience in handling complex cases of capsular contracture.
• Treatment Approaches: Treatment for capsular contracture depends on the severity of the condition, which is typically graded on a scale from mild to severe (Baker grade I to IV). Dr. Zuckerman’s approach to treatment may include medication in mild cases to reduce inflammation and slow the progression of capsule formation. Surgical options include capsulectomy (surgical removal of the scar tissue capsule, which may also involve implant replacement), capsulotomy (making incisions into the capsule to release the tension without removing the tissue), and implant exchange or removal. He emphasizes the importance of follow - up care and routine check - ups to monitor for signs of capsular contracture and other potential issues with breast implants.

4. Mount Sinai Plastic Surgery

Mount Sinai Plastic Surgery has a team of specialists who are the best in medical care and plastic surgery. They have the expertise to correct problem areas related to breast implants, including capsular contracture.

• Medical Staff: The plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai are nationally recognized specialists. They have the skills and knowledge to handle various breast implant - related issues, including capsular contracture.
• Treatment Approaches: The surgeons perform secondary or breast implant revision surgery by matching and repairing the body’s tissue with the breast implants so that the position, shape, and texture of the breast implants are natural and beautiful. For capsular contracture, they may recommend new materials or meshes to stabilize the area surrounding the breast implant. To enhance the natural shape and texture of the breasts, they may suggest fat transfer from the abdomen, hips, thighs, or other spots.

5. Dr. Antell's Practice

Dr. Antell's practice in New York City offers specialized capsular contracture treatment. He has developed effective treatment methods and prevention strategies based on his decades of experience.

• Medical Staff: Dr. Antell is the key figure in the practice. He is well - versed in the causes, symptoms, and treatments of capsular contracture.
• Treatment Approaches: If early signs of capsular contracture are noticed, Dr. Antell examines the patient and suggests proper approaches. In mild cases, he may remove a portion of the scar tissue to create more space in the breast pocket and correct early capsular contracture. In more advanced cases, a capsulectomy is performed to remove the entire breast implant and the surrounding capsule at once, and new implants are inserted based on the patient's aesthetic desires. He also emphasizes the importance of reducing the risk of capsular contracture during the initial breast implant surgery, such as using submuscular placement and newer techniques like the no - touch technique and a funnel to place the implants.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Capsular Contracture Treatment

When selecting a hospital for the treatment of breast implant capsular contracture, several factors should be taken into account:

1. Medical Staff Expertise: Look for hospitals with experienced and board - certified plastic surgeons who have a proven track record in treating capsular contracture. Check their patient ratings and reviews to get an idea of their skills and bedside manner.
2. Treatment Approaches: Different hospitals may use different treatment methods. It is important to understand the options available and choose a hospital that offers the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition.
3. Success Rates: Inquire about the hospital's success rates in treating capsular contracture, including the recurrence rate after treatment.
4. Patient Care and Support: Consider the level of patient care and support provided by the hospital. This includes pre - operative consultations, post - operative care instructions, and availability of follow - up appointments.
5. Cost: The cost of treatment can vary depending on the hospital and the specific treatment approach. Make sure to discuss the cost and payment options with the hospital before making a decision.

Conclusion

Breast implant capsular contracture can be a challenging condition, but there are excellent hospitals in New York City that are well - equipped to handle it. New York - Presbyterian / Weill Cornell Medical Center, Greenwald Plastic Surgery, Zuckerman Plastic Surgery, Mount Sinai Plastic Surgery, and Dr. Antell's practice all offer high - quality treatment options, with experienced medical staff and advanced treatment approaches. When choosing a hospital, it is essential to consider factors such as medical staff expertise, treatment approaches, success rates, patient care, and cost.

If you are experiencing symptoms of capsular contracture or have concerns about your breast implants, we encourage you to take action. Contact one of these hospitals for a consultation. By seeking professional help, you can take the first step towards resolving your condition and regaining your confidence and comfort.