Introduction
New York City is a global hub for medical excellence, offering a wide range of options for breast prosthesis removal and breast augmentation procedures. Whether you're considering having your breast implants removed due to medical reasons, a change in aesthetic preferences, or looking to enhance your bust through breast augmentation, finding the right hospital and surgeon is crucial. In this article, we'll take an in - depth look at the top ten public and private hospitals in New York City for these procedures.
Understanding Breast Prosthesis Removal and Breast Augmentation
Breast Prosthesis Removal
Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, is often sought for various reasons. Some women may be experiencing medical complications related to their implants, such as breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), capsular contracture, or implant rupture. Others may simply want to return to their natural breast size or have concerns about the long - term effects of implants. According to a study, the rate of complications leading to implant removal can vary, but it's important for patients to consult with a qualified surgeon. For example, a report shows that capsular contracture occurs in about 3 - 4% of breast implant patients and increases gradually over the years.
During the explant surgery, if indicated, an en bloc capsulectomy may be performed to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. Different surgical methods are used depending on the patient's unique situation and goals. For instance, in some cases, the plastic surgeon can remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery, but this may not be possible with an armpit incision.
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, commonly known as a "boob job," is a surgical procedure used to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. It can be achieved through the transfer of fat from a part of the body or by using breast implants, such as silicone or saline implants. This procedure is popular among women who want to restore breast volume lost due to weight loss, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, or those seeking a more balanced physical appearance. However, like any surgical procedure, it comes with risks, including breast pain, numbness, implant leak, and issues with breastfeeding.
The cost of breast augmentation can range from $3,900 to $6,000, depending on factors such as the type of procedure, the type of implants, and the surgeon performing the surgery. Additionally, the recovery process usually takes between six to eight weeks, and patients are advised to follow a strict post - operative care regimen.
The Top Ten Hospitals in New York City for Breast Procedures
1. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
This Manhattan - based center is well - known for its top - rated breast surgery team. The board - certified plastic surgeons here are highly trained in breast implant removal surgery and are world - renowned for their advanced techniques. They offer various breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy, customized to fit each patient's unique needs. The surgery is performed at their state - of - the - art fully accredited surgical suite, and patients can expect swelling and tenderness to subside within six to eight weeks. To schedule a complimentary consultation, patients can contact their office at (212) 481 - 0110 or request a consultation online.
2. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice
Dr. Darrick Antell is a premier breast surgeon in NYC. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. With over twenty years of experience and more than ten thousand procedures under his belt, Dr. Antell combines meticulous surgical skills, the latest medical technologies, and an artistic eye. He performs custom breast implant removal surgery, and when indicated, an en bloc capsulectomy. Many of his patients are referred by former patients, a testament to his excellent results. Dr. Antell has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but most patients prefer the procedure to take place in his discreet, private operating room across the street from Lenox Hill Hospital. To schedule a consultation, patients can call (212) - 988 - 4040.
3. Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
As one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - class medical center, Columbia offers comprehensive plastic surgery services. Their cosmetic care program includes breast augmentation, among other procedures. Their plastic surgeons are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, from routine non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations. The Columbia breast cancer reconstructive surgery program is dedicated to helping individuals who have undergone breast cancer surgery reclaim their physical and emotional well - being. Patients can get in touch with their plastic surgeons by calling (212) 305 - 3103 or requesting an appointment online.
4. Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons are highly skilled and can help patients achieve their desired breast enhancement results. At the consultation, they use new technology built specially for Mount Sinai by Microsoft and Touch MD to help patients visualize their goals. They offer a wide range of breast enhancement procedures, including breast augmentation, breast implant revision, breast lift, and breast reduction. Their team of board - certified plastic surgeons is committed to providing attractive and natural - looking breast improvements.
5. Spiro Plastic Surgery
Dr. Spiro, who received his medical doctor degree from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, New Jersey Medical School in 1988, leads this practice. Their service focus includes 13% breast augmentation, among other procedures such as body contouring and liposuction. The large, professional, and experienced staff strive to meet all patient needs at all hours of the day and night and exceed patient expectations. Patients can contact them at (973) 736 - 5907.
6. Elite Body Sculpture – New York
They provide custom body contouring using air sculpt technology, which is tailored to the patient's body type and desired outcome. Although breast augmentation is only 2% of their service focus, their patented procedure sets the industry standard. Patients are awake during the procedure and can listen to music or chat with a friend. Based in NYC, they can be reached at (212) 355 - 7980.
7. Nadia Afridi, MD
Dr. Nadia S. Afridi is a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons in Canada, an associate fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. With a 36% service focus on breast augmentation, she is specifically interested in women's health issues as they relate to plastic surgery. Patients can schedule an appointment by calling (212) 421 - 5100.
8. Steven Wallach MD, FACS
Dr. Wallach performs breast implant removal surgery, usually making an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach. He also removes implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary. Good candidates for the procedure are healthy individuals who desire implant removal. During the consultation, Dr. Wallach walks patients through the options and techniques available and discusses the best results with the least amount of scarring. Patients can learn more about their options by calling or contacting the office online.
9. Manhattan Aesthetic Surgery
Under the leadership of Dr. Nicholas Vendemia, this full - service plastic surgery practice specializes in breast augmentation, among other procedures such as rhinoplasty, liposuction, laser treatments, and injectables. Everything they do is with the highest regard to safety, a focus on innovation, and is delivered by a caring and skilled staff in Manhattan. Patients can call (917) 703 - 7069 for more information.
10. West Village Plastic Surgery, The Natural Look
Dr. Kim at West Village Plastic Surgery has developed an algorithm for facial fillers to restore facial volume naturally. With a 28% service focus on breast augmentation, his philosophy is to provide the highest quality of treatment and service to improve, restore, and harmonize the face and body for the people in his community. Patients can reach out to them at (646) 725 - 8447.
Comparing the Hospitals
| Hospital | Specialty in Breast Procedures | Service Focus | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC | Advanced breast implant removal techniques, various removal procedures | Breast implant removal, possible replacement | (212) 481 - 0110 |
| Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice | Custom breast implant removal, en bloc capsulectomy | Breast implant removal, high - end patient care | (212) - 988 - 4040 |
| Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery | Comprehensive breast procedures, breast cancer reconstruction | Breast augmentation, breast reconstruction, various cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries | (212) 305 - 3103 |
| Mount Sinai - New York | Range of breast enhancement procedures, use of advanced visualization technology | Breast augmentation, revision, lift, reduction | Consultation available through hospital channels |
| Spiro Plastic Surgery | General plastic surgery with focus on body contouring and breast augmentation | 13% breast augmentation, body contouring, liposuction, etc. | (973) 736 - 5907 |
| Elite Body Sculpture – New York | Custom body contouring, breast augmentation as part of services | 2% breast augmentation, body contouring using air sculpt technology | (212) 355 - 7980 |
| Nadia Afridi, MD | Special interest in women's health - related plastic surgery, high - focus breast augmentation | 36% breast augmentation, body contouring, liposuction | (212) 421 - 5100 |
| Steven Wallach MD, FACS | Breast implant removal, possible replacement, handling of complications | Breast implant removal, replacement, breast enhancement options | Contact through office website or phone |
| Manhattan Aesthetic Surgery | Full - service plastic surgery with emphasis on breast augmentation and multiple procedures | 25% breast augmentation, rhinoplasty, liposuction, etc. | (917) 703 - 7069 |
| West Village Plastic Surgery, The Natural Look | Breast augmentation with focus on natural - looking results | 28% breast augmentation, body contouring, liposuction | (646) 725 - 8447 |
What to Consider When Choosing a Hospital
Surgeon's Experience and Expertise
It's crucial to choose a surgeon who has extensive experience in breast prosthesis removal or breast augmentation. Look for board - certified plastic surgeons who have a proven track record of successful procedures. Check their credentials, including their education, training, and any awards or recognition they have received. For example, Dr. Darrick Antell has been repeatedly listed in top magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country, which indicates his high level of expertise.
Hospital Reputation
Research the hospital's reputation. Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the quality of care provided. Hospitals with a long - standing reputation for excellence in plastic surgery, such as Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, are more likely to offer reliable services. A hospital's reputation can also be gauged by its affiliations, research activities, and any awards or accreditations it has received.
Technology and Facilities
State - of - the - art technology and well - equipped facilities are essential for successful breast procedures. Hospitals like the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC have fully accredited surgical suites with the latest technology, which can ensure better outcomes and a more comfortable patient experience. For instance, Mount Sinai uses advanced visualization technology to help patients understand and plan their breast enhancement procedures.
Cost and Insurance
Consider the cost of the procedure and whether your insurance will cover it. In some cases, breast implant removal may be covered by insurance if it is medically necessary, such as in the case of a ruptured implant or BIA - ALCL. However, breast augmentation is usually considered a cosmetic procedure and may not be covered. Make sure to discuss the cost and payment options with the hospital and your insurance provider before making a decision.
Location and Convenience
The location of the hospital can also be an important factor. Choose a hospital that is easily accessible to you, especially considering the post - operative recovery period. If you live in a different area, some hospitals may offer services to assist with travel and accommodation, such as Dr. Joshua L. Levine's practice which helps out - of - town patients with travel logistics.
Conclusion
New York City offers a wealth of options for breast prosthesis removal and breast augmentation procedures. The top ten hospitals and practices mentioned in this article have demonstrated high - quality care, experienced surgeons, and advanced facilities. Whether you're looking to remove your breast implants due to medical reasons or enhance your bust through breast augmentation, it's important to do your research, consult with multiple surgeons, and consider all the factors discussed above.
If you're still unsure which hospital or surgeon is right for you, we encourage you to reach out to the facilities directly for more information. You can also read more about breast procedures on reputable medical websites, ask for recommendations from friends or family who have had similar surgeries, and attend informational seminars. Don't hesitate to take the next step towards achieving your desired breast aesthetic or addressing any concerns related to your breast implants.
