Introduction
When it comes to breast prosthesis removal in New York City, finding the right public hospital is crucial. A well - regarded public hospital can offer not only experienced medical professionals but also access to the latest medical technologies and resources. In this article, we will explore some of the top public hospitals in New York City for breast prosthesis removal, discussing their facilities, services, and what makes them stand out in the field.
Factors to Consider in Choosing a Hospital for Breast Prosthesis Removal
Medical Expertise
The expertise of the medical staff is perhaps the most important factor. Surgeons who specialize in breast surgery should have extensive experience in breast prosthesis removal procedures. They should be well - versed in handling different types of implants, dealing with potential complications such as capsular contracture, and ensuring a safe and successful removal process. For example, according to data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), hospitals with a high success rate in breast - related surgeries are more likely to have highly skilled medical teams.
Patient Satisfaction
Patient satisfaction is a key indicator of the quality of care. Hospitals that prioritize patient comfort, communication, and after - care tend to have higher patient satisfaction ratings. Information from the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) patient satisfaction survey can provide valuable insights into how patients perceive the hospital's services, from the initial consultation to the post - operative recovery period.
Accreditations
Accreditations are a sign of a hospital's commitment to meeting high standards of care. For breast prosthesis removal, hospitals with accreditations related to surgical services, breast care, and patient safety are preferred. This may include accreditations from organizations such as the American College of Surgeons or the Joint Commission.
Top Public Hospitals for Breast Prosthesis Removal in New York City
Weill Cornell Medicine Breast Center
Location and Contact
Weill Cornell Medicine has multiple locations in New York City. It has facilities at 156 William Street, 12th floor (Lower Manhattan), 425 East 61st street, 10th floor (Upper East Side), and 1283 York Avenue, 4th floor (Upper East Side). You can contact them at (646) 962 - 4240.
Medical Team
The breast center boasts a team of exemplary surgeons. These surgeons have extensive training and expertise in breast surgery. For instance, Russell S. Berman, M.D., FACS; Lisa Newman, MD, MPH, FACS, FASCO; Magdalena Lombardi Plasilova, M.D., Ph.D.; Rache M. Simmons, M.D.; and Alexander Julian Swistel, M.D. are all part of the surgical team. They have advanced many of the latest standards for breast cancer prevention and treatment, which also translates into their proficiency in breast prosthesis removal.
Services Offered
- Lumpectomy: This procedure can be relevant in cases where there are associated tissue abnormalities along with the need for prosthesis removal. It involves removing the cancer and abnormal tissue from the breast without removing other parts of the breast.
- Mastectomy: In some complex cases, a mastectomy might be required in conjunction with or as part of the prosthesis removal process. It is a procedure to remove all the breast tissue to prevent or treat breast - related issues.
- Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: If there are concerns about potential lymph node involvement due to previous breast augmentation or related conditions, this procedure can be performed. The sentinel lymph node is identified, removed, and evaluated for cancer cells.
- Breast Reconstruction: After breast prosthesis removal, some patients may desire breast reconstruction to restore the shape and contour of their breasts. The center offers advanced breast reconstruction approaches that preserve tissue and restore the patient's natural contour.
Multidisciplinary Care
One of the strengths of Weill Cornell Medicine is its multidisciplinary approach. When a patient chooses this center for breast prosthesis removal, the breast surgeon may consult with experts in radiation oncology, nutrition, and other medical professionals as needed. This ensures that the patient receives comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of their health and well - being during the treatment process.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue
Medical Team
The breast surgery team at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue consists of highly qualified professionals. Kathie - Ann Joseph, MD, who is the Chief of the Breast Surgery Service and an Associate Professor at the Department of Surgery at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, is board - certified by the American Board of Surgery. Erica Friedman, MD, a breast surgery attending and Assistant Professor at the same institution, also holds the American Board of Surgery certification. The team is supported by a physician assistant, Aline Bedrosian, PA.
Operations Performed
- Excisional Biopsies for Benign Tumors: If there are benign tumors associated with the breast prosthesis, this procedure can be performed to remove and evaluate them.
- Mastectomies and Nipple Sparing Mastectomies: These procedures are available for cases where a more comprehensive removal of breast tissue is required. Nipple sparing mastectomies offer a more aesthetically pleasing option when appropriate.
- Lumpectomies: Similar to Weill Cornell Medicine, lumpectomies are part of the surgical options. They can be performed with savi scout localization (wireless removal of tumors) or with needle localization for more precise tumor removal.
- Sentinel Node Biopsies and Axillary Node Dissections: These procedures help in evaluating the lymph nodes' status in cases where there may be a concern for cancer spread.
- Terminal Duct Excisions: This is useful for cases where there is nipple discharge, which could be related to the breast prosthesis or other underlying conditions.
Additional Services
The hospital offers a wide range of additional services to support patients. They provide access to clinical trials, which can give patients the opportunity to be part of the latest medical research. Patient navigation services help patients through the often - complex process of diagnosis and treatment. Social work services offer emotional and practical support, while genetic testing can identify patients at a higher risk of breast - related diseases. Tomosynthesis, MRI/MRI guided biopsy, DIEP flap reconstruction/implants, psychological support, lymphedema treatment/physical therapy, nutrition, and radiation oncology services are also available to ensure comprehensive care.
Mount Sinai - New York Dubin Breast Center
Medical Team
The breast surgery team at the Dubin Breast Center is led by Dr. Elisa Port, who is the Chief of Breast Surgery and the Director of the center. Other team members include Dr. David Anderson, Dr. Borna Mohabbatizadeh, and Dr. Christina Weltz. These surgeons are skilled in using the latest technologies for breast surgery, which is essential for safe and effective breast prosthesis removal.
Types of Breast Surgery
The center performs several types of breast surgery relevant to breast prosthesis removal. They often perform breast - conserving procedures, which involve removing the cancer while leaving most of the breast intact. In cases where a more extensive removal is necessary, mastectomies are performed. If a patient has a mastectomy, the center can perform skin - sparing or nipple - sparing mastectomy with immediate reconstruction. Research shows that women with early - stage breast cancer who have breast - conserving surgery along with radiation therapy have similar long - term outcomes as those who have a mastectomy. This information can be useful for patients making decisions about their treatment options in the context of breast prosthesis removal.
Patient - Centered Approach
At the Dubin Breast Center, the patient - centered approach is a priority. If a patient is able to choose their surgical procedure, the surgeon will sit with them and discuss the pros and cons of each option. The medical team is available to answer any questions the patient may have and help them decide what is best for their body. This level of communication and involvement in the decision - making process can help patients feel more confident and in control of their treatment.
Comparative Analysis of the Top Hospitals
| Hospital | Medical Team Expertise | Services Offered | Patient - Centered Approach | Accreditations (if available) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weill Cornell Medicine Breast Center | Highly experienced surgeons with contributions to breast cancer treatment standards | Lumpectomy, mastectomy, sentinel lymph node biopsy, breast reconstruction | Multidisciplinary care with consultations across different medical fields | Not explicitly stated in the provided references but affiliated with a top - ranked academic medical center |
| NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue | Board - certified surgeons with academic affiliations | Excisional biopsies, mastectomies, lumpectomies, sentinel node biopsies, terminal duct excisions, and a wide range of additional support services | Patient navigation, social work, and genetic testing services show a comprehensive patient - centered approach | Not explicitly stated in the provided references |
| Mount Sinai - New York Dubin Breast Center | Skilled surgeons using the latest breast surgery technologies | Breast - conserving procedures, mastectomies, skin - sparing/nipple - sparing mastectomies with reconstruction | Surgeons discuss options with patients and help in decision - making | Not explicitly stated in the provided references |
Pre - operative Considerations for Breast Prosthesis Removal
Consultation
During the initial consultation at any of these hospitals, the patient's general health and medical history will be thoroughly evaluated. For example, if a patient is considering breast prosthesis removal due to medical complications, they need to discuss any symptoms they are experiencing. It is also helpful for the patient to bring any information about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery to the appointment. This allows the medical team to create a more personalized surgical plan.
Medical Tests
Depending on various factors such as age and implant condition, the patient may be sent for imaging tests. These can include an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI. These tests help the medical team understand the current state of the breasts and the implants, which is crucial for a successful removal procedure.
Preparation
The patient will be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. Prescriptions may be provided that need to be filled prior to the surgery. In some cases, the patient may be asked to provide pre - operative clearance from another doctor. As the procedure is often performed under “twilight” sedation, the patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and have assistance during the first few days of recovery.
Post - operative Care and Recovery
Immediate Post - operative
After the surgery, the patient will recover in a specialized recovery suite while being monitored by medical staff. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia may be used to reduce discomfort. Most breast prosthesis removal procedures are outpatient, which means the patient can return home the same day. However, they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia, so having an escort is essential.
Recovery Process
The patient's breasts may be covered with a layer of gauze or a bandage. They may feel tired or sore as the body heals. Many patients are able to return to most daily activities within days of the procedure, but it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. The medical team will provide an individualized recovery plan based on the patient's specific procedure and healing rate. It is important to follow all post - operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and to avoid complications such as infection or delayed wound healing.
Follow - up
The patient will typically return to the hospital the day after the surgery so that the medical team can monitor the healing process. In most cases, dissolvable sutures or dermabond are used to avoid external sutures. If external sutures are used, they are usually removed around 7 - 10 days following the procedure. Although much of the swelling and bruising will fade in the first few weeks, it may take several months before the final results are visible. The patient should also be aware that some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions is normal, and this numbness typically fades over time.
Potential Complications and How Hospitals Address Them
Bleeding and Infection
As with any surgical procedure, bleeding and infection are potential complications. Hospitals with experienced medical teams, such as the ones mentioned above, take several precautions. They use strict sterilization techniques in the operating room, and the medical staff closely monitors the patient's post - operative condition. If bleeding occurs, the medical team is trained to handle it promptly, which may involve applying pressure, using hemostatic agents, or in more severe cases, performing additional surgical procedures. In case of infection, appropriate antibiotics will be prescribed based on the type of bacteria involved.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture, where the tissue around the implant becomes firm, can be a concern during breast prosthesis removal. Surgeons at these top hospitals are experienced in dealing with capsular contracture. They may perform an en - bloc resection, which involves removing the implant and the surrounding scar tissue simultaneously. This helps to reduce the risk of leaving behind any problematic tissue and can improve the overall outcome of the removal procedure.
Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)
Although rare, BIA - ALCL is a serious concern related to breast implants. The hospitals are aware of the symptoms, such as pain or swelling around the breasts, a difference in breast size or shape, and a mass or fluid accumulation. If a patient shows symptoms of BIA - ALCL, the medical team will perform a thorough evaluation, which may include an MRI. Treatment typically involves surgically removing the implants and surrounding scar tissue, and in more serious cases, chemotherapy or radiation may also be necessary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to breast prosthesis removal in New York City, Weill Cornell Medicine Breast Center, NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue, and Mount Sinai - New York Dubin Breast Center are among the top public hospitals. These hospitals offer experienced medical teams, a wide range of services, and a patient - centered approach. They also take necessary precautions to deal with potential complications. However, each patient's situation is unique, and it is important to carefully consider all the factors, such as medical expertise, services offered, and patient satisfaction, when choosing a hospital for breast prosthesis removal.
We encourage you to share this article with anyone who may be considering breast prosthesis removal in New York City. If you have any further questions or want to learn more about the procedures or hospitals mentioned, feel free to explore more resources on our website or consult a medical professional.
