New ranking of hospitals for removal of breast augmentation prosthesis surgery in New York City is out!

Introduction

In New York City, the demand for breast augmentation prosthesis removal surgery has been on the rise. Various factors such as dissatisfaction with the results of breast augmentation, medical complications related to implants, or simply a change in personal preferences can lead individuals to seek this surgical procedure. The emergence of a new ranking of hospitals for this specific surgery provides valuable insights for patients who are looking for high - quality medical care. This article will explore the new rankings, relevant factors to consider when choosing a hospital, the surgical process, and recovery tips.

New Ranking and Top Hospitals in NYC for Breast Augmentation Prosthesis Removal

Although there may not be a widely publicized new comprehensive ranking at a particular moment, several hospitals and surgeons in New York City have a long - standing reputation for excellence in breast implant removal surgery.

New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center

This institution is a top - tier hospital in New York. It was ranked No. 7 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals. It is recognized for its excellence in 14 adult specialties and 8 children’s specialties. While not specifically ranking just for breast implant removal, its surgical excellence in general gives it an edge. In the field of surgical oncology, it has many specialists, including those in breast surgery. Their national ranking in cancer care and the high - quality surgical expertise make it a strong candidate for breast implant removal, especially in cases where there might be potential complications related to the implants such as rupture or association with conditions like Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).

Surgeons Associated with Leading Care

1. Dr. Darrick E. Antell: He is a premier breast surgeon in NYC. Widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide, he has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as being among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, including en bloc capsulectomy when indicated. Many of his patients are referred by former patients, and he has performed surgeries on many celebrities. He has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City but also has a private operating room across from Lenox Hill Hospital, providing a high - level of discretion and personalized care.
2. Dr. Barry Weintraub: Dr. Weintraub is known for his aesthetic sense and unique blend of medical science and art. He prefers to place implants under the pectoralis - major muscle for a more natural look. He has a hospital - grade, state - of - the - art surgical center attached to his office. Over 60% of his practice is complex redos of surgeries performed by other offices, which shows his expertise in handling difficult cases related to breast implant issues. He takes a patient - centered approach and believes in thoroughly understanding the patient's needs and desires.
3. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson: A board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon. She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal in NYC. She can address both aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants, such as breast implant illness and BIA - ALCL. She provides detailed advice on surgical options and the best course of action for each patient to achieve their goals.
4. Dr. Maura Reinblatt: Certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, she is renowned for her personalized approach to patient care. Her expertise includes advanced techniques for addressing medical issues associated with breast implants, such as en bloc capsulectomy and open capsulotomy. Her practice in White Plains, New York, serves as a hub for state - of - the - art cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital or Surgeon for Breast Implant Removal

Surgeon's Expertise and Experience

The surgeon's experience in breast implant removal surgery is crucial. Look for surgeons who have performed a large number of these procedures. Surgeons with extensive experience are more likely to handle potential complications effectively. For example, Dr. Darrick Antell has a career spanning over twenty years and more than ten thousand procedures. His experience allows him to perform surgeries with precision and produce better results.

Board Certification

Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification indicates that the surgeon has met high - quality standards in education, training, and professional practice. For instance, all the mentioned surgeons - Dr. Antell, Dr. Weintraub, Dr. Hutchinson, and Dr. Reinblatt - are board - certified, which gives patients confidence in their skills.

Hospital's Reputation and Accreditation

A hospital with a good reputation is more likely to have a high - standard of care. Hospitals like New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, which is highly ranked in national lists, are recognized for their commitment to excellence in medical care. Additionally, ensure that the hospital or surgical facility is accredited. This accreditation means that the facility meets specific safety and quality standards.

Patient Reviews and Testimonials

Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by the hospital and surgeon. Positive reviews can indicate a high level of patient satisfaction, while negative reviews may highlight potential issues. For example, patients who have undergone surgery with Dr. Hutchinson have praised her and her staff for the exceptional experience and amazing results.

Range of Services

Choose a hospital or surgeon that offers a comprehensive range of services related to breast implant removal. This may include different types of removal procedures (such as en bloc capsulectomy, partial capsulectomy, or total capsulectomy), and the ability to combine the removal with other procedures like breast lift if needed. The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC offers a variety of breast implant removal procedures and customizes the treatment plan according to each patient's needs.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

Medical Complications

• Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma occurring in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. When left untreated, it can spread to nearby lymph nodes. Symptoms include pain or swelling around the breasts and a difference in the size or shape of the breasts. The FDA has recalled certain textured breast implants due to their association with a higher rate of BIA - ALCL. Treatment typically involves surgically removing the implants and surrounding scar tissue.
• Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the tissue around the implant becomes firm. It can cause pain, discomfort, and an abnormal appearance of the breasts. In severe cases, the breast may feel hard and distorted. Treatment often involves removing the implant and the surrounding scar tissue.
• Implant Rupture or Leakage: Saline implants are more prone to leakage due to their valve system, while silicone implants can rupture. A ruptured or leaking implant can cause pain, changes in breast shape, and other complications. In such cases, removal of the implant is usually necessary.
• Breast Implant Illness (BII): This refers to a wide variety of symptoms that patients may report after breast augmentation, such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, and depression. While the exact cause is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.

Aesthetic Reasons

• Dissatisfaction with the Results of Breast Augmentation: Some patients may be unhappy with the size, shape, or position of their implants. They may want to return to their natural breast size or achieve a different aesthetic result.
• Changes in Personal Preferences: Over time, a patient's aesthetic preferences may change. For example, they may no longer desire the enhanced look provided by the implants and wish to have a more natural appearance.

The Surgical Process of Breast Implant Removal

Consultation

During the initial consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history. They will also assess the current condition of the breasts. If the patient desires implant removal due to medical complications, it is important to discuss any symptoms they may be experiencing. Patients should bring any information they have about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. The surgeon and the patient will have an open and honest conversation about the desired outcome, and based on this, a surgical plan will be created. It may be recommended to pair the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift.

Pre - operative Preparation

Based on various factors, such as age and implant condition, the patient may be sent for imaging, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, prior to the surgery. Ahead of the surgery day, the patient will be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. Prescriptions may be given that should be filled before the surgery. Depending on the patient's history, they may be asked to provide pre - operative clearance from another doctor. Since the procedure is often performed under “twilight” sedation, the patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and ensure they have someone to assist them in the first few days of recovery.

Anesthesia

Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another type of “twilight” anesthesia. In some rare cases, only local anesthesia may be used. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the procedure to ensure their safety and comfort.

Surgery

1. Incision Placement: If possible, the surgeon will remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. This is more likely when the implants were placed with an inframammary fold or areolar incision, but may not be possible with an armpit incision.
2. Implant Removal: The surgeon will remove the implant using various methods, such as prying out the implants from beneath breast tissue, cutting through the shell of the implant if it is sticking to nearby tissues, or using instruments attached to the breast implant for slow removal.
3. Scar Tissue Removal: If there is capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or the patient has textured breast implants and is experiencing BIA - ALCL, it is often necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant. When the implant and scar tissue are removed simultaneously, it is called en - bloc resection.
4. Closure: Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and a layer of external sutures, if needed, will be used to close the incisions. A layer of gauze or a bandage may be placed over the breasts to speed healing. The surgery usually takes between one to three hours to complete, and en - bloc resection can take even longer.

Recovery after Breast Implant Removal

Immediate Post - operative Period

After the surgery, the patient will recover in a state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse until they feel well enough to be discharged. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia will be used to reduce discomfort. Since it is an outpatient procedure, the patient can return home the same day. However, they should have an escort as they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. The patient will be provided with thorough discharge instructions that will guide them through the initial post - operative period.

Short - term Recovery

After surgery, the breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage. The patient may feel tired or sore as their body uses energy to heal. Many patients can return to most daily activities within days of the procedure, but it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. The surgeon will provide an individualized recovery plan based on the intricacies of the customized procedure and the patient's rate of healing. It is common to experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. There may also be some fluid drainage from the incision site.

Long - term Recovery

The majority of patients do not require a breast lift after surgery, as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally. The patient will typically return to the office the day after the surgery so that the surgeon can monitor the healing process. If external sutures are used during surgery, 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 scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade.

Potential Risks and Complications

Breast implant removal surgery is generally a safe procedure when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications:

• Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery. In most cases, this can be managed, but in severe cases, additional treatment may be required.
• Infection: Infection can occur at the incision site or in the breast tissue. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat infections.
• Numbness at the Incision Site: Some patients may experience numbness or a change in sensation at the incision site. This is usually temporary but can be permanent in some cases.
• Adverse Reaction to the Anesthesia: Although rare, some patients may have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used during the surgery. This can range from mild allergic reactions to more serious complications.

Conclusion

The new ranking of hospitals for removal of breast augmentation prosthesis surgery in New York City provides patients with a useful guide to finding high - quality medical care. When choosing a hospital or surgeon, it is important to consider factors such as the surgeon's expertise, hospital reputation, and patient reviews. Understanding the reasons for breast implant removal, the surgical process, and the recovery period is also crucial for a successful outcome. Breast implant removal can help patients address medical complications or achieve their desired aesthetic goals, but it is essential to approach the procedure with realistic expectations.

If you are considering breast implant removal surgery in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a board - certified plastic surgeon. Discuss your concerns and goals openly, and take the time to research different hospitals and surgeons. By making an informed decision, you can increase your chances of a successful surgery and a smooth recovery. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast implant removal surgery in NYC.