New Ranking of Hospitals for Removing Breast Implants in Breast Augmentation Surgery in New York City Revealed!

Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure that many women in New York City are considering for various reasons. Whether it's due to medical complications, dissatisfaction with the results of a previous breast augmentation, or personal lifestyle changes, finding the right hospital and surgeon is crucial. In this article, we will explore the top hospitals and surgeons for breast implant removal in New York City in 2025, as well as provide in - depth information about the procedure itself.

I. Understanding Breast Implant Removal

A. Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

There are multiple reasons why a woman might choose to have her breast implants removed. These can be broadly categorized into medical and non - medical reasons:

1. Medical Reasons
   • Breast Implant Illness (BII): A condition where the body reacts adversely to breast implants, causing symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, cognitive difficulties, and skin rashes. As stated in top Google search results, some patients believe that removing the implants can alleviate these symptoms.
   • Capsular Contracture: This occurs when excessive scar tissue forms around the implant, causing firmness, irregular shape, and discomfort. Data shows that a significant number of patients with capsular contracture opt for implant removal to relieve pain and correct the appearance of their breasts.
   • Implant Rupture or Leakage: Saline implants can deflate if the shell ruptures, while silicone implants may leak, which can be detected through imaging or may present with visible changes in the breast. In such cases, removal of the ruptured implant is often necessary.
   • Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): A rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma occurring in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. The FDA has recalled certain textured breast implants due to their association with an increased risk of BIA - ALCL. Treatment usually involves surgically removing the implants and surrounding scar tissue.
2. Non - Medical Reasons
   • Dissatisfaction with Aesthetic Results: Some women may not be happy with the size, shape, or position of their implants after breast augmentation. For example, the implants may be too large or have shifted over time, leading to an asymmetrical appearance.
   • Lifestyle Changes: As a woman's lifestyle evolves, she may find that her breast implants are no longer suitable. Athletes or those who engage in physically demanding activities may prefer to have a more natural breast size to enhance comfort and mobility.

B. Types of Breast Implant Removal Procedures

There are different techniques for breast implant removal, depending on the patient's situation:

II. Top Hospitals and Surgeons for Breast Implant Removal in New York City

A. Dr. Darrick E. Antell

Dr. Darrick E. Antell is widely regarded as one of the premier breast surgeons in New York City and worldwide. He has over twenty years of experience and has performed more than ten thousand procedures. He is listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as being among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country.

• Services Offered: Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, including en bloc capsulectomy when indicated. He also removes the allergan textured breast implants recalled by the FDA due to their association with BIA - ALCL.
• Patient Experience: Many of his patients are referred by former patients, which speaks to his high - quality surgical results and patient satisfaction. He has performed surgeries on many celebrities and well - known individuals, and maintains a reputation for exceptional surgical results with total discretion.
• Facility: He has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but most patients prefer his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited, designed for patient comfort, and equipped with the latest technology.

B. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon. She is considered one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the Upper East Side in NYC, with over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns.

• Services Offered: She can address a wide range of breast implant - related issues, both functional and cosmetic. For aesthetic issues such as palpable or visible implants, rupture, leakage, or capsular contracture, she offers appropriate surgical solutions. She also manages medical issues like BIA - ALCL and breast implant illness.
• Patient Feedback: Patients have given rave reviews about their experience with Dr. Hutchinson and her staff. They praise the calming atmosphere of the clinic, the professionalism of the team, and the amazing results of the surgeries.

C. Dr. Barry Weintraub

Dr. Barry Weintraub is a well - respected plastic surgeon in New York City. He has a strong aesthetic sense and a unique blend of medical science and artwork.

• Services Offered: His services include breast implant removal and replacement. He often combines the removal of existing implants with replacement using different sized or types of implants, or with autologous fat transfer. He also performs breast lift in conjunction with implant removal when needed to achieve a more natural and aesthetically pleasing result.
• Patient Consideration: Dr. Weintraub emphasizes patient safety and comfort. He prefers to perform surgeries in a state - of - the - art surgical center attached to his office at 800a Fifth Avenue, providing a private and high - quality environment. He also has privileges at several major hospitals in the city.

D. New York Group for Plastic Surgery (Dr. Andrew Salzberg and Dr. Jordan Jacobs)

The New York Group for Plastic Surgery offers breast implant removal services performed by Dr. Andrew Salzberg and Dr. Jordan Jacobs. They provide solid information to patients to help them make informed decisions about their bodies.

• Services Offered: Their breast explant procedure involves removing breast implants and some or all of the surrounding scar capsules, as well as cleaning the breast pocket. They administer either local or general anesthesia depending on the patient's needs and the extent of the surgery.
• Pre - and Post - operative Care: They guide patients through the preparation process, including avoiding certain medications before surgery and arranging for post - operative care. After the surgery, they provide detailed instructions on recovery, pain management, and wound care.

E. Dr. David Shokrian (Millennial Plastic Surgery)

Dr. David Shokrian at Millennial Plastic Surgery is experienced in breast implant removal. He works with patients to create a personalized approach to the procedure.

• Services Offered: He performs breast explant surgery, usually as an outpatient procedure. He takes into account the patient's concerns and goals to achieve the best possible outcome, whether it's removing the implants alone or combining the removal with a breast lift.
• Patient Support: The clinic offers comprehensive consultations, both virtually and in person, to address patients' questions and concerns. They also provide support in financing options for the procedure.

F. Dr. Maura Reinblatt

Dr. Maura Reinblatt is a board - certified plastic surgeon with dual board certifications in plastic surgery and surgery. She is renowned for her personalized approach to patient care.

• Services Offered: She offers breast implant removal surgery, including advanced techniques such as en bloc capsulectomy and open capsulotomy to address medical issues associated with breast implants. She also tailors the procedure to each patient's unique needs and goals.
• Credentials and Reputation: Dr. Reinblatt is an active member of esteemed professional organizations such as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Her practice in White Plains, New York, is known for providing state - of - the - art cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.

III. The Breast Implant Removal Process

A. Consultation

The first step in the breast implant removal process is a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During this consultation:

1. The surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history, including any previous breast surgeries.
2. They will assess the current condition of the breasts, the type and position of the implants, and any signs of complications.
3. The patient should discuss their reasons for wanting the implant removal, their desired outcome, and any concerns they may have. It is helpful to bring any information about the existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery to the appointment.
4. Based on the patient's goals, the surgeon may recommend additional procedures such as a breast lift to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing result. They will also discuss the risks, benefits, and recovery process of the procedure in detail.

B. Pre - operative Preparation

Once the patient decides to proceed with the breast implant removal, they will need to make certain preparations:

• Medical Evaluation: The surgeon may order imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI to assess the condition of the implants and surrounding tissues. Depending on the patient's history, they may also need to obtain pre - operative clearance from another doctor.
• Medication Management: The patient should stop taking certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications, usually one week before the surgery. Blood - thinning medications may need to be stopped for up to six weeks prior, under the guidance of the prescribing physician.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Patients are usually advised to quit smoking before the surgery, as smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of complications. They should also arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and assist them during the first few days of recovery.

C. The Surgery

The breast implant removal surgery typically follows these steps:

1. Anesthesia: The surgeon will administer either local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's preference and the complexity of the procedure. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the surgery to ensure their safety and comfort.
2. Incision: The surgeon will make an incision, usually in the same location as the original breast augmentation incision if possible. This may be in the inframammary fold, around the areola, or in the armpit. The incision allows access to the implants and surrounding tissues.
3. Implant and Scar Tissue Removal: The surgeon will carefully remove the implants. If there is scar tissue, they may perform a capsulectomy, either en bloc or partially, depending on the situation. For cases of capsular contracture or BIA - ALCL, an en bloc capsulectomy is often preferred to remove the entire capsule along with the implant.
4. Closure: After the implants and scar tissue are removed, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures or skin adhesions. A layer of gauze or a bandage may be placed over the breasts to promote healing.

D. Recovery

The recovery process after breast implant removal varies from patient to patient, but generally follows these guidelines:

• Immediate Post - operative: After the surgery, the patient will recover in a post - operative suite while being monitored by a nurse. They may experience some discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. The patient will be given discharge instructions, including how to care for the incisions, when to take medications, and when to schedule follow - up appointments.
• Initial Weeks: Patients may feel tired and sore in the first few days after the surgery. Swelling and bruising are common and usually subside within a few weeks. They are advised to wear a compression garment or support bra to minimize swelling and help the tissues heal. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, but strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for four to six weeks.
• Long - term: It may take several months for the final results to be visible. The breasts will gradually return to their natural shape, although some changes in size and appearance are to be expected. Patients may experience some loss of feeling in the breast area, which usually improves over time. Scars will fade over the course of several months but may never completely disappear.

IV. Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, breast implant removal carries some risks and potential complications:

1. Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery. This can usually be managed with proper surgical techniques and post - operative care, but in rare cases, additional treatment may be required.
2. Infection: Infections can occur at the incision site or in the breast tissue. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat infections, and in severe cases, further surgical intervention may be necessary.
3. Numbness: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent numbness in the breast area or around the incisions. This is usually due to nerve damage during the surgery and may improve over time.
4. Adverse Reaction to Anesthesia: Although rare, some patients may have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used during the surgery. This can range from mild nausea and vomiting to more serious complications such as allergic reactions or breathing problems.
5. Unsatisfactory Aesthetic Results: There is a possibility that the patient may not be completely satisfied with the aesthetic outcome of the breast implant removal. This could be due to factors such as changes in breast shape, size, or the appearance of scars.

V. Cost Considerations

The cost of breast implant removal in New York City can vary widely depending on several factors:

• Surgeon's Fee: The experience, reputation, and expertise of the surgeon can significantly affect the cost. Highly skilled and well - known surgeons may charge more for their services.
• Facility Fees: The cost of using the surgical facility, including the operating room, equipment, and staff, is also a factor. Private surgical centers may have different fee structures compared to hospitals.
• Anesthesia Fees: The type of anesthesia used and the services of the anesthesiologist contribute to the overall cost.
• Medical Tests and Imaging: Pre - operative tests such as ultrasounds, mammograms, and MRIs, as well as post - operative follow - up appointments and tests, can add to the total cost.
• Medications: Prescription medications for pain management, antibiotics, and other post - operative care are additional expenses.

In most cases, breast implant removal procedures are not covered by health insurance unless they are