Popularity inventory of hospitals for silicone breast implant removal in New York City!

Introduction

Silicone breast implant removal has become a significant concern in New York City. Whether it's due to medical complications, personal preferences, or changes in aesthetic goals, many individuals are seeking reliable hospitals and surgeons for this procedure. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the popular hospitals and surgeons for silicone breast implant removal in NYC, including key factors to consider, common reasons for removal, and important details about the process.

Common Reasons for Silicone Breast Implant Removal

There are several reasons why someone might choose to have their silicone breast implants removed:

• Medical Complications:
  • Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens and contracts, causing pain, discomfort, and a distorted appearance of the breasts. According to some studies, the rate of capsular contracture is about 3 - 4%, and it can gradually increase over the years.
  • Implant Rupture or Leakage: A ruptured or leaking implant can lead to various issues. For saline implants, the breast may deflate rapidly as the sterile saline solution leaks out and is absorbed by the body. In the case of silicone implants, an MRI may be required to determine if there is a rupture, as it may not be as visually obvious. There are also concerns about potential health risks associated with silicone leakage, although silicone is generally considered an inert substance.
  • Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. It has been linked to certain types of textured breast implants, and the FDA has recalled some of these implants due to the increased risk. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, or a change in the size or shape of the breasts.
  • Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII refers to a wide range of symptoms that some patients report after breast augmentation, such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, and more. Although the exact cause is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems in some cases.
• Aesthetic Reasons:
  • Unsatisfactory Results: Some individuals may be unhappy with the size, shape, or appearance of their breasts after the initial augmentation. They may want to return to their natural breast size or achieve a different aesthetic outcome.
  • Change in Preferences: Over time, personal aesthetic preferences can change. What was once desired may no longer align with an individual's current sense of self - image, leading them to opt for implant removal.

Popular Surgeons and Hospitals for Silicone Breast Implant Removal in NYC

Dr. Darrick E. Antell

Dr. Darrick Antell is a top - rated plastic surgeon in New York City. He is 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.

• Services Offered: Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. He can remove existing silicone or saline implants and, when indicated, performs an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He also specializes in removing the Allergan textured breast implants that were recalled by the FDA due to their association with BIA - ALCL.
• Facility: He has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but most patients prefer for the procedure to take place in 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.
• Patient Experience: Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which speaks to the high level of satisfaction with their results. He has performed custom breast removal surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons in New York and beyond, and he is known for his exceptional surgical results and total discretion.

Dr. Steven Wallach

Dr. Steven Wallach is another well - known plastic surgeon offering breast implant removal services in NYC.

• Services Offered: He usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket created for the implants and removes them. He also removes implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary. During the procedure, he may perform a capsulectomy to remove the breast implant and the surrounding scar tissue. Patients can also choose to have their implants replaced at the same time if desired.
• Consultation and Preparation: During the consultation, Dr. Wallach will walk patients through the options and techniques available for the procedure, as well as which will provide the best results with the least amount of scarring. He will also discuss any medical issues or concerns. Patients are advised to be familiar with terms related to breast implants, such as ptosis, deflation, capsulectomy, and explantation, in preparation for the consultation.
• Recovery: After the procedure, patients can expect swelling, bruising, and mild pain, which can vary depending on if the implants were removed or replaced. Most patients can go back to light activity within three to five days, but are instructed to avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks.

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 or Dr. Jordan Jacobs.

• Services Offered: A breast explant procedure is performed to remove breast implants and some or all of the surrounding scar capsules. The surgeons also remove silicone from the shell of the implant and clean within the breast pocket. They use either local or general anesthesia depending on the patient's needs and the agreed - upon plan during the consultation.
• Preparation: Before the procedure, patients should avoid taking medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications for one week and blood - thinning medications for up to six weeks. They should arrange for someone to drive them home and remain with them for at least 24 hours after the procedure. An examination is also required to determine if the breasts are healthy enough for the explant.
• Recovery: Recovery is similar to that of the initial breast augmentation surgery. Patients can expect three days of downtime, followed by swelling, bruising, soreness, and sensitivity for a few weeks. Most patients can resume light activities within one week and more vigorous activity in about six weeks.

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon on the Upper East Side in NYC.

• Services Offered: She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal. She can address both functional and cosmetic issues related to breast implants, such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, and breast asymmetry. In some cases, she may recommend a secondary procedure like a breast lift to achieve the best aesthetic results.
• Patient Concerns: Dr. Hutchinson is well - versed in handling concerns related to BIA - ALCL and breast implant illness. She can provide patients with accurate information and guide them through the decision - making process regarding implant removal.
• Patient Experience: Patients have reported an exceptional experience with Dr. Hutchinson and her staff. The atmosphere of her practice is calming, and she makes patients feel comfortable and confident about the procedure.

Dr. Barry Weintraub

Dr. Barry Weintraub is a plastic surgeon who offers breast implant removal and replacement services in NYC.

• Services Offered: His breast implant removal (explant) surgery can be used to change the size, location, or type of implants. He also offers breast implant replacement options, including using autologous fat to replace lost volume. He always places implants under the pectoralis - major muscle to create the most natural - looking result.
• Consultation and Preparation: During the consultation, patients are advised to check for the surgeon's board certification, ensure his affiliation with a major hospital, and confirm his reputation among other medical professionals. Dr. Weintraub provides detailed instructions for preparation, including obtaining medical clearance from a family physician and filling prescriptions in advance.
• Procedure and Recovery: The surgery is performed in a comfortable state of twilight sleep. After surgery, there may be minimal swelling and bruising, which usually resolves within a week. Patients often return to work three days after surgery and require little downtime to fully recover.

Dr. William Samson

Dr. William Samson is a board - certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction and aesthetic breast surgery.

• Services Offered: He performs breast implant removal surgery, removing the implants and the silicone material that may have leaked, as well as the breast capsule if necessary. He aims to provide patients with the best, most natural - looking results.
• Patient Selection: The best candidates for his breast implant removal procedure are non - smokers, physically healthy, and have realistic expectations. They may be bothered by the appearance of their implants, experiencing discomfort or pain, or have had an implant rupture or leak.
• Recovery: After surgery, patients are advised to have a family member or friend drive them home. The breasts will be covered with gauze dressings or bandages, and drainage tubes may be used to relieve excess fluid. A compression garment is worn to minimize swelling and provide support during recovery.

What to Expect During the Breast Implant Removal Process

Consultation

The consultation is a crucial step in the breast implant removal process. During this appointment:

• The surgeon will thoroughly evaluate your general health and medical history, including any previous breast augmentation surgeries, medications you are taking, and any symptoms you may be experiencing related to the implants.
• You should bring any information you have about your existing implants, such as the type, size, and date of implantation. This will help the surgeon better understand your situation.
• Have an open and honest conversation with the surgeon about your desired outcome. Based on your expectations, the surgeon may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift, to achieve a more plump and rounded appearance.
• The surgeon will go through the procedure, the risks, and the recovery process in detail so that you can make an informed decision and feel confident about the surgery.

Pre - operative Preparation

Depending on the surgeon's recommendations, you may need to undergo certain preparations before the surgery:

• Imaging: You may be sent for imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI to assess the condition of the implants and the surrounding tissue.
• Medication: You will be given guidelines on which medications to take or avoid. For example, you may need to stop taking blood - thinning medications, aspirin, and certain vitamins and supplements for a period of time before the surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding.
• Lifestyle: You may be advised to stop smoking before the surgery, as smoking can interfere with the healing process. You will also need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and assist you during the initial days of recovery.

The Procedure

The breast implant removal procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: Most commonly, local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or “twilight” anesthesia is used. In some cases, general anesthesia may be required. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort.
2. Incision: The surgeon will make an incision to access the breast implant. The location of the incision may depend on the previous surgical approach, the type of implant, and other factors. Common incision locations include the inframammary fold, around the areola, or in the armpit.
3. Implant Removal: The surgeon will carefully remove the implant from the breast pocket. If there is scar tissue or if the implant has ruptured, additional steps may be taken to remove the scar tissue and any leaked silicone material.
4. Closure: After the implant is removed, the incisions will be closed using sutures, skin adhesives, tapes, or clips. A layer of gauze or a bandage may be placed over the incisions to aid in healing.

Recovery

Recovery from breast implant removal varies from person to person, but generally includes the following:

• Immediate Post - operative: You will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a nurse. You may experience some discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication. Once you are stable, you will be able to go home. However, you will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia, so it's important to have someone available to take you home.
• Initial Days: Your breasts may be covered with a bandage or dressing, and you may feel tired or sore. You may also experience swelling, bruising, and some fluid drainage from the incision site. It's important to follow the post - operative instructions provided by your surgeon, which may include wearing a compression garment, taking prescribed antibiotics, and applying a cold compress to the surgical site.
• Weeks to Months: Most patients are able to return to most daily activities within days of the procedure, but it's best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. You may notice some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. Swelling and bruising will gradually subside, and the final results will become more apparent over several months. If external sutures were used, they are usually removed around 7 - 10 days following the procedure.

Cost Considerations

The cost of silicone 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 impact the cost. Well - known and highly skilled surgeons may charge more for their services.
• Facility Fees: The cost of using the operating room and other facilities, such as a private surgical center or a hospital, is included. Different facilities may have different fee structures.
• Anesthesia Fees: The type of anesthesia used and the services provided by the anesthesiologist will contribute to the overall cost.
• Additional Procedures: If you choose to have a breast lift or other additional procedures at the same time as the implant removal, the cost will increase.
• Tests and Medications: The cost of pre - operative imaging tests, post - operative medications, and follow - up appointments should also be considered.

In most cases, breast implant removal procedures are not covered by health insurance. However, if the removal is medically necessary, such as in the case of a ruptured implant or BIA - ALCL, insurance may cover some or all of the costs. It's important to check with your insurance provider to determine your coverage.

Conclusion

Silicone breast implant removal is a personal decision that may be influenced by various medical and aesthetic factors. In New York City, there are several experienced surgeons and reliable hospitals offering this procedure. When considering breast implant removal, it's essential to choose a qualified and reputable surgeon who can provide personalized care and achieve the best possible results. By understanding the reasons for removal, the process, recovery, and cost considerations, you can make an informed decision about your breast health and appearance.

If you are considering silicone breast implant removal in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the surgeons mentioned in this article. They can provide you with more detailed information, answer your questions, and help you determine the best course of action for your specific situation. Don't hesitate to take the first step towards achieving your desired results and improving your quality of life.