Introduction
Breast implant removal has become a sought - after procedure for various reasons, ranging from medical complications to personal preferences. In a bustling metropolis like New York City, patients have a plethora of options when it comes to choosing an institution or hospital for this surgery. This article aims to provide a comprehensive ranking list of institutions and hospitals for breast implant removal in New York City in 2025, along with valuable insights into the procedure, doctor selection, and post - operative care.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are multiple factors that may lead a woman to consider breast implant removal.
Medical Reasons
- Capsular contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant hardens and squeezes the implant. Severe capsular contracture can cause pain, discomfort, and a distorted appearance of the breasts. According to studies, it affects a significant number of women who have had breast implants, and the need for removal often arises to relieve these symptoms.
- Breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): Although rare, it is a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that can occur in the scar tissue around the implant. The FDA has recalled certain textured breast implants due to their association with a higher risk of BIA - ALCL. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, or a mass in the breast. Surgical removal of the implants and surrounding scar tissue is usually part of the treatment plan.
- Breast implant illness (BII): This refers to a range of symptoms reported by some women with breast implants, such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal problems, migraines, and depression. While the exact cause of BII is not fully understood, it is believed to be related to the body's immune response to the implants. Some women opt for implant removal in the hope of alleviating these symptoms.
- Infection and bleeding: Infections around the implant can occur, sometimes requiring the removal of the implant to treat the infection. Bleeding complications can also arise, and in severe cases, implant removal may be necessary to stop the bleeding and prevent further complications.
Aesthetic Reasons
- Implant visibility or palpability: As time passes, the implants may become visible through the skin (rippling, wrinkling) or easily palpable, which can be aesthetically unappealing to the patient.
- Implant malposition: The implant may shift from its original position, resulting in an asymmetrical or unnatural appearance of the breasts. For example, the “double bubble” appearance or “symmastia” (implants touching in the middle) can be distressing for the patient and may lead to the decision to remove the implants.
- Unsatisfactory results from the initial surgery: Some women may be unhappy with the outcome of their breast augmentation, such as the size, shape, or overall look of their breasts after the procedure. In such cases, they may choose to have the implants removed to return to their natural breast size or to undergo further corrective procedures.
Ranking of Institutions and Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City
Top Surgeons and Their Affiliated Facilities
- Dr. Darrick Antell
- Affiliated Facility: His private operating room located just across the street from Lenox Hill Hospital. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited and equipped with the latest technology. It also has a private back entrance for patient discretion, and his staff is trained to offer personalized care.
- Expertise: Dr. Antell is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the New York area and worldwide. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, including en bloc capsulectomy when indicated. He has also been involved in the removal of recalled allergan textured breast implants due to their association with BIA - ALCL. He has been listed in magazines like Harper’s Bazaar as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country, and has a high - profile patient base, including celebrities.
- Patient Experience: Many of his patients are referred by former patients, which speaks to the satisfaction with his surgical results and patient care. He provides thorough pre - operative consultations, going through the procedure, risks, and recovery in detail, and is available to answer any post - operative questions.
- Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
- Affiliated Location: She practices on the Upper East Side in NYC. Her office offers a calming and clean environment, with a professional and friendly staff.
- Expertise: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon. She can address both functional and aesthetic concerns related to breast implants. She advises patients on surgical options and may recommend a secondary procedure like a breast lift for better aesthetic results.
- Patient Experience: Patients have reported exceptional experiences with Dr. Hutchinson and her staff. She makes patients feel comfortable during the consultation process and has a track record of achieving great results, which has led to high patient satisfaction.
Specialized Breast Centers
- Dubin Breast Center of the Tisch Cancer Institute at Mount Sinai
- Services Offered: This center offers integrated and compassionate care for every phase of breast health. Their services include breast imaging, pathology, surgery, reconstruction, medical oncology, radiation oncology, high - risk programs, survivorship programs, cold cap therapy, and support services. They also provide the opportunity for patients to participate in clinical trials for emerging therapies.
- Expertise: The team at the Dubin Breast Center consists of breast cancer experts who work together to provide seamless, personalized, and holistic care. They are up - to - date with the latest research and treatment modalities in breast health, making them well - equipped to handle cases related to breast implant removal, especially in cases where there are associated medical issues.
- Patient Experience: The center is located in a serene, state - of - the - art facility. They organize all patient appointments, referrals, and other details, aiming to support patients both medically and emotionally. Patients can expect comprehensive care from a team of specialists.
Doctors Listed on WebMD
WebMD lists a large number of doctors in New York, NY who perform breast implant removal. Some notable ones are:
| Doctor Name | Specialties | Experience | Location | Patient Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Michael Eugene Jones, MD | Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery, Plastic Surgery | 33 years | 113 E 39th St, New York, NY 10016 | Positive reviews for his work, like removal of keloids |
| Dr. Andrew Jacono, MD | Plastic Surgery, Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery | 27 years | 630 Park Ave, New York, NY 10065 | Patients appreciate his follow - up care and facial rejuvenation procedures |
| Dr. Justin G. Steele, MD | General Surgeon | 25 years | 156 William Street 12th floor, New York, NY 10038 | Patients praise his advance training and answering of questions |
Doctors Listed on Healthgrades
Healthgrades lists doctors who perform breast surgical procedures in New York. Some of the highly - rated ones include:
| Doctor Name | Rating | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Wendy - Ann Olivier, MD | 4.60 out of 5 stars | 1 Hanson Pl Ste 710, Brooklyn, NY 11243 |
| Dr. Donna Marie Manasseh, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 745 64th St, Brooklyn, NY 11220 |
| Dr. Joshua Levine, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 3 Columbus Cir Ste 1410, New York, NY 10019 |
Choosing the Right Institution or Hospital
Doctor Credentials
When selecting a doctor for breast implant removal, it is crucial to consider their credentials. Look for board - certified plastic surgeons who have extensive experience in breast surgery. A board - certified surgeon has met certain educational, training, and ethical standards set by a recognized medical board. For example, a doctor certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery has undergone rigorous training and testing in the field of plastic surgery.
Also, consider the doctor's years of experience specifically in breast implant removal. A surgeon with a high number of successful breast implant removal procedures is more likely to have the skills and knowledge to handle any potential complications.
Hospital or Facility Accreditation
The accreditation of the hospital or surgical facility where the procedure will be performed is important. Accredited facilities meet certain safety and quality standards. For example, an outpatient surgery center that is fully accredited is equipped with the necessary safety measures, emergency equipment, and trained staff to handle surgical procedures. It also means that the facility is regularly inspected to ensure compliance with medical regulations.
Patient Reviews and Referrals
Reading patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the doctor's surgical skills, bedside manner, and the overall patient experience. Positive reviews from previous patients indicate a high level of satisfaction. Additionally, getting referrals from friends, family, or other healthcare providers can help you find a reliable doctor. If someone you trust has had a good experience with a particular doctor for breast implant removal, it can give you more confidence in your choice.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Understand the cost of the breast implant removal procedure. The cost can vary depending on factors such as the doctor's fee, the facility fee, anesthesia fees, and any additional tests or medications. Some insurance companies may cover breast implant removal if it is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases of capsular contracture or BIA - ALCL. Check with your insurance provider to determine your coverage and any out - of - pocket expenses you may be responsible for.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Pre - operative Consultation
During the initial consultation, the doctor will thoroughly evaluate your general health and medical history. This includes asking about any past surgeries, allergies, medications you are currently taking, and your smoking habits. If you are having the implants removed due to medical complications, it is important to discuss all your symptoms with the doctor. You should also bring any information you have about your existing implants, such as the type, size, and when they were inserted, as well as details of your previous breast augmentation surgery.
The doctor will assess the current condition of your breasts, including the position, size, and any signs of complications. Based on your desired outcome, the doctor will work with you to create a surgical plan. In some cases, they may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift, to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing result. The doctor will also explain the procedure, the risks involved, and the expected recovery process in detail.
Pre - operative Preparation
Depending on your age, implant condition, and medical history, the doctor may order imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI before the surgery. You will be given guidelines on eating and drinking before the surgery. Usually, you will be instructed not to eat or drink for a certain number of hours before the procedure. If you smoke, you may be asked to quit or reduce smoking before the surgery, as smoking can increase the risk of complications. You may also be advised to stop taking certain medications, vitamins, or supplements that can interfere with the surgery or increase the risk of bleeding.
It is important to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery, as you will not be able to drive yourself due to the effects of anesthesia. You should also ensure that you have someone to assist you during the first few days of recovery.
The Surgery
Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or “twilight” anesthesia. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure your safety and comfort. If possible, the doctor will remove the implant through the existing incisions from your initial breast augmentation surgery. However, if there are complications such as capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or BIA - ALCL, it may be necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant, which is called en - bloc resection.
After the implant and scar tissue (if applicable) are removed, the incisions are closed with multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and sometimes a layer of external sutures. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours, but an en - bloc resection may take longer.
Post - operative Recovery
After the surgery, you will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. You may be given a specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia to reduce discomfort. Since breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, you can usually return home the same day. However, you will need to have an escort to take you home and should not drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia.
Your breasts will be covered with a layer of gauze or a bandage. You may feel tired or sore after the surgery, and it is normal to experience some swelling and bruising. Many patients can return to most daily activities within a few days, but it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. The doctor will provide you with an individualized recovery plan, which may include instructions on caring for the incisions, taking medications, and following a specific diet. You may also experience some numbness in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. It may take several months for the final results to be visible, and the scars will gradually fade.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New York City offers a wide range of institutions and hospitals for breast implant removal. Patients have the opportunity to choose from highly - experienced surgeons, specialized breast centers, and a large pool of qualified doctors. When considering breast implant removal, it is essential to understand the reasons for the procedure, choose the right institution or doctor based on credentials, patient reviews, and cost, and be well - informed about the surgical process and post - operative recovery.
If you are considering breast implant removal in New York City, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with multiple doctors, and make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may be interested in this topic, and feel free to explore related articles on breast health and plastic surgery to expand your knowledge.
