Introduction
Prosthetic breast augmentation has become a common cosmetic procedure in recent years. However, there are various reasons why some women may choose to have their breast implants removed, such as complications, dissatisfaction with the results, or personal preference. In New York City, there are many regular hospitals and medical facilities that offer prosthetic breast augmentation removal services. This article aims to provide a comprehensive ranking list of these hospitals, along with relevant information about the procedure, including its reasons, process, risks, and recovery.
Why Choose to Remove Breast Implants?
Medical Reasons
There are several medical reasons that may lead to the decision to remove breast implants. One of the most common issues is capsular contracture, which occurs when the tissue around the implant hardens and tightens, causing pain, discomfort, and an abnormal appearance of the breasts. Another concern is breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), a rare cancer that has been linked to certain types of textured breast implants. As stated in a top Google search result, the FDA has recalled specific textured breast implants due to an increased risk of BIA - ALCL. Symptoms of BIA - ALCL include pain, swelling, or a change in the size or shape of the breasts. Additionally, some women may experience breast implant illness (BII), which is characterized by a wide range of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, and more. It is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
Cosmetic Reasons
Cosmetic reasons also play a significant role in the decision to remove breast implants. Over time, a woman's aesthetic preferences may change, and she may no longer be satisfied with the size, shape, or position of her implants. Implants can become palpable or visible, causing a folded, rippled, or wrinkled appearance. Rupture, leakage, or deflation of the implants, as well as malposition such as the "double bubble" appearance or "symmastia," can also lead to dissatisfaction with the results of breast augmentation.
Procedure of Prosthetic Breast Augmentation Removal
Consultation
The first step in the prosthetic breast augmentation removal process is a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. It is essential for the patient to bring any information they have about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. The surgeon will also discuss the patient's desired outcome and recommend the most appropriate surgical approach. For example, Dr. Darrick Antell, a top New York plastic surgeon, takes the time to have an open and honest conversation with his patients to create a proper surgical plan based on their expectations. In some cases, it may be recommended to pair the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift, to achieve a more desirable aesthetic result.
Surgery
Breast implant removal surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or "twilight" anesthesia, ensuring the patient is asleep and comfortable throughout the operation. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient's vital signs during the procedure. If possible, the surgeon will remove the implant through the existing incisions from the 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. When the implant and scar tissue are removed simultaneously, it is called en - bloc resection. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer. Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and a layer of external sutures, if needed, will be used to close the incisions.
Ranking List of Regular Hospitals for Prosthetic Breast Augmentation Removal in New York City
1. New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center
This institution is ranked as the top hospital in New York and made the honor roll as No. 7 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals. It has been recognized for its excellence in 14 adult specialties and 8 children’s specialties. Its national ranking in cancer care reflects the high - quality of surgical oncology expertise provided by many of its specialists, including those in breast surgery. With state - of - the - art surgical advances, top medical care, and pioneering research, it offers a high - level of care for prosthetic breast augmentation removal. The surgical excellence at Columbia includes specialties such as heart surgery, GI surgery, and lung surgery, which also indicates the hospital's overall medical strength and resources.
2. Surgeons associated with well - known plastic surgery clinics
Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is widely regarded as being among the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. He is listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as being among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery and has an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results, performed with total discretion. He has performed custom breast removal surgeries on many celebrities and other well - known persons. His private operating room, located just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital, is fully accredited and equipped with the latest technology, providing a safe and comfortable environment for the procedure.
Dr. Barry Weintraub
Dr. Barry Weintraub is a highly skilled plastic surgeon who performs breast implant removal and replacement surgeries. He has a unique blend of medical science and artwork, with meticulous attention to detail in every step of the process, from pre - op to post - op care. Dr. Weintraub believes in a patient - centered approach, always taking the time to understand the patient's specific needs and desires. His preference for placing implants under the pectoralis - major muscle ensures a more natural - looking and - feeling result. His patients often return to work three days after surgery and require little downtime to fully recover. He has privileges at multiple well - known hospitals in New York City but prefers the privacy of his hospital - grade, state - of - the - art surgical center attached to his office.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC, especially on the upper east side. With over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns, she has the expertise to address any implant - related issue. As a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon, she is dedicated to ensuring the finest surgical results for her patients. She will advise patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to achieve their goals, which may include a secondary procedure such as a breast lift for better aesthetic results.
3. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, located in Manhattan, is home to top - rated board - certified plastic surgeons. The surgeons at this center are highly trained in breast implant removal surgery and are world - renowned for their advanced breast implants removal techniques. They offer a variety of breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy, customized to fit the unique needs of each patient. The breast implant removal surgery is performed at their state - of - the - art fully accredited surgical suite, and patients can expect swelling and tenderness to subside within six to eight weeks.
Comparison of the Ranked Hospitals
| Hospital/Surgeon | Reputation | Specialties | Facilities | Patient Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center | Highly ranked nationally, recognized for excellence in multiple specialties | Breast surgery, heart surgery, GI surgery, lung surgery, etc. | State - of - the - art facilities with advanced surgical and medical technologies | Patients can expect high - quality, comprehensive care |
| Dr. Darrick Antell | Listed in top magazines, well - known for exceptional breast surgery results | Custom breast implant removal, en bloc capsulectomy | Private, fully accredited operating room near Lenox Hill Hospital | Many referrals from former patients, discrete and personalized care |
| Dr. Barry Weintraub | Skilled in breast implant removal and replacement, patient - centered approach | Breast implant removal and replacement, placing implants under pectoralis - major muscle | Hospital - grade surgical center attached to his office | Patients have short recovery times and high satisfaction |
| Dr. Olivia Hutchinson | Top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC, especially on the upper east side | Evaluating and treating breast implant - related concerns, breast lift after implant removal | Well - equipped clinic with a calming atmosphere | Patients report excellent experiences and amazing results |
| Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC | Top - rated board - certified plastic surgeons, world - renowned for removal techniques | En bloc, partial capsulectomy, total capsulectomy for breast implant removal | State - of - the - art fully accredited surgical suite | Patients receive customized treatment plans |
Risks and Complications of Prosthetic Breast Augmentation Removal
While breast implant removal surgery is typically a safe procedure when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon, there are still some risks and complications associated with it. These include bleeding, infection, numbness at the incision site, or an adverse reaction to the anesthesia. Additionally, some patients may experience a loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which usually fades over time. There may also be fluid drainage from the incision site. In some cases, although rare, additional surgery may be required to address any remaining issues or to improve the aesthetic result. It is important for patients to closely follow the surgeon's instructions before and after surgery to reduce the risk of complications.
Recovery Process after Prosthetic Breast Augmentation Removal
Immediate Post - Operative Period
After the surgery, the patient will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia will be used to reduce discomfort. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, so the patient can return home the same day. However, they will need an escort to drive them home as they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. Upon leaving the facility, the patient will be provided with thorough discharge instructions, which include information on wound care, pain management, and activity restrictions.
Short - Term Recovery
In the short - term, patients may feel tired or sore as their body is using its energy to heal. The breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage. 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 surgeon will provide an individualized recovery plan based on the intricacies of the procedure and the patient's rate of healing. It is important to follow all post - operative instructions carefully and refrain from activities that could put stress on the incisions.
Long - Term Recovery
It may take several months before the final results are visible. The swelling and bruising will gradually fade, and the scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade. Most 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 for the surgeon to monitor the healing process. If external sutures are used, they are usually removed around 7 - 10 days following the procedure.
How to Choose the Right Hospital or Surgeon
Board Certification
When choosing a hospital or surgeon for prosthetic breast augmentation removal, it is crucial to ensure that the surgeon is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification indicates that the surgeon has met the highest standards of education, training, and experience in the field of plastic surgery.
Experience
Look for a surgeon with extensive experience in breast implant removal procedures. Surgeons who have performed a large number of these surgeries are more likely to have encountered and successfully treated a variety of complications and situations. You can ask the surgeon about their experience and the number of similar procedures they have performed.
Reputation
Check the surgeon's reputation by reading patient reviews and testimonials. You can also ask for referrals from friends, family, or other healthcare professionals. A surgeon with a good reputation is more likely to provide high - quality care and achieve satisfactory results.
Facilities
The facilities where the surgery will be performed are also important. Make sure the hospital or surgical center is fully accredited and equipped with the latest technology and equipment. A clean, safe, and comfortable environment is essential for a successful surgical procedure and a smooth recovery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several excellent regular hospitals and surgeons in New York City that offer prosthetic breast augmentation removal services. New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center stands out with its national ranking and excellence in multiple specialties. Surgeons like Dr. Darrick Antell, Dr. Barry Weintraub, and Dr. Olivia Hutchinson are well - known for their skills and experience in breast implant removal. The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC also offers advanced techniques and customized treatment plans. However, the decision to have breast implants removed is a personal one, and it is important for patients to carefully consider the reasons, risks, and recovery process. By choosing the right hospital or surgeon, patients can increase the chances of a successful procedure and a positive outcome.
If you are considering prosthetic breast augmentation removal in New York City, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with multiple surgeons, and ask all the questions you may have. Make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences. Feel free to share this article with others who may be interested in this topic or explore related articles on breast health and cosmetic surgery.
