Introduction
Breast implant capsule contracture is a common complication that can occur after breast augmentation surgery. It can lead to a variety of problems, such as pain, distortion of the breast shape, and a hardening of the breast tissue. For individuals in New York City dealing with this issue, finding a legitimate and skilled medical aesthetic institution is crucial. In this article, we will explore the ranking of such institutions and provide detailed information about the doctors, procedures, and related aspects involved in repairing breast implant capsule contracture.
Understanding Breast Implant Capsule Contracture
What is Capsule Contracture?
After breast implant surgery, the body naturally forms a capsule of scar tissue around the implant. In a normal situation, this capsule is thin and allows the implant to move freely within it. However, in cases of capsule contracture, the capsule thickens and tightens. This can cause the implant to be compressed, resulting in a change in the shape of the breast, which may become hard, painful, and have an unnatural appearance. The severity of capsule contracture is often graded according to the Baker scale:
- Grade I: The breast remains soft and has a natural appearance in terms of size and shape.
- Grade II: The breast is somewhat firm, but still appears normal.
- Grade III: The breast is firm and has an abnormal appearance.
- Grade IV: The breast is hard, painful to the touch, and has a very abnormal appearance.
Causes of Capsule Contracture
There are several factors that can contribute to the development of capsule contracture. Some of the common causes include:
- Infection: Even a minor infection in the breast area can trigger an immune response that leads to the formation of excessive scar tissue.
- Bleeding: If there is bleeding during or after the breast implant surgery, the blood can act as a irritant and cause the capsule to thicken.
- Implant characteristics: The type, size, and surface texture of the implant can also play a role. For example, textured implants may have a lower risk of capsule contracture compared to smooth implants in some cases.
- Placement of the implant: Whether the implant is placed above or below the muscle can affect the likelihood of capsule contracture. Submuscular placement (under the muscle) is often associated with a lower risk.
Ranking of Legitimate Medical Aesthetic Institutions in New York City
Overview of the Top Doctors
Healthgrades has identified numerous doctors in New York City who treat breast implant capsule contracture. The doctors who have at least 3 or more past patient ratings and an average rating of 4.3 stars in the region are considered reliable options. Here are some of the top - rated doctors:
| Doctor's Name | Rating (out of 5) | Address | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Stephanie Bernik, MD | 4.60 | 425 W 59th st lbby 5, New York, NY 10019 | N/A |
| Dr. Lauren Cassell, MD | 4.90 | 114a E 78th st, New York, NY 10075 | N/A |
| Dr. Jeffrey Ascherman, MD | 4.90 | 51 West 51st street suite 380, New York, NY 10019 | N/A |
| Dr. Clare Hochreiter, MD | 5.00 | 525 East 68th street m - 404, New York, NY 10065 | (212) 582 - 3422; Call: (212) 922 - 1515 |
| Dr. Jonathan Villena - Vargas, MD | N/A | 525 East 68th street m - 404, New York, NY 10065 | (212) 582 - 3422; Call: (212) 922 - 1515 |
| Dr. Emile Bacha, MD | 3.60 | 525 East 68th street f677, New York, NY 10065 | (212) 582 - 3422; Call: (212) 922 - 1515 |
| Dr. David Otterburn, MD | 5.00 | 525 East 68th street starr 8, New York, NY 10065 | N/A |
| Dr. Amber Guth, MD | 4.70 | 560 1st ave fl 10, New York, NY 10016 | N/A |
| Dr. Virgilio Sacchini, MD | 5.00 | 300 E 66th st, New York, NY 10065 | N/A |
| Dr. Alexandra Heerdt, MD | 4.70 | 300 E 66th st, New York, NY 10065 | N/A |
| Dr. Jennifer Lehman, MD | 4.50 | 10 union sq e ste 4, New York, NY 10003 | N/A |
| Dr. Kimberly Van Zee, MD | 4.80 | 300 E 66th st, New York, NY 10065 | N/A |
| Dr. Andrea Barrio, MD | 4.80 | 300 E 66th st, New York, NY 10065 | N/A |
Specialized Institutions and Their Approaches
Maman Plastic Surgery
Dr. Daniel Maman at Maman Plastic Surgery is a Harvard fellowship - trained and board - certified plastic surgeon. He specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, body, and face. His breast implant revision services are well - regarded. When it comes to treating breast implant capsule contracture, the process at Maman Plastic Surgery involves a comprehensive approach:
- Consultation: A 90 - minute consultation with Dr. Maman includes a thorough review of the patient's medical history, an in - depth physical assessment, and the development of a comprehensive operative plan. The cost, accommodations, and follow - up visits are also discussed during this consultation.
- Surgery: The surgery is performed in convenient NYC operating facilities. After the surgery, patients have access to luxury recovery room options at NYC hotels, complimentary custom post - operative support garments, and scar treatment regimens. Dr. Maman emphasizes a smooth recovery process and provides attentive aftercare visits.
Dr. Tracy Pfeifer's Practice
Dr. Tracy Pfeifer is an aesthetic plastic surgeon in New York City with a focus on breast - related procedures. She offers surgical treatment for capsular contracture. Some of the aspects of her treatment include:
- Treatment options: The usual treatment for severe capsular contracture is capsulectomy, which involves the complete surgical removal of the scar capsule. Capsulotomy, incising the capsule in various areas, is another option but has a somewhat lower success rate. In some cases, medication like zafirlukast (Accolate) may be used to soften the scar tissue, and massage or compression bandages may be recommended to reduce the severity of the condition.
- Recovery: The recovery period after surgery is similar to the original breast implant surgery, usually 1 to 2 weeks depending on the implant placement. Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for 2 weeks after the surgery.
Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's breast implant revision specialists are experts in medical care and plastic surgery. They can correct various problems related to breast implants, including capsular contracture. Their approach involves:
- Evaluation: Patients first consult with a nationally recognized specialist. The doctors discuss the options with the patients and may recommend new materials or meshes to stabilize the area around the breast implant. Fat transfer from other parts of the body may also be suggested to enhance the natural shape and texture of the breasts.
- Correction: The plastic surgeons perform secondary or breast implant revision surgery by matching and repairing the body's tissue with the breast implants to achieve a natural and beautiful appearance.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, a top breast implant replacement surgeon on NYC's Upper East Side, offers solutions for patients dealing with breast implant capsule contracture. Her services include:
- Procedures: Breast implant replacement may involve changing the size, type, or placement of the implants, as well as adjusting the capsule around the implants. In some cases, fat transfer can be used after implant removal to correct minor irregularities and provide additional breast volume.
- Advantages: Dr. Hutchinson is known for her integrity, outstanding skill, extensive knowledge, and astute judgment. She also provides high - end concierge services, including maximum discretion, assistance with presurgical medical clearance, and unlimited pre - and post - operative appointments for one year.
Treatment Procedures for Breast Implant Capsule Contracture
Capsulectomy
Capsulectomy is the most common surgical treatment for severe capsular contracture. It involves the complete removal of the scar capsule that has formed around the breast implant. This procedure aims to eliminate the tightened and thickened tissue that is causing the contracture. After the capsule is removed, a new capsule will form around the implant, with the hope that it will not tighten and contract as before. Although capsulectomy may not completely eliminate the risk of recurrence, it has been shown to significantly reduce the chances of future capsule contracture compared to other methods.
Capsulotomy
Capsulotomy is another surgical option. In this procedure, the capsule is incised in various areas to increase its overall capacity. This allows the implant to have more room to move within the breast, relieving some of the pressure caused by the contracture. However, the success rate of capsulotomy is generally lower than that of capsulectomy, and there is a higher chance of the capsule contracting again in the future.
Medication
Some studies have suggested that certain medications can be used to treat or prevent capsule contracture. Zafirlukast (Accolate) has been shown to soften the scar tissue around the implants in some patients. It can significantly soften the breasts over a period of months and decrease the reoccurrence of the condition in patients undergoing surgical treatment. However, the effectiveness of medication may vary from person to person.
Massage
Massage can be a non - surgical approach to manage capsule contracture. Once the contracture begins, regular massage and the use of a compression bandage or garment may help reduce the severity of the condition. The goal of massage is to prevent the capsule from becoming excessively hard and to prevent the implant from becoming fixed in an upward position. However, massage may not be effective in all cases, especially for more severe forms of capsule contracture.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Medical Aesthetic Institution
Doctor's Credentials and Experience
It is essential to choose a doctor who is board - certified and has extensive experience in treating breast implant capsule contracture. Look for doctors who have received specialized training and have a good track record of successful treatments. For example, doctors like Dr. Daniel Maman, who has a Harvard fellowship in aesthetic breast surgery, and Dr. Darrick Antell, who has performed thousands of breast augmentation surgeries, are likely to have the expertise needed to handle complex cases of capsule contracture.
Patient Reviews and Ratings
Reading patient reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by a medical aesthetic institution. Look for institutions with a high number of positive reviews, as this indicates that patients have had satisfactory experiences. Websites like Healthgrades can be a good source of patient ratings and reviews for doctors in New York City who treat breast implant capsule contracture.
Treatment Options Offered
Consider the range of treatment options available at the institution. A good medical aesthetic institution should offer a variety of treatment options, including surgical and non - surgical methods, to address different levels of capsule contracture. For example, an institution that offers capsulectomy, capsulotomy, medication, and massage as treatment options can provide more personalized care based on the patient's specific condition.
Post - operative Care
Post - operative care is crucial for a successful recovery. Look for institutions that provide comprehensive post - operative care, including follow - up appointments, pain management, and guidance on recovery activities. For instance, Maman Plastic Surgery offers luxury recovery room options at NYC hotels, complimentary custom post - operative support garments, and attentive aftercare visits, which can contribute to a more comfortable and successful recovery.
Conclusion
Breast implant capsule contracture can be a challenging condition, but there are many legitimate medical aesthetic institutions in New York City that can effectively treat it. From well - rated doctors like Dr. Clare Hochreiter and Dr. David Otterburn to specialized practices such as Maman Plastic Surgery and Dr. Tracy Pfeifer's clinic, patients have a range of options to choose from. When selecting an institution, it is important to consider factors such as the doctor's credentials, patient reviews, treatment options, and post - operative care. By making an informed decision, patients can increase their chances of a successful treatment and a satisfactory outcome.
If you or someone you know is dealing with breast implant capsule contracture, take the time to research and consult with different medical aesthetic institutions in New York City. Don't hesitate to reach out to these institutions for more information and to schedule a consultation. Remember, finding the right doctor and institution can make all the difference in your treatment journey.
