Introduction

Breast implant removal has become a procedure that many women in New York City consider for various reasons. Whether it's due to medical complications, changes in personal aesthetic preferences, or aging implants, finding a reliable plastic surgery hospital is of utmost importance. In this article, we will explore some of the top plastic surgery hospitals in New York City known for their expertise in breast implant removal, and also provide detailed information about the procedure itself, its associated risks, and recovery.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

There are multiple reasons why a woman might opt for breast implant removal. Some of the most common ones include:

1. Medical Reasons:
   • Implant Rupture or Leakage: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture or leak over time. Saline implants will deflate rapidly if they rupture, while silicone implants may require an MRI to detect a leak. The leaking implant filler can cause discomfort, change in breast shape, and in some cases, more serious health issues.
   • Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant hardens and contracts. It can cause pain, distortion of the breast shape, and tightness. The rate of capsular contracture is approximately 3 - 4%, and it increases gradually over the years.
   • Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): A rare cancer specifically related to breast implants, mainly associated with textured implants. It often presents as a mass or fluid accumulation several years after the initial breast surgery and is mostly treatable with surgical removal of the tumor, capsule, and breast implant.
   • Breast Implant Illness (BII): Refers to a wide variety of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, and others. While the exact cause is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
   • Infection: Implants can get infected years after the initial surgery, which may require their removal to treat the infection.
2. Cosmetic Reasons:
   • Changes in Personal Taste: As time passes, a woman's aesthetic preferences may change, and she may no longer be satisfied with the look of her breast implants.
   • Desire to Return to Natural State: Some women may wish to return to their pre - implant breast size and appearance.
   • Implant Malposition: Issues such as the implant moving from its original position, a "double bubble" appearance, or symmastia (implants touching in the middle) can lead to dissatisfaction with the cosmetic outcome.
3. Aging Implants: Breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime. Most plastic surgeons recommend replacing breast implants every 10 - 15 years to ensure optimal implant hardness, texture, and resilience. Over time, implants can degrade, shift, or cause the breast tissue to change.

Top Plastic Surgery Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City

Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC

The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, located at 461 Park Ave S, #7K, New York, NY 10016, is well - known for its breast implant removal services. Their top - rated breast surgery team consists of board - certified plastic surgeons who are highly trained in breast implant removal surgery and are world - renowned for their advanced techniques.

They offer various breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. During the en bloc procedure, the plastic surgeon removes the implants and capsule in a single operation. A partial capsulectomy involves removing the breast implant material and trimming some of the capsule material to create the desired chest contour. A total capsulectomy consists of removing the implant, capsule, and remaining scar tissue.

The surgery is performed at their state - of - the - art boutique surgical suite. It takes about 1 - 3 hours under general anesthesia, and patients can expect swelling and tenderness to subside within six to eight weeks.

Contact them at (212) 481 - 0110 or visit their website for a complimentary consultation.

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC. With over 20 years of experience, she has extensive knowledge in evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal procedures. Her practice focuses on addressing both functional and cosmetic issues related to breast implants.

She has dealt with a wide range of problems such as breast implant rupture, leakage, deflation, capsular contracture, and breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). Dr. Hutchinson will advise patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to help them achieve their goals. In some cases, a secondary procedure such as a breast lift may be necessary to achieve the best aesthetic results.

To book a consultation with Dr. Hutchinson, call her office at (212) 452 - 1400 or visit her website.

Dr. Steven Wallach's Practice

Dr. Steven Wallach, located in New York, is experienced in breast implant removal surgery. He usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket created for the implants and removes them before sealing the incision site with sutures. He will also remove implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary.

During the consultation, Dr. Wallach will evaluate the patient's situation and discuss the options and techniques available for the procedure, as well as which will provide the best results with the least amount of scarring. Good candidates for the procedure are generally healthy, non - smokers or those who stop smoking prior to the procedure, and they need to stop taking blood - thinning medications before surgery.

The recovery period involves swelling and bruising around the breasts, and patients may be in mild pain. Most patients can go back to light activity within three to five days, but they should avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks.

To learn more about your options for implant removal and breast enhancement, call Dr. Wallach or contact him online at his website.

Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice

Dr. Darrick Antell is a widely regarded plastic surgeon in NYC. He is known for his custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country.

Dr. Antell also performs the removal of the allergan textured breast implants recently recalled by the FDA due to their association with a heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). During the consultation, he will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of the breasts. Based on the patient's expectations, he may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift.

The surgery is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or “twilight” anesthesia. 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.

To schedule a consultation, call his office at (212) - 988 - 4040 or visit his website.

Millennial Plastic Surgery (Dr. David Shokrian)

Dr. David Shokrian at Millennial Plastic Surgery is experienced in breast implant removal. He works with patients to create the perfect balance of surgical and natural remedies to make them feel comfortable in their bodies. His practice has accessible, well - appointed offices in midtown Manhattan.

Breast implant removal at this practice is usually done as an outpatient procedure. On the day of surgery, patients can expect anesthesia (either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation), an incision (under the breast or around or below the areola), removal of the implants and any present scar tissue, and closing of the incisions with stitches or skin adhesions.

After surgery, patients may have dressings or gauze bandages and need to wear a compression garment or support bra for a few weeks. Most women are able to return to work within a few days, but they should follow all post - operative instructions carefully.

Contact them at (212) 421 - 7123 or visit their website for more information.

Zuckerman Plastic Surgery (Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman)

Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery offers breast implant removal and exchange procedures. He understands that the decision to undergo these procedures is deeply personal and aims to meet the changing needs and preferences of his patients.

Patients may choose to have their breast implants removed for health concerns, cosmetic preferences, or due to aging implants. For those looking to alter the size or type of their implants, implant exchange is also an option. The procedures are performed under general anesthesia, and Dr. Zuckerman is meticulous in minimizing scarring and optimizing recovery.

Post - operative care is crucial, including managing discomfort with prescribed medication, wearing a support bra, and avoiding strenuous activities for several weeks. To schedule a consultation, contact Zuckerman Plastic Surgery at their website.

Breast Implant Removal Procedures

There are different types of breast implant removal procedures, and the choice depends on the patient's specific situation and desired outcome.

En Bloc Removal

In an en bloc breast implant removal, the plastic surgeon removes the implant and the surrounding capsule as a single unit. This approach is often recommended in cases where there are concerns about potential contamination, such as in the case of BIA - ALCL or a suspected implant rupture with leakage. It ensures that all potentially affected tissue is removed at once.

Partial Capsulectomy

A partial capsulectomy involves removing only part of the capsule while taking out the implant. This may be sufficient in some cases where the capsule is not severely affected, and the goal is to achieve a more natural breast contour with minimal tissue removal.

Total Capsulectomy

Total capsulectomy is the removal of the implant, the entire capsule, and any remaining scar tissue. This is a more extensive procedure and is typically done when there is significant capsular contracture or other issues requiring complete removal of the scar tissue around the implant.

Pre - operative Considerations

Before undergoing breast implant removal surgery, patients need to take several steps to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery.

Consultation

During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation of the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. Patients should bring any information they have about their existing implants, such as the type, size, and the details of their previous breast augmentation surgery. It is also important to have an open and honest conversation with the surgeon about their desired outcome, and any concerns or symptoms they may be experiencing.

Medical Clearance

Patients with certain medical issues may need to obtain medical clearance from their primary care physician before the surgery. This is to ensure that they are in good enough health to undergo the procedure safely.

Preparation

Patients should stop smoking before the surgery as it can interfere with the healing process. They also need to stop taking blood - thinning medications, vitamins, and supplements that may increase the risk of bleeding. Based on the patient's age and implant condition, the surgeon may order imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI.

Intra - operative Process

The breast implant removal surgery usually takes place in a surgical suite or hospital. The patient is first given anesthesia, which can be general anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or in some rare cases, local anesthesia. Once the anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon makes an incision using the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery if possible. If not, a new incision may be made. The surgeon then carefully removes the implant and, depending on the procedure, the capsule and scar tissue. Finally, the incisions are closed with sutures or skin adhesions.

Post - operative Recovery

The recovery process after breast implant removal is an important phase that requires careful attention.

Immediate Post - operative Period

After the surgery, the patient is moved to a recovery room where their vital signs are monitored. They may have swelling, bruising, and mild pain in the breast area. Dressings or gauze bandages will be applied, and a compression garment or support bra is usually worn to minimize swelling and help the tissues shrink back.

Short - term Recovery

Most patients can return home on the same day as the surgery if it is an outpatient procedure. They will need someone to drive them home and stay with them for the first 24 hours. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage discomfort. Patients should avoid strenuous activities, such as swimming, hot tubs, and heavy lifting, for several weeks. They may also have drains placed under the skin to remove blood and excess fluid, which are usually removed within 10 days.

Long - term Recovery

Swelling and bruising will gradually fade over the first few weeks, but it may take several months for the final results to be visible. The scars will initially be firm and pink but will start to fade after about six weeks. Some patients may experience loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time.

Risks and Complications

Although breast implant removal surgery is generally considered safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, there are still some risks and potential complications.

• Unsatisfactory Scarring: Incisions can leave scars, and in some cases, the scars may be more noticeable or may not fade as well as expected.
• Asymmetry: There is a risk of the breasts not being perfectly symmetrical after the surgery.
• Infection: Any surgery carries a risk of infection, which may require treatment with antibiotics.
• Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after the surgery can occur, which may require additional treatment.
• Nipple Loss or Skin Loss: In rare cases, there may be damage to the nipple or skin, resulting in loss of sensation or tissue.
• Fat Necrosis: This is the death of fat cells in the breast, which can cause lumps or changes in the breast texture.
• Fluid Collections: Fluid may accumulate in the breast area, which may need to be drained.
• Dysesthesias: Abnormal sensations such as numbness, tingling, or pain in the breast area.
• Need for Revision Surgery: In some cases, additional surgery may be required to correct any problems or to achieve the desired outcome.

Conclusion

Breast implant removal is a procedure that offers solutions to women who are facing various issues with their breast implants, whether medical or cosmetic. New York City is home to several top - notch plastic surgery hospitals and surgeons who are well - equipped to perform this procedure safely and effectively. Before making a decision, it is essential for patients to thoroughly research and consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to understand the procedure, its risks, and expected outcomes.

If you are considering breast implant removal in New York City, we encourage you to take the next step and schedule a consultation with one of the surgeons mentioned in this article. This will allow you to discuss your specific situation, ask questions, and make an informed decision about your breast health and appearance. Don't hesitate to reach out and start your journey towards achieving your desired results.