Introduction

Breast augmentation has become a popular cosmetic procedure in recent years. However, some women may choose to have their breast implants removed due to various reasons, such as medical complications, dissatisfaction with the results, or lifestyle changes. In New York City, there are several hospitals and clinics that offer breast augmentation prosthesis removal services. This article aims to provide a ranking of the best hospitals for breast augmentation prosthesis removal in New York City in 2025, based on factors such as the expertise of the surgeons, the quality of care, and patient reviews.

Why Women Choose to Remove Breast Implants

There are numerous reasons why women may opt for breast implant removal. Medical issues are a significant factor. Some of the medical problems associated with breast implants include:

• Capsular contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) around the implant hardens and squeezes the implant, causing pain, distortion, and an abnormal appearance of the breasts.
• Breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): A rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. The FDA has recalled certain textured breast implants due to their association with a higher risk of BIA - ALCL.
• Breast implant illness (BII): Women may experience a wide variety of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, and more after breast augmentation. Although the cause is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
• Implant rupture, leakage, or deflation: This can lead to changes in the shape and size of the breasts and may require removal of the implant.

In addition to medical reasons, some women may want to remove their implants for cosmetic reasons. They may be unhappy with the size, shape, or position of the implants or may simply prefer their natural breast appearance. Lifestyle changes can also play a role. For example, some women may find that the implants are uncomfortable for physical activities or may not fit with their new aesthetic preferences.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Implant Removal

Expertise of Surgeons

The experience and skill of the plastic surgeons are crucial. Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have extensive experience in breast implant removal procedures. Surgeons who are well - known in the field and have a high success rate are more likely to provide better results. They should be able to handle various complications and perform different types of implant removal techniques, such as en bloc capsulectomy, partial capsulectomy, or total capsulectomy.

Quality of Care

The quality of care provided by the hospital is also important. This includes the pre - operative consultation, where the surgeon should thoroughly evaluate the patient's medical history, current condition of the breasts, and discuss the surgical options and expected outcomes. During the surgery, the hospital should have a well - equipped operating room with the latest technology and a team of trained medical staff. Post - operative care is equally important, including pain management, follow - up appointments, and guidance on the recovery process.

Patient Reviews

Reading patient reviews can give you an insight into the experiences of other women who have had breast implant removal at the hospital. Look for reviews that mention the surgeon's bedside manner, the overall quality of care, and the results of the surgery. Positive reviews can be an indication of a good hospital, while negative reviews may raise concerns.

Hospital Reputation

A hospital with a good reputation in the medical community is more likely to provide high - quality services. You can check if the hospital has any accreditations or awards related to plastic surgery or patient care. Hospitals that are affiliated with well - known medical institutions or universities may also have access to more resources and the latest research.

Ranking of the Best Hospitals for Breast Augmentation Prosthesis Removal in New York City in 2025

1. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC

The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC in Manhattan is known for its top - rated breast surgery team. The board - certified plastic surgeons here are highly trained in breast implant removal surgery. They routinely perform the procedure at their state - of - the - art boutique surgical suite. Most plastic surgeons at this center recommend breast augmentation patients to replace their breast implants every 10 - 15 years, and they are well - equipped to handle both replacement and removal cases.

The center offers different types of breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. During the initial consultation, the plastic surgeon will explain each procedure in detail and customize the treatment plan according to the patient's unique needs and desired post - operative goals. The surgery takes about 1 - 3 hours under general anesthesia, and patients can expect swelling and tenderness to subside within six to eight weeks.

2. Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

As one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - renowned medical center, Columbia University's plastic surgery division has the experience that few other programs can match. The plastic surgeons on the clinical staff are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, including breast reconstruction and breast implant removal.

The hospital offers comprehensive care, from cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations. In the case of breast implant removal, the surgeons take a personalized approach, considering the patient's overall health and medical history. They also conduct research in areas such as stem cells and tissue engineering, which may have implications for better surgical outcomes and patient recovery.

3. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice

Dr. Darrick Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon who is widely regarded as being among the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, and when indicated, he also performs en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant.

Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which speaks to his excellent surgical results and patient satisfaction. Dr. Antell has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, and most patients prefer to have the procedure in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. His facility is fully accredited and equipped with the latest technology.

4. Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice

Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City specializing in breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures. He has extensive education and training from some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world, including Harvard Medical School, New York University, and the University of Melbourne in Australia.

Dr. Kolker is known for his artistic approach to plastic surgery, aiming to achieve the most natural and proportional results. In breast implant removal, he takes the time to understand the patient's goals and may recommend additional procedures, such as a breast lift, to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome. He has been featured in many publications as a top plastic surgeon.

5. 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 evaluated patients with breast implant - related concerns and performed breast implant removal surgeries. She can address both functional and cosmetic issues related to breast implants.

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. Patients have reported exceptional experiences with Dr. Hutchinson and her staff.

Common Breast Implant Removal Procedures

En Bloc Capsulectomy

During an en bloc breast implant removal surgery, the plastic surgeon removes the implants and the capsule that has formed around them in a single piece. This procedure is often recommended in cases where there are concerns about infection, BIA - ALCL, or when the capsule is hardened. By removing the entire capsule, there is less chance of leaving behind any potentially problematic tissue.

Partial Capsulectomy

A partial capsulectomy involves removing only part of the capsule. The surgeon will remove the breast implant material and trim or shape some of the capsule material to create the patient’s desired chest contour. This procedure may be suitable for patients who do not have significant capsule problems or who want to maintain some of the natural structure around the breast area.

Total Capsulectomy

A total capsulectomy consists of removing the implant, the entire capsule, and any remaining scar tissue. The procedure begins with the removal of the breast implants, followed by a complete removal of the capsule and associated scar tissue. This is a more extensive procedure and may be recommended for patients with severe capsular contracture or other significant issues.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Breast Implant Removal

Before the Surgery

Before the breast implant removal surgery, you will have an initial consultation with the plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your general health, medical history, and the current condition of your breasts. You should bring any information you have about your existing implants and your previous breast augmentation surgery. The surgeon will discuss the different surgical options, the risks involved, and the expected recovery process. You may also be asked to undergo some imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI.

You will need to follow certain preparation guidelines provided by the surgeon. This may include stopping certain medications, avoiding smoking, and arranging for someone to drive you home after the surgery and assist you during the initial days of recovery.

During the Surgery

Breast implant removal is typically performed under local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another type of “twilight” anesthesia. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor you throughout the procedure. The surgeon will make an incision, usually through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery if possible. They will then remove the implant and, depending on the procedure, the capsule and scar tissue. The incisions will be closed with sutures, and a layer of gauze or a bandage may be placed over the breasts.

After the Surgery

After the surgery, you will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. You will be provided with discharge instructions that will guide you through the initial post - operative period. You may feel tired and sore, and it is normal to experience some swelling and bruising. You will likely need to wear a specialized bra to support the breasts and help with the healing process.

Most patients are able to return home the same day as the procedure. You should refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks and follow all post - operative instructions carefully. You may experience some loss of feeling 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 your scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade.

Conclusion

When considering breast augmentation prosthesis removal in New York City in 2025, it is important to choose a hospital or clinic that offers high - quality care and has experienced surgeons. The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice, Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice, and Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice are all excellent choices, each with their own strengths in terms of surgical expertise, patient care, and reputation. By carefully evaluating these factors and consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon, you can make an informed decision and achieve the best possible outcome for your breast implant removal procedure.

If you are considering breast implant removal, we encourage you to reach out to one of the recommended hospitals or surgeons for a consultation. Take the time to ask questions, understand the procedure, and ensure that you are comfortable with the treatment plan. Your health and satisfaction are of utmost importance.