Introduction
New York City is home to numerous top - notch medical facilities when it comes to breast implant removal. The decision to remove breast augmentation prosthesis can stem from various reasons, such as health concerns, cosmetic preferences, or aging implants. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the refreshed top 10 ranking of hospitals for removing breast augmentation prosthesis in New York City in 2025. We will also explore the different aspects related to breast implant removal, including the reasons for it, the procedures involved, and the recovery process.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are multiple factors that may prompt a woman to choose breast implant removal. These reasons can be broadly classified into two main categories: medical and cosmetic.
Medical Reasons
- Implant Rupture, Leakage, or Deflation: Over time, breast implants can rupture or deflate, especially saline implants which are more prone to leakage due to their valve system. Silicone implants, although factory - sealed, can also experience rupture. A ruptured implant may cause the implant to change shape, or in some cases, the filler material may leak into the surrounding tissue.
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the tissue around the implant hardens. Severe capsular contracture can cause pain, discomfort, and a distorted appearance of the breasts. In some cases, the hardened capsule can squeeze the implant, leading to changes in the shape of the breast.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that is specifically related to breast implants. Although extremely infrequent, the incidence of BIA - ALCL has led to the recall of certain textured implants, such as those made by Allergan. Symptoms of BIA - ALCL may include pain or swelling around the breasts, and a change in the size or shape of the breasts.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII refers to a wide variety of symptoms that patients may report after breast augmentation. These symptoms can include fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression or anxiety, rashes, pain and discomfort, and brain fog. The exact cause of BII is uncertain, but it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
- Infection and/or Bleeding: Infections can occur after breast implant surgery, and in some cases, may require the removal of the implants. Bleeding around the implant area can also be a serious complication that may necessitate implant removal.
Cosmetic Reasons
- Unsatisfactory Results: Some women may be unhappy with the size, shape, or position of their implants. For example, the implants may have moved from their original position, causing an uneven appearance of the breasts. Or the initial augmentation may not have achieved the desired aesthetic result.
- Change in Personal Taste: As time passes, a woman's aesthetic preferences may change. She may prefer a more natural - looking breast or want to return to her pre - implant breast size.
- Aging of Implants: Breast implants are not meant to last a lifetime. Over time, they can degrade, causing them to look and feel less natural. As the body ages, the skin around the breasts may also change, and the implants may no longer fit well with the new body changes.
Top 10 Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City
Here are the top 10 hospitals in New York City that are well - known for their excellence in breast implant removal procedures:
1. Zuckerman Plastic Surgery
Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery offers breast implant removal and exchange procedures. He understands that the decision is deeply personal and is committed to meeting the changing needs and preferences of his patients. The procedures are performed under general anesthesia, and Dr. Zuckerman uses techniques to minimize scarring and optimize recovery. They also provide detailed post - operative care instructions to ensure a smooth healing process.
2. The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
This center in Manhattan is renowned for its advanced breast implant removal techniques. The top - rated breast surgery team consists of highly trained board - certified plastic surgeons. They offer various breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. The procedures are performed at their state - of - the - art boutique surgical suite, and they focus on helping patients achieve their desired chest aesthetic.
3. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the Upper East Side in NYC. With over 20 years of experience, she has evaluated countless patients with breast implant - related concerns. She is well - versed in addressing both functional and cosmetic issues related to breast implants and will advise patients on the best surgical options to achieve their goals. Some patients may require a secondary procedure such as a breast lift to achieve the best aesthetic results.
4. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice
Dr. Darrick Antell is a widely regarded plastic surgeon in the New York area and worldwide. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery and is also experienced in performing en bloc capsulectomy when needed. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. His patients often include celebrities and well - known individuals, and he has an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results and total discretion.
5. Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice
Dr. Barry Weintraub offers breast implant removal and replacement procedures. He always places implants under the pectoralis - major muscle to create a more natural - looking result. His practice focuses on safety, using the most sterile conditions in the operating room and state - of - the - art monitoring equipment. He believes in a personalized approach to surgery and takes the time to understand each patient's specific needs and desires.
6. Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
As one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - class medical center, Columbia University's plastic surgery division has a team of proficient plastic surgeons. They offer a comprehensive range of plastic surgery services, including breast reconstructive care. In the context of breast implant removal, they can handle complex cases and provide high - quality care using the latest techniques and research findings.
7. New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mt. Sinai
Ranked among “America’s best hospitals” for nine years straight since 2006 and having achieved Magnet® status for excellence in nursing services, this hospital is well - equipped to handle breast implant removal procedures. Their team of medical professionals provides high - quality care and a patient - centered approach to treatment.
8. Hackensack University Medical Center
This hospital in New Jersey (but accessible to New York City patients) has earned the distinction of being New Jersey’s #1 hospital and is among the top 30 hospitals in the nation with multiple national specialty rankings. Their plastic surgery department can offer excellent breast implant removal services with a focus on patient safety and satisfaction.
9. Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (Detroit but relevant for NYC patients in some cases)
Although located in Detroit, it may be an option for some New York City patients. They offer breast implant removal services at a cost ranging from $2760 - $4900. Patients may consider traveling to this center if they are attracted by the price and the reputation of the surgeons.
10. Jaibaji Plastic Surgery
Dr. Jaibaji at Jaibaji Plastic Surgery has years of experience performing breast surgeries. He is skilled at removing implants while minimizing scarring and ensuring a natural - looking result. The staff at the clinic is supportive and professional, making the entire process comfortable for patients.
Breast Implant Removal Procedures
There are different types of breast implant removal procedures, and the choice of procedure depends on various factors such as the patient's anatomy, the reason for removal, and the desired post - operative outcome.
En Bloc Capsulectomy
In an en bloc capsulectomy, the plastic surgeon removes the implant and the surrounding capsule as a single unit. This procedure is often recommended in cases where there are concerns about BIA - ALCL, severe capsular contracture, or a silicone implant rupture. It helps to ensure that all potentially contaminated tissue is removed from the body. However, it can be a more complex and invasive procedure compared to other methods.
Partial Capsulectomy
A partial capsulectomy involves removing the breast implant material and trimming or shaping some of the capsule material. The goal is to create the patient's desired chest contour. This procedure is suitable for patients who want to keep some of the capsule in place and achieve a more subtle change in their breast appearance.
Total Capsulectomy
With a total capsulectomy, the surgeon removes the implant, the capsule, and any remaining scar tissue. It starts with the removal of the breast implants, followed by a complete removal of the capsule and associated scar tissue. This procedure is often chosen when there is a significant amount of scar tissue or when a more comprehensive removal is needed for aesthetic or medical reasons.
What to Expect During the Breast Implant Removal Process
Consultation
During the initial consultation, the plastic surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. The patient should discuss any symptoms they are experiencing, especially if the removal is due to medical complications. It is also helpful for the patient to bring any information they have about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. The surgeon will then discuss the different surgical options available, the risks involved, and the expected recovery process. Based on the patient's expectations, they may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift.
Pre - operative Preparation
Before the surgery, the patient may need to undergo certain tests, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, depending on their age and the condition of the implants. The surgeon will provide guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. The patient may also be given prescriptions to fill before the surgery. In some cases, they may need to obtain pre - operative clearance from another doctor. Since the procedure is usually performed under anesthesia, the patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and assist them during the first few days of recovery.
The Surgery
Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or another type of “twilight” anesthesia. In rare cases, only local anesthesia may be used. The surgeon will try to remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery if possible. If there is capsular contracture, a silicone implant rupture, or concerns about BIA - ALCL, it may be necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant. After the removal, multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and possibly a layer of external sutures, will be used to close the incisions. The surgery usually takes between one to three hours, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer.
Recovery
After the surgery, the patient will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse until they are well enough to be discharged. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia may be used to reduce discomfort. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, so the patient can return home the same day. However, they should not drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. The patient's breasts may be covered with a layer of gauze or a bandage. They may feel tired or sore after the surgery, and it is normal to experience some swelling and tenderness. Most patients can return to most daily activities within days, but they should refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. It is important to follow all post - operative instructions carefully, and the surgeon will provide an individualized recovery plan. Some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions is expected, but this numbness usually fades over time. The final results may take several months to become visible, and the scars will start to fade after about six weeks.
Cost of Breast Implant Removal in New York City
The cost of breast implant removal in New York City can vary depending on several factors, including the hospital or clinic, the complexity of the procedure, the type of anesthesia used, and the surgeon's experience. On average, the cost can range from a few thousand dollars to over ten thousand dollars. Some insurance companies may cover the cost of breast implant removal if it is due to a medical condition, such as implant rupture or BIA - ALCL. However, patients should check with their insurance provider to understand their coverage.
Conclusion
When it comes to breast implant removal in New York City, patients have a wide range of excellent options. The top 10 hospitals and clinics mentioned in this article offer high - quality services, experienced surgeons, and advanced techniques. Whether the reason for removal is medical or cosmetic, patients can expect a comprehensive evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and dedicated post - operative care. It is important for patients to do their research, have an open and honest conversation with their surgeon, and understand all aspects of the procedure and recovery process. By making an informed decision, patients can achieve their desired results and improve their overall well - being.
If you are considering breast implant removal in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top - ranked hospitals or clinics mentioned above. Take the time to discuss your concerns and goals with the surgeon, and ask any questions you may have. This will help you make the best decision for your health and aesthetic needs. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast implant removal to spread the valuable information.
