Introduction
Breast implant removal surgery has become a topic of increasing interest in New York City. Whether it's due to medical reasons like complications from implants, such as capsular contracture or the development of Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), or cosmetic preferences, many women are seeking experienced doctors to perform this procedure. In this article, we will unveil the top 5 doctors in New York City who are highly skilled in breast implant removal surgery, selected through a strict process.
Factors Considered in Selecting the Top Doctors
Several crucial factors were taken into account when choosing these top doctors:
- Experience: The number of years in practice and the number of breast implant removal surgeries performed are significant indicators. A doctor with more experience is likely to have encountered a wider range of cases and developed effective techniques.
- Reputation: Patient reviews, word - of - mouth recommendations, and the doctor's standing in the medical community were carefully evaluated. Positive feedback from past patients reflects the doctor's skill and patient - centric approach.
- Qualifications: Board certification by recognized organizations, such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery, is a fundamental requirement. This ensures that the doctor has met strict educational and training standards.
- Success Rate: The doctor's ability to achieve satisfactory results for patients, both in terms of physical outcomes and patient satisfaction, was a key consideration.
- Innovation: Staying updated with the latest surgical techniques and technologies in breast implant removal can lead to better results and fewer complications. Doctors who incorporate innovative methods were given preference.
The Top 5 Doctors for Breast Implant Removal Surgery in New York City
1. Dr. Darrick E. Antell
Dr. Darrick E. Antell is widely regarded as one of the premier breast surgeons in NYC. With a career spanning over twenty years and more than ten thousand procedures, he has an exceptional track record.
- Experience and Expertise: He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, including the removal of silicone or saline implants. He is also skilled in en bloc capsulectomy, which involves removing the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. In addition, he handles the removal of allergan textured breast implants recalled by the FDA due to the risk of BIA - ALCL.
- Reputation: Dr. Antell has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as being among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Many of his patients are referred by former patients, a testament to his excellent results and patient satisfaction.
- Approach: During the consultation, he thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. He engages in an open and honest conversation with the patient to create a personalized surgical plan. He may recommend pairing the explant surgery with other procedures like a breast lift for better aesthetic results.
- Facility: He has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City. Most patients prefer the procedure to take place in his discreet, private operating room across the street from Lenox Hill Hospital. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited and equipped with the latest technology.
2. Dr. Steven Wallach
Dr. Steven Wallach is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York who offers breast implant removal services.
- Experience and Expertise: He usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket created for the implants and removes them. He also removes implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary. He can also perform breast implant replacement or combination procedures as per the patient's needs.
- Consultation Process: During the consultation, he assesses the patient's situation based on whether it is a medical or cosmetic issue. If there are complications like capsular contracture, he may perform an examination to confirm the diagnosis and schedule the explantation surgery. For cosmetic concerns, he discusses other options such as implant replacement or breast lift.
- Patient - Centric Care: He educates the patient about important terms related to breast implants, such as ptosis, deflation, capsulectomy, and explantation. He walks the patient through the options and techniques available for the procedure, aiming to provide the best results with the least amount of scarring.
- Recovery and Aftercare: He provides clear instructions for recovery, including avoiding aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks. He and his team are available to answer any questions during the recovery process.
3. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon who is highly experienced in breast implant removal.
- Experience and Specialization: With over 20 years of experience, she has evaluated numerous patients with breast implant - related concerns and performed breast implant removal in NYC. She can address both functional and cosmetic issues related to breast implants.
- Knowledge of Complications: She is well - versed in handling various breast implant - related problems, such as breast implant rupture, leakage, capsular contracture, BIA - ALCL, and breast implant illness (BII). She advises patients on the surgical options available and the best course of action to achieve their goals.
- Patient Reviews: Patients have given her excellent reviews, praising her calming demeanor, professionalism, and the amazing results of the surgery. She makes patients feel comfortable throughout the process.
- Collaborative Approach: She works closely with patients to understand their desires and provides personalized treatment plans. In some cases, she may recommend a secondary procedure like a breast lift to achieve the best aesthetic results.
4. Dr. Daniel Maman
Dr. Daniel Maman is a Harvard fellowship - trained and board - certified plastic surgeon specialized in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, body, and face.
- Credentials and Reputation: He completed a Harvard fellowship in aesthetic breast surgery and a 6 - year plastic surgery residency at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He has appeared on the New York Times top doctors and Super Doctors in plastic surgery lists.
- Breast Implant Revision Expertise: His expertise includes breast implant revision, which often involves breast implant removal. He can address issues such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, and poor initial placement. He provides a comprehensive consultation, including a thorough review of the patient's medical history and a detailed operative plan.
- Patient - Centric Care: He emphasizes convenience, comfort, and a smooth recovery for his patients. He offers luxury recovery room options at NYC hotels and complimentary, custom post - operative support garments and scar treatment regimens.
- Results and Follow - up: He stays in close contact with patients during the pre - op and post - op periods to ensure prompt and personalized care. The recovery timelines are carefully managed, and he provides clear instructions on when patients can resume normal activities.
5. Dr. Barry Weintraub
Dr. Barry Weintraub is a plastic surgeon known for his expertise in breast implant removal and replacement.
- Experience and Aesthetic Sense: He has a unique blend of medical science and artistic ability. He always places implants under the pectoralis - major muscle to achieve the most natural - looking results. He has over 60% of his practice focused on complex redos of surgeries performed by other offices.
- Patient Evaluation: During the consultation, he takes the time to understand the patient's concerns and goals. He ensures that the patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure, considering factors such as motivation, ability to pause daily responsibilities, and financial situation.
- Surgical Approach: He prefers to perform breast implant removal and replacement under twilight sleep, ensuring patient comfort. He insists on the most sterile conditions in the operating room, with on - staff, board - certified anesthesiologists and state - of - the - art monitoring equipment.
- Aftercare and Results: He provides detailed instructions for post - operative care, including early showering for better wound healing. He advises patients on when they can return to their normal lifestyle and exercise routine. Patients can expect significant, long - lasting aesthetic improvements to their breasts.
Comparing the Top 5 Doctors
Doctor | Years of Experience | Specialization | Patient Reviews | Unique Selling Proposition |
---|---|---|---|---|
Dr. Darrick E. Antell | Over 20 years | Custom breast implant removal, en bloc capsulectomy, removal of recalled implants | Highly recommended by former patients, listed in top magazines | Exceptional surgical skills, personalized approach, private and well - equipped facility |
Dr. Steven Wallach | Not specified, long - standing practice | Breast implant removal, replacement, handling complications | Positive feedback on consultation and aftercare | Educates patients on implant - related terms, provides clear recovery instructions |
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson | Over 20 years | Addressing functional and cosmetic breast implant issues | Patients praise her professionalism and results | Experienced in handling complex implant - related problems, collaborative approach |
Dr. Daniel Maman | After 6 - year residency and fellowship | Breast implant revision, which includes removal | Appeared on top doctor lists, positive patient feedback | Harvard - trained, offers luxury recovery options, personalized post - op care |
Dr. Barry Weintraub | Not specified, long - standing practice | Breast implant removal and replacement, complex redos | Patients seek him for correction of aesthetic problems | Unique aesthetic sense, emphasis on sterile surgery, experience in complex cases |
What to Expect During the Breast Implant Removal Process
Consultation
The first step in the breast implant removal process is the consultation. During this visit, the doctor will:
- Review your medical history, including any previous breast surgeries, allergies, and current medications.
- Conduct a physical examination of your breasts to assess the current condition of the implants and the surrounding tissue.
- Discuss your reasons for wanting the implants removed and your desired outcome.
- Explain the surgical procedure, including the risks, benefits, and expected recovery time.
- Answer any questions you may have and address any concerns.
Pre - operative Preparation
Based on the doctor's advice, you may need to take the following steps before the surgery:
- Undergo imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, to evaluate the implants and the surrounding tissue.
- Stop taking certain medications, vitamins, or supplements that may increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin or blood thinners.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and assist you during the initial recovery period.
- Follow any specific dietary or fasting instructions provided by the doctor.
Surgery
The breast implant removal surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or another type of “twilight” anesthesia. The doctor will make an incision, usually using the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery if possible. The implant will be removed, and in some cases, the surrounding scar tissue (capsule) may also be removed. The incisions will then be closed with sutures.
Recovery
After the surgery, you will recover in a recovery suite under the monitoring of a registered nurse. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and soreness in the breasts. The doctor will provide you with detailed post - operative instructions, which may include:
- Wearing a supportive bra or bandage to help reduce swelling and support the breasts.
- Taking pain medications as prescribed to manage discomfort.
- Avoiding strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and vigorous exercise for a certain period of time.
- Following a specific diet to promote healing.
- Attending follow - up appointments with the doctor to monitor your healing progress.
Risks and Complications of Breast Implant Removal
Although breast implant removal is generally a safe procedure when performed by an experienced doctor, there are some potential risks and complications, including:
- Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, which may require additional treatment.
- Infection: Infections can occur at the incision site or around the implants. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.
- Numbness: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent numbness in the breasts or nipples due to nerve damage during the surgery.
- Scarring: There will be scars at the incision sites, which may fade over time but may still be visible. The doctor will try to minimize scarring by using appropriate surgical techniques.
- Asymmetry: There is a possibility of the breasts appearing asymmetrical after the surgery, which may require additional procedures to correct.
- Fluid Collections: Fluid may accumulate in the breast tissue after the surgery, which may need to be drained.
Conclusion
Selecting the right doctor for breast implant removal surgery is crucial for achieving the best results and minimizing the risks. The top 5 doctors in New York City - Dr. Darrick E. Antell, Dr. Steven Wallach, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, Dr. Daniel Maman, and Dr. Barry Weintraub - have demonstrated exceptional skills, experience, and patient - centric care in this field. Each doctor brings unique expertise and a personalized approach to the procedure.
If you are considering breast implant removal surgery, take the time to research these doctors, read patient reviews, and schedule consultations to find the one who is the best fit for you. Don't hesitate to ask questions and discuss your concerns with the doctor to ensure that you are fully informed and comfortable with the decision.
Call now to schedule a consultation with one of these top doctors and take the first step towards achieving your desired results. You deserve to have a positive experience and excellent outcome with your breast implant removal surgery.