Introduction
Silicone breast prosthesis removal is a procedure that some women opt for due to various reasons, such as medical complications, changes in aesthetic preferences, or concerns about long - term effects. In New York City, there are several hospitals and surgeons renowned for their expertise in this area. This article will present the top 5 places for silicone breast prosthesis removal in NYC, providing detailed information about each, including the surgeons, procedures, and recovery processes.
1. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice
Surgeon Overview
Dr. Darrick Antell is a premier breast surgeon in NYC. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. With a career spanning over twenty years and more than ten thousand procedures, he combines meticulous surgical skills, the latest medical technologies, and an artistic eye. He is an official spokesperson for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and has memberships in many regional and national medical societies, including the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He is also a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and has won numerous awards.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Women may choose to have breast implants removed for various reasons. These include lifestyle changes, cosmetic dissatisfaction with the original breast augmentation results, and medical issues. Some medical reasons are experiencing complications related to the implants without wanting a replacement, having textured implants recalled by the FDA due to an association with a heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), and developing capsular contracture.
The Consultation Process
During the initial consultation, Dr. Antell will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history. He will also assess the current condition of the breasts. If the patient desires removal due to medical complications, it is crucial to discuss any symptoms with him. Patients should bring any information they have about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. By having an open conversation about the desired outcome, a proper surgical plan can be created. It may be recommended to pair the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift (mastopexy), to achieve a more plump, rounded appearance. Dr. Antell will go through the procedure, risks, and recovery in detail during the consultation.
The Procedure
Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or “twilight” anesthesia. In some rare cases, only local anesthesia may be used. If possible, Dr. Antell will remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery, especially when the implants were placed with an inframammary fold or areolar incision. However, if there is capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or BIA - ALCL related to textured breast implants, it is often necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant. When the implant and scar tissue are removed simultaneously, it is called en - bloc resection. Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and a layer of external sutures (if needed) are used to close the incisions. A layer of gauze or a bandage may be placed over the new breasts to speed healing. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours, and an en - bloc resection can take longer.
Recovery
After the surgery, patients will recover in Dr. Antell's state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia is used to reduce discomfort. It is an outpatient procedure, so patients can return home the same day. An escort is needed as they cannot drive for 24 hours after anesthesia. Thorough discharge instructions are provided. After surgery, breasts may be covered with gauze or a bandage. Patients may feel tired or sore, but many can return to most daily activities within days. Vigorous exercise should be refrained from for around two weeks. It is expected to experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. There may also be some fluid drainage from the incision site. Most patients do not require a breast lift after surgery as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally. Patients usually return to the office the day after surgery for monitoring. Dissolvable sutures or dermabond are often used, and if external sutures are used, they are usually removed around 7 - 10 days after the procedure. Although much of the swelling and bruising will fade in the first few weeks, it may take several months before the final results are visible. Scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade.
2. Dr. Steven Wallach's Practice
Surgeon Overview
Dr. Steven Wallach is a well - known plastic surgeon who specializes in breast implant removal. His practice is conveniently located to serve the areas of New York, NY.
Candidates for Breast Implant Removal
Good candidates for breast implant removal are generally healthy individuals who desire the removal of their implants. Those with medical issues may require medical clearance from their primary care physician. Non - smokers or those who stop smoking prior to the procedure, and those who stop taking blood - thinning medications are also ideal candidates.
Benefits of the Procedure
There are both medical and non - medical reasons for breast implant removal. Medically, it may be necessary when an implant ruptures or when capsular contracture occurs. Capsular contracture is the hardening of scar tissue around an implant, which can be painful and distort the appearance of the breasts. Non - medically, it can be due to changes in preferences and desired appearance. Patients may also choose to replace the old implants with new ones at the same time as removal if desired.
The Consultation
The consultation process depends on the patient's reason for surgery. If there are complications such as capsular contracture, Dr. Wallach may perform an examination to confirm the diagnosis and then schedule the explantation surgery. If the issue is cosmetic, other options for breast implant replacement, such as switching to a different type or size of implant, or a breast lift, may be discussed. Dr. Wallach will walk through the options and techniques available for the procedure and which will provide the best results with the least amount of scarring.
Procedure Details
The surgery may be performed under intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia. Once the anesthesia takes effect, Dr. Wallach makes a predetermined incision to access the breast pocket and implant. He removes the implant and may remove the scar capsule surrounding it. In the case of leakage or rupture, he takes extra care to remove any sterile silicone gel that may have seeped out. If the patient has elected to replace the implants, he will insert the new ones according to the agreed - upon surgical plan, then close the incisions and bandage the incision sites.
Recovery and Risks
Immediately after the procedure, patients will have swelling and bruising around their breasts and may be in mild pain. A caregiver is needed to drive them home and stay with them for about a day. Most patients can go back to light activity within three to five days. Aerobic activity should be avoided for three to four weeks, and heavy lifting should be avoided for about six to eight weeks. The main risks of breast implant removal surgery are unfavorable scarring, asymmetry, infection, bleeding, nipple loss, skin loss, fat necrosis, fluid collections, dysesthesias, and the need for revision surgery.
3. Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice
Surgeon Overview
Dr. Barry Weintraub is a highly experienced plastic surgeon. He studied medicine at Cornell and bases his practice on strong core values. He is known for his aesthetic sense, blending medical science and artwork. Over 60% of his practice is comprised of complex redos of surgeries performed by other offices, and patients seek him from all over the world to correct their aesthetic problems.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal and Replacement
Patients may choose breast implant removal and replacement to change the size, location, and/or type of implants. Concerns about breast implant illness (BII) also lead some patients to remove the implants to assess the effect on their health. Some want to replace saline implants with more natural - feeling, - looking, and - acting silicone gel implants due to the leakage issues of saline implants. Capsular contracture and the desire for a more natural - looking result, such as repositioning the implants under the pectoralis - major muscle, are other reasons. Additionally, using autologous fat to replace lost volume or performing a breast lift in conjunction with removal and replacement is an option for some patients.
Consultation and Patient Selection
When considering breast implant removal and replacement, patients should not undergo the procedure before the age of 18 or until they have a clear idea of their desired breast volume. A consultation is crucial. When choosing a surgeon, patients should check for board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, ensure the physician has hospital privileges and a good reputation, and speak to patients who have undergone similar procedures. A good surgeon should listen to the patient's specific needs and desires.
The Procedure
Dr. Weintraub prefers his patients to be in a comfortable state of twilight sleep during the procedure. He insists on the most sterile conditions in the operating room, with on - staff, board - certified anesthesiologists and state - of - the - art monitoring equipment. He performs the surgery himself with precision and care, sewing all wounds in multiple layers. The surgery time can range from half an hour to multiple hours, depending on the specific modality and aesthetic needs.
After - care and Uniqueness of the Surgeon
There may be a short period of minimal swelling and sometimes bruising after surgery. Patients must follow Dr. Weintraub's instructions carefully. He is a firm believer in early showering. He will advise on when patients can return to their normal lifestyle and exercise routine. What sets Dr. Weintraub apart is his strong aesthetic sense, his commitment to patient - centered care, and his experience in handling complex cases. He will not hesitate to turn away patients if he feels they are not good candidates for surgery.
4. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice
Surgeon Overview
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon. She is recognized as one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the Upper East Side in NYC, with over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal may be due to both aesthetic and medical issues. Aesthetic issues include the implant becoming palpable or visible (folded, rippled, or wrinkled), rupture, leakage, deflation, movement from the original position, capsular contracture, breast asymmetry, unsightly scars, nipple or areola problems, and implant malposition. Medical issues include severe capsular contracture, chronic pain, breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), breast implant illness (BII), infection, and bleeding.
Special Concerns: BIA - ALCL and BII
BIA - ALCL is a rare cancer specifically related to breast implants, primarily associated with the biocell textured surface present in some allergan implants. It often presents as a mass or fluid accumulation that manifests late, usually several years after the initial breast surgery. It is mostly treatable with surgical removal of the tumor, capsule, and breast implant. Breast implant illness (BII) refers to a wide variety of symptoms that patients may report after breast augmentation or reconstruction with implants, such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression or anxiety, rashes, pain and discomfort, and brain fog. It is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
The Consultation and Procedure
Dr. Hutchinson will advise patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to achieve their goals. In some cases, a secondary procedure such as a breast lift may be necessary for the best aesthetic results. She will perform a detailed evaluation during the consultation to understand the patient's concerns and determine the most suitable approach for the breast implant removal.
5. Millennial Plastic Surgery (Dr. David Shokrian)
Surgeon Overview
Dr. David Shokrian at Millennial Plastic Surgery is known for working with patients to create the perfect balance of surgical and natural remedies for breast implant removal. He is highly regarded in New York City for this procedure.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Women may decide to remove their breast implants due to changes in the shape of their breasts over time, caused by weight, hormone fluctuations, or pregnancy. Incorrect initial procedures may also lead to dissatisfaction with the appearance of the breasts. Medical reasons include infection, ruptured or displaced implants, neck, back, or shoulder problems caused by large implants, an autoimmune disease aggravated by the implants, and implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Additionally, cultural shifts in beauty standards or different cosmetic goals can be reasons for removal.
The Procedure and What to Expect
Breast implant removal is usually an outpatient procedure. On the day of surgery, the patient will receive anesthesia (either general or intravenous sedation), an incision will be made under the breast or around or below the areola, the implants and any present scar tissue will be removed, and the incisions will be closed with stitches or skin adhesions. After the incision is closed, the patient is moved to a recovery room where vital signs are monitored, and the dressing is examined. They will need someone to stay with them for the first 24 hours.
Post - surgery Appearance and Recovery
The appearance of the breasts after surgery depends on the size of the breasts before augmentation, the size of the implants, and any changes the body has gone through since getting the implants. Sagging and drooping may occur, especially in women with large implants or those who have experienced significant hormonal or weight changes. A breast implant removal and lift can be an option to address these concerns. After surgery, patients will have dressings or gauze bandages and need to wear a compression garment or support bra for a few weeks. They may need to take pain medication. Most women can return to work within a few days but need to follow instructions such as changing bandages, walking daily, avoiding certain activities, not driving for the first week, not exercising or lifting heavy weights for about six weeks, and sleeping on their back. Drains may be placed under the skin and usually come out within 10 days. Complications are rare when the surgery is done by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Shokrian.
Comparison of the Top 5
| Surgeon | Experience and Reputation | Reasons for Removal | Procedure Details | Recovery Time | Special Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Darrick Antell | Over 20 years, listed in top magazines, many awards | Lifestyle, cosmetic, medical (BIA - ALCL, capsular contracture) | Local/“twilight” anesthesia, possible en - bloc resection | Most daily activities within days, no vigorous exercise for 2 weeks, final results in months | High - end private operating room, many celebrity patients |
| Dr. Steven Wallach | Well - known in NYC | Medical (rupture, capsular contracture), non - medical (preference changes) | IV sedation or general anesthesia, possible implant replacement | Light activity in 3 - 5 days, no aerobic activity for 3 - 4 weeks, no heavy lifting for 6 - 8 weeks | Considerable range of FAQs provided |
| Dr. Barry Weintraub | Studied at Cornell, experienced in complex cases | Change size/location/type, BII, capsular contracture | Twilight sleep anesthesia, high - tech operating room | Return to work in 3 days, swelling resolves in a week | Emphasis on patient - centered care, turns away unsuitable patients |
| Dr. Olivia Hutchinson | Over 20 years, board - certified, Harvard and Columbia educated | Aesthetic and medical issues (BIA - ALCL, BII) | Customized approach, possible secondary procedures | Details may vary based on procedure | Special focus on BIA - ALCL and BII |
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