Introduction

Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, has seen a surge in demand in recent years. In New York City, a vibrant hub of medical excellence, women have access to a variety of top - notch hospitals and surgeons for silicone breast implant removal. This article aims to provide a comprehensive ranking and overview of the leading hospitals in NYC for this procedure, as well as offer in - depth information about breast implant removal in general.

Reasons for Silicone Breast Implant Removal

Medical Reasons

• Implant Rupture: A silicone implant rupture can lead to various complications. The gel from a ruptured silicone implant may leak into the breast tissue, which can cause pain, swelling, and changes in the breast's appearance. An MRI may be required to determine if a silicone implant has ruptured, as it may not always be visible externally (source: stevenwallachmd.com).
• Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue that forms around the implant hardens. It can be quite painful and also distort the shape of the breasts. The rate of capsular contracture is about 3 - 4% and increases gradually over the years (stevenwallachmd.com).
• 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. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, or a change in the size or shape of the breasts. It is primarily associated with certain types of textured breast implants, leading to the recall of some products by the FDA (antell - md.com).
• Breast Implant Illness (BII): Although the exact cause is unknown, some women report a wide range of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, and breathing difficulties after breast augmentation. It is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems (droliviahutchinson.com).

Aesthetic Reasons

• Desire for Natural Look: Over time, some women may develop a preference for a more natural breast appearance and decide to remove their implants.
• Change in Body Image: Changes in lifestyle, personal goals, or body self - perception can lead a woman to want to return to her pre - implant breast size and shape.
• Implant - Related Aesthetic Issues: Such as palpable or visible implants (folded, rippled, or wrinkled), breast asymmetry, or unsightly scars (droliviahutchinson.com).

Ranking of Hospitals in New York City for Silicone Breast Implant Removal

New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center

This institution has been highly ranked in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals. In some years, it was ranked as high as No. 4 in the nation and also made the honor roll as No. 7 in other instances. It ranks nationally in 14 - 15 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties. Its national ranking in cancer care reflects the high - quality surgical oncology expertise, including breast surgery. The breadth and depth of its services, which are not only clinical but also cultural and socioeconomic, set it apart. With well - trained surgeons and state - of - the - art facilities, it offers a comprehensive approach to breast implant removal. Patients can expect a high - level of care, from pre - operative evaluation to post - operative recovery (columbiasurgery.org).

Top Surgeon - Run Private Practices

Steven Wallach MD, FACS

Dr. Wallach is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York. He is experienced in breast implant removal and usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket and remove the implants. He also removes implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary. He takes the time to consult with patients, discussing their goals and providing information about the procedure, recovery, and potential risks. The practice offers support throughout the entire process, from consultation to recovery (stevenwallachmd.com).

Dr. Darrick Antell

Dr. Antell is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. He performs custom breast implant removal surgery and is skilled in en - bloc capsulectomy, which involves removing the implant and the surrounding scar tissue. He has been listed in magazines such as Harper’s Bazaar as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. His patients often refer others to his practice, which speaks to the high level of satisfaction with his work. His state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is equipped with the latest technology, and his staff provides personalized care (antell - md.com).

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson

Dr. Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon on the Upper East Side in NYC. With over 20 years of experience, she has evaluated numerous patients with breast implant - related concerns. She can address both aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants. For example, she has expertise in dealing with problems like breast implant rupture, leakage, and capsular contracture. Her goal is to help patients achieve their desired outcomes, whether it's removing the implants or combining the removal with a secondary procedure like a breast lift (droliviahutchinson.com).

Dr. Barry Weintraub

Dr. Weintraub is known for his attention to detail and his commitment to patient safety. He performs breast implant removal and replacement surgeries in his hospital - grade, state - of - the - art surgical center. He prefers to have patients in a comfortable state of twilight sleep during the procedure and insists on the most sterile conditions in the operating room. He also has a unique blend of medical science and artistic sense, which is reflected in the aesthetic results he achieves. His patients come from all over the world to have him correct their aesthetic problems (drbarryweintraub.com).

Dr. Daniel Maman

Dr. Maman is a Harvard fellowship - trained and board - certified plastic surgeon. He specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, body, and face. His practice offers a comprehensive consultation process, including a thorough review of medical history and a detailed operative plan. He emphasizes patient comfort throughout the breast implant revision (which often involves removal) process, from consultation to recovery. His facilities include in - office AAAASF - certified facilities and he has operating privileges at multiple well - known hospitals in NYC (drmaman.com).

The Breast Implant Removal Procedure

Consultation

During the consultation, the surgeon will evaluate the patient's general health and medical history. The surgeon will also assess the current condition of the breasts. If the patient is experiencing complications such as capsular contracture or symptoms of BIA - ALCL, a more detailed examination may be performed. The patient should bring any information they have about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. The surgeon will discuss the patient's goals, whether it's simply removing the implants, replacing them, or combining the removal with other procedures like a breast lift. They will also go over the procedure, risks, and recovery in detail (antell - md.com, stevenwallachmd.com).

Preparation

Patients may be required to undergo imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI prior to the procedure, depending on factors like age and implant condition. They will be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. Patients may need to provide pre - operative clearance from another doctor. It is also important for patients to arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and assist them during the initial recovery period (antell - md.com).

Procedure

The surgery is typically performed under intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia for the patient's comfort and safety. The surgeon will make an incision, usually using the previous surgical approach if possible. They will then access the breast pocket, remove the implant, and may also remove the scar capsule surrounding it. In the case of a rupture or leakage, special care will be taken to remove any silicone gel that has seeped out. If the patient has elected to have new implants inserted, the surgeon will do so according to the agreed - upon plan. After that, the incisions will be closed and bandaged (stevenwallachmd.com).

Recovery

Immediately after the procedure, patients will experience swelling and bruising around the breasts and may be in mild pain. The level of pain can vary depending on whether the implants were removed or replaced. Patients will need a caregiver to drive them home and stay with them for about a day. Most patients can return 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. There may be some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. The surgeon will monitor the healing process during follow - up visits, and dissolvable sutures are often used to avoid the need for suture removal (stevenwallachmd.com, antell - md.com).

Risks Associated with Silicone Breast Implant Removal

• Scarring: Unfavorable scarring is a potential risk. The location and appearance of scars can vary depending on the incision site and how the patient heals.
• Asymmetry: There is a risk of the breasts not being perfectly symmetrical after the removal, which could be due to factors such as pre - existing asymmetry, differences in healing, or scar tissue formation.
• Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection. Patients will be given antibiotics to reduce this risk, but if an infection occurs, it may require additional treatment.
• Bleeding: Bleeding during or after the surgery is a possibility. The surgeon takes precautions to minimize this risk, but in some cases, additional measures may be needed to control bleeding.
• Nipple Loss and Skin Loss: Although rare, there is a risk of nipple or skin loss, which could be due to poor blood supply to the area or trauma during the surgery.
• Fat Necrosis: This is the death of fat cells in the breast, which can cause lumps or changes in the breast's texture.
• Fluid Collections: Fluid may collect in the breast area after surgery, which may require drainage.
• Dysesthesias: Abnormal sensations in the breast area, such as numbness, tingling, or pain, can occur and may persist for some time.
• Need for Revision Surgery: In some cases, the initial results may not be satisfactory, or complications may arise that require a second surgery (stevenwallachmd.com, antell - md.com).

Cost of Silicone Breast Implant Removal in New York City

The cost of silicone breast implant removal can vary significantly depending on several factors. These include the complexity of the procedure, whether there are any additional procedures involved (such as a breast lift or replacement), the surgeon's experience and reputation, and the location of the surgical facility. The fee may start out at around $5000, but if breast implant replacement is desired or a more complex procedure is required, the cost will increase. It is best for patients to schedule a consultation to get an accurate quote based on their specific situation (stevenwallachmd.com).

Conclusion

In New York City, women have a plethora of options when it comes to silicone breast implant removal. Highly - ranked hospitals like New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, along with renowned private practices led by expert surgeons, offer high - quality care. Whether the reason for removal is medical or aesthetic, it is crucial for patients to thoroughly research and choose a surgeon who is experienced, board - certified, and has a good reputation. Understanding the procedure, the associated risks, and the recovery process is also essential. By making an informed decision, patients can achieve their desired outcomes and return to a healthy and confident lifestyle.

If you are considering silicone breast implant removal in New York City, take the first step by scheduling a consultation with one of the top surgeons mentioned in this article. Educate yourself further about the process, ask questions, and don't hesitate to seek second opinions. Your health and satisfaction are of the utmost importance, so make sure you are well - informed and comfortable with your choice before proceeding with the surgery.