Introduction
New York City, a bustling metropolis renowned for its medical excellence, offers a plethora of options for women seeking breast implant removal surgery. Whether it's due to medical complications, aesthetic concerns, or personal choice, having a reliable hospital with experienced surgeons is crucial. In this article, we'll explore a list of six top - notch hospitals in New York City that perform breast implant removal surgeries and delve into various aspects related to the procedure.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Before we dive into the hospital rankings, it's essential to understand why women might opt for breast implant removal. According to various sources, there are several common reasons:
- Medical Complications:
- Severe Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens and squeezes the implant, causing pain, distortion of the breast shape, and discomfort. It can also lead to changes in the appearance of the breasts, making them look abnormal.
- 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 heightened risk of BIA - ALCL. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, or a change in the size or shape of the breast.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): Women may experience a wide range of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression or anxiety, rashes, pain and discomfort, and brain fog. Although the exact cause is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
- Infection and Bleeding: Infections can occur around the implant, and excessive bleeding during or after the surgery can also be a concern.
- Aesthetic Reasons:
- Unsatisfactory Results: The implants may not have achieved the desired aesthetic outcome, such as incorrect sizing, uneven appearance, or changes in the shape of the breasts over time.
- Visible or Palpable Implants: The implant may become palpable or visible, showing folds, ripples, or wrinkles on the surface of the breast, which can be aesthetically unpleasing.
- Implant Malposition: The implant may have moved from its original position, resulting in a “double bubble” appearance or symmastia (where the implants appear to touch in the middle of the chest).
The Hospital Ranking List
Based on various factors such as surgical expertise, patient outcomes, national rankings, and availability of advanced technologies, here are six hospitals in New York City that are well - known for breast implant removal surgery:
Hospital Name | National Rankings (if any) | Specialties | Contact Information |
---|---|---|---|
Mount Sinai Hospital | Nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties | General medicine, surgery, oncology, etc. | 1 - 332 - 239 - 6252, New York, NY 10029 - 0310 |
New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell | Nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties | Heart surgery, GI surgery, lung surgery, cancer care (including breast surgery), etc. | 1 - 862 - 214 - 7436, New York, NY 10065 - 4870 |
North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health | Nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties | Multiple medical and surgical specialties | Manhasset, NY 11030 - 3816 |
NYU Langone Hospitals | Nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties | Orthopedics, cardiology, plastic surgery, etc. | New York, NY 10016 - 6402 |
Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health | Nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties | Emergency medicine, internal medicine, surgical specialties | New York, NY 10075 - 1850 |
Hackensack University Medical Center at Hackensack Meridian Health | Nationally ranked in 6 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties | Neurosurgery, cardiac surgery, orthopedics, etc. | 1 - 229 - 537 - 2597, Hackensack, NJ 07601 - 1914 |
Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital is a leading institution in New York City, with a long - standing reputation for medical excellence. Its nationally ranked specialties in multiple areas indicate a high level of expertise across different medical fields. In the context of breast implant removal surgery, the hospital's surgical team is likely to have extensive experience in handling various complications associated with implants. They can perform custom breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc capsulectomy if necessary. The hospital's state - of - the - art facilities and advanced technology ensure that patients receive the best possible care during the surgery and throughout the recovery process.
New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell
This hospital has achieved high national rankings in numerous adult and pediatric specialties. It is particularly well - known for its surgical oncology expertise, including breast surgery. When it comes to breast implant removal, the surgeons at New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell can draw on their in - depth knowledge of breast anatomy and oncology to provide comprehensive care. They can also manage cases related to BIA - ALCL and other implant - associated medical issues. The hospital's multidisciplinary approach, involving plastic surgeons, oncologists, and other specialists, allows for a more holistic treatment plan for patients.
North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health
North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health is recognized for its excellence in multiple adult specialties. Its surgical teams are equipped to handle complex breast implant removal cases. The hospital offers a range of services, from pre - operative evaluations to post - operative care. With its focus on patient - centered care, the medical staff takes the time to understand each patient's unique needs and concerns, ensuring a personalized treatment experience. They also stay updated with the latest advancements in breast implant removal techniques to provide the best possible outcomes.
NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals have a strong presence in the medical community, with national rankings in several adult and pediatric specialties. In the area of breast implant removal, their plastic surgeons are highly skilled and experienced. The hospital offers a variety of surgical options, depending on the patient's condition and preferences. They also provide comprehensive support services during the recovery period, including physical therapy and counseling, to help patients regain their confidence and well - being.
Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health
Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health, with its national rankings in 10 adult specialties, is a reliable choice for breast implant removal surgery. The hospital's surgical department has a team of dedicated surgeons who are trained in the latest techniques for implant removal. They pay close attention to patient safety and comfort throughout the procedure. Additionally, the hospital offers a comfortable and supportive environment for patients during their recovery, which can contribute to a faster and more successful healing process.
Hackensack University Medical Center at Hackensack Meridian Health
Hackensack University Medical Center at Hackensack Meridian Health, although located in New Jersey but serving the New York City area, has national rankings in multiple specialties. Its surgical expertise extends to breast implant removal surgery. The hospital is known for its advanced medical technologies and its commitment to providing high - quality care. The medical staff here can offer personalized treatment plans based on the patient's specific circumstances, taking into account factors such as the type of implants, previous surgical history, and overall health.
Meet the Surgeons
Beyond the hospitals, the surgeons performing the breast implant removal surgeries play a crucial role in the success of the procedure. Here are some well - known surgeons in New York City:
Dr. Darrick E. Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon with over twenty years of experience and more than ten thousand procedures under his belt. He is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as being among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal surgeries, including en bloc capsulectomy when indicated. He also has experience in removing the recalled Allergan textured breast implants associated with BIA - ALCL. Many of his patients are referred by former patients, which speaks to the high level of satisfaction with his work.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon. She is considered to be 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, she can address a wide range of issues, from aesthetic problems to medical complications. Dr. Hutchinson takes the time to understand her patients' goals and advises them on the best surgical options available. She has a reputation for providing the finest surgical results and ensuring patient comfort throughout the process.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
The breast implant removal procedure typically involves several steps:
- Consultation:
- The patient meets with the surgeon to discuss their reasons for wanting the implants removed, their medical history, and any current symptoms. The surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and the current condition of their breasts. It is important for the patient to bring any information they have about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery.
- Based on the patient's expectations, the surgeon may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift (mastopexy), to achieve a more desirable aesthetic outcome. The surgeon will also go through the procedure, the risks, and the recovery process in detail during the consultation.
- Pre - operative Preparation:
- Depending on factors such as age and implant condition, the surgeon may order imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI before the surgery. The patient will be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. Prescriptions may be provided that need to be filled before the surgery. The patient may also be asked to obtain pre - operative clearance from another doctor.
- Since the procedure is usually performed under “twilight” sedation, the patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and ensure they have assistance during the first few days of recovery.
- The Surgery:
- If possible, the surgeon will remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. However, this may not be possible in all cases, especially if the implants were placed using an armpit incision or if there are complications such as capsular contracture or a silicone implant rupture.
- In cases where the hardened scar tissue around the implant needs to be removed, an en - bloc resection may be performed. The surgery typically takes between one to two hours, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer. Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and a layer of external sutures (if needed) are used to close the incisions. The surgeon may place a layer of gauze or a bandage over the breasts to speed healing.
- Recovery:
- After the surgery, the patient will recover in a state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia is used to reduce discomfort. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, so the patient can return home the same day. However, they will need an escort as they cannot drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia.
- Upon leaving the facility, the patient will receive thorough discharge instructions. They may feel tired or sore following surgery, and it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. The majority of patients do not require a breast lift after surgery as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally. The patient will typically return to the office the day after surgery for a follow - up, and if external sutures are used, they are usually removed around 7 - 10 days after the procedure. It may take several months before the final results are visible, and the scars will gradually fade over time.
Risks Associated with Breast Implant Removal
While breast implant removal surgery is typically a safe procedure when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon, there are still some risks involved:
- Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after the surgery can occur, which may require additional medical intervention.
- Infection: Infections can develop around the surgical site, which may be treated with antibiotics. In severe cases, further surgery may be necessary.
- Numbness at the Incision Site: Some patients may experience numbness or a change in sensation around the incision site, which may be temporary or permanent.
- Adverse Reaction to Anesthesia: Although rare, patients may have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used during the surgery, which can range from mild discomfort to more serious complications.
Cost Considerations
The cost of breast implant removal surgery can vary depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, the hospital or clinic where it is performed, the surgeon's fees, and any additional procedures that may be included. It is important for patients to discuss the cost with their surgeon during the consultation and to check with their insurance provider to see if the procedure is covered. Some insurance companies may cover the cost of breast implant removal if it is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases of BIA - ALCL or severe capsular contracture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New York City offers a wealth of options for women seeking breast implant removal surgery. The six hospitals on the ranking list - Mount Sinai Hospital, New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell, North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health, NYU Langone Hospitals, Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health, and Hackensack University Medical Center at Hackensack Meridian Health - all have the expertise, resources, and facilities to provide high - quality care. Surgeons like Dr. Darrick Antell and Dr. Olivia Hutchinson bring their extensive experience and skills to the table, ensuring successful outcomes for patients. However, it is crucial for patients to thoroughly research their options, have detailed consultations with surgeons, and understand the procedure, risks, and recovery process before making a decision.
If you are considering breast implant removal surgery in New York City, we encourage you to reach out to one of the hospitals or surgeons mentioned in this article. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific needs and concerns. By taking the time to make an informed decision, you can embark on a journey towards a more comfortable and confident future.