The hospital ranking list for breast plastic reconstruction in New York City + price overview!

Breast plastic reconstruction is a life - changing procedure for many women, especially those who have undergone mastectomy or lumpectomy due to breast cancer. New York City, being a global hub for medical excellence, offers a plethora of options for breast plastic reconstruction. In this article, we will explore the top hospitals, their rankings, and also take a look at the associated prices.

Understanding Breast Plastic Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction is a reconstructive procedure designed to reform or reshape the breast(s) after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. A mastectomy involves the removal of the entire breast, usually including the nipple and areola, to treat or prevent breast cancer. A lumpectomy, on the other hand, is the removal of a piece of the breast where there is a smaller tumor.

This reconstruction process is not just about physical appearance but also plays a crucial role in helping a woman regain her self - confidence and feel better during her cancer recovery. It can be performed immediately after breast cancer surgery (immediate reconstruction) or months or years later (delayed reconstruction). The procedure might be carried out to reconstruct both breasts or to replace/reshape one breast to match the other.

Types of Breast Reconstruction

There are two main types of breast reconstruction:

1. Flap Reconstruction (Autologous/Skin Flap Surgery): In this technique, a tissue flap is taken from a donor site of the patient's body, such as the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, or back. The flap is then grafted at the place of the breasts. Its blood supply can either be taken from the donor site or cut off and a new supply established, while ensuring the nutrition of the flap is not disturbed. After the grafting, stitches are applied, drainage tubes are inserted to drain excess fluid or blood from the site, and bandages are applied.
2. Tissue Expander (Implants/Prosthetics): This is the most commonly used technique worldwide. A synthetic implant, usually silicone, is inserted under the pectoralis major muscle. Animal dermal grafts are used to cover the site to give it a more aesthetic appearance. Over a few months, saline solution is injected to expand the tissue until it reaches the appropriate size.

Top Hospitals for Breast Plastic Reconstruction in New York City

1. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center is the oldest and largest hospital in the world specializing in oncology treatment. It is among the top 2 facilities in the USA for pediatric cancer treatment. The oncologists at Sloan Kettering hospitals develop innovative cancer research programs and provide training programs for the new generation of specialists. With over 15,600 medical specialists, they carry out the treatment of 200 cancer types, and many experts are members of national academies of science and medicine.

For breast plastic reconstruction, the center's expertise in oncology gives it an edge as it can ensure seamless care from cancer treatment to reconstruction. Their team is well - versed in both flap reconstruction and tissue expander techniques, and can provide personalized treatment plans based on the patient's condition.

2. New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai

The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai has been ranked among “America’s best hospitals” for nine years straight since 2006. It has also achieved Magnet® status by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet Recognition Program® for excellence in nursing services. Dr. Joshua Levine established the first dedicated perforator flap breast reconstruction program in New York City, the New York Center for the Advancement of Breast Reconstruction, at this hospital in 2006.

The hospital's surgical teams are highly trained in state - of - the - art natural breast reconstruction techniques. They focus on minimizing the impact on the patient's body and ensuring a quicker recovery time. The use of advanced technology and the experience of the medical staff make it a top choice for breast plastic reconstruction.

3. Weill Cornell Medicine

Weill Cornell Medicine partners with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the US. Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons are leaders in the field and are equipped to promote comfort throughout the breast reconstruction process. The hospital offers individualized breast surgery for patients of all races, ethnicities, genders, and gender identities to help them achieve a natural look and feel confident in their appearance.

The team at Weill Cornell Medicine offers a full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, including breast reduction surgery, breast lift surgery (mastopexy), breast augmentation with implants, and diep flap surgery. They prioritize the patient's comfort, from the initial consultation to the post - operative care.

Doctor Recommendations in New York City

When it comes to breast reconstruction, the expertise of the doctor is as crucial as the hospital's facilities. Here are some highly - rated doctors in New York City:

• Dr. Alexander Swistel, MD: Rated 4.90 out of 5 stars with 225 ratings. Located at 425 E. 61st st., 8 - 11th floor, New York, NY 10065. His high rating indicates a high level of patient satisfaction, likely due to his skill in performing breast reconstruction surgeries.
• Dr. Rache Simmons, MD: With a rating of 4.60 out of 5 stars and 76 ratings at 1283 York Avenue 4th floor, New York, NY 10065. Her patients seem to have had positive experiences with her care and surgical outcomes.
• Dr. Derek Brinster, MD: Rated 4.20 out of 5 stars with 21 ratings. On staff at Lenox Hill Hospital and located at 130 E 77th st fl 4, New York, NY 10075. His association with a well - known hospital and his experience contribute to his credibility in breast reconstruction.

Price Overview of Breast Plastic Reconstruction in New York City

The price of breast plastic reconstruction in New York City can vary significantly depending on several factors, such as the type of reconstruction, the complexity of the case, the surgeon's experience, and the hospital facilities. It's important to note that the average price of breast cancer surgery in New York is $10,973, with a minimum of $300 and a maximum of $55,000.

For breast reconstruction specifically, some of the price details from various sources are as follows:

• There are cases where the cheapest price available for breast reconstruction in New York City was found to be $4,056, but often the price is on request as it is determined based on individual cases, photos, and in - person assessments with the specialist.
• Comparatively, in India, the price for breast reconstruction is around $677, and in Thailand, it is approximately $2,687. However, in New York City, patients pay a premium for the high - quality medical expertise, advanced technology, and comprehensive care.

Here is a table comparing the prices in different locations:

What to Expect During the Breast Reconstruction Process

Before the Surgery

The consultation is a vital part of the process. During this time, patients can ask any questions they may have regarding the procedure, such as the type of reconstruction, breast implant size, breast shape, the type of implant being used, the price of the procedure, and the surgical techniques. Surgeons like Dr. John Sherman can inform patients of all the available options for breast reconstruction surgery.

Patients also need to provide their medical history, including details of previous surgeries, any allergies, and current medications. They may be asked to undergo certain pre - operative tests to ensure they are fit for surgery.

During the Surgery

Both flap reconstruction and tissue expander procedures begin with anesthetizing the patient to prevent pain and discomfort. The specific steps then differ based on the type of reconstruction:

• Flap Reconstruction: As mentioned earlier, a tissue flap is harvested from a donor site and grafted onto the breast area. This is a more complex procedure and usually takes longer in the operating theater compared to the tissue expander method.
• Tissue Expander: A synthetic implant is inserted under the pectoralis major muscle, and over time, saline solution is injected to expand the tissue. This procedure generally takes less time in the operating theater than flap reconstruction.

After the Surgery

The recovery process is a crucial part of breast reconstruction. The length of stay in the hospital depends on the type of surgery:

• For tissue expander surgery, one or two days of stay in the hospital is usually required.
• After flap reconstruction, patients might need two or three days of hospital stay.

Overall, patients should stay in New York City for at least 14 days after the surgery for follow - ups, during which their health condition is monitored, stitches and drainage tubes are removed, and they can go home when allowed by their physician.

The recovery time varies based on the type of reconstructive surgery. Most women need a couple of weeks to recover, with swelling and soreness in the first week. On average, 3 - 4 weeks are needed to recover from tissue expander surgery and 4 - 6 weeks for flap reconstructive surgery. Regular activities can be restarted after 2 months, and it takes almost 1 - 2 years for the breasts to get the proper shape and for the scars to fade away.

Post - operative care is also essential. Patients should follow the doctor's instructions, take prescribed medicines, consult a nutritionist for a diet plan, avoid wearing padded or underwire bras until allowed, use surgical bras in the early days, avoid excessive movement of the breasts, not lift heavy objects, change the bandage when dirty, avoid bathing with intact bandages, abstain from sexual activity for at least 6 weeks, and take sufficient rest.

Success Rate and Risks of Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction surgery has a high success rate. According to a study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the success rate is found to be 98% in the case of flap reconstruction surgery, while for tissue expander surgery, it is within the region of 94 - 96%.

However, like any surgical procedure, breast reconstruction also comes with risks and side effects. These may include infection at the surgery site, itching, pain and discomfort, tingling, numbness, or fluid collection under the wound. If patients see any fluid leaking from incision sites, experience increased pain or swelling, notice a change in color in the scar area or the breast, or have a fever above 100 °Fahrenheit/37.7 °Celsius, they should contact their doctor immediately.

Alternatives to Breast Reconstruction

Surgery is not the only option for women who have undergone mastectomy or lumpectomy. There are several alternatives:

• Breast Prosthetics: Prosthetic breasts can be worn inside bras or attached to the body, giving the appearance of natural breasts.
• Padded Bras: These are less uncomfortable than prosthetic breasts and can provide a perfect body posture without the need for surgery.
• Going Flat: Some women choose to accept their bodies as they are without any additional prosthetics or surgeries, embracing their new - found freedom.

Conclusion

New York City offers a wide range of options for breast plastic reconstruction, with top - notch hospitals, highly skilled doctors, and advanced medical facilities. The process of breast reconstruction is complex, but it can have a profound impact on a woman's self - confidence and quality of life after breast cancer treatment. While the prices in New York City are relatively high compared to some other locations, the high success rate and comprehensive care justify the cost for many patients.

If you are considering breast plastic reconstruction, we encourage you to do further research, consult with multiple doctors, and make an informed decision. Share this article with others who might benefit from this information and explore related topics to learn more about breast health and reconstruction.