Introduction
Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, is a procedure that many women in New York City consider for various reasons. These reasons may range from medical complications such as capsular contracture or implant rupture to personal preferences regarding body image. Finding a reliable and experienced hospital or provider for this procedure is crucial. In this article, we will provide an extensive list of hospitals and providers in New York City that offer breast implant removal services, along with essential information about the procedure, its associated risks, and recovery.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are several reasons why a woman might choose to have her breast implants removed. Understanding these reasons can help in making an informed decision about the procedure.
Medical Complications
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the breast implant tightens and squeezes the implant. It can cause pain, distortion of the breast shape, and discomfort. In severe cases, it may require surgical intervention to remove the implant and the scar tissue.
- Implant Rupture: Both silicone and saline implants can rupture. A silicone implant rupture may not be immediately obvious as the silicone gel can sometimes stay within the capsule or migrate to other parts of the body. A saline implant rupture, on the other hand, will cause the implant to deflate quickly. In either case, implant removal may be necessary.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that can occur in the scar tissue around breast implants. It has been associated with certain types of textured breast implants, and the FDA has recalled some of these implants. Treatment usually involves removing the implants and the surrounding scar tissue.
Personal Preferences
- Body Image Concerns: Some women may no longer be satisfied with the appearance of their breasts with implants. They may want to return to their natural breast size and shape.
- Lifestyle Changes: Changes in lifestyle, such as a more active lifestyle where the implants may be a hindrance, can also be a reason for removal.
List of Providers for Breast Implant Removal in New York City
AEDIT Providers
AEDIT offers a list of certified providers for breast implant removal in New York City. Here are some of the providers:
| Provider Name | Specialty | Location | Distance from NYC (approx.) | Virtual Appointments | Free Consultation | Before & After Images |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kevin Tehrani, MD, FACS | Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery | 33 West 56th Street, New York, NY 10019 | 3.83 miles | Yes | Yes | 30 |
| Umbareen Mahmood, MD | Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery | 37 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019 | 3.88 miles | Yes | No | 30 |
| Adam Schaffner, MD, FACS | Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery | 590 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10036 | 3.39 miles | Yes | No | 26 |
| Craig Baldenhofer, MD | Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery | 115 West 27th Street, New York, NY 10001 | 2.42 miles | No | No | 12 |
| David Shafer, MD, FACS | Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery | 535 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10017 | 3.23 miles | Yes | No | 11 |
| David Abramson, MD, FACS | Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery | 42 East 74th Street, New York, NY 10021 | 4.69 miles | Yes | Yes | 70 |
| Finny George, MD | Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery | 1111 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10128 | 5.51 miles | Yes | Yes | 11 |
Other Providers
Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a top - rated plastic surgeon in New York City. He is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the area and worldwide. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, including en bloc capsulectomy when indicated. Dr. Antell also removes allergan textured breast implants recalled by the FDA due to their association with BIA - ALCL.
New York Group for Plastic Surgery
At the New York Group for Plastic Surgery, either Dr. Andrew Salzberg or Dr. Jordan Jacobs perform breast implant removal procedures. They also clean the breast pocket and remove silicone from the implant shell during the procedure.
Dr. Barry Weintraub
Dr. Barry Weintraub performs breast implant removal and replacement procedures. He is known for his attention to detail and for placing implants under the pectoralis - major muscle for a more natural look. His office is located at 800a Fifth Avenue.
Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery
Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery, with Dr. Brian Bassiri - Tehrani, offers breast explant surgery in their Manhattan office. They provide capsulectomy and capsulotomy procedures to remove implants and/or scar tissue.
Dr. Darren Smith
Dr. Darren Smith performs breast implant removal surgery in his state - of - the - art medical facility in NYC. He often uses the original incision from breast augmentation to minimize scarring.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Consultation
Before the surgery, a consultation with the surgeon is essential. During this consultation, the surgeon will:
- Evaluate your general health and medical history.
- Assess the current condition of your breasts.
- Discuss your reasons for wanting the implant removal and your desired outcome.
- Go through the procedure, risks, and recovery in detail.
- It is helpful to bring any information about your existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery.
Pre - operative Preparation
- Depending on the patient's age and implant condition, the surgeon may order imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI.
- Patients are usually advised to avoid certain medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood - thinning medications for a specified period before the surgery.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and assist you during the initial recovery period.
Anesthesia
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. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the procedure.
Surgical Procedure
- Incision Placement: If possible, the surgeon will use the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. The incisions can be made along the inframammary fold (under the breast), around the areola, or in the armpit.
- Implant Removal: The surgeon will remove the breast implants from the breast capsule. In cases of capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or BIA - ALCL, the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant may also be removed (en - bloc resection).
- Closure: Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and sometimes a layer of external sutures are used to close the incisions. A layer of gauze or a bandage is placed over the breasts to aid in healing.
Risks Associated with Breast Implant Removal
Although breast implant removal is generally a safe procedure when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon, there are still some risks involved:
- Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during and after the surgery, which may require additional treatment.
- Infection: Infection at the incision site can occur. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent or treat an infection.
- Numbness: Numbness at the incision site or in the breast area may occur and can be temporary or permanent.
- Adverse Reaction to Anesthesia: Some patients may have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used during the surgery.
Recovery Process
After the surgery, patients will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. Here is what to expect during the recovery period:
- Immediate Post - operative: Patients will be given pain relief medication. They will also receive thorough discharge instructions regarding wound care, compression bra usage, and activity restrictions.
- First Few Days: Mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising are common. Most patients can return to light daily activities within a few days but should avoid strenuous exercise for about two weeks.
- Longer - term: It may take several months for the final results to be visible. Scars will start to fade after about six weeks, but they may remain visible for some time. Some patients may experience a loss of feeling in the breast area, which usually improves over time.
Conclusion
Breast implant removal is a significant decision that should be made after careful consideration and consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. In New York City, there are numerous experienced providers and hospitals that offer high - quality breast implant removal services. Understanding the reasons for the procedure, the surgical process, the associated risks, and the recovery period is essential for a successful outcome.
If you are considering breast implant removal, we encourage you to reach out to one of the providers listed in this article to schedule a consultation. Take the time to ask questions, discuss your concerns, and ensure that you are comfortable with the surgeon and the facility. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast implant removal in New York City, and continue exploring related topics to make an informed decision about your health and well - being.
