Introduction
Polymethylmethacrylate breast implants, although once considered an option for breast augmentation, may require removal due to various reasons such as complications, patient dissatisfaction, or changes in health. In New York City, there are several hospitals and clinics known for their expertise in removing these types of implants. This article will provide a comprehensive list of such facilities, along with details about their reputation, the services they offer, and other relevant information.
Reasons for Removing Polymethylmethacrylate Breast Implants
Before delving into the list of hospitals, it's important to understand why someone might choose to remove polymethylmethacrylate breast implants. Common reasons include:
- Complications: These can range from infection, pain, and discomfort to more serious issues like capsular contracture (tightening of the scar tissue around the implant), implant rupture, or leakage. For example, a study published in a leading medical journal found that a certain percentage of patients with polymethylmethacrylate implants experienced pain and swelling over time, leading them to seek removal.
- Health Concerns: There may be concerns about the long - term effects of the implants on the body. Some patients may experience systemic symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, or autoimmune - like symptoms that they believe are related to the implants.
- Aesthetic Dissatisfaction: Patients may no longer be happy with the appearance of their breasts, either due to changes in shape, size, or symmetry.
Hospitals and Clinics in New York City for Removing Polymethylmethacrylate Breast Implants
Dr. Barry Weintraub
Dr. Barry Weintraub is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York City. He offers breast implant removal and replacement services. His practice focuses on providing personalized care to each patient, ensuring that the goals of the patient are met.
- Expertise: Dr. Weintraub has extensive experience in breast implant procedures. He is known for his ability to perform the surgery with precision and care, minimizing the risk of complications. He often performs the surgery in a comfortable state of twilight sleep for the patient, ensuring a smooth and pain - free experience.
- Facility: He has a hospital - grade, state - of - the - art surgical center attached to his office at 800a Fifth Avenue. The facility is attended by a team of board - certified anesthesiologists, certified registered nurses, and fully licensed operating - room staff, providing the highest level of care.
- Patient Satisfaction: Many patients have reported high levels of satisfaction with their results after undergoing breast implant removal and replacement with Dr. Weintraub. His attention to detail and personalized approach have made him a top choice for patients in New York City.
Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a premier breast surgeon in NYC. He is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide.
- Services Offered: He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. When indicated, he also performs an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He has also removed the allergan textured breast implants recalled by the FDA due to their association with a heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).
- Consultation Process: During the initial consultation, Dr. Antell thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health and medical history, as well as assesses the current condition of the breasts. He works closely with the patient to create a personalized surgical plan based on their desired outcome.
- Facility: Most patients prefer for the procedure to take place in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited, designed for the patient's comfort, and equipped with the latest technology.
New York Group for Plastic Surgery
The New York Group for Plastic Surgery offers effective solutions for breast implant removal. Their plastic surgeons, including Dr. Andrew Salzberg and Dr. Jordan Jacobs, are experienced in performing these procedures.
- Pre - operative Preparation: Before the breast implant removal procedure, patients are required to take certain steps. They should avoid taking medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications for one week prior to the procedure. They also need to avoid taking blood - thinning medications for up to six weeks prior to the surgery.
- Procedure Details: The surgeons may administer either local or general anesthesia depending on the patient's needs. The incisions for breast implant removal can be made in one of three locations: the crease under the breast, around the areola, or vertically placed in the armpit. After removing the implants, any excess skin or scar tissue around the nipples is removed, and the area is reconstructed for a more natural appearance.
- Recovery: Patients are provided with post - procedure instructions on how to care for themselves and the incision sites. The recovery process is similar to that after the initial breast augmentation surgery, with most patients able to resume light activities within one week and more vigorous activity in about six weeks.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC. She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal procedures.
- Identifying Concerns: She is well - versed in identifying both aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants. Aesthetic issues can include the implant becoming palpable or visible, rupture, leakage, or deflation. Medical issues can range from severe capsular contracture to breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) and breast implant illness (BII).
- Patient Care: Dr. Hutchinson advises patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to help them achieve their goals. In some cases, a secondary procedure such as a breast lift may be necessary to achieve the best aesthetic results.
- Patient Testimonials: Many patients have shared positive testimonials about their experience with Dr. Hutchinson. They have praised her for making them feel comfortable and for achieving amazing results.
Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's breast implant revision specialists are experts in medical care and plastic surgery. They have the expertise to correct problem areas related to breast implants.
- Procedures Offered: Their plastic surgeons perform secondary or breast implant revision surgery by matching and repairing the body's tissue with the breast implants. They can correct issues such as incorrectly positioned implants, wrinkled or rippled implants, capsular contracture, and stretched tissues around the implants.
- Consultation: Patients first consult with one of their nationally recognized specialists. The specialists discuss options with the patient and may recommend new materials or meshes to stabilize the area surrounding the breast implant. They may also suggest fat transfer from other parts of the body to enhance the natural shape and texture of the breasts.
- Reputation: Mount Sinai is well - known for its high - quality medical care and innovative surgical techniques, making it a trusted choice for breast implant removal and revision procedures.
Comparative Table of the Facilities
Facility | Expertise | Facility Location and Type | Services Offered | Patient Satisfaction Indicators |
---|---|---|---|---|
Dr. Barry Weintraub | Extensive experience in breast implant removal and replacement, precise surgical skills | Hospital - grade surgical center at 800a Fifth Avenue | Breast implant removal, replacement, autologous fat transfer for volume replacement, breast lift | High patient satisfaction due to personalized care and attention to detail |
Dr. Darrick Antell | World - renowned breast surgeon, experienced in custom explant surgery and en bloc capsulectomy | Private operating room across from Lenox Hill Hospital | Custom breast implant removal, en bloc capsulectomy, removal of recalled textured implants | Many patient referrals and high - end magazine recognition |
New York Group for Plastic Surgery | Experienced plastic surgeons with knowledge of pre - operative preparation and various surgical techniques | Not specified in one location, serves patients in New York and surrounding areas | Breast implant removal, scar tissue removal, area reconstruction | Positive patient feedback on the recovery process and surgical results |
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson | Over 20 years of experience in evaluating and treating breast implant - related concerns | Office in NYC (not specified in more detail) | Breast implant removal, advice on secondary procedures like breast lift | Excellent patient testimonials about comfort during the process and great results |
Mount Sinai - New York | Specialists in breast implant revision, experts in correcting various implant - related problems | Mount Sinai facilities | Breast implant revision, fat transfer for enhancement, correction of implant - related issues | Well - known for high - quality medical care and innovative techniques |
What to Consider When Choosing a Hospital or Clinic
When choosing a hospital or clinic for removing polymethylmethacrylate breast implants in New York City, the following factors should be considered:
- Surgeon's Experience: Look for a surgeon who has extensive experience in breast implant removal procedures. Check their credentials, including board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
- Facility Accreditation: Ensure that the facility where the surgery will be performed is accredited. Accreditation indicates that the facility meets certain standards of safety and quality.
- Patient Reviews: Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the experiences of other patients. Positive reviews can be a good indicator of the quality of care provided.
- Consultation Process: A good consultation process is crucial. The surgeon should take the time to understand your concerns, goals, and medical history. They should also provide clear information about the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
- Cost: While cost should not be the only factor, it is important to understand the total cost of the procedure, including any pre - operative tests, post - operative care, and follow - up appointments.
Preparing for the Procedure
Once you have chosen a hospital or clinic and a surgeon, you will need to prepare for the breast implant removal procedure. Here are some general steps:
- Medical Clearance: You will need to obtain medical clearance from your family physician. This may involve a physical examination, blood tests, and other tests to ensure that you are in good health for the surgery.
- Medication Adjustments: As mentioned earlier, you may need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners and anti - inflammatory drugs, before the surgery. Follow your surgeon's instructions carefully.
- Arrange for Support: You will need someone to drive you home after the surgery and to assist you during the initial recovery period. Make arrangements for this in advance.
- Post - operative Care Items: You may need to purchase items such as a compression bra, pain medication (as prescribed by your surgeon), and cold compresses to help with the recovery process.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery process after breast implant removal can vary from patient to patient. Here are some general guidelines:
- Initial Recovery: You will likely experience some swelling, bruising, and soreness in the first few days after the surgery. Your surgeon may prescribe pain medication to help manage the pain. You will also need to wear a compression bra to support the breasts and reduce swelling.
- Activity Restrictions: You will need to avoid strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting and exercise, for a few weeks after the surgery. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions based on your individual case.
- Follow - up Appointments: You will need to attend follow - up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing process. The surgeon will check the incisions, remove any sutures (if necessary), and ensure that you are recovering properly.
- Long - term Results: It may take several months for the final results of the breast implant removal to become visible. During this time, the swelling will gradually go down, and the breasts will take on their new shape.
Conclusion
In New York City, there are several hospitals and clinics with a good reputation and strength for removing polymethylmethacrylate breast implants. Facilities like those associated with Dr. Barry Weintraub, Dr. Darrick Antell, the New York Group for Plastic Surgery, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, and Mount Sinai offer a range of services and expertise to meet the needs of patients. When considering a breast implant removal procedure, it is important to do your research, choose a qualified surgeon, and follow the pre - operative and post - operative instructions carefully. By doing so, you can increase the likelihood of a successful outcome and a smooth recovery.
If you are considering having your polymethylmethacrylate breast implants removed, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the recommended surgeons in New York City. Take the time to discuss your concerns, goals, and any questions you may have. With the right care and attention, you can achieve the results you desire and improve your overall well - being.