Top 3 Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal Surgery in New York City
Breast implant removal is a procedure that many women in New York City may consider for various reasons, such as medical complications, dissatisfaction with the results, or lifestyle changes. Selecting the right hospital and surgeon is crucial for a successful and safe breast implant removal surgery. In this article, we will explore the top 3 hospitals for breast implant removal surgery in New York City.
1. Facilities Associated with Dr. Darrick E. Antell
Overview of Dr. Darrick E. Antell
Dr. Darrick E. Antell is a top - New York plastic surgeon widely regarded as being among 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. With a career spanning over twenty years and more than ten thousand procedures, he combines meticulous surgical skills, the latest and safest of medical technologies, and the distinct eye of an artist.
Services Offered
- Custom Breast Implant Removal: Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, in which he removes the existing silicone or saline implants from the body. Women may choose to have breast implants removed for lifestyle, cosmetic, or medical reasons.
- En Bloc Capsulectomy: When indicated, he also performs an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. This is especially important in cases of capsular contracture or when there are concerns about potential health risks associated with the implant and surrounding tissue.
- Removal of Recalled Implants: He also performs the removal of the Allergan textured breast implants recently recalled by the FDA due to their association with a heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).
Consultation and Preparation
During the initial consultation, Dr. Antell will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of the breasts. It is important for patients to discuss any symptoms they may be experiencing, especially if the removal is due to medical complications. Patients should bring any information they have about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. Based on the patient's expectations, Dr. Antell may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift (mastopexy). He will also go through the procedure, the risks, and the recovery in detail.
Before the surgery, Dr. Antell may send patients for imaging, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI. Patients will be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. They may be given prescriptions that should be filled prior to the surgery, and depending on their history, they may be asked to provide pre - operative clearance from another doctor. As the procedure is performed under “twilight” sedation, patients should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and ensure they have someone to assist them in the first few days of recovery.
Surgical Facility
Dr. Antell has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but 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. His facility has a private back entrance to ensure total discretion and all members of his staff have been thoroughly trained to offer personalized care. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited, designed for patient comfort, and equipped with the latest technology.
Recovery and Results
After the surgery, patients will recover in Dr. Antell’s state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by one of his registered nurses until they feel well enough to be discharged. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia will be used to reduce discomfort. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can return home the same day as the procedure. Patients may feel tired or sore following surgery, and it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. Dr. Antell will provide an individualized recovery plan based on the intricacies of the customized procedure and the patient's rate of healing. Most patients do not require a breast lift after surgery, as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally. It may take several months before the final results are visible, and scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade.
2. Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice
About Dr. Barry Weintraub
Dr. Barry Weintraub is a plastic surgeon who combines medical science and an artistic touch in his practice. He studied medicine at Cornell, where core values were emphasized, and bases his practice on those values. He has a unique blend of skills and is meticulous about every aspect of patient care, from pre - op to post - op.
Services for Breast Implant Removal and Replacement
- Breast Implant Removal: This is often done to change either the size, location, and/or type of implants currently in place. Some patients are concerned with breast implant illness (BII) and wish to have the implants removed to determine the effect on their health. Others may want to remove saline implants in favor of more natural - feeling, - looking, and - acting FDA - approved silicone gel implants. Leakage is a common problem with saline implants, and they can also feel firm and unnatural and be more prone to rippling.
- Breast Implant Replacement: In addition to removal, Dr. Weintraub can perform breast implant replacement. He always places implants under the pectoralis - major muscle to create the most natural - looking result. Patients may also opt for autologous (their own) fat to replace lost volume, which can be liposuctioned from various areas of the body such as the abdomen, flanks, back, bra area, arms, outer and inner thighs, hips, and knees. In some cases, a breast lift is done in conjunction with a removal and replacement of implants.
Consultation Process
When considering breast implant removal and replacement, patients should have a consultation. During the consultation, they should check for the surgeon's board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. They should also ensure that the physician attends a major hospital in the community and is in good standing with that hospital. It is important to confirm that the surgeon has a fine reputation amongst other medical professionals in the community and to speak to the surgeon’s patients who have undergone similar procedures. Patients should not hesitate to bring a list of questions and should expect the surgeon to listen to their specific needs and desires.
Surgical Approach
Dr. Weintraub prefers his breast implant removal and replacement patients to be in a comfortable state of twilight sleep. He insists on the most sterile conditions in the New York City operating room, with on - staff, board - certified anesthesiologists and state - of - the - art monitoring equipment commensurate with the highest hospital standards. He is the only person performing the surgery, and every intraoperative maneuver is executed with precision and care, and all wounds are sewn in multiple layers by his own hand.
Facility
Although Dr. Weintraub has privileges at Lenox Hill Hospital, Manhattan Eye Ear and Throat Hospital, and the Center for Specialty Care (outpatient limb of Weill - Cornell Hospital), he prefers the privacy of his hospital - grade, state - of - the - art surgical center attached to his office at 800a Fifth Avenue. This facility is attended by his team of board - certified anesthesiologists, certified registered nurses, and fully licensed operating - room staff. With its private entrance, it offers patients the utmost in medical and plastic - surgical care.
Recovery and Expected Outcomes
There can occasionally be a short period of minimal swelling and sometimes bruising after breast implant removal and replacement. Patients must carefully follow all instructions provided by Dr. Weintraub to achieve the best results possible. He is a firm believer in early showering, and he will advise patients as to when they can return to their normal lifestyle and exercise routine. Patients often return to work three days after surgery, and if swelling and bruising occur, it should resolve within a week. They can expect significant, long - lasting aesthetic improvements to their breasts following their implant removal and replacement.
3. Weill Cornell Medicine
Overall Reputation
Weill Cornell Medicine is a top - ranked academic medical center. It partners with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S. The institution is passionate about helping patients feel their best and provides high - quality care in the field of cosmetic breast surgery.
Services for Cosmetic Breast Surgery
Weill Cornell Medicine offers a full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, which can include breast implant removal as part of their comprehensive services. Their services also include breast reduction surgery, breast lift surgery (mastopexy), breast augmentation with implants, and DIEP flap surgery. Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons work with patients starting from the initial consultation to understand their goals and discuss the best options for them and their needs.
Surgeon Expertise
The surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine are leaders in plastic and reconstructive surgery. They are highly skilled and able to help patients achieve the natural look they want. The care team is equipped to promote comfort throughout the process, from pre - surgery consultations to post - surgery recovery. The hospital's extensive network of specialists provides seamless care throughout the treatment, promoting integrated physical and mental health.
Patient - Centered Care
The team at Weill Cornell Medicine prioritizes patient comfort at every step. Before surgery, patients have time to ask their doctors questions so that they feel comfortable with the procedure. In state - of - the - art surgical suites, surgeons use the latest anesthetics and medications that help patients recover more quickly and heal faster. After the surgery, the care team will manage patients' pain with medication and teach them how to care for themselves as they heal and recover.
Making an Appointment
To request an appointment, patients can fill out a form on the hospital's website. The staff will help patients find the physician who best fits their individual medical needs. The hospital's expanded digital health services and commitment to cleanliness help ensure that patients can continue their care to achieve optimum health, whether they visit virtually through a video visit or in person.
Comparing the Three Hospitals
| Hospital/Doctor | Surgeon Reputation | Services Offered | Surgical Facility | Patient - Centered Approach | Recovery Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Darrick E. Antell's Facilities | Highly regarded, listed in top magazines, many years of experience and numerous procedures | Custom breast implant removal, en bloc capsulectomy, removal of recalled implants | Private, accredited outpatient facility near Lenox Hill Hospital | Personalized care, thorough consultation process | Individualized recovery plan, state - of - the - art recovery suite |
| Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice | Combines medical science and art, has a strong aesthetic sense and a good reputation | Breast implant removal and replacement, use of autologous fat, breast lift in conjunction with other procedures | Private, hospital - grade surgical center with a private entrance | Good communication during consultation, listens to patient needs | Clear post - op instructions, advice on return to normal activities |
| Weill Cornell Medicine | Top - ranked academic medical center with expert surgeons | Full range of cosmetic breast surgeries including implant removal | State - of - the - art surgical suites | Patient comfort is a priority at every step, network of specialists | Comprehensive pain management and post - op care teaching |
General Considerations for Breast Implant Removal
Candidates for Breast Implant Removal
Anyone in good health who wishes to have her existing implants removed is likely a candidate for explant surgery. Ideal candidates may include women experiencing medical complications related to the implants and do not want a replacement implant placed, those unhappy with the result of their original breast augmentation and wish to return to their natural breast size, and those who have textured implants recalled by the FDA and are experiencing symptoms of BIA - ALCL. Other common reasons for breast implant removal include calcium buildup around the breast implant, implant leaking or breakage, the implant moving or shifting, and the development of capsular contracture.
Risks Associated with Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal surgery is typically a safe procedure when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon. However, as with any surgery, there is always a possibility of complications, including bleeding, infection, numbness at the incision site, or an adverse reaction to the anesthesia. Surgeons will provide a thorough discussion of all risks during the initial consultation, and patients can reduce their risks by closely following the surgeon’s directions before and after surgery.
Anesthesia in Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another type of “twilight” anesthesia. Patients will be asleep and comfortable throughout the entire operation, and a board - certified anesthesiologist will be monitoring them throughout the procedure. In some rare cases, implants can be removed with only local anesthesia.
Conclusion
In New York City, Dr. Darrick E. Antell's facilities, Dr. Barry Weintraub's practice, and Weill Cornell Medicine stand out as top choices for breast implant removal surgery. Each offers a unique combination of experienced surgeons, a range of services, high - quality surgical facilities, and patient - centered care. When considering breast implant removal, it is essential for patients to do their research, have in - depth consultations with the surgeons, and carefully weigh their options based on their individual needs and preferences.
If you are considering breast implant removal surgery in New York City, we encourage you to reach out to these hospitals and schedule a consultation. This will allow you to discuss your specific situation, ask questions, and make an informed decision about your breast health and cosmetic goals. Don't hesitate to take the first step towards achieving the results you desire.
