Top Ten Hospitals for Removing Breast Implants in New York City
New York City is a hub of advanced medical facilities and highly skilled surgeons when it comes to breast implant removal procedures. Women may opt to have their breast implants removed for various reasons, including health concerns, cosmetic preferences, or changes in personal circumstances. In this article, we will explore the top ten hospitals in New York City known for their excellence in breast implant removal surgeries, while also discussing the reasons behind these procedures, the associated risks and recovery processes, and important considerations for patients.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are several reasons why a woman might choose to have her breast implants removed. These can be broadly categorized into health - related, cosmetic, and personal reasons.
Health - Related Reasons
- Implant Rupture or Leakage: Over time, breast implants can rupture or leak, which can be particularly concerning for silicone implants. A ruptured silicone implant may cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, or a change in the shape of the breast. As noted in some cases, saline implants may also experience leakage, but the symptoms are often less severe since the saline solution is absorbed by the body. For instance, Dr. Neal Goldberg of https://www.doctorgoldberg.com/breast/implant-removal/ mentions that implant rupture is one of the reasons patients consider removal.
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant hardens and squeezes the implant. Severe capsular contracture can cause pain, distortion of the breast shape, and may require the removal of the implant and the surrounding capsule. The hardening of the capsule can be due to factors such as infection, hematoma, or the body's immune response to the implant.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): A rare cancer specifically related to breast implants, primarily associated with textured implants made by Allergan. The recall of these implants in 2019 due to the incidence of BIA - ALCL has led many women with these implants to consider removal. BIA - ALCL often presents as a mass or fluid accumulation that manifests late, usually several years after the initial breast surgery, and is mostly treatable with surgical removal of the tumor, capsule, and breast implant. (Source: https://www.droliviahutchinson.com/plastic - surgery - nyc/breast/breast - implant - removal/)
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII refers to a wide variety of symptoms that patients may occasionally report after undergoing breast augmentation or reconstruction with implants. These symptoms include fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression or anxiety, rashes, pain and discomfort, and brain fog. While the exact cause of BII is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
- Infection or Bleeding: Infections around the implant can be serious and may require the removal of the implant. Bleeding can also occur during or after breast augmentation surgery, and if not properly managed, may lead to complications that necessitate implant removal.
Cosmetic Reasons
- Unsatisfactory Appearance: Some women may be unhappy with the size, shape, or position of their breast implants. For example, the implant may become palpable or visible (folded, rippled, or wrinkled), or it may have moved from its original position, causing asymmetry in the breasts. Dr. Barry Weintraub, from https://www.drbarryweintraub.com/breast/implant - removal - nyc/, mentions that patients often come to him to change the size, location, or type of their implants to achieve a more natural - looking result.
- Changes in Personal Taste: Over time, a woman's aesthetic preferences may change. What was considered an ideal breast size or shape at the time of augmentation may no longer be desirable due to factors such as aging, changes in lifestyle, or evolving societal ideals of beauty.
Personal Reasons
- Life Changes: Pregnancy, weight gain or loss, and other life events can impact a woman's body and how she feels about her breast implants. For example, weight gain may cause the breasts to look larger or more top - heavy than desired, while pregnancy can change the shape and size of the breasts, making the implants look less aesthetically pleasing. Also, some women may simply decide that they no longer want to have breast implants for personal comfort or peace of mind.
Top Ten Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City
1. Practices Associated with Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon on the Upper East Side in NYC. With over 20 years of experience, she has extensive knowledge in evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns. She can address both aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants. For instance, she is well - versed in dealing with problems such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, and breast implant illness. Patients who have undergone breast implant removal with Dr. Hutchinson have reported exceptional experiences, citing a calming atmosphere, professional staff, and amazing results. Contact her office at (212) 452 - 1400 to book a consultation. (Source: https://www.droliviahutchinson.com/plastic - surgery - nyc/breast/breast - implant - removal/)
2. Office of Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a widely regarded plastic surgeon in the New York area and globally. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery and is also skilled in en bloc capsulectomy, which involves removing the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He has removed recalled Allergan textured breast implants due to their association with BIA - ALCL. Dr. Antell has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Many of his patients are referred by former patients, which speaks to his high - quality results. Contact his office at (212) - 988 - 4040 to schedule a consultation. (Source: https://www.antell - md.com/breast/breast - implant - removal - nyc/)
3. Dr. Barry Weintraub's Clinic
Dr. Barry Weintraub focuses on breast implant removal and replacement. He believes in placing implants under the pectoralis - major muscle for a more natural look. His practice is known for providing personalized care during the consultation process, where he listens to the patient's needs and desires. He performs the surgeries in a private, state - of - the - art surgical center attached to his office. The center is staffed with board - certified anesthesiologists and fully licensed operating - room staff, ensuring high - quality medical and plastic - surgical care. To discuss breast implant removal and replacement, contact his office for a private consultation. (Source: https://www.drbarryweintraub.com/breast/implant - removal - nyc/)
4. Millennial Plastic Surgery with Dr. David Shokrian
Dr. David Shokrian at Millennial Plastic Surgery works with patients to create a balance between surgical and natural remedies for breast implant removal. He understands that there are various reasons for explant surgery, including medical issues, changes in the breast shape over time, and cosmetic preferences. The clinic has accessible, well - appointed offices in midtown Manhattan. They offer comprehensive consultations, both virtually and in person. Contact them at (212) 421 - 7123 to learn more about breast implant removal. (Source: https://millennialplasticsurgery.com/breast - implant - removal - explant - surgery/)
5. Zuckerman Plastic Surgery with Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman
Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery offers breast implant removal and exchange procedures. He takes into account the changing needs and preferences of his patients. Whether it's for health concerns such as implant rupture or capsular contracture, or for cosmetic reasons like a desire for a different size or type of implant, Dr. Zuckerman is meticulous in his approach. He aims to minimize scarring and optimize recovery during the procedure. To schedule a consultation, contact his office in the Upper East Side. (Source: https://www.zuckermanplasticsurgery.com/breast - implant - removal - exchange/)
6. Dr. Neal Goldberg's Practice
Dr. Neal Goldberg is a board - certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast implant removal. He understands that each patient has unique reasons for considering the procedure and is ready to address all questions about the potential risks and benefits. Dr. Goldberg typically uses the en bloc approach to remove breast implants, which helps withdraw as much scar tissue as safely possible while minimizing the risk of implant leakage. Contact his NYC - area office to book an appointment and discuss your options. (Source: https://www.doctorgoldberg.com/breast/implant - removal/)
7 - 10. Other Reputable Facilities
WebMD lists many breast implant removal doctors in New York City, with 4349 results and an average of 25 years of experience. Doctors such as Dr. Michael Eugene Jones, Dr. Andrew Jacono, Dr. Justin G. Steele, and Dr. Samara Spring Churgin are among those in the area. However, the details of specific hospitals they are affiliated with in the top - ten context are not as comprehensively detailed as the previous five mentioned. When choosing a facility from this list, patients can explore feedback from real patients, the doctors' awards, and their years of experience. (Source: https://doctor.webmd.com/providers/procedure/breast - implant - removal/new - york/new - york)
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Pre - operative Consultation
Before the breast implant removal procedure, patients will have a consultation with their surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history. If the patient is seeking removal due to medical complications, it is important to discuss any symptoms they may be experiencing. For example, if there are signs of capsular contracture or implant rupture, detailed discussions will take place. The surgeon will also assess the current condition of the breasts and take into account the patient's desired outcome. It is helpful for the patient to bring any information they have about their existing implants and their previous breast augmentation surgery. Based on this information, the surgeon will create a personalized surgical plan and may recommend additional procedures such as a breast lift to achieve the best aesthetic results. (Source: https://www.antell - md.com/breast/breast - implant - removal - nyc/)
Anesthesia
Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another type of “twilight” anesthesia. In some rare cases, implants can be removed with only local anesthesia. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the procedure to ensure their comfort and safety. (Source: https://www.antell - md.com/breast/breast - implant - removal - nyc/)
Incision and Removal
If possible, the surgeon will remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. However, if the patient has experienced capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or has textured breast implants with BIA - ALCL, it may be necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant, which is known as an en bloc resection. After the removal, the incisions are closed with multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and a layer of external sutures if needed. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete, and an en bloc resection can take even longer. (Source: https://www.antell - md.com/breast/breast - implant - removal - nyc/)
Recovery and Aftercare
After the breast implant removal surgery, patients will recover in a recovery suite under the monitoring of a registered nurse. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia is used to reduce discomfort. Breast implant removal is usually an outpatient procedure, so patients can return home the same day. However, they will need someone to drive them home and assist them in the first few days of recovery. Here are some key aspects of the recovery process:
Immediate Post - operative Period
- The breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage. Patients may feel tired or sore, as the body is using its energy to heal.
- It is normal to experience some swelling and bruising, which should resolve within a few weeks. A compression garment or support bra is worn to minimize swelling and allow tissues to shrink back.
- Patients may need to take pain medication as prescribed by the surgeon to manage discomfort.
Activity Restrictions
- Most women are able to return to non - strenuous work within a few days, but it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. Dr. Darrick Antell and other surgeons will provide an individualized recovery plan based on the patient's procedure and healing rate.
- Avoid activities like swimming or hot tubs for at least two weeks, and do not drive for the first week or so after the surgery.
- Resist the urge to exercise or lift heavy weights for about six weeks to prevent putting stress on the incisions.
Follow - up Appointments
- Patients will typically return to the office the day after the surgery so that the surgeon can monitor the healing process. In most cases, dissolvable sutures or dermabond are used to avoid external sutures. If external sutures are used, they are usually removed around 7 - 10 days following the procedure.
- The surgeon will also check for any signs of complications, such as infection or excessive swelling, during the follow - up appointments.
Risks and Complications
Although breast implant removal is generally a safe procedure when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon, there are still some risks and complications associated with it:
- Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, which may require additional treatment.
- Infection: Infections can occur at the incision site or around the implant area. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent or treat infections.
- Numbness: Numbness at the incision site or in the breast area is a possible complication. In most cases, this numbness fades over time, but it may be permanent in some rare cases.
- Adverse Reaction to Anesthesia: Some patients may have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used during the surgery. However, a board - certified anesthesiologist monitors the patient closely to minimize this risk.
- Dissatisfaction with Cosmetic Outcomes: There is a possibility that the patient may not be completely satisfied with the final appearance of their breasts after the implant removal. This could be due to factors such as sagging or changes in breast shape.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
Selecting the right hospital and surgeon for breast implant removal is crucial for a successful outcome. Here are some important factors to consider:
- Board Certification: Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification indicates that the surgeon has met certain standards of education, training, and experience in plastic surgery.
- Experience: Look for a surgeon with extensive experience in breast implant removal procedures. Surgeons like Dr. Olivia Hutchinson and Dr. Darrick Antell, who have many years of experience, are more likely to handle complex cases and achieve better results.
- Reputation: Check the surgeon's reputation by reading patient reviews and testimonials. A surgeon with a good reputation is more likely to provide high - quality care and satisfactory results.
- Facility Quality: The hospital or surgical facility where the procedure will be performed should be clean, well - equipped, and staffed with experienced medical professionals. Facilities like Dr. Barry Weintraub's state - of - the - art surgical center offer a high level of care and safety.
- Communication: Choose a surgeon who listens to your concerns and desires and is able to communicate clearly about the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes. A good surgeon - patient relationship is essential for a positive surgical experience.
Conclusion
Breast implant removal is a significant decision that can have a major impact on a woman's physical and emotional well - being. The top ten hospitals in New York City mentioned in this article are known for their expertise in performing these procedures, offering high - quality care, and achieving excellent results. When considering