Top Hospitals for Breast Prosthesis Removal in New York City

New York City, a hub of medical excellence, offers a plethora of options for women considering breast prosthesis removal. This article aims to present a comprehensive list of the top hospitals in the city, along with insights into the procedure, reasons for removal, and associated costs. We'll also explore the expertise of surgeons, the range of services provided, and what patients can expect during their journey.

The list of top hospitals with strength and popularity for breast prosthesis removal in New York City is released with the annual price list!

Why Breast Prosthesis Removal?

There are various reasons why a woman might choose to have her breast implants removed. These can be broadly categorized into medical and aesthetic reasons.

Medical Reasons

Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) around the implant hardens and squeezes the implant, causing pain, distortion of the breast shape, and discomfort. Severe cases can significantly affect a patient's quality of life and require surgical intervention. For example, in cases where the capsule tightens to the point of causing visible deformities or severe pain, removal of the implant and the surrounding capsule may be necessary.
Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): Although rare, this type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma has been linked to certain types of textured breast implants. In 2019, the FDA recalled specific allergan textured implants due to an increased risk of BIA - ALCL. Women with these implants may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, or a mass around the breast, which should prompt a consultation with a doctor for further evaluation and possible implant removal.
Implant Rupture or Leakage: Over time, implants can rupture or leak, whether they are saline or silicone. A ruptured saline implant will typically deflate quickly, while a silicone implant rupture may be more difficult to detect. Both scenarios can cause complications and may require removal of the implant to prevent further issues.
Chronic Pain: Some women may experience ongoing pain associated with their breast implants, which could be due to nerve irritation, muscle strain, or other underlying issues. If conservative treatments do not alleviate the pain, implant removal may be considered.
Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII refers to a range of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, and more that some patients report after breast augmentation or reconstruction with implants. While the exact cause is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems. Women experiencing these symptoms may opt to have their implants removed.

Aesthetic Reasons

Unsatisfactory Results: A patient may be unhappy with the appearance of her breast implants, such as uneven size, shape, or position. For example, the implants may have shifted over time, resulting in a "double bubble" appearance or asymmetry. In such cases, removal of the implants may be the first step towards achieving a more natural - looking result.
Desire to Return to Natural State: Some women simply decide that they no longer want to have breast implants and wish to return to their natural breast size and shape. This could be due to changes in personal preferences, lifestyle, or body image.

Top Hospitals in New York City for Breast Prosthesis Removal

New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center

This institution is highly regarded, ranked as the top hospital in New York and No. 7 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals. It has a long - standing reputation for excellence in various medical specialties and surgical procedures.

Expertise: The hospital has a team of experienced plastic surgeons who are well - versed in breast prosthesis removal. They have the skills and knowledge to handle complex cases, such as those involving capsular contracture or BIA - ALCL. Additionally, the hospital's national ranking in cancer care reflects the high - quality surgical oncology expertise provided by many of its specialists, including those in breast surgery.
Services: In addition to breast prosthesis removal, patients may also have access to comprehensive follow - up care, including options for breast lift if necessary. The hospital offers state - of - the - art surgical facilities and uses the latest medical technologies to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Patient Experience: With a focus on patient - centered care, New York - Presbyterian provides a supportive environment throughout the entire treatment process. Patients can expect personalized attention, thorough pre - and post - operative education, and a dedicated care team to address their concerns.

Mount Sinai Hospital

Mount Sinai Hospital is another top - tier medical institution in New York City, known for its high - quality medical services and innovative research.

Expertise: At the Center of Excellence for Breast Cancer at the Mount Sinai Health System, skilled surgeons use the latest technologies for breast surgery, including breast prosthesis removal. They are experienced in performing both breast - conserving procedures and mastectomies, and can offer individualized treatment plans based on each patient's needs.
Services: The hospital offers a wide range of services related to breast surgery, including options for breast reconstruction in cases where a mastectomy is performed. For breast prosthesis removal, patients can expect a comprehensive evaluation and consultation to determine the best approach for their situation.
Patient Experience: Mount Sinai focuses on providing a positive patient experience. They offer resources to help patients make informed decisions about their treatment, and provide support services to assist with the emotional and physical aspects of recovery.

Weill Cornell Medicine

Weill Cornell Medicine is a well - respected academic medical center that is passionate about helping patients feel their best.

Expertise: The plastic and reconstructive surgeons at Weill Cornell are leaders in their field. They have the expertise to perform breast prosthesis removal procedures safely and effectively, while also considering the patient's aesthetic goals. They are able to provide individualized care for patients of all races, ethnicities, genders, and gender identities.
Services: The institution provides the full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, including breast reduction, breast lift, and breast augmentation with implants. For breast prosthesis removal, patients can expect a thorough pre - operative evaluation, detailed discussion of surgical options, and comprehensive post - operative care.
Patient Experience: Weill Cornell prioritizes patient comfort at every step of the process. Before surgery, patients have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss their concerns with their doctor. During and after the procedure, the care team uses the latest anesthetics and medications to help patients recover more quickly and with less discomfort.

Surgeons in New York City Specializing in Breast Prosthesis Removal

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the upper east side in NYC. She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns.

Expertise: Dr. Hutchinson has extensive knowledge of the medical and aesthetic issues associated with breast implants. She can accurately diagnose problems such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, and BIA - ALCL, and recommend the most appropriate treatment options, including breast prosthesis removal.
Patient Care: Patients appreciate her ability to make them feel comfortable and confident during the consultation process. She takes the time to understand each patient's concerns and goals, and provides clear and honest information about the procedure and expected outcomes.

Dr. Darrick Antell

Dr. Darrick Antell is a widely regarded plastic surgeon in New York City, known for his experience in breast surgery, including breast prosthesis removal.

Expertise: He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, and is skilled in removing both silicone and saline implants. In cases where indicated, he also performs en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. Dr. Antell has also removed the allergan textured breast implants recalled by the FDA due to their association with BIA - ALCL.
Patient Results: Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which speaks to the high level of satisfaction with his surgical results. He has worked with many celebrities and well - known persons, and is known for his ability to achieve natural - looking outcomes.

The Breast Prosthesis Removal Procedure

Pre - operative Evaluation

Before the breast prosthesis removal procedure, patients will undergo a thorough evaluation by their surgeon. This typically includes a review of the patient's medical history, a physical examination of the breasts, and imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI. These tests can help the surgeon determine the condition of the implants, the presence of any complications, and plan the appropriate surgical approach.

Anesthesia

Breast prosthesis removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or another type of “twilight” anesthesia. In some rare cases, only local anesthesia may be used. A board - certified anesthesiologist will be present during the procedure to monitor the patient's vital signs and ensure their comfort and safety.

Surgical Process

If possible, the surgeon will remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. However, in cases where there are complications such as capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or BIA - ALCL, it may be necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant as well. When the implant and scar tissue are removed simultaneously, this is called en - bloc resection. After the removal, the incisions are closed with multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and an external layer of sutures if needed. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer.

Post - operative Care

After the surgery, patients will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia may be used to reduce discomfort. Breast prosthesis removal is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning 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. The surgeon will provide detailed post - operative instructions, including how to care for the incisions, manage pain, and when to return for follow - up appointments. Most patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and soreness in the breast area, which will gradually subside over time. It is important to follow all post - operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.

Cost of Breast Prosthesis Removal in New York City

The cost of breast prosthesis removal can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's experience, the hospital or surgical facility fees, and any additional procedures that may be required, such as a breast lift. On average, the cost can range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more.

It's important to note that some insurance companies may cover the cost of breast prosthesis removal if it is deemed medically necessary. For example, if the removal is due to complications such as capsular contracture, BIA - ALCL, or implant rupture, insurance may provide coverage. However, if the removal is for purely aesthetic reasons, it is usually considered a self - pay procedure. Patients should contact their insurance provider to determine their coverage and benefits.

Conclusion

New York City offers a wide range of top - notch hospitals and experienced surgeons for breast prosthesis removal. Whether the reason for removal is medical or aesthetic, patients can expect high - quality care, personalized treatment plans, and state - of - the - art surgical techniques. It is crucial for women considering this procedure to do their research, consult with multiple surgeons, and fully understand the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.

If you are interested in breast prosthesis removal in New York City, we encourage you to take the next step. Contact one of the hospitals or surgeons mentioned in this article to schedule a consultation. Discuss your concerns and goals with the medical team, and make an informed decision about your breast health. Don't hesitate to share this article with others who may benefit from this information, and continue exploring related topics to stay informed about the latest advancements in breast surgery.