New Hospital Ranking for Breast Augmentation Prosthesis Removal in New York City

New York City, a global hub of medical excellence, has a wide - array of hospitals and clinics offering breast augmentation prosthesis removal services. In 2025, a new ranking has been revealed that can guide patients seeking this particular procedure. This article will explore the top - ranked hospitals, the criteria for the ranking, and everything else patients need to know about breast augmentation prosthesis removal in New York City.

Importance of Breast Augmentation Prosthesis Removal

There are various reasons why a woman might consider removing her breast implants. These reasons can be medical, aesthetic, or lifestyle - related. Medical complications such as breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), breast implant illness (BII), severe capsular contracture, or infection can necessitate implant removal. Aesthetically, some women may be unhappy with the results of their original breast augmentation, such as implant visibility, asymmetry, or changes in the shape and position of the implants. Lifestyle changes, such as a shift in personal preferences or the need for a more natural look, can also be driving factors.

Medical Complications

• BIA - ALCL: A rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma occurring in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. If left untreated, it can spread to nearby lymph nodes. The FDA has recalled certain textured breast implants due to their association with a higher rate of BIA - ALCL.
• Breast Implant Illness (BII): A collection of symptoms like fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, and more. It is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
• Capsular Contracture: The hardening of the soft tissue envelope around the implants, which can cause pain, discomfort, and distortion of the breasts.

Aesthetic Concerns

• Implant Visibility: Implants may become palpable, rippled, or wrinkled, leading to an unnatural appearance.
• Asymmetry: Unequal appearance of the breasts can be a source of dissatisfaction for many patients.
• Implant Malposition: Implants may move from their original position, resulting in a “double bubble” appearance or symmastia (implants touching in the middle).

Top Hospitals in New York City for Breast Augmentation Prosthesis Removal

NewYork - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center

NewYork - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center has long been recognized as a leading medical institution in New York City. It was ranked No. 7 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals and made the honor roll. The institution is recognized for its excellence in 14 adult specialties and 8 children’s specialties. In terms of surgical excellence, it has nationally - ranked surgical specialties in adult fields such as heart surgery, GI surgery, and lung surgery, as well as in children’s specialties like pediatric heart surgery, pediatric GI surgery, and pediatric lung surgery. Although breast augmentation prosthesis removal is not a specialized category in the main rankings, the hospital’s overall surgical expertise and high - quality care make it a top choice for patients.

The surgical teams at NewYork - Presbyterian/Columbia are highly skilled and have access to state - of - the - art surgical facilities and advanced clinical technologies. They also prioritize patient outcomes, patient experience, and public transparency, which are all important factors in the U.S. News & World Report’s procedure and conditions ratings.

Weill Cornell Medicine

Weill Cornell Medicine is passionate about helping patients feel their best. Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons work closely with patients from the initial consultation to understand their goals and discuss the best options for their breast surgery and reconstruction needs. The surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine are leaders in plastic and reconstructive surgery, and the care team is equipped to promote comfort throughout the process.

The hospital partners with NewYork - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S. They offer a full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, including breast augmentation with implants, breast reduction surgery, breast lift surgery, and diep flap surgery. For breast augmentation prosthesis removal, patients can expect individualized care based on their unique body and needs.

Surgeons with High Reputation for Implant Removal

In addition to hospitals, there are several renowned plastic surgeons in New York City who are well - known for their expertise in breast augmentation prosthesis removal:

• Dr. Darrick Antell: Widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the New York area and worldwide. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery and, when indicated, en bloc capsulectomy. Dr. Antell has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as being among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Many of his patients are referred by former patients, speaking to his excellent results and patient satisfaction.
• Dr. Olivia Hutchinson: A board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon. She is considered one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the upper east side in NYC. With over 20 years of experience, she has evaluated patients with breast implant - related concerns and performed breast implant removal surgeries, addressing both functional and aesthetic issues.
• Dr. Barry Weintraub: A plastic surgeon with a unique blend of medical science and artwork. He has extensive experience in breast implant removal and replacement. Dr. Weintraub prefers to place implants under the pectoralis - major muscle for a more natural look. Over 60% of his practice is comprised of complex redos of surgeries performed by other offices, showing his ability to handle challenging cases.

Criteria for Hospital Ranking

U.S. News & World Report’s Ranking System

Although there isn't a specific ranking for breast augmentation prosthesis removal, the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals rankings can give some insights. Their rankings are broken down within 15 specialties, 10 pediatric specialties, and 17 surgical procedures and medical conditions. Hospitals are awarded points if they rank in one or more of these areas, with more points given for higher rankings.

The procedure and conditions ratings analyze data under many categories, including patient outcomes, the volume of high - risk patients, patient experience, nurse staffing, public transparency, and advanced clinical technologies. On a national scale, only 50 hospitals make it through the analysis to consideration, and of them, only 10 percent are awarded the high - performing distinction.

Newsweek's Ranking of Plastic Surgeons

Newsweek partners with Statista for the ranking of America's Best Plastic Surgeons. In 2024, 379 surgeons were recognized across five types of procedures, including breast augmentation. The scoring model for this ranking includes factors such as the number of recommendations (both in - state and out - of - state), a quality assessment of care, and relevant certification (such as American Board of Plastic Surgery accreditation). Although this ranking is for plastic surgeons rather than hospitals, the reputation of the surgeons can also influence the perception of the hospitals where they practice.

What to Expect During the Breast Augmentation Prosthesis Removal Process

Consultation

During the initial consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history. They will also assess the current condition of the breasts. If the patient desires to have the implants removed due to medical complications, it is important to discuss any symptoms they may be experiencing. It is helpful for the patient to bring any information they have about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery to the appointment.

The surgeon will have an open and honest conversation with the patient about their desired outcome and create a proper surgical plan. Based on the patient's expectations, it may be recommended to pair the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift.

Pre - operative Preparation

Depending on factors like age and implant condition, the surgeon may send the patient for imaging, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, prior to the procedure. The patient will be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. They may also be given prescriptions that should be filled before the surgery. Some patients may be asked to provide pre - operative clearance from another doctor.

Since the procedure is often performed under “twilight” sedation, the patient 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.

Surgery

Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another type of “twilight” anesthesia. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the procedure. In some cases, implants can be removed through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. If there is capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or BIA - ALCL, it may be necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant, which is called en - bloc resection.

The surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer. After the implant and scar tissue are removed, multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and a layer of external sutures (if needed) will be used to close the incisions. The surgeon may place a layer of gauze or a bandage over the breasts to speed healing.

Recovery

After the surgery, the patient will recover in a state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse until they feel well enough to be discharged. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, so the patient can return home the same day. They should expect to have an escort to bring them home, as they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia.

The breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage. The patient may feel tired or sore following surgery, and it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. It is normal to experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. The majority of patients do not require a breast lift after surgery, as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally. The patient will usually return to the office the day after surgery for the surgeon to monitor the healing process. If external sutures are used, they are usually removed around 7 - 10 days following the procedure. Although much of the swelling and bruising will fade in the first few weeks, it may take several months before the final results are visible.

Cost Considerations

The cost of breast augmentation prosthesis removal can vary widely depending on several factors. These factors include the complexity of the procedure, whether an en - bloc capsulectomy is required, the surgeon's experience and reputation, and the location of the hospital or surgical facility.

Patients should obtain a detailed quote during their consultation. In some cases, insurance may cover the cost of the procedure if it is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases of BIA - ALCL or severe capsular contracture. However, cosmetic reasons for implant removal are typically not covered by insurance.

Here is a table summarizing the possible cost - influencing factors:

Making the Right Choice

When choosing a hospital or surgeon for breast augmentation prosthesis removal, patients should do thorough research. They should check for board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. It is also important to ensure that the physician attends a major hospital in the community and is in good standing with that hospital. Patients can speak to the surgeon's patients who have undergone similar procedures to get an idea of their experience and the results.

It is essential to have an open and honest conversation with the surgeon during the consultation, expressing all concerns and expectations. A good surgeon will listen carefully and help the patient make an informed decision.

Conclusion

The new hospital ranking for breast augmentation prosthesis removal in New York City provides valuable information for patients seeking this procedure. Hospitals like NewYork - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, along with renowned surgeons such as Dr. Darrick Antell, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, and Dr. Barry Weintraub, offer high - quality care and expertise. Understanding the process of breast implant removal, from consultation to recovery, and considering factors such as cost and surgeon selection are crucial steps for patients. Whether it is due to medical reasons or aesthetic concerns, patients can find the right option in New York City to achieve their desired outcome.

If you are considering breast augmentation prosthesis removal, take the time to research and consult with different providers. Don't hesitate to ask questions and gather as much information as possible. Share this article with others who may be in need of this information and explore more about breast surgery options in New York City.