Introduction
Breast implant removal and repair is a specialized area of plastic surgery that has seen a growing demand in New York City. There are multiple reasons why individuals opt for these procedures, ranging from health concerns to personal aesthetic preferences. In this article, we'll present a list of the top - 10 plastic surgery hospitals for breast implant removal and repair in New York City, along with in - depth details about each one, the surgeons, procedures, and other important aspects.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal and Repair
Health - related Reasons
- Implant Rupture: Saline implants may deflate, and the breast will visibly decrease in size, while silicone implants may leak, and an MRI may be required to detect the rupture. This can cause pain and changes in the breast's appearance.
- Capsular Contracture: The hardening of scar tissue around the implant can be painful and distort the shape of the breast. The rate of capsular contracture is about 3 - 4% and increases gradually over the years.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): A rare form of non - Hodgkin lymphoma associated with certain textured breast implants. It often presents as a mass or fluid accumulation in the breast.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): A collection of symptoms including fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, etc. Its exact cause is uncertain but is believed to be related to pre - existing autoimmune problems.
Cosmetic Reasons
- Change in Aesthetic Preferences: Over time, a person's body image or style preferences may change, leading them to desire different breast sizes or a more natural look.
- Unsatisfactory Results from Initial Surgery: Issues such as implant malposition, asymmetry, or visible implant edges may prompt a person to seek removal or repair.
Top 10 Plastic Surgery Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal and Repair in New York City
1. Manhattan Implant Removal - Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a premier breast surgeon in NYC with over twenty years of experience and more than ten thousand procedures under his belt. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. When indicated, he does an en bloc capsulectomy, which involves removing the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He also specializes in removing the recalled Allergan textured breast implants due to their association with BIA - ALCL.
Patient Consultation: During the initial consultation, Dr. Antell thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. He has an open - and - honest conversation to understand the patient's desired outcome and creates a proper surgical plan accordingly.
Surgery and Recovery: The surgery usually takes between one to two hours, and the en - bloc resection can take longer. Patients recover in a state - of - the - art recovery suite. The majority of patients can return to most daily activities within days, but it's best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks.
Contact: Call the office at (212) - 988 - 4040 to schedule a consultation.
2. Steven Wallach MD, FACS
Dr. Steven Wallach performs breast implant removal surgery by accessing the pocket created for the implants through the previous surgical approach. He may also remove implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants.
Candidates: Good candidates are generally healthy, non - smokers or those who stop smoking before the procedure, and are willing to stop taking blood - thinning medications.
Procedure and Risks: The surgery may be performed under intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia. The main risks include unfavorable scarring, asymmetry, infection, and others. Most patients can go back to light activity within three to five days, avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks, and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks.
Contact: Call or contact them online to learn more about options for implant removal and breast enhancement.
3. New York Group for Plastic Surgery
Patients can consult either Dr. Andrew Salzberg or Dr. Jordan Jacobs for breast implant removal. The procedure involves removing the implants, silicone from the shell, and cleaning the breast pocket.
Pre - procedure Preparation: Patients should avoid certain medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications for one week and blood - thinning medications for up to six weeks before the procedure. They also need to arrange for someone to drive them home and stay with them for at least 24 hours after the surgery.
Recovery: Recovery is similar to that after initial breast augmentation. Patients can expect three days of downtime, and within one week, most can resume light activities, with more vigorous activity possible in about six weeks.
Contact: Request a consultation online or call 888 - 664 - 8381 (New York City) or 914 - 366 - 6139 (Tarrytown).
4. Breast Reconstruction Center NYC
The plastic surgeons at this center offer a full spectrum of breast surgeries, including breast implant removal. They can perform en bloc, partial capsulectomy, or total capsulectomy procedures based on the patient's desired post - op result. Insurance is accepted when applicable.
Services Offered: Besides breast implant removal, they provide breast reconstruction, areola reshaping, nipple correction, and more. They work closely with patients and insurance companies to ensure patients receive the full benefits they are entitled to under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998.
Surgeons' Qualifications: The surgeons are board - certified and have memberships in various professional societies, ensuring high - quality care.
Contact: Call (646) 350 - 1675 for a free consultation.
5. Mount Sinai - New York
The breast implant revision specialists at Mount Sinai can correct problems such as incorrectly positioned implants, wrinkled or rippled implants, capsular contracture, and implant rupture. They match and repair the body's tissue with the breast implants to achieve a natural and beautiful appearance.
Consultation and Treatment Options: Patients first consult with a nationally recognized specialist. The specialists may recommend new materials or meshes to stabilize the area around the implant and fat transfer to enhance the natural shape and texture of the breasts.
Medical Expertise: The plastic surgeons here are experts in both medical care and plastic surgery, ensuring that patients receive the best treatment.
6. Zuckerman Plastic Surgery
Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman offers breast implant removal and exchange procedures. Patients may choose removal due to health concerns, cosmetic preferences, or aging implants. Implant exchange is an option for those looking to change the size or type of implants.
Procedure and Recovery: The procedures are performed under general anesthesia. Post - operative care includes managing discomfort, wearing a support bra, and avoiding strenuous activities. Most patients return to work within one to two weeks and avoid heavy lifting and intense physical activity for up to six weeks.
Contact: Contact them to schedule a consultation and learn more about the options.
7. Columbia Surgery
Columbia University's plastic surgery department has highly experienced surgeons. Their breast reconstructive care program is dedicated to empowering breast cancer patients after surgery. While not solely focused on breast implant removal, they have the expertise to handle related procedures as part of their comprehensive plastic surgery services.
Surgeon Profiles: The plastic surgery team consists of board - certified surgeons like Dr. Christine Rohde, Dr. Jeffrey A. Ascherman, and others. Each surgeon has specialized skills and areas of expertise.
Research and Innovation: The department is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery, which means patients may benefit from the latest treatment techniques.
Contact: Call (212) 305 - 3103 or request an appointment online.
8. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC with over 20 years of experience. She can address both aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants. She will advise patients on surgical options and may recommend a secondary procedure like a breast lift for better aesthetic results.
Aesthetic and Medical Issues Handled: Aesthetic issues include palpable or visible implants, rupture, leakage, and malposition. Medical issues involve severe capsular contracture, BIA - ALCL, and BII.
Contact: Call the office at (212) 452 - 1400 to book a consultation.
Common Procedures in Breast Implant Removal and Repair
Explant Surgery
Explant surgery is the removal of breast implants. The surgeon may try to remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. In cases of capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or BIA - ALCL, it may be necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue around the implant, which is called en - bloc resection.
En Bloc Capsulectomy
This procedure involves removing the breast implant along with the entire capsule of scar tissue that has formed around it. It is often used when there are concerns about possible contamination or disease in the capsule, such as in the case of BIA - ALCL.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
After breast implant removal, the breasts may lose volume and sag. A breast lift can reshape and lift the breasts to a more youthful position. It can be performed in conjunction with implant removal or at a later date.
Implant Replacement
Some patients may choose to replace their old implants with new ones. This can be done if the patient is happy with the overall size and shape of their breasts but wants to address issues with the current implants, such as rupture or wear.
What to Expect During the Consultation
During the consultation with a plastic surgeon, the patient should expect a thorough evaluation. The surgeon will review the patient's medical history, including any previous breast surgeries, allergies, and current medications. The current condition of the breasts, such as the position of the implants, the presence of any scar tissue, and the overall breast shape, will be examined.
The patient should also be prepared to discuss their reasons for wanting breast implant removal or repair. The surgeon will explain the available procedures, the risks and benefits of each, and the expected results. They may also show before - and - after photos of previous patients to give the patient an idea of what to expect. The patient should ask any questions they have about the surgery, recovery, and costs.
Preparing for Breast Implant Removal and Repair Surgery
Medical Preparations
- Medical Evaluation: The surgeon may order imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI to assess the condition of the implants and the surrounding tissue.
- Medication Adjustment: Patients should stop taking certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood - thinning medications, as advised by the surgeon.
- Clearance from Other Doctors: Depending on the patient's medical history, they may need pre - operative clearance from another doctor, such as a primary care physician or a cardiologist.
Lifestyle Preparations
- Arrangements for Transportation and Assistance: Since the surgery is usually performed under sedation or anesthesia, patients need to arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and assist them in the first few days of recovery.
- Home Preparation: Patients should prepare their home with necessary items such as ice packs, comfortable clothing, and a support bra. They should also arrange for a quiet and comfortable place to rest.
Recovery After Breast Implant Removal and Repair
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, patients will recover in a recovery suite under the monitoring of a registered nurse. They may experience some discomfort, and pain relief medication will be provided. Most breast implant removal procedures are outpatient, so patients can return home the same day, but they need an escort. The breasts will be covered with a layer of gauze or a bandage.
Short - term Recovery
In the first few days, patients may feel tired and sore. There will be swelling, bruising, and some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions. Most patients can return to light daily activities within a few days but should avoid strenuous exercise for at least two weeks. The doctor will provide post - operative instructions on how to care for the incisions, wear a compression bra, and take any prescribed antibiotics.
Long - term Recovery
Swelling and bruising will gradually fade in the first few weeks, but it may take several months for the final results to be visible. Scars will be firm and pink for at least six weeks before starting to fade. The doctor will schedule follow - up appointments to monitor the healing process and ensure there are no complications.
Cost Considerations
The cost of breast implant removal and repair can vary widely. Factors that affect the cost include the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's experience and reputation, the location of the hospital or surgical facility, and whether additional procedures such as a breast lift or implant replacement are performed.
In most cases, breast implant removal procedures are not covered by health insurance unless it is deemed medically necessary, such as in the case of implant rupture, infection, or BIA - ALCL. It is important to discuss the cost with the surgeon during the consultation and check with the insurance company to see if any part of the procedure is covered.
Conclusion
Choosing the right plastic surgery hospital for breast implant removal and repair in New York City is a crucial decision. Each of the top 10 hospitals mentioned in this article has its own strengths, whether it's the expertise of the surgeons, the range of services offered, or the focus on patient - centered care. Patients should take the time to research and consult with multiple surgeons to find the best fit for their needs. Understanding the procedures, preparation, recovery, and cost aspects is also essential for a successful outcome.
If you're considering breast implant removal or repair, we encourage you to take the next step. Contact one of the hospitals on this list to schedule a consultation. You can also share this article with others who may find it helpful, and explore more related topics on plastic surgery and breast health to make an informed decision.
