Introduction
Breast implant removal surgery has gained significant attention in New York City. There are various reasons why women may opt for this procedure, including medical complications, aesthetic preferences, or simply a change in lifestyle. In this article, we will explore the top hospitals and surgeons in New York City for breast implant removal surgery, providing you with a comprehensive reference for making an informed decision.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Implant Removal
Surgeon's Experience and Reputation
The experience and reputation of the surgeon are crucial factors in the success of breast implant removal surgery. Look for surgeons who are board - certified, have extensive experience in performing breast - related surgeries, and have a proven track record of achieving satisfactory results. For example, Dr. Darrick Antell is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons 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. His patients often refer others, which is a testament to his surgical skills and the quality of his results.
Hospital Facilities and Technology
State - of - the - art facilities and the latest technology can enhance the safety and effectiveness of the surgery. A well - equipped hospital with modern operating rooms, advanced imaging techniques, and proper post - operative care facilities is essential. For instance, Dr. Antell's facility is a fully accredited outpatient surgery center, equipped with the latest technology and designed for patient comfort. It has a private back entrance to ensure total discretion, and all staff members are thoroughly trained to offer personalized care.
Range of Procedures Offered
It's important to choose a hospital that offers a variety of breast implant removal procedures. This includes en bloc removal, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. Different patients may have different needs, and having a range of options allows the surgeon to customize the treatment plan according to the patient's specific situation. The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC offers all these procedures and tailors them to each patient's unique anatomy and desired post - operative goals.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an insight into the experiences of others who have undergone breast implant removal surgery at a particular hospital. Positive reviews often indicate good patient care, successful surgeries, and satisfied patients. For example, many patients of Dr. Olivia Hutchinson have left glowing reviews about their experience with her and her staff, praising the calm atmosphere, cleanliness of the facility, and the amazing results of the surgery.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of breast implant removal surgery can vary widely depending on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, the hospital's location, and the surgeon's fees. It's important to get a detailed cost estimate before proceeding with the surgery. Additionally, check if your insurance covers the procedure. In some cases, such as when the removal is medically necessary, insurance may cover the costs. However, in most cosmetic cases, insurance may not provide coverage.
Top Hospitals and Surgeons for Breast Implant Removal in New York City
Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a top - rated plastic surgeon in New York City. He specializes in custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. He has over twenty years of experience and has performed more than ten thousand procedures. He is an official spokesperson for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and has memberships in many regional and national medical societies.
Dr. Antell offers en bloc capsulectomy when indicated, which involves removing the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He also performs the removal of the Allergan textured breast implants that were recalled by the FDA due to their association with a heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). His patients often refer others, and he has an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results, performed with total discretion.
Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC is known for its top - rated breast surgery team. The board - certified plastic surgeons at this center are highly trained in breast implant removal surgery and are world - renowned for their advanced techniques.
They offer a variety of breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. The procedure is performed at their state - of - the - art boutique surgical suite under general anesthesia and takes about 1 - 3 hours. Patients can expect swelling and tenderness to subside within six to eight weeks.
Dr. Steven Wallach
Dr. Steven Wallach performs breast implant removal surgery, usually making an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach. He also removes implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary.
During the consultation, Dr. Wallach walks patients through the options and techniques available for their procedure, as well as which will provide the best results with the least amount of scarring. He advises patients on important terms such as ptosis, deflation, capsulectomy, and explantation before the surgery. After the procedure, he provides detailed instructions for recovery, including avoiding aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC. She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal.
She can address both aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants. Aesthetic issues may include palpable or visible implants, rupture, leakage, or capsular contracture. Medical issues can involve severe capsular contracture, BIA - ALCL, and breast implant illness (BII). Dr. Hutchinson will advise patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to help them achieve their goals.
New York Group for Plastic Surgery
The New York Group for Plastic Surgery offers breast implant removal, also known as breast explant. Surgeons at this group, such as Dr. Andrew Salzberg and Dr. Jordan Jacobs, remove breast implants and some or all of the surrounding scar capsules.
Before the procedure, patients are advised to avoid certain medications and arrange for transportation and post - operative care. The surgery can be performed under local or general anesthesia, and the incisions can be made in different locations. Recovery is similar to that after initial breast augmentation surgery, with downtime, swelling, and bruising expected in the initial weeks.
Common Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Medical Reasons
Implant Rupture or Leakage: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture or leak. A saline implant rupture is usually more obvious as the breast will deflate rapidly. A silicone implant rupture may be less noticeable, and an MRI may be required to detect it. If an implant ruptures, it may cause pain, discomfort, or changes in the appearance of the breast, and removal is often recommended.
Capsular Contracture: This is the hardening of scar tissue that forms around an implant after it is placed in the body. In mild cases, it may be asymptomatic, but in severe cases, it can cause pain, distortion of the breast shape, and discomfort. The rate of capsular contracture is about 3 - 4%, and it increases gradually over the years. Treatment may involve removing the implant and the surrounding scar tissue.
Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. It is primarily associated with textured breast implants, especially those made by Allergan. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, or a change in the size or shape of the breast. Treatment typically involves surgically removing the implants and surrounding scar tissue, and in more serious cases, chemotherapy or radiation may also be necessary.
Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII refers to a wide variety of symptoms that patients may report after breast augmentation or reconstruction with implants. These symptoms include fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression or anxiety, rashes, pain and discomfort, brain fog, and other non - specific complaints. While the exact cause of BII is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
Aesthetic Reasons
Unsatisfactory Results: Some patients may be unhappy with the appearance of their breasts after breast augmentation. This could be due to issues such as the size, shape, or position of the implants. For example, the implants may have moved from their original position, resulting in asymmetry or an unusual appearance. In such cases, removal of the implants may be desired to return to a more natural look.
Change in Lifestyle or Preferences: Over time, a patient's lifestyle or aesthetic preferences may change. They may no longer desire to have breast implants and may choose to have them removed to achieve a more natural or different look. For example, a woman who was once very active in sports may find that the implants are restricting her movement or causing discomfort during physical activities.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Consultation
The first step in the breast implant removal process is a consultation with the surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of the breasts. If the patient is experiencing medical complications, they should discuss any symptoms they may be having with the surgeon. It is also helpful for the patient to bring any information they have about their existing implants and their previous breast augmentation surgery.
The surgeon will explain the different types of breast implant removal procedures available and work with the patient to create a personalized surgical plan based on the patient's desired outcome. In some cases, it may be recommended to pair the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift, to achieve a more plump and rounded appearance.
Pre - operative Preparation
Before the surgery, the patient will receive guidelines on various aspects. They may be asked to undergo imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, depending on factors like age and implant condition. The patient will also be instructed on eating and drinking restrictions, smoking cessation, and whether to take or avoid vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. They may be given prescriptions that should be filled prior to the surgery, and in some cases, pre - operative clearance from another doctor may be required.
Since the procedure is often performed under “twilight” sedation, the patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and have someone to assist them in the first few days of recovery.
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 safety and comfort.
Surgical Procedure
If possible, the surgeon will remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. This is more likely when the implants were placed with an inframammary fold or areolar incision. However, if there has been capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or the patient has textured breast implants and is experiencing BIA - ALCL, it may be necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant.
When the implant and scar tissue are removed simultaneously, it is called en - bloc resection. Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and a layer of external sutures, if needed, are used to close the incisions. The surgeon may place a layer of gauze or a bandage over the breasts to speed healing. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer.
Recovery
After the surgery, the patient will recover in a state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia will be used to reduce discomfort. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, so the patient can return home the same day. However, they will need an escort as they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia.
The patient's breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage. They may feel tired or sore following surgery, and it is normal to experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. There may also be some fluid drainage from the incision site. Most patients are able to return to most daily activities within days, but it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. The surgeon will provide an individualized recovery plan based on the patient's specific procedure and healing rate.
Comparison of Breast Implant Removal Options
| Procedure | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| En Bloc Removal | The implant and the surrounding capsule are removed as a single unit. | Reduces the risk of leaving behind potentially contaminated tissue, especially in cases of BIA - ALCL or suspected implant - related complications. Ensures a more complete removal of all implant - related materials. | May be more complex and time - consuming compared to other methods. May require a larger incision in some cases. |
| Partial Capsulectomy | Only the breast implant material is removed, and some of the capsule material is trimmed or shaped to create the desired chest contour. | Less invasive than en bloc removal. Can help reshape the breast to some extent while removing the implant. | May not remove all potentially problematic tissue. There is a small risk of the remaining capsule causing future issues. |
| Total Capsulectomy | The implant, capsule, and remaining scar tissue are removed completely. | Removes all implant - related tissue, which can be beneficial in cases of severe capsular contracture or other complications. Can lead to a more natural - looking breast appearance. | More invasive and may have a longer recovery time compared to partial capsulectomy. There is a higher risk of complications associated with more extensive surgery. |
Potential Risks and Complications of Breast Implant Removal
While breast implant removal is generally a safe procedure when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon, there are still some potential risks and complications:
- Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery. In most cases, this can be managed, but in rare instances, additional intervention may be required.
- Infection: Infection can occur at the incision site or in the breast tissue. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to prevent and treat infections, but in severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
- Numbness at the Incision Site: Temporary or permanent numbness in the breast area or around the incisions can occur. In most cases, the numbness improves over time, but in some instances, it may be long - lasting.
- Adverse Reaction to Anesthesia: Although rare, some patients may have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used during the surgery. This can range from mild allergic reactions to more serious complications.
- Unsatisfactory Results: There is a possibility that the patient may not be completely satisfied with the aesthetic outcome of the surgery. This could be due to factors such as unevenness, remaining scarring, or changes in breast shape that were not as expected.
- Need for Revision Surgery: In some cases, revision surgery may be required to address any complications or to further improve the results of the initial breast implant removal.
Conclusion
When considering breast implant removal surgery in New York City, it is essential to carefully evaluate the various factors involved, including the surgeon's experience, hospital facilities, range of procedures offered, patient reviews, and cost. By choosing a reputable hospital and surgeon, you can increase the chances of a successful and satisfying outcome.
Remember that breast implant removal is a personal decision, and it's important to have open and honest communication with your surgeon throughout the process. Whether your reason for removal is medical or aesthetic, understanding the procedure, recovery, and potential risks will help you make an informed choice.
If you are considering breast implant removal, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top surgeons mentioned in this article. Take the time to ask questions, discuss your goals, and explore all your options. Your journey to feeling comfortable and confident in your body starts with making the right decision for you.
