The plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital for silicone breast - implant removal in New York City is in the front row!

Introduction

In New York City, the field of plastic surgery, especially when it comes to silicone breast - implant removal, is highly advanced. The plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital stands out in this regard. Many individuals who have had silicone breast implants may consider removal due to various reasons, including health concerns, aesthetic preferences, or the natural aging of the implants. This article will explore in detail the aspects related to silicone breast - implant removal in New York City, highlighting the services and advantages offered by the plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital.

Understanding Silicone Breast - Implant Removal

What is Silicone Breast - Implant Removal?

Silicone breast - implant removal, also known as explant surgery, is a procedure aimed at removing breast implants from patients who have previously undergone breast augmentation or breast reconstruction. During the procedure, the surgeon typically removes the silicone implants and may also take out any silicone material that has leaked from the implants, as well as the breast capsule, which is the scar tissue that forms around the implant after its placement. In many cases, the scar tissue is soft and doesn't require removal, but if it hardens, it can cause pain and discomfort, leading to the decision to remove both the implant and the scar tissue. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast implants are not lifelong devices, and it is generally recommended to have them exchanged or removed approximately every 10 - 15 years, based on individual needs and desires.

Reasons for Silicone Breast - Implant Removal

• Health Concerns
  • Implant Rupture: Over time, the outer shell of the silicone implant may break down, causing the silicone gel to leak. This can lead to various health issues and is a significant reason for implant removal. For example, a leaked silicone implant can cause inflammation and pain in the breast tissue.
  • Capsular Contracture: This is a complication that can occur after breast augmentation. The body forms a capsule of scar tissue around the implant, and in some cases, this capsule can become overly hardened and contract around the implant. This not only causes aesthetic problems but can also lead to pain in the breasts. Many women choose to have their implants removed to relieve the discomfort associated with capsular contracture.
  • Breast Implant Illness (BII): Some patients may experience a range of symptoms, such as fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog, which they believe are related to their breast implants. While the scientific evidence regarding BII is still being studied, some individuals opt to have their implants removed in an attempt to alleviate these symptoms.
  • Risk of Rare Cancers: There is a rare type of lymphoma called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) that can develop around breast implants. The FDA has recalled certain textured breast implants due to their association with a heightened risk of BIA - ALCL. If a patient has textured implants and is experiencing symptoms such as pain, swelling, or a change in the size or shape of the breasts, they may need to have the implants removed.
• Cosmetic Preferences
  • Change in Personal Taste: As time passes, a person's aesthetic preferences may change. They may no longer be satisfied with the size, shape, or look of their breast implants and choose to have them removed to return to their natural breast size or to opt for a different type of breast enhancement procedure.
  • Desire for a More Natural Look: Some individuals may have initially chosen breast implants but later realize that they prefer a more natural - looking breast appearance. Removing the implants can help them achieve this goal.
• Aging Implants: Over the years, breast implants can degrade, shift, or cause changes in the breast tissue. The implants may not maintain their original shape or may start to cause discomfort, leading the patient to consider removal or replacement.

Plastic Surgery Department of the People's Hospital in New York City

Expert Surgeons

The plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital is staffed with highly skilled and experienced surgeons. These surgeons have extensive training in breast surgery and are well - versed in the latest techniques and advancements in silicone breast - implant removal. For example, they are familiar with en - bloc capsulectomy, a procedure in which the implant and the surrounding scar tissue are removed as a single unit. This technique is often used in cases where there are concerns about capsular contracture or possible implant leakage.

Similar to top - notch surgeons like Dr. Darrick Antell, who is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the New York area and worldwide, the surgeons at the People's Hospital have a reputation for providing excellent surgical results. They are committed to understanding the unique needs and goals of each patient and tailoring the surgical plan accordingly.

State - of - the - Art Facilities

The department is equipped with state - of - the - art facilities to ensure the safety and comfort of patients during the silicone breast - implant removal procedure. The operating rooms are maintained at the highest standards of sterility, and the hospital uses the latest monitoring equipment to closely observe the patient's vital signs during the surgery. Just like other leading plastic surgery facilities in New York, such as the private operating room of Dr. Antell located across the street from Lenox Hill Hospital, the People's Hospital provides a private and comfortable environment for patients undergoing the procedure.

Comprehensive Patient Care

From the initial consultation to the post - operative follow - up, the plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital offers comprehensive patient care. During the consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of their breasts. They will also discuss the patient's reasons for wanting the implant removal and answer any questions or concerns the patient may have. This is similar to the consultation process at other well - known plastic surgery practices in New York, where patients are encouraged to be open and honest about their desired outcome.

After the surgery, the hospital provides detailed post - operative instructions to help the patient recover smoothly. The medical staff will closely monitor the patient's recovery process, including checking for any signs of complications such as infection, bleeding, or changes in breast sensation. They will also provide support and guidance to the patient as they adjust to their new breast appearance.

The Silicone Breast - Implant Removal Procedure

Pre - operative Preparation

• Medical Evaluation: The patient will need to undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation, including a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI. This helps the surgeon assess the condition of the implants and the surrounding breast tissue and identify any potential risks or complications.
• Medication Adjustment: Certain medications can interfere with the surgical procedure or increase the risk of bleeding. The patient may be advised to stop taking medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications for one week prior to the surgery. They may also need to stop taking blood - thinning medications for up to six weeks before the procedure. The patient should inform their prescribing physician about their plans to undergo breast implant removal so that they can provide appropriate guidance on medication adjustment.
• Arrangements for Aftercare: The patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and stay with them for at least 24 hours. They should also prepare their home environment for a comfortable recovery, including having a supply of prescribed medications, a comfortable place to rest, and easy access to healthy food and water.

Anesthesia

Silicone breast - implant removal can be performed under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or under general anesthesia. The choice of anesthesia depends on several factors, such as the patient's overall health, the complexity of the procedure, and the patient's personal preference. Local anesthesia is often used for less complex cases or for patients who want to be awake during the procedure, while general anesthesia is typically used for more extensive procedures or for patients who prefer to be completely unconscious.

Surgical Steps

1. Skin Preparation: Once the patient is under the effects of anesthesia, the surgical area around the breasts will be cleaned with an antibacterial soap to prevent infection.
2. Placement of Incisions: The surgeon will create incisions in one of three locations: the crease under the breast (inframammary fold), around the areola, or vertically in the armpit. The choice of incision location depends on factors such as the patient's previous surgical history, the size and position of the implants, and the surgeon's preference. The surgeon will try to reuse the old incisions from the previous breast augmentation procedure to minimize additional scarring.
3. Removal of Implants: The surgeon will use various techniques to remove the implants, such as prying out the implants from beneath the breast tissue, cutting through the shell of the implant if it is sticking to nearby tissues, or using instruments attached to the breast implant to allow for its slow removal through pulling. In cases where there is capsular contracture or a concern about implant leakage, the surgeon may perform an en - bloc capsulectomy to remove the implant and the surrounding scar tissue as a single unit.
4. Scar Tissue Removal: After the implants are removed, the surgeon will remove any excess skin or scar tissue around the nipples and cauterize the area. This helps to create a more natural - looking breast appearance.
5. Sealing of Incisions: The surgeon will re - attach the skin, stitch the incisions, and apply dressings to prevent infection while the wound heals. The type of sutures used may vary, but dissolvable sutures are often preferred to avoid the need for suture removal.

Recovery and Aftercare

Immediate Post - operative Period

After the surgery, the patient will be taken to a recovery room where they will be closely monitored as they wake up from anesthesia. They may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the breast area, and pain relief medication will be provided as needed. The patient will typically spend about an hour in the recovery room before being allowed to go home.

Post - operative Instructions

• Compression Garment: The patient will be instructed to wear a compression bra to minimize swelling and provide support to the breasts during the recovery process. The compression garment should be worn as directed by the surgeon, usually for several weeks.
• Medication: The patient will be prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection and pain medication to manage discomfort. They should take the medications as prescribed and follow up with their surgeon if they experience any side effects or concerns.
• Wound Care: The patient should keep the incision sites clean and dry. They may be advised to apply a cold compress to the surgical site to reduce swelling and bruising. They should also avoid exposing the incisions to water or sweat until they are fully healed.
• Activity Restrictions: The patient should avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and intense physical activity for several weeks after the surgery. They can gradually resume light activities as their recovery progresses, but they should follow the surgeon's recommendations regarding the timeline for returning to normal activities.

Long - term Recovery

Most patients can expect to see a significant reduction in swelling and bruising within the first few weeks after surgery. However, it may take several months for the final results to become apparent. The patient may notice some changes in the shape and size of their breasts, and it is normal for the breasts to take on a different appearance after implant removal. The scars will gradually fade over time, but they may remain visible to some extent.

It is important for the patient to attend all post - operative follow - up appointments with their surgeon. During these appointments, the surgeon will assess the patient's recovery, check for any signs of complications, and provide further guidance on aftercare.

Cost and Insurance Considerations

Cost of Silicone Breast - Implant Removal

The cost of silicone breast - implant removal in New York City can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's fees, the cost of the operating facility, post - care essentials, tests used, and prescription medication cost. Since each patient's situation is unique, it is best to schedule a consultation with a surgeon at the People's Hospital to get an accurate quote for the procedure.

Insurance Coverage

In most cases, breast implant removal procedures are not covered by health insurance because they are considered elective cosmetic procedures. However, there are some exceptions. For example, if the breast implant removal is necessary due to a medical condition such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, or BIA - ALCL, and if the procedure is deemed medically necessary by the insurance company, the cost of the surgery may be covered. It is important for the patient to contact their insurance provider before the surgery to determine their coverage and obtain any necessary pre - authorizations.

Conclusion

The plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital in New York City is indeed at the forefront of silicone breast - implant removal. With its team of expert surgeons, state - of - the - art facilities, and comprehensive patient care, the department provides a high - quality service for individuals considering breast implant removal. Whether a patient is motivated by health concerns, cosmetic preferences, or aging implants, the department can offer a personalized approach to meet their needs. Understanding the process of silicone breast - implant removal, including pre - operative preparation, the surgical procedure, recovery, and cost considerations, is essential for making an informed decision.

If you are considering silicone breast - implant removal in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with the plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital. Take the first step towards achieving your desired breast appearance and improved well - being. Contact the department today to learn more about your options and to start your journey towards a more confident you.