Introduction
Silicone breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure, but there are various reasons why individuals may choose to have their breast implants removed. In New York City, there are several public - hospital and renowned private medical facilities and experienced plastic surgeons who offer high - quality silicone breast augmentation removal services. This article aims to provide comprehensive information about silicone breast augmentation removal in New York City, including the reasons for removal, the procedure details, recovery, and a list of top - notch hospitals and surgeons in the area.
Reasons for Silicone Breast Augmentation Removal
There are multiple reasons why people opt for silicone breast augmentation removal. These can be broadly categorized into medical and non - medical reasons.
Medical Reasons
- Implant Rupture: Over time, the silicone shell of the implant can wear out. Saline implants deflate when they rupture, while silicone implants may have a “silent rupture” where the patient may not notice immediately. Ruptured silicone implants can cause irritation to the surrounding breast tissue, and in some cases, the silicone gel may leak, leading to inflammation and changes in breast shape. As per research, about 5% of breast implants may rupture over time.
- Capsular Contracture: This is a common complication where the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant hardens and contracts. It can cause pain, discomfort, and change the appearance of the breast. The rate of capsular contracture is approximately 3 - 4%, and it gradually increases over the years.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII encompasses a range of autoimmune - like symptoms such as chronic fatigue, brain fog, joint aches, and skin and hair problems. While not officially recognized by insurance companies as a medical diagnosis, many patients report improvement in symptoms after implant removal. A 2019 study from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center found up to 8 times the normal population rates of rare diseases like rheumatoid arthritis in women with silicone breast implants.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs in the scar tissue around the implant. The incidence is approximately 1 in 450 women with textured breast implants. Symptoms may include pain or swelling around the breasts and a change in breast size or shape.
- Infection: Breast implants are at a higher risk of infection as they are a foreign body without a blood supply. An untreated infection can lead to systemic infections and is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
Non - Medical Reasons
- Change in Aesthetic Preferences: Some individuals may change their minds about having breast implants and prefer their natural breast size or a different appearance.
- Aging and Lifestyle Changes: As people age, their bodies change, and they may no longer feel comfortable with the implants. Pregnancy, weight fluctuation, or breastfeeding can also affect the appearance of the breasts with implants.
The Silicone Breast Augmentation Removal Procedure
The silicone breast augmentation removal procedure typically involves several steps and is usually performed under general anesthesia.
Pre - operative Preparation
Before the surgery, patients need to take several preparatory steps:
- Medical Consultation: The surgeon will conduct a thorough medical examination and review the patient's medical history. They will also discuss the patient's expectations and concerns, and may perform additional tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI to assess the condition of the implants and surrounding tissues.
- Medication Adjustment: Patients are usually advised to avoid certain medications for a period before the surgery. For example, they should stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications for one week prior, and blood - thinning medications like coumadin and heparin for up to six weeks prior. They should inform their prescribing physician about the upcoming surgery.
- Arranging for Aftercare: Patients need to arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and stay with them for at least 24 hours. They should also plan for a comfortable recovery environment at home.
Anesthesia
Breast implant removal is commonly performed under general anesthesia, which means the patient will be asleep throughout the procedure. In some cases, local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or “twilight” anesthesia may be used, especially for less complex cases. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient's vital signs during the surgery.
Surgical Steps
- Incision Placement: The surgeon will make an incision in one of three common locations: the crease under the breast (inframammary fold), around the areola, or vertically in the armpit. In many cases, the surgeon will try to use the original incision from the breast augmentation procedure to minimize scarring.
- Implant Removal: The surgeon will carefully remove the silicone implants from the breast capsule. If the implant has ruptured, they will also take measures to remove any leaked silicone gel. In some cases, the entire breast capsule may be removed, which is called a capsulectomy. An en - bloc capsulectomy, where the implant and the capsule are removed in one piece, is considered the gold standard for addressing concerns like BIA - ALCL.
- Scar Tissue Removal: Any excess scar tissue or fibrous capsule around the implant will be removed, and the area will be cauterized to stop bleeding.
- Wound Closure: After the implants and scar tissue are removed, the incisions will be closed with sutures. In some cases, a layer of gauze or a bandage will be placed over the breasts to aid in healing.
Recovery after Silicone Breast Augmentation Removal
The recovery process after silicone breast augmentation removal varies from person to person, but there are some general guidelines.
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, the patient will be taken to a recovery room where they will be monitored until they wake up from anesthesia. They may experience mild to moderate pain, swelling, and bruising around the breasts. Pain medication will be prescribed to manage the discomfort. The patient will be provided with a support garment or compression bra to wear, which helps reduce swelling and provides support to the breasts during the healing process.
Initial Recovery
Most patients can go home on the same day as the surgery. They should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for at least two weeks. Light activities can usually be resumed within a few days, but it may take up to six weeks before they can engage in more vigorous exercise. The swelling and bruising will gradually subside over a few weeks, and the incisions will start to heal.
Long - term Recovery
It may take several months for the final results to be visible. The breasts may appear deflated or saggy initially, but the skin will gradually contract, and the remaining breast tissue will re - expand. Numbness around the incisions and in the breast area is common and usually fades over time. Follow - up appointments with the surgeon are essential to monitor the healing process and address any concerns.
Top Public and Private Facilities and Surgeons for Silicone Breast Augmentation Removal in New York City
New York City is home to some of the best medical facilities and plastic surgeons for silicone breast augmentation removal.
Public Hospitals
Although public hospitals may not always be the first choice for cosmetic procedures, some offer high - quality breast implant removal services:
- NYC Health + Hospitals / Bellevue: This is one of the oldest and largest public hospitals in the United States. It has a team of experienced plastic surgeons who can perform breast implant removal procedures. They provide comprehensive care, from pre - operative consultations to post - operative follow - ups. The hospital also has a reputation for treating a diverse range of patients and handling complex medical cases.
- NYC Health + Hospitals / Kings County: With a large surgical department, this hospital offers breast implant removal services. The surgeons here are well - trained and have experience in handling various types of breast implant - related issues. They also provide a patient - centered approach to ensure a smooth surgical experience and recovery.
Private Facilities and Surgeons
- Dr. Darren Smith: He performs breast implant removal surgery in a state - of - the - art medical facility in NYC. Dr. Smith takes a personalized approach, helping patients decide based on their individual needs and body goals. He often uses the original incision from the breast augmentation to minimize scarring and is experienced in removing implants and handling associated complications.
- New York Group for Plastic Surgery: Surgeons like Dr. Andrew Salzberg and Dr. Jordan Jacobs offer breast implant removal (explant) procedures. They are skilled in removing silicone from the implant shell and cleaning the breast pocket. The group provides detailed pre - operative information to help patients make informed decisions and offers comprehensive post - operative care.
- Zuckerman Plastic Surgery: Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman is a highly skilled plastic surgeon at this facility. He offers breast implant removal and exchange procedures to meet the changing needs and preferences of patients. Dr. Zuckerman uses techniques that aim to minimize scarring and optimize recovery.
- Dr. Darrick Antell: Widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the New York area and worldwide, Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal. He also conducts en bloc capsulectomies when indicated and has removed the recalled Allergan textured breast implants. He has a high - end private operating room and a team that provides personalized care.
- Dr. Constance M. Chen: With 20 years of expertise, Dr. Chen performs breast implant removal through a limited - scar technique. She specializes in en bloc capsulectomy through an incision limited to the patient's existing scar, avoiding the need to create a larger scar. Her patients often report benefits such as better mammogram visibility and resolution of breast implant - related symptoms.
- Dr. Steven Wallach: He offers breast implant removal services, usually making an incision using the previous surgical approach. Dr. Wallach is experienced in removing implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants and can also replace implants if the patient desires. He provides detailed consultations and after - care instructions.
Cost of Silicone Breast Augmentation Removal in New York City
The cost of silicone breast augmentation removal in New York City can vary widely depending on several factors:
- Surgeon's Fees: Experienced and well - known surgeons may charge higher fees for their services.
- Facility Fees: The cost of using the operating room and other hospital or clinic facilities can contribute significantly to the overall cost.
- Anesthesia Fees: The type of anesthesia used and the anesthesiologist's fees are additional costs.
- Post - operative Care: This includes follow - up appointments, medications, and support garments.
- Complexity of the Procedure: If the removal is more complex, such as when there is capsular contracture or a ruptured implant, the cost may be higher.
In most cases, breast implant removal procedures are not covered by health insurance, unless there is a medical necessity such as a ruptured implant or a diagnosis of BIA - ALCL. It is important for patients to consult with their insurance provider to understand their coverage.
FAQs about Silicone Breast Augmentation Removal in New York City
Is breast implant removal painful?
The surgery is performed under anesthesia, so there is no pain during the procedure. After the surgery, patients may experience mild to moderate pain, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by the surgeon.
Can I have my implants replaced at the same time as removal?
Yes, in some cases, patients may choose to have their implants replaced during the same procedure. The surgeon will discuss the options with the patient based on their individual circumstances.
How long will the scars be visible?
Scars will initially be firm and pink, but they should start to fade over time. The surgeon will try to minimize scarring by using the original incision or making discreet incisions. It may take several months to a year for the scars to become less noticeable.
What are the risks of breast implant removal?
As with any surgery, there are risks, including infection, bleeding, changes in breast sensation, asymmetry, and unfavorable scarring. However, these risks can be minimized by choosing an experienced and board - certified plastic surgeon.
When can I return to work?
Most patients can return to work within one to two weeks, depending on the nature of their job. Those with physically demanding jobs may need to take more time off.
Conclusion
Silicone breast augmentation removal is a significant decision that can be made for various medical and non - medical reasons. In New York City, there are many excellent public - hospital and private medical facilities and highly skilled plastic surgeons who can provide high - quality removal services. It is crucial for patients to thoroughly research their options, have in - depth consultations with surgeons, and understand the entire process from pre - operative preparation to post - operative recovery. By making informed decisions, patients can achieve the desired results and improve their quality of life.
If you are considering silicone breast augmentation removal in New York City, we encourage you to reach out to the hospitals and surgeons mentioned in this article. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific needs and concerns. You can also share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast implant removal in the city.
