Introduction
Breast reconstruction surgery plays a vital role in the lives of many women who have undergone mastectomies due to breast cancer or other conditions. It not only restores the physical appearance of the breasts but also helps in improving the emotional well - being and self - confidence of the patients. In New York City, there are numerous hospitals and medical centers that offer high - quality breast reconstruction services. This article will explore the top hospitals for breast reconstruction surgery in New York City, providing detailed information to help you make an informed decision for yourself or your loved ones.
Understanding Breast Reconstruction Surgery
Breast reconstruction surgery encompasses a variety of procedures designed to restore the shape, symmetry, and appearance of the breasts after mastectomy or lumpectomy. The two main types of breast reconstruction are implant - based reconstruction and autologous tissue reconstruction. Implant - based reconstruction uses breast implants, either saline or silicone, to recreate the breast shape. Autologous tissue reconstruction, on the other hand, uses the patient's own tissue from different parts of the body such as the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks.
There are several factors that influence the choice of reconstruction method, including the patient's anatomy, medical history, and aesthetic preferences. Some common techniques in breast reconstruction include:
- Diep Flap Reconstruction: This technique uses a flap of complete tissue from the abdomen. It creates a slimmer abdomen and breasts that look and feel natural as it uses the patient's own tissue. The “Diep” stands for “deep inferior epigastric perforator artery,” which is the artery that runs through the abdomen.
- Implant - Based Reconstruction: Surgeons use tissue expanders and implants based on the patient's unique needs. Current practice guidelines generally discourage the use of textured implants, and surgeons often utilize both saline and silicone breast implants from different manufacturers.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Reconstruction
Selecting the right hospital for breast reconstruction surgery is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the treatment outcomes and the overall patient experience. Here are some important factors to consider:
- Expertise and Experience: Look for hospitals with specialized breast reconstruction teams comprising board - certified surgeons, oncologists, and reconstructive specialists. Surgeons with extensive experience in performing complex procedures are more likely to achieve successful outcomes. For example, surgeons who have performed a large number of nipple - sparing mastectomies with concurrent reconstruction, like those at Weill Cornell Medicine, are well - positioned to handle different cases.
- Comprehensive Care: A good hospital should offer comprehensive pre - operative evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and extensive post - operative support. This includes access to rehabilitation services, psychological counseling, and support groups to address the emotional and psychological aspects of recovery. Hospitals like Mount Sinai West's breast reconstruction program work closely with breast oncology surgeons to provide comprehensive breast care.
- Advanced Technology and Techniques: The use of state - of - the - art technology and advanced surgical techniques can lead to improved outcomes, reduced complications, and shorter recovery times. For instance, NewYork - Presbyterian Westchester offers advanced approaches such as direct - to - implant surgery and patient - controlled breast expanders.
- Patient - Centered Approach: A hospital that prioritizes patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction is essential. Clear communication, empathy, and collaboration between healthcare providers and patients are key components of a patient - centered approach. At Weill Cornell Medicine, the team prioritizes the patient's comfort at every step of the process, from pre - surgery consultations to post - surgery care.
- Hospital Rankings and Reputation: Consider hospitals that are well - ranked and have a good reputation. For example, New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center is ranked highly by U.S. News & World Report, which can be an indicator of the quality of care provided.
Top Hospitals for Breast Reconstruction in New York City
New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center
New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center is one of the leading hospitals in New York City. It was named the top hospital in New York and ranked No. 4 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals rankings in 2025. The hospital ranks nationally in 15 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties.
In terms of breast reconstruction, the hospital offers a high - quality surgical oncology expertise. Their surgeons are well - versed in various breast reconstruction techniques, including both implant - based and autologous tissue reconstruction. The hospital's strong reputation and high ranking make it a reliable choice for patients seeking breast reconstruction surgery.
The surgical excellence at Columbia includes adult specialties such as heart surgery, GI surgery, and lung surgery, as well as children’s specialties like pediatric heart surgery, pediatric GI surgery, and pediatric lung surgery. This broad range of specialties indicates the hospital's comprehensive medical capabilities, which can be beneficial for patients who may require additional medical support during their breast reconstruction journey.
Mount Sinai West
The breast reconstruction program at Mount Sinai West is led by Hani Sbitany, MD, an internationally renowned leader in breast reconstruction. The program offers the full complement of breast reconstruction options and specialized expertise in advanced muscle - sparing and microsurgical techniques.
There are two main categories of breast reconstruction approaches at Mount Sinai West: those involving breast implants and those using the patient's own tissue (autologous). The hospital usually performs the reconstruction procedure at the same time as the mastectomy or at a later date if necessary. The team at Mount Sinai West works closely with breast oncology surgeons to provide comprehensive breast care to patients.
The hospital's address is 425 West 59th Street, 7th floor, New York, NY 10019, and the phone number is 212 - 523 - 8700. Office hours are on Tuesdays from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.
Weill Cornell Medicine
Weill Cornell Medicine is a top - ranked academic medical center. Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons offer the most advanced breast reconstruction surgery options and techniques. Nipple - sparing mastectomies with concurrent reconstruction have been performed at Weill Cornell Medicine for the past 20 years, positioning them as leaders in this technique.
The reasons to choose Weill Cornell Medicine for breast reconstruction include:
- Exemplary Surgeons: The surgeons are leaders in plastic and reconstructive surgery, and the care team is focused on promoting the patient's comfort throughout the process.
- Individualized Care: The plastic and reconstructive surgeons are able to customize the breast reconstruction according to each patient's wishes, taking into account their unique body characteristics.
- Multidisciplinary Team: Patients have access to a network of doctors and specialists, including oncologists, geneticists, and nurses who specialize in breast cancer care. This multidisciplinary approach helps patients achieve optimal health and well - being.
- Focus on Comfort: The team prioritizes the patient's comfort at every step. Before surgery, patients have the opportunity to ask questions and understand the procedure fully. During surgery, state - of - the - art surgical suites and the latest anesthetics are used to ensure a faster recovery.
Breast reconstruction options at Weill Cornell Medicine include autologous reconstruction (using the patient's own tissue from areas like the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks) and implant - based reconstruction. The hospital also offers novel reinnervation procedures during breast reconstruction to improve sensation in the reconstructed breast.
The hospital has two locations on the upper east side: 525 East 68th Street, Starr 8, New York, NY 10065, and 425 East 61st Street, 10th floor, New York, NY 10065. The contact number is (646) 962 - 4210.
NewYork - Presbyterian Westchester (formerly Lawrence Hospital)
NewYork - Presbyterian Westchester offers a variety of options for breast reconstruction. Their breast reconstruction surgeons are highly skilled and work closely with each patient to discuss options and preferences and help them make an informed decision.
The hospital has made significant advancements in breast reconstruction techniques:
- Direct - to - Implant Surgery: Some women can have an implant inserted during mastectomy surgery, eliminating the need for a second surgery. This offers more convenience and comfort compared to traditional implant - based breast reconstruction.
- Patient - Controlled Breast Expander: A patient - controlled air expander is an option for women preparing for breast implantation. Surgeons at NewYork - Presbyterian Westchester were the first in Westchester County to insert an air expander, which allows patients to inject air into the expander on their own via a remote control, making the expansion process more comfortable, convenient, and faster.
- Fat Grafting: Surgeons sometimes inject fat (taken from the patient’s belly, hips, or thighs) into areas around the reconstructed breast to achieve a more natural look.
In addition, the plastic surgeons work closely with breast surgeons during lumpectomy to minimize scarring and maximize the cosmetic outcome. They may offer a breast lift or reduction at the same time as lumpectomy and use three - dimensional biozorb® implants to preserve the breast contour.
Other Considerations for Breast Reconstruction in New York City
Traveling for Surgery
Many patients choose to travel for breast reconstruction surgery, especially to access the expertise of world - renowned surgeons like Dr. Joshua L. Levine. For those traveling to New York City for surgery, several factors need to be considered.
Dr. Levine's practice provides first - class concierge care to traveling patients. Local patients to the tri - state area will meet with Dr. Levine prior to scheduling surgery, while out - of - town patients (over 3 hours driving distance) will meet with him the day of or the day before their scheduled surgery. The staff is dedicated to assisting patients in making the travel process stress - free, providing recommendations on where to stay and the best times to fly in for consultation or surgery.
New York City has excellent transportation options for both domestic and international travelers. Local travel can be via mass transit, including Brooklyn, Manhattan, and across bridges like the George Washington Bridge and through tunnels like the Lincoln and Holland Tunnel. Domestic travelers can use the Port Authority Terminal, Amtrak, or Acela, and there are nearby airports such as JFK, LGA, and Newark. International travelers also have easy access through these major airports.
Patient Ratings of Doctors
Healthgrades lists 279 doctors who perform breast reconstruction in New York. Doctors with at least 7 or more past patient ratings are often considered to have the experience that patients are looking for. Here are some of the highly - rated doctors:
| Doctor's Name | Rating (out of 5) | Number of Ratings | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Philip Torina, MD | 5.00 | 19 | 5 E 98th St #2 New York, NY 10029 |
| Dr. Alexander Swistel, MD | 4.90 | 225 | 425 e. 61st st. 8 - 11th floor New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Kimberly Van Zee, MD | 4.80 | 32 | 300 e 66th st New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Evan Matros, MD | 4.80 | 25 | 1275 york ave New York, NY 10065 |
| Dr. Alexandra Heerdt, MD | 4.70 | 30 | 300 e 66th st New York, NY 10065 |
Common Questions about Breast Reconstruction
How long will the hospital stay be?
The length of the hospital stay depends on the procedure type. Flap procedures may require a stay of 5 to 6 days. After returning home, patients can expect some swelling, soreness, and bruising for 2 to 3 weeks. They may be asked to apply medications to the suture area or change bandages at home. The surgical team will be available for phone consultations.
What about transportation and accommodation?
Many hospitals and surgical practices assist patients with transportation and accommodation arrangements. For example, Dr. Levine's practice provides travel and accommodation choices that work best for the patient and their family and can make arrangements and offer recommendations. However, they usually do not schedule flights or reserve hotel rooms directly.
Conclusion
Breast reconstruction surgery is a complex and important procedure that can have a profound impact on the lives of patients. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals and medical centers that offer high - quality breast reconstruction services. New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Mount Sinai West, Weill Cornell Medicine, and NewYork - Presbyterian Westchester are just some of the institutions that stand out in terms of expertise, technology, and patient - centered care.
When choosing a hospital for breast reconstruction, it is essential to consider factors such as the hospital's reputation, the experience of the surgeons, the available technology and techniques, and the level of comprehensive care. Patients should also look into the patient ratings of doctors and take into account any travel and accommodation requirements if they are coming from out of town.
If you or someone you know is considering breast reconstruction surgery in New York City, we encourage you to research further, contact the hospitals or medical practices mentioned in this article, and schedule consultations. By making an informed decision, you can ensure the best possible outcome for your breast reconstruction journey.
