Introduction

Prosthetic breast augmentation removal is a procedure that some women may choose for various reasons, such as health concerns, dissatisfaction with the results, or lifestyle changes. In New York City, a bustling metropolis known for its world - class medical facilities, there are several top - notch hospitals and surgeons specializing in this area. This article aims to provide a comprehensive ranking list and in - depth information about the best institutions and professionals for prosthetic breast augmentation removal in New York City in 2025.

Factors Affecting the Choice of Hospital for Prosthetic Breast Augmentation Removal

Surgeon's Expertise

The skill and experience of the surgeon are crucial. A well - trained and experienced plastic surgeon is more likely to perform the procedure safely and achieve better results. Surgeons with a long - standing reputation in the field, those who have performed numerous breast implant removal surgeries, and who are members of respected medical societies are often preferred. For example, surgeons who are board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery have met strict standards of education, training, and professional practice. According to the America's Best Plastic Surgeons 2024 rankings, surgeons like David Hidalgo, MD, FACS, and Adam R. Kolker, MD, FACS from New York were recognized for their excellence in related procedures, indicating their high - level of expertise.

Hospital Facilities

State - of - the - art facilities are essential for a successful breast implant removal surgery. A hospital with modern operating rooms equipped with the latest medical technology, such as advanced monitoring equipment and precision surgical tools, can ensure the safety and efficiency of the procedure. Additionally, post - operative care facilities, like comfortable recovery suites and experienced nursing staff, are important for a patient's smooth recovery. For instance, Columbia University's plastic surgery department has top - level facilities as it is one of New York’s best hospitals and the world’s top medical centers, using its many resources to deliver high - quality care.

Reputation and Patient Reviews

The reputation of a hospital or surgeon in the medical community and among patients is a significant factor. Positive patient reviews can give potential patients an idea of the quality of care, the bedside manner of the surgeon, and the overall patient experience. A hospital with a long - standing history of successful breast implant removal surgeries and satisfied patients is more likely to be trustworthy. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC, has received excellent patient reviews, with patients praising her skill, the comfortable atmosphere of her practice, and the amazing results she achieves.

Range of Services

Some patients may require additional procedures along with breast implant removal, such as a breast lift to achieve a more natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance. A hospital or surgeon that offers a comprehensive range of services related to breast surgery can provide more integrated and personalized treatment plans. For example, Columbia University's plastic surgery division offers a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including breast augmentation, reduction, lift, and reconstruction after mastectomy, in addition to breast implant removal.

Ranking List of Hospitals for Prosthetic Breast Augmentation Removal in New York City

Columbia University - Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Columbia University stands out as one of the top choices for prosthetic breast augmentation removal in New York City. Its plastic surgery division is renowned for its world - class expertise and comprehensive services. The surgeons here are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, ranging from routine non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations.

They have a team of highly skilled surgeons, such as Christine Rohde, MD, who is trained in the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, specializing in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, and breast reconstruction. Jeffrey A. Ascherman, MD, an experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon, has published over 75 scientific articles and chapters and has been included in lists of America’s top doctors.

The plastic surgery research laboratory at Columbia is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research, focusing on areas like stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy for wound healing. This research - driven approach ensures that patients receive the most advanced and up - to - date treatment. The hospital also offers a variety of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures related to the breast, allowing for a personalized treatment plan for each patient. For those interested in breast implant removal, they can call (212) 305 - 3103 or request an appointment online.

Manhattan's Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC

The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC in Manhattan is another leading facility for prosthetic breast augmentation removal. The top - rated breast surgery team here is highly trained in breast implant removal surgery and is world - renowned for their advanced techniques.

They offer a variety of breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. During the initial consultation, the plastic surgeon explains each variation of the procedure in detail and customizes the treatment plan according to the patient's unique needs and desired post - operative goals. The breast implant removal surgery is performed at their state - of - the - art fully accredited surgical suite, and patients can expect swelling and tenderness to subside within six to eight weeks. For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation, patients can contact their NYC office at (212) 481 - 0110 or request a consultation online.

Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice

Dr. Darrick Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic and aesthetic surgery. He is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide.

Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, including the removal of existing silicone or saline implants. He also conducts en bloc capsulectomy when indicated to remove the tissue around the breast implant. He has removed the recalled Allergan textured breast implants associated with a heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). Dr. Antell has been listed in magazines like Harper’s Bazaar as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. His facility, located just across the street from the world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital, has a private back entrance for discretion and a state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center. To schedule a consultation, patients can call (212) - 988 - 4040.

Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice

Dr. Barry Weintraub is known for his expertise in breast implant removal and replacement. He has a strong aesthetic sense and combines medical science with an artistic touch in his practice.

Dr. Weintraub always places implants under the pectoralis - major muscle to achieve the most natural - looking results. He performs breast implant removal and replacement in a comfortable state of twilight sleep, using the most sterile conditions in his New York City operating room. He insists on the presence of on - staff, board - certified anesthesiologists and state - of - the - art monitoring equipment. His patients often return to work three days after surgery and require little downtime for full recovery. His practice is located at 800a Fifth Avenue, and patients can call his office for a private consultation to discuss breast implant removal and replacement.

Mount Sinai - New York's Plastic Surgery Department

Mount Sinai's plastic surgery department offers a wide range of breast enhancement procedures, including breast implant removal. Their skilled plastic surgeons listen carefully to patients' goals and use new technology built specially for Mount Sinai by Microsoft and Touch MD to help patients visualize their desired results.

They can develop a personal breast enhancement plan that may include breast augmentation, implant revision, lift, or reduction, in addition to implant removal. This comprehensive approach allows for a more personalized treatment for each patient, ensuring that they achieve the attractive and natural - looking breast improvements they seek. Patients interested in breast implant removal can consult with the surgeons at Mount Sinai to explore their options.

Common Reasons for Prosthetic Breast Augmentation Removal

Medical Reasons

Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL)

BIA - ALCL is a rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. It is primarily associated with certain types of textured breast implants, such as the recalled Allergan textured implants. Symptoms may include pain, swelling around the breasts, or a change in the size or shape of the breasts. Treatment typically involves surgically removing the implants and surrounding scar tissue, and in more serious cases, chemotherapy or radiation may be necessary. As of July 24, 2019, some patients with these textured implants may choose to have them removed due to the increased risk of BIA - ALCL.

Breast Implant Illness (BII)

Breast implant illness refers to a wide variety of symptoms that patients may report after breast augmentation or reconstruction with implants. These symptoms can include fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression, anxiety, rashes, pain, discomfort, and brain fog. It is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems, and is also referred to as “autoimmune / inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA).” Although the exact cause is uncertain, some patients choose to have their implants removed in an attempt to alleviate these symptoms.

Chronic Pain and Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture occurs when the soft tissue envelope around the implant hardens, causing distortion and an abnormal appearance of the breasts. Severe capsular contracture can also cause significant pain and discomfort. Some patients may experience chronic pain with their breast implants, which can be a reason for their removal. In these cases, a surgeon may need to perform a capsulectomy along with implant removal to address the issue.

Aesthetic Reasons

Unsatisfactory Results

Some patients may be unhappy with the results of their original breast augmentation. This could include issues such as the breast implant becoming palpable or visible (folded, rippled, or wrinkled), the implant moving from its original position, breast asymmetry, or unsightly or widened scars. For example, an implant may cause a “double bubble” appearance where it is not centered under the breast or “symmastia” where the implants appear to touch in the middle. In these cases, patients may opt for breast implant removal to return to their natural breast size or to undergo a secondary procedure to correct the aesthetic issues.

Desire for a Natural Look

Over time, some patients may develop a preference for a more natural - looking appearance. They may feel that their breast implants no longer fit their body image or lifestyle. In such cases, breast implant removal can help them achieve a more natural look and feel.

The Process of Prosthetic Breast Augmentation Removal

Consultation

The first step in the process is a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history. They will also assess the current condition of the breasts, including the type and size of the existing implants, and any signs of complications. If the patient is experiencing medical symptoms related to the implants, such as pain or swelling, they should discuss these in detail with the surgeon. It is helpful for the patient to bring any information they have about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery to the appointment.

The surgeon will explain the different types of breast implant removal procedures available, such as en bloc removal, partial capsulectomy, or total capsulectomy, and recommend the most appropriate option based on the patient's situation and desired outcome. They will also discuss the possibility of combining the implant removal with other procedures, like a breast lift, to achieve the best aesthetic results. For example, Dr. Darrick Antell spends time during the consultation discussing the procedure, risks, and recovery in detail so that the patient can make an informed decision.

Pre - operative Preparation

Before the surgery, the patient will need to follow certain pre - operative instructions. Based on factors such as age and implant condition, the surgeon may send the patient for imaging, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, to assess the implants and surrounding tissues. The patient will be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. They may also be given prescriptions that should be filled prior to the surgery. Depending on the patient's medical history, they may be asked to provide pre - operative clearance from another doctor. Since the procedure is usually performed under “twilight” sedation, the patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and have someone to assist them during the first few days of recovery.

Surgery

Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another type of “twilight” anesthesia, although in some rare cases, only local anesthesia may be used. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the procedure.

If possible, the surgeon will remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. However, if the patient has experienced capsular contracture, a silicone implant rupture, or 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, this 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 surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer.

Post - operative Recovery

After the surgery, the patient will recover in a state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse until they are well enough to be discharged. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia is used to reduce discomfort. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, so the patient can return home the same day.

Patients may feel tired or sore following surgery as their body uses energy to heal. They may have their breasts covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage. It is common to experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, and this numbness typically fades over time. Some fluid drainage from the incision site may also occur. Most patients are able to return to most daily activities within days of the procedure, 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 procedure and healing rate. It is important to follow all post - operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible results.

Conclusion

When it comes to prosthetic breast augmentation removal in New York City, patients have a variety of excellent options. Hospitals like Columbia University, the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, and practices of renowned surgeons such as Dr. Darrick Antell and Dr. Barry Weintraub offer high - quality care, experienced surgeons, and advanced facilities. Understanding the reasons for breast implant removal, the process involved, and the factors to consider when choosing a hospital or surgeon is crucial for patients. Whether it is for medical or aesthetic reasons, patients can make an informed decision to achieve their desired outcome.

If you are considering prosthetic breast augmentation removal, we encourage you to explore the options mentioned in this article. Schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your specific needs and concerns. Take the time to research and choose the best hospital or surgeon for you, and don't hesitate to ask questions during the process. By doing so, you can ensure a successful and satisfying experience with your breast implant removal procedure.