Introduction

Breast augmentation prosthetic removal is a significant surgical procedure that many individuals in New York City may consider for various reasons, such as medical complications, lifestyle changes, or dissatisfaction with the previous augmentation results. Selecting a hospital with a good reputation for this procedure is crucial to ensure a safe and successful outcome. In this article, we will explore the top - ranked hospitals in New York City for breast augmentation prosthetic removal, along with relevant information about plastic surgeons, procedures, and patient considerations.

Top - Ranked Hospitals in New York City

1. Mount Sinai Hospital

Mount Sinai Hospital is one of the leading medical institutions in New York City. It is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties, and high - performing in 20 procedures/conditions. Although not specifically highlighted for breast augmentation prosthetic removal, its overall high - quality medical services and the experience of its medical staff provide a solid foundation for such surgeries. Their plastic surgery department likely has well - trained surgeons who can handle the complexities of prosthetic removal with care and precision. The hospital's commitment to patient safety and comprehensive after - care services also makes it a reliable choice for patients considering this procedure. For example, in general plastic surgery cases, the hospital emphasizes patient education during the pre - operative stage and closely monitors patients during the recovery process to ensure the best possible results.

2. New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell

This hospital is also at the forefront of medical care in New York. It is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties and high - performing in 1 specialty & 20 procedures/conditions. The plastic surgery services at New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell are comprehensive. They offer a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including breast augmentation and, presumably, breast augmentation prosthetic removal. The hospital's experienced plastic surgeons are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, from routine non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations. Their advanced research in plastic surgery may also translate into better surgical techniques and patient outcomes for prosthetic removal cases.

3. NYU Langone Hospitals

NYU Langone Hospitals are well - known for their medical excellence. Nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties and high - performing in 1 specialty & 21 procedures/conditions, they have a strong plastic surgery department. The hospital uses the latest technologies and techniques in plastic surgery. For breast - related procedures, they may have advanced imaging technologies that can help surgeons better assess the situation before prosthetic removal. Their focus on patient - centric care means that patients can expect personalized treatment plans and attentive after - care services, which are essential for a smooth recovery after breast augmentation prosthetic removal.

4. North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health

North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health, nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties, has a reputation for providing high - quality medical care. While not as prominently known for plastic surgery as some of the other hospitals on this list, it still offers surgical services, including those related to breast procedures. The hospital's overall medical infrastructure and experienced medical team can contribute to a successful breast augmentation prosthetic removal. Their high - performing status in 15 procedures/conditions indicates that they have the capabilities to handle the various aspects of the surgery, from pre - operative assessment to post - operative care.

5. Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health

Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health is nationally ranked in 10 specialties and high - performing in 1 specialty & 16 procedures/conditions. The hospital has a dedicated plastic surgery department. The plastic surgeons at Lenox Hill are likely to have experience in breast - related surgeries, including breast augmentation prosthetic removal. The hospital's location in a prime area of New York City also provides patients with easy access to additional medical resources and support services during their recovery.

Well - Known Plastic Surgeons in New York for Breast - Related Surgeries

1. Dr. Darrick Antell

Dr. Darrick Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the area and globally. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. Women may choose to have breast implants removed for lifestyle, cosmetic, or medical reasons, and Dr. Antell has the expertise to handle these cases. He is also known for performing en bloc capsulectomy when indicated, which is the removal of the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which speaks volumes about his surgical skills and the satisfaction of his patients. He has performed custom breast removal surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons, and he has an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results and total discretion.

2. Dr. David L. Cangello

Dr. David L. Cangello is a board - certified plastic surgeon experienced in the art of cosmetic breast surgery. Although his main focus seems to be on breast augmentation, his expertise in breast surgery also makes him a potential candidate for breast augmentation prosthetic removal. He offers personalized treatment plans to meet patients' aesthetic goals. His superior results have earned the trust of professional models from some of the world's top agencies. He takes an artistic approach to breast surgery, combining medical precision with the principles of aesthetics, which could also be beneficial in prosthetic removal cases to ensure a good cosmetic outcome.

Reasons for Breast Augmentation Prosthetic Removal

1. Medical Complications

One of the most common reasons for breast augmentation prosthetic removal is medical complications. Breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) is a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma occurring in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. Symptoms of BIA - ALCL include pain or swelling around the breasts, and a difference in the size or shape of the breasts. When left untreated, it can spread to nearby lymph nodes. Treatment typically involves surgically removing the implants and surrounding scar tissue. In more serious cases, chemotherapy or radiation may also be necessary. Capsular contracture, which is the hardening of the scar tissue around the implant, can also cause discomfort and change the appearance of the breasts, leading patients to opt for prosthetic removal.

2. Lifestyle Changes

Some women may decide to remove their breast implants due to lifestyle changes. For example, they may be engaging in more strenuous physical activities, and the implants may cause discomfort or limit their movement. Pregnancy and nursing can also be factors. While most breast implants do not interfere with a woman's ability to breastfeed, some women may prefer to have the implants removed before or after having children for personal reasons.

3. Dissatisfaction with Results

Patients may be unhappy with the result of their original breast augmentation. This could be due to issues such as incorrect implant size, shape, or asymmetry. Some women may have had unrealistic expectations from the surgery, and when the results do not meet those expectations, they may choose to have the implants removed to return to their natural breast size.

The Procedure of Breast Augmentation Prosthetic Removal

1. Consultation

During the initial consultation, the plastic 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 desires to have the implants removed due to medical complications, it is important to discuss any symptoms they may be experiencing. 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 have an open and honest conversation with the patient about the desired outcome and create a proper surgical plan. Based on the patient's expectations, the surgeon may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift (mastopexy) to produce a more plump, rounded appearance.

2. Anesthesia

Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another type of “twilight” anesthesia. The patient will be asleep and comfortable throughout the entire operation, and a board - certified anesthesiologist will be monitoring them throughout the procedure. In some rare cases, implants can be removed with only local anesthesia.

3. Surgical Process

If possible, the surgeon will remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. This method is more likely when the implants were placed with an inframammary fold or areolar incision, but may not be possible with an armpit incision. If the patient has experienced capsular contracture, had a silicone implant rupture, or had textured breast implants and is experiencing BIA - ALCL, it is often necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant. When the implant and scar tissue are all removed simultaneously, this is called en - bloc resection. Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and a layer of external sutures, if needed, will typically be used to close the incisions. The surgeon may place a layer of gauze or a bandage over the new 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 and After - Care

1. Immediate Post - Operative Period

After undergoing the surgery, the patient will recover in the hospital's recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse until they feel well enough to be discharged. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia will be used to reduce discomfort. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient can return home the same day as the procedure. When performed with “twilight” sedation, the patient should be prepared to have an escort to bring them home, as they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. Upon leaving the facility, the patient will be provided with thorough discharge instructions that will guide them through the initial post - operative period.

2. General Recovery

After surgery, the patient's breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage. They may feel tired or sore following surgery, as the body is using its energy to heal. Many 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 intricacies of the customized procedure and the patient's rate of healing. It is important to follow all post - operative instructions carefully and refrain from activities that could put stress on the incisions. The patient may experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, and this numbness typically fades over time. They may also notice some fluid drainage from the incision site. Most patients do not require a breast lift after surgery, as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally. The patient will typically return to the office the day after their surgery so that the surgeon can monitor their healing process. If external sutures are used during surgery, they are usually removed around 7 - 10 days following the procedure. Although much of the swelling and bruising will fade in the first few weeks, it may take several months before the final results are visible. The scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade.

Cost and Financing Options

The cost of breast augmentation prosthetic removal can vary greatly depending on several factors. The hospital's reputation and the expertise of the plastic surgeon play a significant role. Top - rated hospitals and more experienced surgeons may charge higher fees. The complexity of the procedure also affects the cost. For example, if an en - bloc resection is required, it may be more expensive due to the increased surgical time and complexity. Geographical location is another factor, with clinics in urban areas or regions with a high cost of living generally having higher prices.

In terms of financing, many clinics offer various options to help patients afford the procedure. These can range from in - house financing plans to third - party medical loans. Some clinics may also offer discounts for multiple procedures or package deals. Insurance coverage for breast augmentation prosthetic removal is typically limited. Most insurance companies consider it a cosmetic procedure and do not cover it. However, there are exceptions in cases where the procedure is deemed medically necessary, such as when treating BIA - ALCL or other medical complications related to the implants.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing the right hospital for breast augmentation prosthetic removal in New York City is a critical decision that can significantly impact the outcome of the procedure and the patient's recovery. Hospitals such as Mount Sinai Hospital, New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell, NYU Langone Hospitals, North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health, and Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health are all well - regarded institutions with the potential to provide high - quality care for this procedure. Well - known plastic surgeons like Dr. Darrick Antell and Dr. David L. Cangello also bring their expertise to the table. Patients should carefully consider their reasons for prosthetic removal, understand the procedure, recovery process, and cost implications, and choose a hospital and surgeon that best meet their needs.

If you are considering breast augmentation prosthetic removal, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with multiple surgeons, and ask plenty of questions. Share this article with others who may be in a similar situation, and explore related topics such as the latest advancements in breast - related surgeries and long - term breast health after prosthetic removal.