Introduction
Breast implant removal has become a sought - after procedure in New York City. Women may choose to have their breast implants removed for various reasons, such as medical complications, dissatisfaction with the aesthetic results, or the emergence of new health concerns related to the implants. In this article, we will present a comprehensive ranking list of the strength and popularity of hospitals in New York City for breast implant removal, along with detailed price information.
Factors Affecting the Decision to Remove Breast Implants
Medical Complications
One of the primary reasons for breast implant removal is the development of medical complications. These can include severe capsular contracture, where significant scar tissue forms around the implants, causing pain and discomfort and distorting the appearance of the breasts. Chronic pain is also a common issue, making the implants a burden on the patient's daily life. Additionally, the rare but serious condition of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) has emerged as a concern. BIA - ALCL often presents as a mass or fluid accumulation and is primarily associated with certain textured breast implants. Another issue is breast implant illness (BII), which refers to a range of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, and migraines. Although the exact cause of BII is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
Aesthetic Dissatisfaction
Aesthetic concerns also drive many women to opt for breast implant removal. The implant may become palpable or visible, showing signs of folding, rippling, or wrinkling. Rupture, leakage, or deflation of the implant can occur, leading to an uneven or distorted appearance. Capsular contracture can cause the breasts to look abnormal, and the implants may move from their original position, resulting in issues like the “double bubble” appearance or symmastia. Breast asymmetry, unsightly scars, and changes in the nipple or areola are also aesthetic reasons for removal.
Ranking List of Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City
New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center
This hospital is highly regarded and was ranked No. 4 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals. It ranks nationally in 15 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties. In terms of surgical excellence, it has highly - ranked 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. Its high - performing surgical and medical interventions include colon cancer surgery, lung cancer surgery, and many other procedures. For breast implant removal, the hospital likely benefits from its wide range of medical expertise and state - of - the - art facilities. While specific pricing for breast implant removal may vary based on individual cases, patients can expect high - quality care and experienced surgeons.
Dr. Darrick Antell’s Practice
Dr. Darrick Antell is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as being among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, and when indicated, he also conducts an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue around the breast implant. He has performed surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons, with an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results. The procedure typically takes place in his private operating room across the street from the world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. His state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited and equipped with the latest technology. Regarding pricing, while not publicly stated in a one - size - fits - all manner, patients can anticipate paying for services that include pre - operative imaging, surgical fees, anesthesia, and post - operative care. A typical breast implant removal and replacement at a surgery center in New York has an average cash price of $9,455, and Dr. Antell's practice, being of high - end quality, may fall within a similar range or higher depending on individual circumstances.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson’s Practice
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon on the upper east side in NYC. As a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon, she has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns. She can address a wide range of issues, including both aesthetic and medical problems associated with breast implants. Dr. Hutchinson will advise patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to achieve their goals. In some cases, she may recommend a secondary procedure such as a breast lift to enhance the aesthetic results. Similar to other high - quality practices in the area, the cost of breast implant removal at her practice will depend on factors such as the complexity of the case, whether additional procedures are required, and the length of the surgery.
Price List Analysis
Factors Affecting the Price
The price of breast implant removal can be influenced by multiple factors. The type of facility where the procedure is performed is a significant factor. A surgery center may offer a lower price compared to an outpatient hospital. According to Sidecar Health, the average cash price for breast implant removal and replacement care in New York is $9,455 at a surgery center versus $16,596 at an outpatient hospital. The reason for the difference is that surgery centers usually have fewer complimentary services and a more limited range of support services compared to outpatient hospitals.
The complexity of the surgery also affects the price. If a patient requires an en bloc capsulectomy, where the implant and the surrounding scar tissue are removed together, it may take longer and require more specialized skills, thus increasing the cost. Additionally, any additional procedures, such as a breast lift or replacement with fat transfer, will add to the overall price.
Typical Price Breakdown
Let's take a look at a common breast implant removal and replacement at a surgery center in New York. The breakdown includes provider fees, facility fees, prescriptions, and anesthesia costs.
| Category | Item | Units | Avg Cash Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provider | General surgeon visit provider fee (first time visit) | 1 | $144 |
| Provider fee to insert breast prosthesis | 1 (bilateral procedure) | $2,162 | |
| Provider fee for breast implant removal | 1 (bilateral procedure) | $1,128 | |
| Facility | Surgery center fee for breast implant removal | 1 | $1,613 |
| Surgery center fee to insert breast prosthesis | 1 | $3,162 | |
| Prescriptions | Hydrocodone - acetaminophen | 30 | $18 |
| Anesthesia | Anesthesiologist fee to be “put under” for procedure | 1 | $232 |
| Anesthesiologist time to be “put under” for procedure | 431 (per minute) | $994 | |
| Total average cash price | $9,454.51 | ||
At an outpatient hospital, the facility fees are generally higher. For example, the outpatient hospital fee for breast implant removal (level 1 standard) is $4,367, and the fee to insert breast prosthesis (level 2 standard) is $7,550, which contributes to the higher overall cost compared to a surgery center.
What to Expect During the Breast Implant Removal Process
Consultation
During the initial consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history. They will also assess the current condition of the breasts. If the patient is having the implants removed due to medical complications, it is crucial to discuss all symptoms with the surgeon. Patients should bring any information they have about their existing implants and 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. In some cases, they may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift, to achieve a more satisfactory aesthetic result. The surgeon will also go through the procedure, the risks, and the recovery process in detail.
Pre - operative Preparation
Based on factors like age and implant condition, the patient may be sent for imaging, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, before the surgery. The patient will receive guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. Prescriptions may be given to be filled prior to the surgery. Depending on the patient's history, pre - operative clearance from another doctor may be required. Since the procedure is usually performed under “twilight” sedation, the patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and have assistance during the first few days of recovery.
The Surgery
Breast implant removal is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision either around the nipple or under the lower fold of the breast to remove the old implant and any scar tissue that has formed. If possible, the implant will be removed through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. However, this may not be possible in all cases, especially if the implants were placed through an armpit incision. If the patient has experienced capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or textured breast implants with BIA - ALCL, it may be necessary to perform an en - bloc resection, which involves removing the implant and the surrounding scar tissue simultaneously. The incisions are then closed using stitches, adhesive glue, or surgical tape. 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 under the monitoring of a registered nurse until they are well enough to be discharged. A specialized local anesthesia is used to reduce discomfort. Since it is an outpatient procedure, the patient can return home the same day. The patient should expect to have someone escort 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 receive thorough discharge instructions. The breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage. Some tiredness and soreness are normal, but many patients can return to most daily activities within days. Vigorous exercise should be avoided for around two weeks. There may be some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. Fluid drainage from the incision site may also occur. In most cases, dissolvable sutures or dermabond are used, and if external sutures are used, they are usually removed around 7 - 10 days following the procedure. It may take several months for the final results to be visible, and the scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before starting to fade.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New York City offers a range of high - quality hospitals and surgeons for breast implant removal. The decision to have breast implants removed is often driven by medical or aesthetic concerns. Factors such as the complexity of the surgery, the type of facility, and additional procedures can significantly affect the price. When choosing a hospital or surgeon, patients should consider the experience, reputation, and success rate of the provider. It is also important to have a detailed consultation to understand the procedure, risks, and recovery process.
If you are considering breast implant removal in New York City, we encourage you to do further research, read patient reviews, and schedule consultations with the top - ranked hospitals and surgeons mentioned in this article. By being well - informed, you can make the best decision for your health and aesthetic goals.
