Introduction
For many women in New York City, breast prosthesis removal and repair are important surgical procedures that can impact their physical health and psychological well - being. Whether due to aging implants, complications, or personal preference changes, finding a reliable hospital and understanding the associated costs is crucial. In this article, we will explore three top breast prosthesis removal and repair hospitals in New York City and also provide detailed price lists to help you make an informed decision.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Breast Prosthesis Removal and Repair Hospital
Before diving into the hospital rankings, it's essential to understand the key factors that should influence your choice of a hospital for breast prosthesis removal and repair.
Surgeon Expertise
The experience and skill of the plastic surgeons performing the procedure are of utmost importance. Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have a track record of successful breast implant removal and replacement surgeries. Surgeons at top - rated hospitals often have advanced training in breast surgery and are up - to - date with the latest techniques. For example, at the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, the board - certified plastic surgeons are highly trained in breast implant removal surgery and are renowned for their advanced techniques. They can perform different types of breast implant removal procedures such as en bloc, partial capsulectomy, or total capsulectomy, depending on the patient's needs.
Hospital Reputation
A hospital's reputation can be judged by various factors, including patient reviews, accreditation, and its standing in the medical community. Hospitals with a long - standing history of providing high - quality care and positive patient outcomes are generally more reliable. For instance, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center is the oldest and largest hospital in the world specializing in oncology treatment. Its oncologists develop innovative cancer research programs and provide training for new specialists. Although it is mainly known for cancer treatment, in the context of breast - related surgeries, its expertise in the field adds to its overall reputation.
Facility and Technology
State - of - the - art facilities and advanced surgical technology can contribute to better surgical outcomes and patient comfort. Modern operating rooms equipped with the latest medical devices and imaging systems can help surgeons perform the procedure more accurately. Some hospitals may also offer additional support services such as pre - and post - operative counseling, rehabilitation programs, and access to advanced pain management techniques.
Cost
Cost is also a significant factor. The average cash price for breast implant removal and replacement in New York varies depending on whether the procedure is performed at a surgery center or an outpatient hospital. Surgery centers usually offer lower prices, but may have fewer complimentary and support services compared to outpatient hospitals. Understanding the breakdown of costs, including surgeon fees, facility fees, anesthesia fees, and prescription costs, is essential for financial planning.
The Ranking List of Three Breast Prosthesis Removal and Repair Hospitals in New York City
1. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC is a leading institution for breast implant removal and repair. Their team of board - certified plastic surgeons is highly experienced in various breast implant removal procedures. They are well - versed in addressing different patient needs, whether it's removing old implants, replacing them with new ones, or performing a capsulectomy.
When it comes to pricing, although the exact cost can vary based on the specific procedure and patient requirements, it is in line with the general market trends in New York. For a common breast implant removal and replacement at a surgery center, according to Sidecar Health, the average cash price in New York includes multiple components. The provider fees involve a general surgeon visit ($144 for the first - time visit), a fee to insert breast prosthesis ($2,162 for a bilateral procedure), and a fee for breast implant removal ($1,128 for a bilateral procedure). The facility fee for a surgery center is $1,613 for breast implant removal and $3,162 for inserting the breast prosthesis. Prescriptions such as hydrocodone - acetaminophen cost $18 for 30 units. Anesthesia fees include an anesthesiologist fee to be “put under” for the procedure ($232 at level 3) and anesthesiologist time fee ($994 for 431 minutes), with a total average cash price of about $9,455.
One of the advantages of the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC is its personalized approach. During the initial consultation, the plastic surgeon explains each variation of the breast implant removal procedure in detail. They work closely with patients to develop a treatment plan that reflects the patient's desired post - operative goals. The surgery is performed in a state - of - the - art fully accredited surgical suite, ensuring patient safety and comfort.
2. Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai is a well - known medical institution in New York. Its plastic surgeons specializing in breast reconstruction are experts in guiding patients through the decision - making process. When it comes to breast prosthesis removal and repair, they can offer patients comprehensive advice on various aspects, such as whether to have reconstruction, the timing of reconstruction, and the type of reconstruction.
Regarding cost, the price of breast reconstruction surgery in NYC can vary widely. It can range from $30,000 on the lower end to over $100,000 for very experienced high - quality surgeons. All breast reconstruction is covered by health insurance according to New York state law, but not all surgeons accept health insurance. Mount Sinai takes into account multiple factors when determining the cost of a breast prosthesis removal and repair procedure. These factors include the surgeon's expertise, the complexity of the procedure, the associated surgical center and anesthesia fees, and the type of practice (whether the surgeon provides more individualized care or sees a higher volume of patients). For example, a more experienced surgeon with a well - established practice may charge more, while a surgeon with a high - volume practice may charge less per patient but may have patients seen by lower - level providers for post - operative follow - up visits.
Mount Sinai also offers different types of breast reconstruction techniques. Implant reconstruction is a popular option as it is the least invasive and does not require harvesting tissue from other parts of the body. Fat transfer reconstruction can be a good choice for patients repairing damage from a lumpectomy or partial breast trauma, with advantages such as no risk of fat graft rejection and minimal scarring. Autologous breast reconstruction, although highly complex, delivers long - lasting results that look, feel, and move like natural breasts.
3. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Although Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center is primarily known for oncology treatment, it also plays a significant role in breast - related surgeries. In the context of breast prosthesis removal and repair, its vast experience in breast cancer surgery and reconstruction can be an advantage. Their oncologists and plastic surgeons work together to provide comprehensive care for patients who may need breast implant removal due to cancer - related reasons or other complications.
When it comes to pricing, similar to other hospitals, it depends on multiple factors. In the case of breast cancer - related surgeries, the cost can vary significantly. For example, a mastectomy can cost from $15,000, and a lumpectomy can start from $4,300. For breast prosthesis removal and repair related to cancer treatment or post - treatment complications, the cost will be influenced by the specific procedures involved, such as the type of implant removal, the need for additional reconstruction, and the length of hospital stay. The hospital's focus on patient - centered care means that they take into account the patient's financial situation and may offer support and guidance on insurance coverage and payment options.
Price Lists for Breast Prosthesis Removal and Repair
The following are the average cash price breakdowns for breast implant removal and replacement in New York City, according to Sidecar Health:
At a Surgery Center
| Component | Units | Avg Cash Price |
|---|---|---|
| Provider - General Surgeon Visit (First Time) | 1 | $144 |
| Provider - Fee to Insert Breast Prosthesis (Bilateral) | 1 | $2,162 |
| Provider - Fee for Breast Implant Removal (Bilateral) | 1 | $1,128 |
| Facility - Surgery Center Fee for Breast Implant Removal | 1 | $1,613 |
| Facility - Surgery Center Fee to Insert Breast Prosthesis | 1 | $3,162 |
| Prescriptions - Hydrocodone - Acetaminophen | 30 | $18 |
| Anesthesia - Anesthesiologist Fee to be “Put Under” (Level 3) | 1 | $232 |
| Anesthesia - Anesthesiologist Time to be “Put Under” | 431 minutes | $994 |
| Total Average Cash Price | $9,455 |
At an Outpatient Hospital
| Component | Units | Avg Cash Price |
|---|---|---|
| Provider - General Surgeon Visit (First Time) | 1 | $144 |
| Provider - Fee to Insert Breast Prosthesis (Bilateral) | 1 | $2,162 |
| Provider - Fee for Breast Implant Removal (Bilateral) | 1 | $1,128 |
| Facility - Outpatient Hospital Fee for Breast Implant Removal (Level 1) | 1 | $4,367 |
| Facility - Outpatient Hospital Fee to Insert Breast Prosthesis (Level 2) | 1 | $7,550 |
| Prescriptions - Hydrocodone - Acetaminophen | 30 | $18 |
| Anesthesia - Anesthesiologist Fee to be “Put Under” (Level 3) | 1 | $232 |
| Anesthesia - Anesthesiologist Time to be “Put Under” | 431 minutes | $994 |
| Total Average Cash Price | $16,596 |
It's important to note that these are average prices, and the actual cost may vary depending on individual patient circumstances, such as the complexity of the procedure, the type of implants used, and any additional services required.
What to Expect During and After Breast Prosthesis Removal and Repair
During the Surgery
Breast implant removal surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be completely asleep during the procedure. The surgeon will make an incision either around the nipple or under the lower fold of your breast to remove the old implant and any scar tissue that has formed. If you are having a replacement, new implants will be inserted. The surgeon will then close the incisions using stitches, adhesive glue, or surgical tape. The surgery usually takes about 1 - 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure.
After the Surgery
After the surgery, you will need to stay at the hospital for a short recovery period. Most breast implant removal and replacement surgeries are done as outpatient procedures, so you'll be able to return home the same day to continue your recovery. You may be instructed to wear a special support or compression bra for a few weeks after surgery to decrease swelling. Small drain tubes may be inserted to help drain any excess fluid, and these tubes will be removed a few days after the surgery.
It is normal to experience some discomfort at the site of the surgical incisions. Your surgeon will prescribe medication to keep you comfortable during recovery. Generally, by about three to four days after surgery, you will be feeling comfortable with normal movement, but full recovery after breast implant replacement will take about six weeks. Your surgeon will also instruct you regarding activity restrictions and when you will be able to resume normal activities.
Common Questions and Concerns
Is it painful to have breast implants removed?
You will not feel any pain during the procedure since you are under general anesthesia. During the recovery period, you may experience some discomfort due to swelling and inflammation as your tissue and incisions heal. Your doctor will prescribe medication to reduce the pain, and small thin tubes placed under your skin to drain fluid may cause slight discomfort as well.
What happens if you don’t replace breast implants?
After breast implants are removed, the skin that had previously stretched to accommodate the implants may sag. If you choose not to have implants replaced, a breast lift or mastopexy can be performed to reshape the breast. Eventually, implants are only made to last 10 - 15 years, and they may develop leaks or rupture. Saline implants will cause the breast to deflate quickly if they leak, while silicone implants leak more slowly, and the gel can accumulate in the surrounding tissues, causing the scar tissue to harden and more discomfort.
Can you remove breast tissue and replace with implants?
Breast tissue can be removed and replaced with implants. During a direct - to - implant reconstruction, immediate breast reconstruction with implants is done simultaneously as a mastectomy. In other cases, delayed breast reconstruction may be recommended, where a tissue expander or temporary implant is placed first to allow the skin to stretch and for other necessary treatments like radiation therapy.
Can you remove implants and replace with fat?
After implants are removed, replacement with fat transferred from liposuction may be an option for some. Fat can be obtained from the abdomen and thigh region and transferred to fill in the volume lost from implant removal.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hospital for breast prosthesis removal and repair in New York City is a crucial decision that can have a significant impact on your health and well - being. The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, Mount Sinai - New York, and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center are three top - notch institutions that offer high - quality services, experienced surgeons, and a range of options for breast implant removal and replacement. Understanding the factors to consider, such as surgeon expertise, hospital reputation, facility and technology, and cost, can help you make an informed choice.
The provided price lists give you a general idea of the average cash prices at surgery centers and outpatient hospitals, but it's important to consult with the hospital and your insurance provider to get an accurate cost estimate for your specific situation. By being well - informed about what to expect during and after the surgery and having your common questions and concerns addressed, you can approach the procedure with confidence.
If you are considering breast prosthesis removal and repair, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with the hospitals on this list, and make a decision that is best for you. Take the first step towards achieving your desired results by reaching out to these institutions today.
