The Ranking of Doctors for Breast Augmentation Prosthesis Removal in New York City

Introduction

Breast augmentation is a common cosmetic procedure, but there are various reasons why some individuals may choose to have their breast implants removed. Whether it's due to medical complications like implant rupture or capsular contracture, or simply a change in personal preference, finding a skilled and experienced doctor for breast augmentation prosthesis removal in New York City is crucial. This article aims to provide a comprehensive ranking of doctors in New York City for this procedure, along with an in - depth look at the surgical process, and insights based on real - world patient experiences and industry data.

Understanding Breast Augmentation Prosthesis Removal

Reasons for Removal

There are multiple reasons that prompt patients to consider breast implant removal. Medical issues are a significant factor. Implant rupture, which can occur over time due to wear and tear or trauma, is a common concern. For saline implants, a rupture leads to a rapid deflation of the breast as the sterile saline solution leaks out and is absorbed by the body. Silicone implants, on the other hand, may require an MRI to determine if a rupture has occurred as the silicone gel may not be as obvious in terms of leakage symptoms.

Capsular contracture is another major medical reason. This is the hardening of scar tissue that forms around the implant. Normally, the tissue around the implant is soft and unnoticeable, but in cases of capsular contracture, it can become hard, painful, and distort the appearance of the breasts. Non - medical reasons include a change in personal aesthetic preferences. As people's ideals and lifestyles change, they may no longer desire the look or feel of their breast implants.

The Surgical Process

Breast implant removal surgery is typically performed under intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia for the patient's comfort and safety. The surgeon usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket created for the implants. This may be through an incision along the breast fold, the periareola region, or through a transaxillary incision in the armpit.

Once the incision is made, the surgeon removes the implant. In some cases, the scar capsule surrounding the implant may also be removed, a procedure known as capsulectomy. If the implant has ruptured and there is leakage of silicone gel, the surgeon will take extra care to remove any seeped - out gel. After the implants are removed, if the patient has elected to get new implants, the surgeon will insert them according to the agreed - upon surgical plan. Finally, the incisions are closed and the incision sites are bandaged.

Top Doctors for Breast Augmentation Prosthesis Removal in New York City

RealSelf's Findings

RealSelf, a popular platform for plastic surgery reviews, has listed several top doctors for breast implant removal in New York City.

Trevor M. Born, MD, has 28 years of experience and is certified in multiple areas. He has received 402 reviews on RealSelf, with many patients highlighting his skills in correcting previous breast augmentation procedures. Kevin Tehrani, MD, FACS, with 21 years of experience, is known for handling cases of capsular contracture and revision surgeries. Samuel Rhee, MD, has a positive track record for breast implant removal, as evidenced by the 150 reviews on the platform. Leland Deane, MD, FACS, with 38 years of practice, is praised for his kind and professional approach, leading to quick recoveries and satisfactory results for his patients. Finny George, MD, although having relatively fewer years of experience, has garnered 235 positive reviews, emphasizing his expertise in breast - related procedures.

Healthgrades' Insights

Healthgrades, which rates doctors based on patient satisfaction and other criteria, also lists some doctors who perform breast surgical procedures in New York City. Doctors like Dr. Wendy - Ann Olivier, MD, rated 4.60 out of 5 stars, and Dr. Donna Marie Manasseh, MD, rated 4.90 out of 5 stars, are among the well - regarded medical professionals in the area. While they may not be solely focused on breast implant removal, their high ratings suggest their overall proficiency in breast - related surgeries. Dr. Donna Marie Manasseh, with her near - perfect rating, may be a good choice for patients looking for a doctor with a reputation for excellent patient care and surgical results.

Newsweek's America's Best Plastic Surgeons Ranking

Newsweek, in partnership with Statista, releases an annual ranking of America's best plastic surgeons. In the 2024 ranking for breast augmentation, several New York City - based surgeons were recognized. David Hidalgo, MD, FACS, and Adam R. Kolker, MD, FACS, made it to the list. Although the ranking is for breast augmentation, surgeons with such high - profile recognition are likely to be skilled in breast implant removal as well. Adam R. Kolker, for instance, is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He has extensive education and training from prestigious medical institutions like Harvard Medical School, New York University, and the University of Melbourne in Australia. He is also an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, staying at the forefront of plastic surgery advancements. His experience in breast - related procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction, gives him a well - rounded skill set that can be applied to breast implant removal.

Patient Experiences and Testimonials

Case Studies

Let's look at some real - life patient experiences. One patient who had breast augmentation with implants a few years ago developed capsular contracture in one breast. She was extremely self - conscious about the distorted appearance and the pain. After extensive research, she chose Dr. Kevin Tehrani. During the consultation, Dr. Tehrani took the time to explain the surgical process, the options available, and the expected outcomes. He also showed her before - and - after pictures of similar cases. The surgery went smoothly, and after a few weeks of recovery, the patient was very satisfied with the results. Her pain was gone, and her breasts looked more natural.

Another patient, who had decided to remove her implants due to a change in personal preference, consulted with Dr. Leland Deane. Dr. Deane's kind and reassuring demeanor put her at ease. He patiently answered all her questions about the procedure and the recovery process. The patient noted that the surgical team was very professional and attentive during the operation. After the surgery, she had a relatively quick recovery, and she was happy with her decision to choose Dr. Deane.

Patient - Doctor Relationship

The relationship between the patient and the doctor is a crucial aspect of the breast implant removal process. A good doctor takes the time to understand the patient's concerns, desires, and medical history. They explain the procedure in detail, including the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes. Patients feel more confident and comfortable when they have a doctor who listens to them and involves them in the decision - making process. For example, in many of the positive patient testimonials, patients emphasize how their doctors made them feel like active participants in their own care, rather than just passive recipients of a medical procedure.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Doctor

Experience and Expertise

When choosing a doctor for breast augmentation prosthesis removal, experience is key. Doctors with many years of experience in breast - related surgeries are more likely to handle any complications that may arise during the procedure. They have seen a wide range of cases and are better equipped to make informed decisions. Board certifications also play a significant role. Surgeons who are board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery have met strict standards of education, training, and experience in plastic surgery. For example, Adam R. Kolker, MD, FACS, has double board - certifications, which adds to his credibility and expertise.

Patient Reviews and Testimonials

Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into a doctor's skills and bedside manner. Reading about other patients' experiences can give you an idea of what to expect during the consultation, surgery, and recovery process. Look for doctors with a high number of positive reviews and satisfied patients. However, it's also important to read a variety of reviews to get a balanced perspective. Some patients may have had unique circumstances or expectations, so take that into account when evaluating the reviews.

Communication and Bedside Manner

Effective communication between the doctor and the patient is essential. A good doctor should be able to explain complex medical concepts in a way that the patient can understand. They should also be approachable and willing to answer all of the patient's questions. Bedside manner is also crucial, as it can significantly impact the patient's comfort and confidence during the process. A doctor who is kind, empathetic, and reassuring can make the patient feel more at ease throughout the entire experience.

Cost and Insurance

The cost of breast implant removal can vary depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, the doctor's experience, and the location of the practice. Some doctors may offer financing options or accept insurance if the removal is deemed medically necessary. It's important to discuss the cost and insurance coverage with the doctor during the consultation. Be clear about what is included in the cost, such as the surgical fee, anesthesia fee, and post - operative care.

The Importance of Surgical Case Pictures

Visualizing the Results

Surgical case pictures are an invaluable tool for patients considering breast augmentation prosthesis removal. They allow patients to visualize the potential results of the surgery. By looking at before - and - after pictures, patients can get an idea of how the doctor's techniques work and what to expect in terms of scarring, breast shape, and overall appearance. For example, if a patient is concerned about scarring, they can look at the pictures to see where the incisions are made and how the scars heal over time.

Assessing the Doctor's Skills

Case pictures also help in assessing the doctor's skills. A doctor with a collection of high - quality case pictures that show natural - looking results and minimal scarring is likely to be more skilled. The pictures should showcase a variety of cases, including different types of implant removals and any additional procedures that may be done in conjunction with the removal, such as a breast lift. This gives the patient a better understanding of the doctor's range of expertise.

Preparing for Breast Augmentation Prosthesis Removal

Medical Consultation

Before the surgery, a thorough medical consultation is essential. The doctor will review your medical history, including any previous surgeries, allergies, and current medications. They will also perform a physical examination of your breasts to assess the condition of the implants and the surrounding tissue. This is also the time to discuss your goals and expectations for the surgery. The doctor may recommend additional tests, such as an MRI for silicone implants, to determine if there are any ruptures or other issues.

Lifestyle Changes

Patients may need to make some lifestyle changes before the surgery. Non - smokers or those who stop smoking prior to the procedure have a lower risk of complications. Smoking can affect blood circulation, which can slow down the healing process. It's also advisable to stop taking blood - thinning medications, such as aspirin, as they can increase the risk of bleeding during the surgery. Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can also help improve your overall health and prepare your body for the surgical procedure.

Recovery Plan

Developing a recovery plan is crucial. You will need someone to drive you home from the surgery center and stay with you for about a day after the procedure. Most patients can go back to light activity within three to five days, but aerobic activity should be avoided for three to four weeks, and heavy lifting should be avoided for about six to eight weeks. Your doctor may also provide you with specific instructions on wound care, pain management, and follow - up appointments.

Potential Risks and Complications

General Risks

Like any surgical procedure, breast implant removal has potential risks. These include unfavorable scarring, asymmetry, infection, bleeding, nipple loss, skin loss, fat necrosis, fluid collections, dysesthesias, and the need for revision surgery. Unfavorable scarring can occur depending on the incision site and how the body heals. Asymmetry may happen if the implants were not placed symmetrically or if there are differences in the tissue response after removal.

Infection and Other Complications

Infection is a serious concern. It can occur at the incision site or within the breast tissue. Symptoms of infection may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. Bleeding can also occur during or after the surgery, which may require additional treatment. Nipple loss is a rare but serious complication that can result from damage to the nerves or blood vessels during the surgery. Fat necrosis, which is the death of fat cells in the breast, can cause lumps or changes in the breast texture. Fluid collections, known as seromas, may also form, which may need to be drained.

Conclusion

Choosing the right doctor for breast augmentation prosthesis removal in New York City is a critical decision. By considering factors such as experience, patient reviews, communication skills, and cost, patients can make an informed choice. The availability of surgical case pictures can also provide valuable insights into the doctor's skills and the potential results of the surgery. It's important to understand the surgical process, prepare properly for the procedure, and be aware of the potential risks and complications.

If you are considering breast implant removal, we encourage you to schedule consultations with multiple doctors. Take the time to ask questions, review case pictures, and read patient testimonials. This will help you find a doctor who meets your needs and gives you the confidence to undergo the procedure. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation prosthesis removal in New York City, and explore related topics such as post - operative care and alternative breast - enhancing procedures.