Introduction
New York City is a global hub for medical excellence, especially in the field of breast plastic surgery and the removal of breast augmentation prostheses. There are numerous hospitals and plastic surgeons in the city that offer a wide range of services, from breast implant removal to complex breast reconstruction procedures. In this article, we will explore the top - ranking hospitals and surgeons in New York City for these types of procedures, as well as delve into the details of the surgeries, reasons for removal, and recovery processes.
Top Hospitals and Surgeons for Breast Implant Removal and Breast Plastic Surgery
Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, located at 461 Park Ave S, #7K, New York, NY 10016, is a leading facility for breast implant removal. The board - certified plastic surgeons here are highly trained and world - renowned for their advanced breast implant removal techniques. They understand that women may opt for breast implant removal due to various reasons, such as the need for implant replacement after 10 - 15 years, ineffectiveness of current implants, or simply a change in personal preference.
The center offers different types of breast implant removal procedures:
- En bloc: In this procedure, the plastic surgeon removes the implants and the surrounding capsule in a single operation. It is a comprehensive approach that aims to minimize the risk of leaving any problematic tissue behind.
- Partial capsulectomy: Here, only the breast implant material is removed, and some of the capsule material is trimmed or shaped to create the desired chest contour.
- Total capsulectomy: This involves removing the implant, the capsule, and the remaining scar tissue. The process starts with implant removal, followed by the complete excision of the capsule and associated scar tissue.
The breast implant removal surgery is performed at their state - of - the - art fully accredited surgical suite. The procedure takes about 1 - 3 hours under general anesthesia, and patients can expect swelling and tenderness to subside within six to eight weeks. For a complimentary consultation, patients can call (212) 481 - 0110 or visit their website at http://www.breastreconstructioncenternyc.com/best - breast - implant - removal - plastic - surgeon - in - manhattan - nyc.
Columbia University's Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
As one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - class medical center, Columbia University offers a wide range of plastic surgery services, including breast implant removal and breast reconstruction. Their plastic surgeons are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, from routine non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations.
The division provides the following services related to breast surgery:
- Breast reconstructive care: The Columbia breast cancer reconstructive surgery program is dedicated to helping individuals who have undergone breast cancer surgery to reclaim their physical and emotional well - being. It brings together cancer experts and reconstructive plastic surgeons for personalized post - lumpectomy or post - mastectomy reconstruction.
- Cosmetic breast procedures: They offer breast augmentation, breast reduction (mammoplasty) for both women and gynecomastia treatment for men, and breast lift (mastopexy) procedures.
The plastic surgery research laboratory at Columbia is also at the forefront of research in the field, conducting studies related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy for wound healing. To get in touch with one of their plastic surgeons, patients can call (212) 305 - 3103 or request an appointment online.
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, and when indicated, he also conducts en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He also specializes in removing the allergan textured breast implants that were recalled by the FDA due to the heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).
Dr. Antell has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which speaks to the high - quality results of his surgeries. He has performed custom breast removal surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons in New York and beyond.
Patients interested in breast implant removal with Dr. Antell can call his office at (212) - 988 - 4040 to schedule a consultation. His practice offers a discreet and private operating room just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital, and his state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal. She is a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon.
She can address a variety of aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants, such as palpable or visible implants, implant rupture, capsular contracture, breast asymmetry, and medical conditions like BIA - ALCL and breast implant illness (BII). In some cases, a secondary procedure such as a breast lift may be necessary to achieve the best aesthetic results.
Patients interested in breast implant removal in NYC can contact her office at (212) 452 - 1400 to book a consultation.
Zuckerman Plastic Surgery
At Zuckerman Plastic Surgery in New York City, Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman offers breast implant removal and exchange procedures to meet the changing needs and preferences of his patients. Patients may choose to have their breast implants removed for health concerns, cosmetic preferences, or due to aging implants.
For those who want to alter the size or type of their implants, implant exchange is an option. The procedures are performed under general anesthesia, and Dr. Zuckerman is meticulous in minimizing scarring and optimizing recovery.
To schedule a consultation, patients can contact the clinic to learn more about their options.
New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital
The plastic surgeons at New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital perform a full range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures related to the breast. Common aesthetic procedures include breast augmentation and reduction, while reconstructive procedures involve breast reconstruction, surgery for skin cancer, and major flap procedures.
All physicians at this hospital are on the faculty of Weill Cornell Medical College, providing patients with a high - level of care in a community - hospital setting. To schedule an appointment, patients can call 646 - 962 - 5122. The hospital is located at 156 William Street, 12th floor, New York, NY 10038.
Dr. Maura Reinblatt
Dr. Maura Reinblatt is a board - certified plastic surgeon serving patients in NYC, Westchester, and White Plains. She offers breast implant removal surgery, which may be performed for reasons such as dissatisfaction with the implants, complications like capsular contracture or implant rupture, or the desire to return to one's natural breast size.
She uses advanced techniques to address medical issues associated with breast implants, such as en bloc capsulectomy and open capsulotomy. Her outpatient breast implant removal surgeries typically last one to three hours under general anesthesia.
Ideal candidates for her services include those experiencing discomfort, dissatisfaction, or medical complications related to their breast implants. To schedule a consultation, patients can contact her practice.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Medical Reasons
There are several medical reasons why a woman may choose to have her breast implants removed:
- Breast implant illness (BII): BII refers to a wide variety of symptoms that patients may experience after breast augmentation, including fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression or anxiety, rashes, pain and discomfort, and brain fog. It is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
- Capsular contracture: This occurs when excessive scar tissue forms around the implant, causing firmness, irregular shape, or discomfort. In severe cases, it can also affect the cosmetic appearance of the breasts.
- Implant rupture or leakage: Over time, breast implants can rupture or leak, which may lead to changes in breast shape or size and can cause discomfort.
- Breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a rare cancer that is specifically related to breast implants. It often presents as a mass or fluid accumulation and is mostly treatable with surgical removal of the tumor, capsule, and breast implant.
- Infection: Infections around the breast implant can occur, which may require the removal of the implant to resolve the issue.
Cosmetic Reasons
Cosmetic reasons are also common motives for breast implant removal:
- Dissatisfaction with the results: Some women may not be happy with the size, shape, or appearance of their breasts after augmentation. This could be due to factors such as improper implant placement or changes in personal aesthetic preferences over time.
- Implant malposition: The implants may have moved from their original position, causing an uneven or unnatural appearance of the breasts. This can result in problems such as a “double bubble” appearance or “symmastia”.
- Visible or palpable implants: The implants may become visible or palpable, with symptoms like folding, rippling, or wrinkling, which can be cosmetically unappealing.
- Scarring issues: Unsightly or widened scars from the initial breast augmentation surgery can be a reason for some women to consider implant removal.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Consultation
The first step in the breast implant removal process is a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this appointment, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of the breasts. The patient should discuss any symptoms they may be experiencing, especially if the removal is due to medical complications. It is also helpful for the patient to bring any information they have about their existing implants and their previous breast augmentation surgery.
Based on the patient's expectations, the surgeon will work with them to create a surgical plan. In some cases, it may be recommended to pair the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift, to achieve a more desired outcome.
Pre - operative Preparation
Depending on various factors, such as age and implant condition, the surgeon may order imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, before the surgery. The patient will also receive guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. Prescriptions may be given that need to be filled prior to the surgery. Some patients 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 ensure they have assistance during the first few days of recovery.
Surgery
The breast implant removal surgery is typically performed in an outpatient setting. The type of anesthesia used can be local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or “twilight” anesthesia. In rare cases, only local anesthesia may be sufficient. The surgeon will try to remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery, if possible. However, if there are issues such as capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or BIA - ALCL, it may be necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant.
There are different surgical techniques, as mentioned earlier, including en bloc removal, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. The surgery usually takes between one to three hours, with en - bloc resection potentially taking longer. After the removal, multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and an external layer of sutures (if needed) will be used to close the incisions, and a layer of gauze or a bandage will be placed over the breasts to aid in healing.
Recovery Process
Immediate Post - operative
After the surgery, the patient will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse until they are well enough to be discharged. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia is often used to reduce discomfort. Since it is an outpatient procedure, the patient can return home the same day, but they will need an escort. The patient will receive thorough discharge instructions to guide them through the initial post - operative period.
Short - term Recovery
In the first few days after surgery, the patient may feel tired and sore, and their breasts may be covered with a layer of gauze or a bandage. It is normal to experience swelling, bruising, and some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions. Many patients can return to most daily activities within days, but they should refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. The patient should follow all post - operative instructions carefully, such as taking prescribed pain medication and wearing a support bra.
Long - term Recovery
It may take several months for the final results to be visible. Much of the swelling and bruising will fade in the first few weeks, but it can take up to six weeks for the scars to start fading. In most cases, the patient will return to the office the day after surgery for a follow - up appointment. If external sutures are used, they are usually removed around 7 - 10 days after the procedure. The majority of patients do not require a breast lift after surgery, as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally.
Comparing Surgeons and Hospitals
When choosing a surgeon and hospital for breast implant removal or breast plastic surgery, patients should consider several factors:
| Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Experience and Expertise | Look for surgeons with extensive experience in breast implant removal and plastic surgery. Check their certifications, memberships in professional organizations, and years of practice. For example, Dr. Darrick Antell and Dr. Olivia Hutchinson have over 20 years of experience in the field. |
| Reputation | Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the surgeon's and hospital's reputation. Surgeons who are frequently recommended by former patients, like those at the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, are often a good choice. |
| Range of Services | Choose a hospital or surgeon that offers a wide range of services, including different types of breast implant removal procedures and additional procedures like breast lift or fat transfer. Columbia University's plastic surgery division, for example, offers a comprehensive range of breast - related services. |
| Facility Quality | Ensure that the surgical facility is state - of - the - art and fully accredited. Surgeons like Dr. Antell have access to high - quality outpatient surgery centers. |
| Patient - Centered Care | Find a surgeon who takes the time to understand your needs and goals and provides personalized treatment plans. Dr. Maura Reinblatt is known for her personalized approach to patient care. |
Conclusion
New York City offers a plethora of top - notch hospitals and surgeons for breast implant removal and breast plastic surgery. Whether a patient is seeking removal due to medical reasons such as breast implant illness or cosmetic concerns like dissatisfaction with the results of a previous augmentation, there are highly skilled professionals available to provide the necessary care. It is important for patients to thoroughly research their options, have in - depth consultations with surgeons, and understand the entire process from consultation to recovery. By doing so, they can make informed decisions and achieve the best possible outcomes for their breast health and appearance.
If you are considering breast implant removal or breast plastic surgery in New York City, take the first step by scheduling a consultation with one of the top surgeons mentioned in this article. Don't hesitate to ask questions and gather all the information you need to ensure a successful and satisfying experience.
