Introduction
New York City is a hub of advanced medical care, especially when it comes to breast implant removal procedures. For women who have Inamed breast implants and are considering removal, it's crucial to find a reliable and experienced hospital or surgeon. This article will explore the top - rated regular hospitals and surgeons in New York City for removing Inamed breast implants, provide in - depth information about the procedure, and offer valuable insights based on research from top Google search results.
Why Consider Removing Inamed Breast Implants?
There are several reasons why women may opt to remove their Inamed breast implants:
- Medical Reasons:
- Implant Rupture or Leakage: Over time, breast implants can rupture or leak, causing pain, discomfort, and changes in breast appearance. Inamed implants are not immune to these issues, and if a rupture occurs, removal may be necessary. According to various medical studies, silicone implants can develop small tears, and saline implants can deflate suddenly.
- Capsular Contracture: This is a common complication where the scar tissue (capsule) around the implant hardens. It can lead to pain, distortion of the breast shape, and discomfort. As the capsule tightens, it can compress the implant and the surrounding breast tissue, making the removal of both the implant and the capsule a viable solution.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): Although rare, certain textured breast implants, including some Inamed implants, have been associated with BIA - ALCL. This is a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, or a mass in the breast, and surgical removal of the implant and capsule is often part of the treatment plan.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): Some women report a wide range of symptoms after getting breast implants, such as fatigue, joint pain, and headaches. While the exact cause of BII is still unclear, some women believe that removing the implants may alleviate these symptoms.
- Cosmetic Reasons:
- Change in Aesthetic Preferences: Over time, a woman's aesthetic preferences may change. She may no longer be satisfied with the size, shape, or feel of her Inamed breast implants and decide to have them removed to return to a more natural look.
- Implant Malposition: In some cases, the implants may shift from their original position, causing asymmetry or an unnatural appearance. Removing the implants can correct these issues.
Top - Rated Regular Hospitals and Surgeons in New York City for Inamed Breast Implant Removal
1. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
Located in Manhattan, the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC is well - known for its top - rated breast surgery team. Their board - certified plastic surgeons are highly trained in breast implant removal surgery and are world - renowned for their advanced techniques. The center offers a state - of - the - art boutique surgical suite where most breast implant removal surgeries are performed.
Procedure Offerings: The surgeons at the center perform different types of breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. During an en bloc removal, the plastic surgeon removes the implants and capsule in a single procedure. A partial capsulectomy involves removing the breast implant material and trimming or shaping some of the capsule material to create the desired chest contour. A total capsulectomy includes removing the implant, capsule, and remaining scar tissue.
Contact Information:
- Address: 461 Park Ave S, #7K, New York, NY 10016
- Phone: (212) 481 - 0110
2. Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a premier breast surgeon in NYC, 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 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 his high - quality work and patient satisfaction.
Specialized Procedures: Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. He also performs en bloc capsulectomy when indicated, especially for cases related to the removal of the allergan textured breast implants recalled by the FDA due to the association with BIA - ALCL. If possible, he removes the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery.
Contact Information:
- To schedule a consultation, call (212) - 988 - 4040
3. 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. As a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon, she focuses on ensuring the finest surgical results for her patients.
Common Reasons for Removal: She addresses a variety of issues that lead to breast implant removal, such as aesthetic problems like palpable or visible implants, implant rupture, capsular contracture, and breast asymmetry. She also deals with medical issues like severe capsular contracture, chronic pain, BIA - ALCL, and breast implant illness.
Contact Information:
- Call (212) 452 - 1400 to book a consultation.
4. New York Group for Plastic Surgery
The New York Group for Plastic Surgery provides effective solutions for breast implant removal. Their plastic surgeons, Dr. Andrew Salzberg and Dr. Jordan Jacobs, are experienced in the procedure. Before the surgery, they provide patients with solid information to help them make an educated choice about their bodies.
Pre - operative and Operative Process: They guide patients through the preparation process, which includes avoiding certain medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood - thinners for a specific period before the surgery. During the procedure, they carefully remove the implants, clean the breast pocket, and remove any excess scar tissue. The incisions are then sealed, and the patient is given post - operative instructions for a smooth recovery.
Contact Information:
- New York City: 888 - 664 - 8381
- Tarrytown: 914 - 366 - 6139
- Request a consultation online on their official website.
5. Dr. Steven Wallach
Dr. Steven Wallach, MD, FACS, offers breast implant removal surgery in New York. He usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket and remove the implants. He also addresses other breast - related concerns during the consultation process.
Consultation and Procedure: During the consultation, Dr. Wallach discusses the patient's options and techniques available for the procedure. He takes into account the patient's cosmetic and medical needs and provides the best approach to achieve the desired results with the least amount of scarring. He also answers frequently asked questions about breast implants, such as their longevity, potential health risks, and associated complications.
Contact Information:
- To learn more about options for implant removal and breast enhancement, call or contact them online through their official website.
Breast Implant Removal Procedures
1. En Bloc Removal
En bloc removal is a comprehensive approach where the implant and the surrounding capsule are removed as a single unit. This method is often preferred when there are concerns about potential contamination or when dealing with BIA - ALCL. It reduces the risk of releasing any potential harmful substances or bacteria into the breast tissue. However, it may be more challenging surgically, especially if the capsule is tightly adhered to the surrounding tissue.
2. Partial Capsulectomy
During a partial capsulectomy, the surgeon removes the breast implant material and trims or shapes some of the capsule material. This procedure is used when the capsule is not causing significant problems, but there is a need to adjust the chest contour. It can help achieve a more natural appearance while minimizing the amount of tissue removed.
3. Total Capsulectomy
A total capsulectomy involves the complete removal of the implant, the capsule, and any remaining scar tissue. This is often the procedure of choice for cases with severe capsular contracture or when there is a suspicion of infection or other medical issues. It provides a more thorough cleaning of the breast pocket but may also result in a longer recovery time due to the more extensive surgery.
Pre - operative Preparation
Proper pre - operative preparation is crucial for a successful breast implant removal procedure. Here are some common steps:
- Medical Evaluation: The patient will undergo a thorough medical evaluation, including a review of their medical history, current medications, and any pre - existing health conditions. This helps the surgeon assess the patient's overall health and determine if they are a suitable candidate for the surgery.
- Imaging Tests: Depending on the situation, the patient may be required to have imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI. These tests can help the surgeon visualize the implants, the capsule, and any potential complications, such as implant rupture or the presence of a mass.
- Medication Adjustment: Patients are usually advised to stop taking certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood - thinners, for a specified period before the surgery. They should also inform their surgeon about any vitamins, supplements, or herbal medications they are taking.
- Lifestyle Changes: It is recommended that patients maintain a healthy lifestyle before the surgery. This includes eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking. Smoking can delay the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
- Arrangements for Recovery: Patients should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and to assist them during the first few days of recovery. They should also prepare a comfortable recovery area at home with necessary supplies such as ice packs, pain medications (as prescribed), and loose - fitting clothing.
Intra - operative Process
The breast implant removal surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or intravenous (IV) sedation to ensure the patient's comfort and safety. Here's what happens during the procedure:
- Incision Placement: The surgeon will make an incision in one of three locations: the crease under the breast, around the areola, or vertically in the armpit. The choice of incision site depends on various factors, including the patient's previous breast augmentation incisions, the size and position of the implants, and the type of procedure being performed.
- Implant Removal: Once the incision is made, the surgeon carefully accesses the breast pocket and removes the implants. In cases of silicone implant rupture, extra care is taken to remove any leaked silicone gel. The surgeon may use different techniques to remove the implants, such as prying them out from beneath the breast tissue or cutting through the shell if it is stuck to the surrounding tissues.
- Scar Tissue Removal: If indicated, the surgeon will also remove the capsule and any excess scar tissue. This is done to improve the appearance of the breasts and to address any potential issues caused by the scar tissue, such as capsular contracture.
- Closure: After the implants and scar tissue are removed, the surgeon closes the incisions using sutures. A layer of gauze or a bandage is then applied to the incisions to promote healing and prevent infection.
Post - operative Recovery
Recovery after breast implant removal varies from patient to patient, but here are some general guidelines:
- Immediate Post - op: After the surgery, the patient will wake up in a recovery room where they will be monitored by a registered nurse. They may experience some swelling, bruising, and mild pain, which can be managed with pain medications prescribed by the surgeon. A specialized local anesthesia may be used to reduce discomfort.
- Going Home: Since breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, the patient can usually go home the same day. However, they will need someone to drive them home and should not drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. The patient will be given detailed discharge instructions, including how to care for the incisions, take prescribed medications, and wear a compression bra.
- First Few Weeks: In the first few days, the patient should rest and avoid strenuous activities. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, but they should refrain from vigorous exercise for about two weeks. The swelling and bruising will gradually subside, and the patient may notice some fluid drainage from the incision site, which is normal. It is important to keep the incisions clean and dry and to follow the surgeon's instructions for dressing changes.
- Long - term Recovery: Over the next few months, the breasts will continue to heal and settle into their new shape. Some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions is common, but this usually fades over time. Most patients do not require a breast lift after the surgery, as the breasts often return to their pre - operative shape naturally. The patient will need to attend follow - up appointments with the surgeon to monitor their healing progress.
Cost Considerations
The cost of breast implant removal in New York City can vary widely depending on several factors:
- Surgeon's Fee: The experience and reputation of the surgeon can significantly impact the cost. Well - known and highly skilled surgeons may charge more for their services.
- Hospital or Surgical Facility Fees: The fees associated with using the surgical facility, including the operating room, nursing staff, and equipment, can vary. State - of - the - art facilities may have higher costs.
- Anesthesia Fees: The type of anesthesia used (general anesthesia or IV sedation) and the anesthesiologist's fee are also part of the overall cost.
- Additional Procedures: If the patient requires additional procedures, such as a breast lift or replacement of the implants, the cost will increase.
- Post - operative Care: This includes the cost of follow - up appointments, medications, and any necessary medical supplies.
In most cases, breast implant removal procedures are not covered by health insurance unless there is a medical necessity, such as implant rupture or BIA - ALCL. It is important for patients to check with their insurance provider to determine if their procedure is covered.
Conclusion
Removing Inamed breast implants is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and the expertise of a qualified surgeon. New York City offers a range of top - rated hospitals and surgeons with extensive experience in breast implant removal procedures. Whether the reason for removal is medical or cosmetic, patients can be assured of high - quality care and personalized treatment plans. By understanding the procedure, the pre - and post - operative processes, and the cost considerations, patients can make informed decisions about their breast implant removal. If you are considering removing your Inamed breast implants, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the reputable surgeons mentioned in this article to discuss your options and achieve the best possible outcome.
