Introduction
Accessory breast removal is a specialized surgical procedure that many individuals in New York City seek due to discomfort, aesthetic concerns, or medical reasons. In this article, we will explore the top five hospitals for accessory breast removal in New York City, each with its own unique specialties and advantages.
1. NYC Axillary Breast Tissue Removal - Dr. Preminger's Practice
Specialties and Approach
Dr. Preminger, a Manhattan plastic surgeon, offers a range of treatment options for axillary breast tissue, including coolsculpting, liposuction, or breast tissue removal surgery. She understands the discomfort and embarrassment that patients with accessory breast tissue may experience and uses her surgical skills to improve their quality of life and confidence. According to her, “accessory breast tissue, or underarm fat, is often genetic – a lot of family members, mothers and daughters, can actually have the same problem.”
Procedure Details
The axillary breast tissue removal procedure has evolved. In the past, it involved general open surgery, which left a long, ugly scar. Today, a minimally invasive method is used. A small incision is made, and the tumescent liposuction technique is employed to aspirate the breast and fat tissue. When nipples or areolas are present, they are excised after the liposuction portion, and extra skin is removed using a small fusiform incision.
| Procedure Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Procedure Length | 1 - 3 hours |
| Anesthesia | Local |
| In/Out Patient | Outpatient |
| Risks | Scarring, infection, persistent arm tightness |
| Side Effects | Bruising, inflammation, lymphedema, numbness |
| Recovery | Back at work in as little as 1 week (ideally 3 weeks), resume light exercise at 1 week, resume strenuous activity at 4 - 6 weeks as directed, 2 weeks for swelling to resolve |
| Duration of Results | Results are lasting, with full improvement visible at six months |
Patient Experience and Satisfaction
A 2009 study of 51 patients published in the Journal of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reported that “all were satisfied with their appearance after their initial surgery,” with the exception of two patients who suffered infection. Dr. Preminger checks in with patients after surgery to ensure their satisfaction. Patients also receive a prescription for Tylenol with codeine to help with the initial recovery period and are given detailed instructions on post - operative care.
2. Weill Cornell Medicine
Comprehensive Cosmetic Breast Services
Weill Cornell Medicine is passionate about helping patients feel their best. Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons work closely with patients from the initial consultation to understand their goals and discuss the best options. They offer a full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, including breast reduction surgery, breast lift surgery (mastopexy), breast augmentation with implants, and DIEP flap surgery.
Advantages of Choosing Weill Cornell
- Exemplary Surgeons: The surgeons are leaders in plastic and reconstructive surgery, and the care team is dedicated to promoting patient comfort throughout the process. Weill Cornell Medicine partners with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S.
- Individualized Approach: The plastic and reconstructive surgeons are highly skilled and can help patients of all races, ethnicities, genders, and gender identities achieve a natural look, enhancing their self - image and confidence.
- Focus on Comfort: The team prioritizes patient comfort at every step. Before surgery, patients have time to ask questions and feel at ease with the procedure. In state - of - the - art surgical suites, the latest anesthetics and medications are used to facilitate quicker recovery and healing. After surgery, the care team manages pain and provides instructions on self - care.
3. Breast Reduction Center of NYC
Specialized Breast Reduction Expertise
Located on the upper east side in Manhattan, the Breast Reduction Center of NYC is a premier destination for breast reduction plastic surgery. Their breast reduction specialist surgeons are top - rated board - certified or board - eligible plastic surgeons, offering high - quality surgical care in a state - of - the - art facility. They provide a private and relaxed environment that promotes personalized patient care.
Unique Pain Management and Surgical Techniques
The surgeons at this center do not use drains in breast reductions, and all the stitches dissolve on their own, simplifying post - op care. They also use a special technique called a nerve block during surgery, which eliminates the need for prescription pain medicine. Only over - the - counter Tylenol and ibuprofen are required for recovery, even for patients with large breast reduction volumes.
Insurance and Patient Eligibility
The center is in - network with Cigna, United Healthcare, and Oxford (with some exclusions). They may accept other plans if patients have out - of - network benefits. However, they do not accept Medicare, Medicaid, and several other plans. For insurance coverage, patients are considered candidates if they have “symptomatic macromastia,” where large breasts cause pain, discomfort, or interfere with daily life.
4. NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital
Accredited Breast Centers
NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital and its affiliated medical colleges (Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and Weill Cornell Medical College) have the only two breast centers in Manhattan fully accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). The accreditation recognizes centers that offer state - of - the - art treatment options, including clinical research trials, take a multidisciplinary team approach, offer community outreach and professional education, and undertake quality - improvement initiatives.
Advanced Treatment Techniques
Surgeons at the breast centers have been at the forefront of many significant advances in breast cancer treatment. They were among the first to perform total skin - sparing, nipple - sparing mastectomy, which improves the aesthetic outcome of reconstructive surgery. They also pioneered the use of sentinel node biopsy, limited the number of lymph nodes removed to determine tumor spread, and perform bone marrow examination at the time of surgery to rule out micro - metastatic disease. Additionally, they offer intraoperative radiofrequency ablation and are leaders in oncoplastic surgery.
Ongoing Research and Future Directions
Physician - scientists at NewYork - Presbyterian and its affiliated medical schools are working on advancing new treatment and prevention strategies. This includes an intraductal approach using a miniature endoscope to access the milk ducts, studying biomarkers in nipple fluid for screening, developing new radiotherapy techniques like balloon partial breast radiation, and leading a national clinical trial on cryoablation as an alternative to mastectomy or lumpectomy.
5. NYU Langone Health (implied by other breast - related expertise in the region)
Multidisciplinary Breast Care
While not directly in the top - cited search results for accessory breast removal, NYU Langone Health is known for its comprehensive breast care. Their breast surgeons manage and treat patients with breast cancer, those at increased risk based on family history or genetic mutations, and patients with benign and high - risk lesions. They work in a multidisciplinary manner with a team of doctors to provide the latest treatment approaches.
Range of Surgical Procedures
The center offers a variety of operations, including excisional biopsies for benign tumors, mastectomies, nipple - sparing mastectomies, lumpectomies (with different localization techniques), sentinel node biopsies, axillary node dissections, and terminal duct excisions for nipple discharge. They also provide access to clinical trials, patient navigation, social work, genetic testing, and various support services such as psychological support, lymphedema treatment, and nutrition advice.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Accessory Breast Removal
Surgeon Experience and Expertise
The experience and skills of the surgeon performing the accessory breast removal are crucial. Look for surgeons who are board - certified and have a track record of successful procedures. Check patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of their reputation and the quality of care they provide.
Hospital Facilities and Resources
Modern and well - equipped hospital facilities can contribute to a better surgical outcome and a more comfortable patient experience. Consider hospitals that have state - of - the - art surgical suites, advanced imaging technology, and dedicated recovery areas. The availability of support services such as nursing care, physical therapy, and psychological counseling is also important.
Treatment Options and Approaches
Different hospitals may offer a variety of treatment options for accessory breast removal. Some may focus on minimally invasive techniques, while others may have expertise in more complex surgical procedures. Discuss with the surgeon the best approach for your specific situation, taking into account factors such as the size and location of the accessory breast tissue, your overall health, and your aesthetic goals.
Insurance Coverage and Costs
Before choosing a hospital, check whether it is in - network with your insurance provider. Understand the costs associated with the accessory breast removal procedure, including surgical fees, anesthesia fees, hospital charges, and post - operative care. If you have insurance, find out what portion of the costs will be covered and what your out - of - pocket expenses will be.
Conclusion
In New York City, these top five hospitals offer a range of specialties and expertise for accessory breast removal. Whether you are seeking a minimally invasive approach, comprehensive cosmetic breast services, specialized pain management, advanced breast cancer treatment, or multidisciplinary breast care, there is a hospital that can meet your needs. Each hospital has its own strengths and advantages, and it is important to consider factors such as surgeon experience, hospital facilities, treatment options, and insurance coverage when making your decision.
If you are considering accessory breast removal, we encourage you to schedule consultations with the surgeons at these hospitals. Discuss your concerns, goals, and medical history to determine the best course of action for you. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about accessory breast removal in New York City and explore related topics on breast health and cosmetic surgery.
