The Quest for the Best: Top Five Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal and Re - Augmentation in New York City
New York City, a global hub of fashion, culture, and healthcare, offers a plethora of options for those seeking breast implant removal and re - augmentation. Whether it's due to medical concerns, a change in aesthetic preferences, or simply a personal choice, finding the right hospital and surgeon is crucial for a successful outcome. In this article, we will unveil the top five hospitals in New York City that excel in this field, providing world - class care and expertise.
1. Facilities Associated with Dr. Darrick E. Antell
About Dr. Antell
Dr. Darrick E. Antell is a premier breast surgeon in NYC, whose name has become synonymous with excellence in breast plastic surgery. He has over twenty years of experience and has performed more than ten thousand procedures. His work has been recognized in numerous top - tier magazines such as Harper’s Bazaar, Town and Country, Vogue, and New York Magazine, where he is listed among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country.
Dr. Antell is an official spokesperson for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and holds memberships in several prestigious regional and national medical societies, including the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He is also a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and has won multiple awards, including the Fellow of the Jacques W. Maliniac Circle of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and being featured in “Who's Who” lists in medicine and healthcare, the world, and America.
Services Offered
Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. This includes removing existing silicone or saline implants from the body. In cases where indicated, he also conducts an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He is well - versed in handling the removal of the Allergan textured breast implants, which were recalled by the FDA due to their association with a heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).
If patients desire, he can also perform a breast lift (mastopexy) in conjunction with the explant surgery to achieve a more plump and rounded appearance. For those considering re - augmentation, he uses the latest and safest medical technologies to ensure natural - looking and long - lasting results.
Patient Experience
Many of Dr. Antell's breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which speaks volumes about the high level of satisfaction and the quality of results. He has an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical skills, performed with total discretion, and has worked on many celebrities and well - known persons in New York and beyond.
Most patients prefer to have their procedures in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from the world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited, designed for comfort, and equipped with the latest technology. His staff is thoroughly trained to offer personalized care, ensuring a smooth and stress - free experience for patients.
2. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
Expertise and Team
The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC is home to a top - rated breast surgery team consisting of board - certified plastic surgeons. They are highly trained in breast implant removal surgery and are world - renowned for their advanced breast implants removal techniques.
These surgeons understand the changing needs of patients over the years and the advancements in breast implant technology. They are committed to helping patients achieve their desired chest aesthetic, whether it's through breast implant removal, replacement, or a combination of both.
Procedures Offered
The center offers a variety of breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. An en bloc breast implant removal surgery involves removing the implants and capsule in a single procedure. A partial capsulectomy consists of removing the breast implant material and trimming/ shaping some of the capsule material to create the patient's desired chest contour. A total capsulectomy, on the other hand, involves removing the implant, capsule, and remaining scar tissue.
During the initial consultation, the plastic surgeon explains each variation of the breast implant removal procedure in detail. Each treatment plan is customized to fit the unique needs of each patient, and the surgeon works closely with the patient to achieve their post - operative goals.
Facility and Recovery
The breast implant removal surgery is performed at the center's 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. The center's staff provides comprehensive post - operative care instructions and support to ensure a smooth recovery process.
3. Mount Sinai - Dubin Breast Center
Comprehensive Approach
At the Dubin Breast Center of Mount Sinai, a multidisciplinary approach is taken to breast reconstruction. The plastic surgeons work closely with breast surgeons and oncologists to offer seamless and advanced care, paying close attention to both medical and aesthetic outcomes.
Breast reconstruction at Mount Sinai can generally be categorized into two types: implant reconstruction and autologous tissue (using the patient's own tissue) reconstruction. In both cases, nipple reconstruction is typically performed at a later date.
Implant Reconstruction
For implant reconstruction, the process usually starts with placing a tissue expander in the breast at the time of a mastectomy. The tissue expander is a temporary inflatable implant that is gradually inflated in the plastic surgeon's office after surgery. The patient will likely stay in the hospital for a day or two. After about three months, a second ambulatory surgery is performed to remove the tissue expander and place a permanent implant, which can be filled with silicone or saline.
Autologous Reconstruction
The center also offers several types of autologous reconstruction. The DIEP flap (a.k.a. TRAM) uses skin and fat from the lower abdomen, similar to a “tummy - tuck,” to reconstruct the breast. The latissimus dorsi flap uses skin and muscle from the back. The initial surgery for autologous reconstruction is generally longer than with an implant, but more is accomplished in the first procedure. The hospital stay is typically five days, and patients may be able to return to work four to six weeks later.
4. Facilities Associated with Dr. Barry Weintraub
Surgeon's Expertise
Dr. Barry Weintraub is a highly skilled plastic surgeon with a strong aesthetic sense and a unique blend of medical science and artistry. He believes that cosmetic surgery is like creating artwork on the human form and pays meticulous attention to detail from pre - op to post - op care.
He is well - known for performing breast implant removal and replacement surgeries. He takes into account the patient's individual needs and goals, whether it's changing the size, location, or type of implants, or addressing concerns related to breast implant illness (BII) or capsular contracture.
Procedure and Safety
Dr. Weintraub prefers his patients to be in a comfortable state of twilight sleep during breast implant removal and replacement surgery. He insists on the most sterile conditions in the operating room, with on - staff, board - certified anesthesiologists and state - of - the - art monitoring equipment. Every intraoperative maneuver is executed with precision and care, and all wounds are sewn in multiple layers by his own hand.
The surgery can take between half an hour and multiple hours, depending on the specific modality chosen and the patient's aesthetic needs. Patients often return to work three days after surgery, and any swelling and bruising should resolve within a week.
Facility and Patient - Centered Care
Although Dr. Weintraub has privileges at several hospitals, including Lenox Hill Hospital and the Center for Specialty Care, he prefers the privacy of his hospital - grade, state - of - the - art surgical center attached to his office at 800a Fifth Avenue. The facility offers the utmost in medical and plastic - surgical care, with a team of board - certified anesthesiologists, certified registered nurses, and fully licensed operating - room staff.
Dr. Weintraub also takes the time to have in - depth consultations with patients, answering all their questions and addressing their concerns. He will not hesitate to turn patients away if he feels they are not good candidates for surgery, ensuring that only those who will benefit from the procedure undergo it.
5. Practices Associated with Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Surgeon's Reputation
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon on the Upper East Side in NYC. As a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon, she is committed to ensuring the finest surgical results for her patients.
She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal surgeries. Her patients praise her for creating a calming and professional atmosphere in her practice and for her compassionate approach.
Reasons for Removal and Procedures
Dr. Hutchinson addresses a wide range of reasons for breast implant removal. Aesthetic issues can include a palpable or visible implant (folded, rippled, or wrinkled), implant rupture, leakage, deflation, capsular contracture, breast asymmetry, unsightly scars, nipple or areola enlargement or distortion, and implant malposition. Medical issues include severe capsular contracture, chronic pain, BIA - ALCL, breast implant illness (BII), infection, and bleeding.
She will advise patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to achieve their goals. In some cases, a secondary procedure such as a breast lift may be necessary to achieve the best aesthetic results.
Patient Satisfaction
Patient testimonials speak highly of Dr. Hutchinson and her team. They appreciate the personalized care, the attention to detail, and the excellent results. The practice offers a comfortable and clean environment, and the staff is known for being professional and friendly.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital
Surgeon's Experience and Reputation
One of the most important factors is the experience and reputation of the surgeon. Look for surgeons who are board - certified, have extensive experience in breast implant removal and re - augmentation, and have a proven track record of successful surgeries. Check for their presence in medical societies, awards they have won, and patient testimonials.
Facility Accreditation and Technology
Ensure that the hospital or surgical facility is fully accredited. State - of - the - art technology can enhance the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. Modern equipment can lead to more accurate diagnoses, better surgical outcomes, and faster recovery times.
Range of Services
Choose a hospital that offers a comprehensive range of services. This includes different types of breast implant removal procedures, the option for re - augmentation if desired, and additional procedures such as breast lifts. A hospital that can address a variety of patient needs under one roof is often more convenient and can provide a more coordinated approach to treatment.
Patient - Centered Care
Patient - centered care is essential. The hospital staff should be friendly, compassionate, and willing to answer all your questions. They should provide detailed pre - operative and post - operative instructions and support throughout the entire process.
Cost and Insurance
While cost should not be the only determining factor, it is still an important consideration. Understand the cost of the procedure, including any additional fees for anesthesia, facility use, and post - operative care. Check if your insurance covers breast implant removal and re - augmentation, and if not, explore payment options and financing plans.
Common Concerns and Frequently Asked Questions
What is BIA - ALCL?
Breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) is a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. When left untreated, it can spread to nearby lymph nodes. Treatment typically involves surgically removing the implants and surrounding scar tissue, and in more serious cases, chemotherapy or radiation may also be necessary. Symptoms include pain or swelling around the breasts, and a difference in the size or shape of the breasts.
Is breast implant removal and re - augmentation safe?
When performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon in an accredited facility, breast implant removal and re - augmentation are generally safe procedures. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks such as bleeding, infection, numbness at the incision site, or an adverse reaction to the anesthesia. The surgeon will discuss these risks with you in detail during the consultation and take steps to minimize them.
What is the recovery process like?
The recovery process varies from patient to patient. After breast implant removal, you may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising, which should gradually subside over time. You will need to follow the post - operative instructions provided by your surgeon, which may include wearing a special bra, avoiding strenuous activities, and taking prescribed medications. The final results may take several months to become fully visible.
Can I breastfeed after breast implant removal and re - augmentation?
It is possible to breastfeed after these procedures, but it depends on several factors such as the type of surgery performed, the location of the incisions, and the extent of damage to the breast tissue. Some women may experience a decrease in milk supply, while others may be able to breastfeed normally. It is best to discuss this with your surgeon before the procedure.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hospital for breast implant removal and re - augmentation in New York City is a significant decision. The five hospitals and surgeons mentioned in this article - Dr. Darrick E. Antell, the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, Mount Sinai - Dubin Breast Center, Dr. Barry Weintraub, and Dr. Olivia Hutchinson - offer a combination of expertise, experience, advanced technology, and patient - centered care. By considering the factors outlined in this article and addressing your concerns through thorough consultations, you can make an informed decision that will lead to a successful and satisfying outcome.
If you are considering breast implant removal and re - augmentation, we encourage you to reach out to these top - rated providers for a consultation. Take the time to research, ask questions, and choose the option that best suits your needs and goals. Your journey to renewed confidence and well - being starts here.
