Unveiling the Top Five Hospitals for Silicone Breast Augmentation Removal in New York City

Silicone breast augmentation has been a popular cosmetic procedure for many years. However, there are various reasons why individuals may opt for the removal of these implants. In New York City, a hub of medical excellence, there are several hospitals and clinics that specialize in silicone breast augmentation removal. This article will delve into the top five facilities known for their expertise, patient - centered care, and high - quality outcomes in this specific field.

1. Steven Wallach MD, FACS

About the Practice

Dr. Steven Wallach is a well - recognized name in the field of plastic surgery in New York. His practice is conveniently located to serve the areas of New York, NY. With breast augmentation becoming increasingly popular in the United States, the demand for implant removal has also risen, and Dr. Wallach is at the forefront of providing these services.

Services Offered

• Breast Implant Removal Procedure: Dr. Wallach usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket created for the implants. This could be through an incision along the breast fold, the periareola region, or through a transaxillary incision in the armpit. He will then remove the implants and, if necessary, the implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants. In some cases, he may perform a capsulectomy, which involves removing the breast implant and the scar tissue that has formed around it.
• Comprehensive Consultation: During the consultation, Dr. Wallach evaluates patients based on their reasons for implant removal. If a patient is experiencing complications such as capsular contracture (the hardening of scar tissue around the implant), he will perform an examination to confirm the diagnosis and schedule the explantation surgery. For those with cosmetic concerns, he discusses options for breast implant replacement, like switching to a different type or size of implant, or other breast enhancement options such as a breast lift.

Patient Considerations

• Candidate Requirements: Good candidates for breast implant removal are generally healthy, non - smokers or those willing to stop smoking before the procedure, and must stop taking blood - thinning medications prior to surgery. Patients with medical issues may require medical clearance from their primary care physician.
• Recovery and Risks: After the procedure, patients can expect swelling, bruising, and mild pain, which varies depending on whether the implants were removed or replaced. Most patients can return to light activity within three to five days, but should avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks. The main risks of the surgery include unfavorable scarring, asymmetry, infection, bleeding, nipple loss, skin loss, fat necrosis, fluid collections, dysesthesias, and the need for revision surgery.

2. Dr. Barry Weintraub

Practice Overview

Dr. Barry Weintraub's practice offers breast implant removal and replacement services in New York City. His approach to plastic surgery combines medical science with an artistic eye, aiming for elegant and natural - looking results.

Range of Services

• Reasons for Removal and Replacement: Patients may come to Dr. Weintraub for various reasons. Some are concerned about breast implant illness (BII) and wish to remove the implants to see if it affects their health. Others want to replace saline implants with more natural - feeling silicone gel implants, as saline implants are more prone to leakage and can feel firm and unnatural. Additionally, patients may seek to reposition their implants under the pectoralis - major muscle to achieve a more natural look, especially if the implants were originally placed over the muscle.
• Customized Procedures: The breast implant removal and replacement procedures are tailored to each patient's aesthetic needs. Dr. Weintraub may recommend combining the explant surgery with a breast lift, especially for patients with drooping breasts. The end goal is to create breasts that are proportionate to the patient's body type, with a natural silhouette, gentle slope, upturned nipples, and fullness in the lower part.

Patient Care and Considerations

• Consultation Process: During the consultation, Dr. Weintraub encourages patients to openly discuss their concerns and goals. He checks for board certification, ensures that the patient is in good general health, and assesses the current condition of the breasts. He is known for listening to his patients and providing a detailed explanation of the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
• Recovery and Results: The surgery can take between half an hour and multiple hours, depending on the specific case. Patients often return to work three days after surgery and require little downtime for full recovery. Swelling and bruising, if they occur, should resolve within a week. Dr. Weintraub performs the surgery in his quad - a - accredited NYC surgical facility, and patients can expect significant and long - lasting aesthetic improvements to their breasts.

3. Dr. Darrick E. Antell

Surgeon's Reputation

Dr. Darrick E. Antell is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the New York area and worldwide. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as being among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, a testament to his surgical skills and patient satisfaction.

Services and Specialties

• Custom Breast Implant Removal: Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal surgery, which involves removing existing silicone or saline implants from the body. He also performs en bloc capsulectomy when indicated, removing the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He is experienced in removing the allergan textured breast implants that were recently recalled by the FDA due to their association with a heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).
• Patient Consultation and Assessment: During the initial consultation, Dr. Antell thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. He encourages patients to bring any information about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. Based on the patient's desires and concerns, he may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift, to achieve the best results.

Procedure and Recovery

• Surgical Approach: Dr. Antell attempts to remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery when possible. If there are complications such as capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or BIA - ALCL, he may perform an en - bloc resection to remove the implant and the surrounding scar tissue. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer.
• Recovery and Follow - up: After the surgery, patients recover in Dr. Antell's state - of - the - art recovery suite. The procedure is an outpatient one, and patients can return home the same day. They may experience some swelling, bruising, and soreness, but most are able to return to daily activities within days. Dr. Antell provides an individualized recovery plan and closely monitors the patient's healing process.

4. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson

Surgeon's Expertise

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC. With over 20 years of experience, she has evaluated numerous patients with breast implant - related concerns and performed successful breast implant removal procedures.

Reasons for Removal and Treatment

• Aesthetic and Medical Issues: Patients may come to Dr. Hutchinson for breast implant removal due to aesthetic issues such as 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 that may prompt removal include severe capsular contracture, chronic pain, BIA - ALCL, breast implant illness (BII), infection, and bleeding.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Dr. Hutchinson assesses each patient's situation and advises on the various surgical options available. In some cases, a secondary procedure like a breast lift may be necessary to achieve the best aesthetic results. She takes the time to understand the patient's goals and provides a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to their needs.

Patient Experience

• Comfort and Confidence: Patients who have undergone breast implant removal with Dr. Hutchinson have reported feeling comfortable throughout the process. Her office environment is calming, and her staff is professional and friendly. Dr. Hutchinson ensures that patients are well - informed about the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes, giving them the confidence to move forward with the surgery.

5. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC

Facility and Surgeons

The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, located in Manhattan, NY, has a top - rated breast surgery team of board - certified plastic surgeons. They are highly trained in breast implant removal surgery and are known for their advanced techniques.

Range of Procedures

• Customized Implant Removal: The center offers different types of breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc removal, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. During an en bloc breast implant removal surgery, the plastic surgeon removes the implants and capsule in a single procedure. A partial capsulectomy involves removing the breast implant material and trimming some of the capsule material to create the desired chest contour. A total capsulectomy consists of removing the implant, capsule, and remaining scar tissue.
• Consultation and Treatment Planning: During the initial consultation, the plastic surgeon explains each variation of the breast implant removal procedure. They work with the patient to understand their desired post - operative goals and develop a customized treatment plan.

Procedure and Aftercare

• Surgical Process: The breast implant removal surgery is performed at the center's state - of - the - art fully accredited surgical suite. It takes about 1 - 3 hours under general anesthesia. After the surgery, patients can expect swelling and tenderness, which usually subside within six to eight weeks.
• Patient Support: The center provides comprehensive aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. They are available to answer any questions the patient may have during the recovery period.

Comparative Analysis of the Top Five Hospitals

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Silicone Breast Augmentation Removal

Surgeon's Expertise

The experience and expertise of the surgeon are crucial. Look for board - certified plastic surgeons who have a proven track record in breast implant removal. Surgeons with extensive experience are more likely to handle complex cases and achieve better results.

Hospital Reputation

Research the hospital's or clinic's reputation. Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the quality of care provided. A hospital with a good reputation is more likely to have high - standards of safety and patient satisfaction.

Range of Services

Consider the range of services offered. Some patients may need additional procedures such as a breast lift or replacement after implant removal. A hospital that offers a comprehensive range of services can provide a more integrated approach to treatment.

Patient - Centered Care

Choose a hospital that focuses on patient - centered care. This includes providing detailed consultations, answering all your questions, and involving you in the decision - making process. A good hospital will also provide post - operative support and follow - up care.

Cost

Cost is an important factor, but it should not be the only consideration. Make sure to understand what is included in the cost, such as the surgical fee, anesthesia fee, and post - operative care. Compare the costs of different hospitals, but also consider the quality of care and results.

Common Concerns and FAQs about Silicone Breast Augmentation Removal

Can breast implants cause autoimmune disease?

As of today, there are no studies to support that implants can cause autoimmune issues. However, some patients may experience symptoms associated with breast implant illness (BII), which is a condition where patients report a variety of symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, joint pain, etc. after breast augmentation. The exact cause of BII is still uncertain, but it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems in some cases.

How long do breast implants last?

Breast implants can last a lifetime, but most need to be changed at least once in a lifetime. The lifespan of implants can be affected by various factors such as the type of implant, individual body characteristics, and lifestyle.

What are the signs of implant rupture?

If the implants are saline, a leading sign of rupture is a rapid decrease in the size of the breast due to the sterile saline solution leaking out and being absorbed by the body. For silicone implants, a rupture may cause the breast to look different than normal, and an MRI may be required to determine if it has ruptured.

Is breast implant removal dangerous?

Breast implant removal is generally a safe procedure when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon. 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 the patient during the consultation.

Will insurance cover breast implant removal?

It depends on the reason for the removal. If the removal is medically necessary, such as in the case of implant rupture, capsular contracture, or BIA - ALCL, insurance may cover the cost. However, if it is for cosmetic reasons, it is less likely to be covered. You should check with your insurance carrier to determine coverage.

Conclusion

In New York City, there are several excellent hospitals and surgeons that specialize in silicone breast augmentation removal. The top five facilities mentioned in this article - Steven Wallach