The top five hospitals for silicone breast implant removal in New York City are revealed!

Introduction

In recent years, the demand for silicone breast implant removal has been on the rise in New York City. There are various reasons why women may choose to have their breast implants removed, including complications such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, and concerns about breast implant illness. With the growing demand, it's crucial to identify the top hospitals that offer high - quality silicone breast implant removal services. This article will explore the top five hospitals for silicone breast implant removal in New York City.

Reasons for Silicone Breast Implant Removal

Aesthetic Issues

• Visible or Palpable Implants: Over time, breast implants may become visible or palpable. They can appear folded, rippled, or wrinkled, which can be aesthetically unappealing. For example, the texture of the implant may be felt through the skin, causing self - consciousness for the patient.
• Implant Rupture or Deflation: Silicone implants can rupture or deflate, leading to a change in the appearance of the breast. A ruptured implant may cause the breast to lose its shape and volume, or in some cases, the silicone gel may leak into the surrounding tissue.
• Implant Malposition: Implants can move from their original position. They may shift up, down, to the side, or towards the middle of the chest. This can result in an uneven or unnatural appearance of the breasts, such as the “double bubble” appearance where the implant is not centered under the breast or “symmastia,” where the implants appear to touch in the middle.
• Capsular Contracture: This is a common complication where the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant hardens. It can cause distortion and an abnormal appearance of the breasts, along with pain and discomfort.
• Breast Asymmetry: Even after breast augmentation, some patients may experience breast asymmetry with an unequal appearance of the breasts. This can be due to the implant not fitting properly or changes in the body over time.
• Unsightly Scars: The scars from the initial breast augmentation surgery may become widened, raised, or otherwise unappealing, which can be a reason for implant removal.

Medical Issues

• Severe Capsular Contracture: In addition to the aesthetic concerns, severe capsular contracture can cause significant pain and discomfort. The hardened scar tissue can put pressure on the implant and the surrounding tissue, leading to physical distress.
• Chronic Pain: Some patients may experience chronic pain in their breasts due to the presence of the implants. This pain can be persistent and interfere with daily activities.
• Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a rare cancer specifically related to breast implants. It often presents as a mass or fluid accumulation, usually several years after the initial breast surgery. The FDA has recalled certain textured breast implants due to their association with a higher risk of BIA - ALCL.
• Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII refers to a wide variety of symptoms that patients may report after breast augmentation. These symptoms include fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression or anxiety, rashes, pain and discomfort, and brain fog. Although the exact cause of BII is unknown, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
• Infection and/or Bleeding: Infections can occur around the implant site, and bleeding can also be a complication during or after the breast augmentation surgery. These issues may require implant removal for proper treatment.

The Top Five Hospitals for Silicone Breast Implant Removal in New York City

1. Practices associated with Dr. Olivia Hutchinson

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the Upper East Side in NYC. With over 20 years of experience, she has in - depth knowledge and skills in evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns.

Services Offered

• Comprehensive Consultation: Dr. Hutchinson will carefully assess the patient's situation, including the reasons for implant removal, the current condition of the implants, and the patient's overall health. She will discuss all the surgical options available and recommend the best course of action to achieve the patient's goals.
• Advanced Surgical Techniques: She is proficient in various surgical techniques for breast implant removal. In some cases, a secondary procedure such as a breast lift may be recommended to achieve the best aesthetic results.

Patient Experience

Patients have reported exceptional experiences with Dr. Hutchinson and her staff. The atmosphere is calming, and the facilities are super clean. Dr. Hutchinson makes patients feel comfortable, and the results are often highly satisfactory. For example, one patient said, “Every single detail of my experience with dr. hutchinson and her amazing staff was exceptional. The atmosphere is calming, everything is super clean, and all i encountered were super professional and nice. Dr. hutchinson made me feel so comfortable and the results are amazing. I could not be happier. Thank you, thank you!”

2. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice

Dr. Darrick Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon, widely regarded as being among the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. He has an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results.

Services Offered

• Custom Breast Implant Removal: Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, which can be tailored to the patient's specific needs. He also performs en bloc capsulectomy when indicated to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant.
• Removal of Recalled Implants: He is experienced in removing the allergan textured breast implants that were recalled by the FDA due to their association with a heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).
• Consultation and Planning: During the consultation, Dr. Antell will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. He will have an open and honest conversation with the patient about the desired outcome and create a personalized surgical plan. In some cases, he may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift.

Facility and Safety

Dr. Antell has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City. Most patients prefer to have the procedure in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited, designed for the patient's comfort, and equipped with the latest technology. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the procedure to ensure safety.

3. Dr. Steven Wallach's Practice

Dr. Steven Wallach offers breast implant removal services in a convenient location to serve the areas of New York. He has extensive experience in performing this procedure and addresses both medical and cosmetic reasons for implant removal.

Services Offered

• Versatile Surgical Approaches: Dr. Wallach usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket created for the implants. This may be through an incision along the breast fold, the periareola region, or through a transaxillary incision in the armpit. He will also remove implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary.
• Patient Assessment: He assesses each patient to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the procedure. Good candidates are generally healthy, and those with medical issues may require medical clearance from their primary care physician prior to the surgery. Non - smokers or patients who stop smoking before the procedure are preferred, and patients need to stop taking blood - thinning medications.
• Implant Replacement Option: In some cases, patients may choose to have the implants replaced with new ones at the same time as the removal of the old ones. Dr. Wallach can discuss this option with the patient and plan the procedure accordingly.

Recovery and Follow - up

After the procedure, Dr. Wallach provides detailed instructions for recovery. Patients will have swelling and bruising around their breasts and may be in mild pain. They will need a caregiver to drive them home and stay with them for about a day. Most patients can return to light activity within three to five days, and are instructed to avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks. Dr. Wallach also provides follow - up care to monitor the patient's healing process.

4. Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice

Dr. Barry Weintraub is known for his expertise in breast implant removal and replacement. He takes a comprehensive approach to ensure the best aesthetic results for his patients.

Services Offered

• Breast Implant Removal and Replacement: He can perform breast implant removal alone or in combination with replacement. He also addresses concerns such as breast implant illness and the need to change the size, location, or type of implants. For example, he can reposition implants under the pectoralis - major muscle to create a more natural - looking result.
• Use of Autologous Fat: An increasingly popular option he offers is to remove existent implants and replace the lost volume with autologous fat, which can be liposuctioned from various areas of the body such as the abdomen, flanks, back, etc.
• Patient - Centered Consultation: Dr. Weintraub believes in having a thorough consultation with the patient. He listens to the patient's concerns and desires and provides detailed information about the procedure, risks, and expected results. He also takes into account the patient's overall health and lifestyle during the planning process.

Unique Approach and Expertise

Dr. Weintraub has a unique blend of medical science and artwork in his practice. He is meticulous about everything he does, from pre - op to post - op care. Over 60% of his practice is comprised of complex redos of surgeries performed by other offices, which shows his high level of skill in handling challenging cases. He also refuses to operate on patients if he feels the surgery is not in their best interest.

5. New York Group for Plastic Surgery

The New York Group for Plastic Surgery offers breast implant removal (explant) services with a focus on patient education and safety.

Services Offered

• Comprehensive Preparation: Before the procedure, patients are provided with detailed information to make an educated choice. They need to avoid certain medications that can interfere with the procedure, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood - thinners. They also need to arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and undergo a breast examination to ensure they are healthy enough for the explant.
• Multiple Surgical Techniques: The surgeons, either Dr. Andrew Salzberg or Dr. Jordan Jacobs, use various techniques for breast implant removal. They can choose the appropriate incision location (crease under the breast, around the areola, or vertically in the armpit) and use different methods to remove the implants, such as prying them out or cutting through the shell if it is sticking to nearby tissues.
• Scar Tissue Removal and Reconstruction: After removing the implants, the surgeons will also remove any excess skin or scar tissue around the nipples and reconstruct the area to achieve a more natural appearance.

Recovery and Support

After the surgery, patients are taken to a recovery room and provided with pain relief medication. They will be given post - procedure instructions on how to care for themselves and the incision sites. The recovery process is similar to that of the initial breast augmentation surgery, with most patients able to resume light activities within one week and more vigorous activity in about six weeks.

Comparing the Five Hospitals

How to Choose the Right Hospital for Silicone Breast Implant Removal

Surgeon's Experience and Reputation

Look for a surgeon who has extensive experience in breast implant removal. Check their track record, patient reviews, and any awards or recognition they have received. For example, surgeons who are board - certified and have been listed in reputable magazines as top plastic surgeons are more likely to have the necessary skills and expertise.

Range of Services

Consider the hospital's ability to offer a comprehensive range of services. This may include the option to replace the implants, perform a breast lift, or address medical complications such as BIA - ALCL. A hospital that can provide a full suite of services is better equipped to meet your individual needs.

Facility and Safety Standards

Ensure that the hospital has state - of - the - art facilities and adheres to strict safety standards. This includes having board - certified anesthesiologists, proper monitoring equipment, and a clean and well - maintained operating environment. For instance, hospitals with accredited outpatient surgery centers are generally a good choice.

Patient - Centered Care

A hospital that values patient - centered care will provide a personalized experience. The surgeon should take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and develop a customized treatment plan. Look for a hospital where the staff is friendly, professional, and compassionate.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

Understand the cost of the procedure and whether it is covered by your insurance. Some insurance policies may cover the removal of breast implants if it is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases of infection or rupture. However, cosmetic reasons for implant removal are often not covered. It's important to get a detailed quote and discuss payment options with the hospital.

Conclusion

Silicone breast implant removal is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. The top five hospitals in New York City mentioned in this article - practices associated with Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, Dr. Darrick Antell's practice, Dr. Steven Wallach's practice, Dr. Barry Weintraub's practice, and the New York Group for Plastic Surgery - offer high - quality services, experienced surgeons,