Introduction
Breast implant removal has become a topic of increasing importance for many women in New York City. There are numerous reasons why a woman might choose to have her breast implants removed, including medical complications, dissatisfaction with the aesthetic results, or changes in personal preferences. With the growing demand for this procedure, it's essential to know which plastic surgery hospitals in New York City offer the best services. In this article, we will explore the top five plastic surgery hospitals for breast implant removal in New York City, taking into account factors such as the experience of the surgeons, the range of procedures offered, patient reviews, and the hospital's overall reputation.
Understanding Breast Implant Removal
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are various reasons why a woman may opt for breast implant removal. Some of the common reasons include:
- Medical Complications: These can include severe capsular contracture, where significant scar tissue forms around the implants, causing pain and discomfort. Chronic pain with breast implants is also a common issue. In addition, there has been growing concern about breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), a rare cancer related to breast implants, and breast implant illness (BII), which is a collection of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, and gastrointestinal complaints.
- Aesthetic Concerns: Breast implants may become palpable or visible, develop folds, ripples, or wrinkles. They can rupture, leak, or deflate, or move from their original position. Capsular contracture can also cause distortion and an abnormal appearance of the breasts. Other aesthetic issues include breast asymmetry, unsightly or widened scars, nipple or areola enlargement or distortion, and implant malposition.
- Lifestyle Changes: Some women may simply decide that they no longer want to have breast implants due to changes in their lifestyle, personal preferences, or body image.
Types of Breast Implant Removal Procedures
The type of breast implant removal procedure depends on the patient's desired post - op result. Some of the common procedures include:
- En Bloc: During an en bloc breast implant removal surgery, the plastic surgeon removes the implants and the capsule in a single procedure. This is often recommended in cases where there is a concern about BIA - ALCL or other medical issues.
- Partial Capsulectomy: A partial capsulectomy consists of solely removing the breast implant material and trimming or shaping some of the capsule material in order to create the patient’s desired chest contour.
- Total Capsulectomy: A total capsulectomy consists of removing the implant, the capsule, and the remaining scar tissue. The procedure begins with the removal of the breast implants, followed by a complete removal of the capsule and associated scar tissue.
Top Five Plastic Surgery Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City
1. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, located at 461 Park Ave S, #7K, New York, NY 10016, is renowned for its expertise in breast implant removal surgery. The top - rated breast surgery team at this center is highly trained in breast implant removal and is world - renowned for their advanced techniques. They offer a variety of breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. The center's board - certified plastic surgeons routinely perform breast implant removal surgery at their state - of - the - art boutique surgical suite. They understand the importance of feeling your best and offer breast implant removal and replacement for patients seeking to achieve their desired chest aesthetic. Most plastic surgeons at this center recommend breast augmentation patients to replace their breast implants every 10 - 15 years, and they are well - equipped to handle all types of implant removal scenarios. The center also provides a personalized approach to each patient, working closely with them to actualize a treatment plan that reflects their desired post - operative goals.
2. Facilities Associated with Dr. Darrick E. Antell
Dr. Darrick E. Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon who is widely regarded as being among the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. He has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but most patients prefer for the breast implant removal procedure to take place in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. His facility has a private back entrance to ensure total discretion, and all members of his staff have been thoroughly trained to offer personalized care. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited, designed for patient comfort, and equipped with the latest technology. Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, in which he removes the existing silicone or saline implants from the body. When indicated, he also performs an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He has an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results, performed with total discretion, and many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients.
3. New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center
New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center is a top - ranked hospital in New York. It was named the top hospital in New York and rose to No. 4 in the nation, ranking nationally in 15 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties. Although it is a general hospital, it has a highly skilled team of plastic surgeons who are experienced in breast implant removal. The hospital's surgical excellence is evident in its nationally - ranked surgical specialties, including adult specialties such as heart surgery, GI surgery, and lung surgery, as well as children’s specialties like pediatric heart surgery, pediatric GI surgery, and pediatric lung surgery. The hospital's commitment to providing high - quality care, along with its state - of - the - art facilities and advanced clinical technologies, makes it a reliable choice for breast implant removal. The team at New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center takes a comprehensive approach to patient care, considering all aspects of the patient's health and well - being.
4. Facilities Associated with Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC. With over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal, she has a deep understanding of the issues faced by patients. Her practice focuses on cosmetic breast surgery, and she is considered one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the upper east side in NYC. As a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon, she distinguishes her practice by her desire to ensure the finest surgical results for her patients. Dr. Hutchinson will advise patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to help them achieve their goals. In some cases, a secondary procedure such as a breast lift may be necessary to achieve the best aesthetic results. Her patients often report exceptional experiences, highlighting the calming atmosphere, cleanliness, and professionalism of her staff.
5. Facilities with Renowned Plastic Surgeons from US News Rankings
US News lists several plastic surgeons in New York. For example, Dr. David Hidalgo, md, facs, located at 655 Park Ave, New York, NY, scored 86.86% in the America's Best Plastic Surgeons 2022 ranking. Dr. Adam R. Kolker, md, facs, at 710 Park Avenue, New York, NY, scored 72.37%. While these rankings are not specifically for breast implant removal, these surgeons are well - regarded in the field of plastic surgery. Their facilities, although not all details are provided about breast implant removal services, likely offer high - quality care. Surgeons with such high rankings are likely to have the necessary skills and experience to perform breast implant removal procedures safely and effectively. Their practices may have access to the latest medical technologies and resources, and they are likely to stay updated on the latest advancements in breast implant removal techniques.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plastic Surgery Hospital for Breast Implant Removal
Surgeon Experience
The experience of the plastic surgeon is one of the most important factors to consider. Surgeons with many years of experience in breast implant removal are more likely to have encountered a wide range of cases and to have developed the skills and techniques necessary to handle complex situations. Look for surgeons who have a proven track record of successful breast implant removal surgeries and who are familiar with the latest advancements in the field. For example, surgeons like Dr. Darrick E. Antell and Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, with over 20 years of experience in the relevant area, are likely to provide high - quality care.
Range of Procedures Offered
A good plastic surgery hospital should offer a range of breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. This allows the patient and the surgeon to choose the most appropriate procedure based on the patient's specific needs and circumstances. The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC is an example of a facility that offers a comprehensive range of these procedures, ensuring that patients can receive personalized treatment.
Patient Reviews
Patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by a plastic surgery hospital. Read reviews from previous patients to get an idea of their experiences, including the professionalism of the staff, the results of the surgery, and the level of post - operative care. Positive reviews, such as those for Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's practice, where patients praise the calming atmosphere and the amazing results, can be a good indication of a hospital's quality.
Hospital Reputation
The overall reputation of the hospital is also important. Hospitals with a long - standing reputation for excellence in plastic surgery are more likely to have the necessary resources, facilities, and staff to provide high - quality care. New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center, with its high national rankings, is an example of a hospital with a strong reputation. A hospital's reputation can also be influenced by its affiliations, research programs, and the awards it has received.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Cost is another factor to consider. The cost of breast implant removal can vary depending on the hospital, the surgeon, the type of procedure, and other factors. It's important to understand the total cost of the procedure, including any pre - operative and post - operative care. In addition, check with your insurance provider to see if breast implant removal is covered under your policy. Some insurance companies may cover the cost of the procedure if it is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases of BIA - ALCL or severe capsular contracture.
Preparing for Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Consultation with the Surgeon
During the initial consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate your general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of your breasts. It is important to be open and honest with the surgeon about your reasons for wanting the implants removed, any symptoms you may be experiencing, and your desired outcome. Bring any information you have about your existing implants and your previous breast augmentation surgery to the appointment. The surgeon will discuss the different surgical options available, the risks and benefits of each, and the recovery process. They may also recommend additional tests or procedures, such as imaging studies, to better evaluate your situation.
Pre - operative Tests
Based on your age, implant condition, and overall health, the surgeon may send you for pre - operative tests. These can include an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI to assess the condition of the implants and the surrounding tissue. These tests can help the surgeon plan the surgery more accurately and identify any potential issues that may need to be addressed during the procedure.
Lifestyle Changes
Before the surgery, you may need to make some lifestyle changes. For example, if you smoke, you may be asked to quit smoking several weeks before the surgery, as smoking can increase the risk of complications. You may also need to avoid taking certain medications, vitamins, or supplements that can interfere with the surgery or increase the risk of bleeding. The surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions on what to do and what to avoid in the weeks leading up to the surgery.
Arranging for Support
Since breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and to assist you in the first few days of recovery. You may also need help with daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, and taking care of yourself. Make sure you have a support system in place to ensure a smooth recovery.
Recovery After Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Immediate Post - operative Care
After the surgery, you will recover in the hospital's recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia will be used to reduce discomfort. Once you are awake and stable, you will be able to go home. You will be provided with thorough discharge instructions that will guide you through the initial post - operative period. Your breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage, and you may feel tired or sore following the surgery.
First Few Days and Weeks
Many patients are able to return to most daily activities within days of the procedure, but it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. You may experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. You may also notice some fluid drainage from the incision site. It is important to follow all post - operative instructions carefully, including taking any prescribed medications, changing the dressings as directed, and avoiding activities that could put stress on your incisions. You will typically return to the office the day after your surgery so that the surgeon can monitor your healing process.
Long - term Recovery
Although much of the swelling and bruising will fade in the first few weeks, it may take several months before the final results are visible. Your scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade. The majority of patients do not require a breast lift after surgery, as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally. However, if you desire a breast lift, it may be performed at a later date. It is important to be patient with your healing process and to follow up with your surgeon regularly to ensure a successful recovery.
Conclusion
Choosing the right plastic surgery hospital for breast implant removal in New York City is a crucial decision. The top five hospitals mentioned in this article - the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, facilities associated with Dr. Darrick E. Antell, New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Irving Medical Center, facilities associated with Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, and facilities with renowned plastic surgeons from US News rankings - all offer high - quality services, experienced surgeons, and a range of procedures. When making your decision, consider factors such as surgeon experience, the range of procedures offered, patient reviews, hospital reputation, cost, and insurance coverage. By carefully evaluating these factors and working closely with your surgeon, you can ensure a successful breast implant removal procedure and a smooth recovery. If you are considering breast implant removal, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon at one of these top hospitals to discuss your options and begin your journey towards a more comfortable and confident you.
