Introduction
Breast implant removal has become a procedure of interest for many women in New York City. Whether it's due to medical complications, dissatisfaction with the current state of implants, or a change in personal preference, finding a reliable plastic surgery department is crucial. In this article, we will explore the top four plastic surgery departments in New York City that have earned a good reputation for breast implant removal.
What is Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal, also known as “explant” surgery, is often carried out for various reasons. Some patients may want to change the size, location, or type of their existing implants. Others may be concerned about breast implant illness (BII) and wish to determine its effect on their health by removing the implants. Additionally, issues like capsular contracture, where the tissue around prior implants becomes firm, and problems with saline implants such as leakage and unnatural feel can also prompt the need for removal.
Sometimes, breast implant removal is combined with other procedures. For example, breast implant replacement can be done to improve the appearance of the breasts, or autologous fat can be used to replace the lost volume. In cases where patients want their smaller breasts to have a perkier profile, a breast lift may be performed after implant removal.
Top Four Plastic Surgery Departments for Breast Implant Removal in New York City
1. Dr. Barry Weintraub
Background and Reputation
Dr. Barry Weintraub has a strong aesthetic sense and a unique blend of medical science and artwork. He studied medicine at Cornell, emphasizing core values in his practice. He believes that surgery should never be rushed, and the patient's well - being is always the top priority. His practice has over 60% of complex redos of surgeries performed by other offices, which shows his high - level expertise in handling difficult cases. He has a reputation for meticulous attention to detail, from pre - op to post - op care.
Approach to Breast Implant Removal
Dr. Weintraub prefers his patients to be in a comfortable state of twilight sleep during the breast implant removal and replacement procedure. 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. He always places implants under the pectoralis - major muscle to achieve the most natural - looking result.
Patient Considerations
Patients should be at least 18 years old or have matured enough to know their breast volume and what they want. The surgery usually takes between half an hour and multiple hours, depending on the specific modality and aesthetic needs. Patients often return to work three days after surgery, and swelling and bruising should resolve within a week. However, they need to carefully follow all post - operative instructions provided by Dr. Weintraub to achieve the best results.
2. Dr. Darrick E. Antell
Background and Reputation
Dr. Darrick E. Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon who is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which speaks volumes about his surgical skills and the satisfaction of his patients. He has performed custom breast removal surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons with total discretion.
Approach to Breast Implant Removal
Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal surgery, which may include en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He also removes the allergan textured breast implants recalled by the FDA due to their association with a heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). He tries to remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery when possible. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer.
Patient Considerations
Patients in good health who wish to have their existing implants removed are likely candidates for explant surgery. During the initial consultation, Dr. Antell will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of the breasts. Based on numerous factors, patients may need to undergo imaging such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI prior to the procedure. After surgery, patients recover in Dr. Antell’s state - of - the - art recovery suite and can return home the same day. They should follow the individualized recovery plan provided by Dr. Antell.
3. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Background and Reputation
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon. She is considered one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the upper east side in NYC. With over 20 years of experience, she has been evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal surgeries. Her patients often praise her for making them feel comfortable and achieving amazing results.
Approach to Breast Implant Removal
Dr. Hutchinson can address various implant - related concerns, including both aesthetic and medical issues. Aesthetic issues may include palpable or visible implants, rupture, leakage, deflation, implant malposition, capsular contracture, and breast asymmetry. Medical issues can involve 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 help them achieve their goals.
Patient Considerations
Patients who are experiencing problems related to their breast implants or are not satisfied with the aesthetic results are potential candidates for Dr. Hutchinson's breast implant removal services. In some cases, a secondary procedure such as a breast lift may be necessary to achieve the best aesthetic results. Patients should have an open and honest conversation with Dr. Hutchinson during the consultation to discuss their concerns and expectations.
4. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
Background and Reputation
The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC has a team of best - in - class board - certified breast surgery specialist plastic surgeons. They offer a full spectrum of surgical options for breast reconstruction, breast reduction, breast implants revision, and breast implant removal. Patients from throughout the NYC tri - state area and the world seek their surgical practices for breast - related procedures, aiming for beautiful and natural - looking results. The center is committed to helping patients achieve their breast surgery goals and accepts insurance when applicable.
Approach to Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal surgery at the center may consist of an en bloc, partial capsulectomy, or total capsulectomy procedure, depending on the patient's desired post - op result. The surgeons will work with the patient to create an individualized surgical plan based on their specific needs and goals.
Patient Considerations
Patients interested in breast implant removal at the center can schedule an in - person or virtual consultation. A doctor's referral is not necessary. The center offers out - of - network benefits, and most insurance companies may reimburse patients for most of the costs when the patient has a policy that allows them to go out of their network. Patients should follow the pre - and post - operative instructions provided by the center to ensure a smooth recovery.
Comparative Analysis of the Four Plastic Surgery Departments
| Plastic Surgery Department | Surgeon's Background | Unique Approach | Patient Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Barry Weintraub | Studied at Cornell, has a unique blend of medical science and art, high - level expertise in complex redos | Twilight sleep anesthesia, meticulous surgical technique, placing implants under pectoralis - major muscle | Minimum age 18, short recovery time in some cases, strict post - operative instructions |
| Dr. Darrick E. Antell | Listed in top magazines, extensive experience, performed surgeries on celebrities | Custom breast implant removal, possible en bloc capsulectomy, trying to use existing incisions | Good health requirement, possible pre - operative imaging, state - of - the - art recovery suite |
| Dr. Olivia Hutchinson | Harvard and Columbia - educated, female aesthetic plastic surgeon with 20+ years of experience | Addressing various aesthetic and medical implant - related concerns, personalized surgical advice | Patients with implant - related problems, possible secondary procedures |
| Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC | Team of board - certified breast surgery specialists | Full spectrum of breast - related surgical options, individualized surgical plans | In - person or virtual consultations, possible insurance reimbursement |
Preparing for Breast Implant Removal
Before undergoing breast implant removal, patients need to take several important steps. First, they should choose a qualified plastic surgeon by checking for board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. It is also essential to ensure that the physician attends a major hospital in the community and has a good reputation among other medical professionals. Patients should speak to the surgeon's previous patients who have undergone similar procedures.
Patients may need to provide medical clearance from their family physician. They will be given instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, such as avoiding certain medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications for one week prior to the procedure. Blood - thinning medications should be avoided for up to six weeks before the surgery. Additionally, patients should arrange for someone to drive them home after the procedure and stay with them for at least 24 hours.
Cost Considerations
The cost of breast implant removal can vary widely depending on several factors. These include the cost related to the operating facility, post - care essentials, tests used, and prescription medication cost. In most cases, breast implant removal procedures are not covered by health insurance. However, if the removal is necessary due to medical reasons, such as after a mastectomy, insurance companies are obligated to cover the costs according to the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Acts of 1988. To get an accurate quote, patients should schedule a consultation with the plastic surgeon.
Recovery After Breast Implant Removal
After breast implant removal, patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. The degree and duration of these symptoms can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. Most patients will need to take a few days off work and refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. The surgeon will provide a personalized recovery plan, which may include wearing a compression bra, taking prescribed antibiotics, and applying a cold compress to the surgical site.
It is normal to experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. Some patients may also notice fluid drainage from the incision site. In most cases, patients can return to their normal lifestyle and exercise routine gradually as they recover. The final results of the surgery may take several months to become fully visible.
Conclusion
When it comes to breast implant removal in New York City, the four plastic surgery departments mentioned above - Dr. Barry Weintraub, Dr. Darrick E. Antell, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, and the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC - stand out for their good word - of - mouth. Each has its own unique approach, experienced surgeons, and patient - friendly services. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, preferences, and the reputation of the surgeons before making a decision. By choosing a reliable plastic surgery department and following the pre - and post - operative instructions, patients can achieve satisfactory results and regain confidence in their bodies.
If you are considering breast implant removal, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of these top plastic surgery departments. Don't hesitate to ask questions and learn more about the procedure, recovery, and expected results. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast implant removal, and explore related topics to gain a more comprehensive understanding of plastic surgery options in New York City.
