Introduction
Breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation are significant procedures for many women in New York City. Whether it's due to medical complications, aesthetic preferences, or other reasons, finding the right hospital and surgeon is crucial. In this article, we will explore the top 5 hospitals in New York City for these procedures, based on their expertise, reputation, and the quality of care they provide.
1. Antell Plastic Surgery
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. Darrick E. Antell is a premier breast surgeon in NYC. He 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. His extensive experience, spanning over twenty years and more than ten thousand procedures, makes him a top choice for breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation.
Procedures Offered
Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. He can remove 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 also handles the removal of 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).
Patient Experience
Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which speaks volumes about the satisfaction of his patients. He has performed custom breast removal surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons in New York and beyond, maintaining an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results and total discretion.
Facility and Process
Dr. Antell has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City. Most patients prefer for the procedure to take place 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 patient comfort, and equipped with the latest technology. Before the surgery, he thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health and medical history, and assesses the current condition of the breasts. He also provides a detailed discussion of the procedure, risks, and recovery process.
2. Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Overall Reputation
As one of New York’s best hospitals and the world’s top medical centers, Columbia University's plastic and reconstructive surgery department has the experience that few other programs can match. Their mission is to use their many resources to deliver the highest quality care for anybody in need of a cosmetic or reconstructive procedure.
Procedures Offered
- Cosmetic Care: Includes ear and eyelid lifts, breast augmentation, tummy tucks, etc.
- Reconstructive Care: Specialized in breast reconstruction after breast cancer, skin lesion excision, and reconstructive surgery for the nose and ears.
- Breast Reconstructive Care: The Columbia breast cancer reconstructive surgery program is dedicated to empowering individuals who have undergone breast cancer surgery to help them reclaim their physical and emotional well - being. It brings together cancer experts and reconstructive plastic surgeons to provide compassionate and personalized post - lumpectomy or post - mastectomy reconstruction.
Surgeon Team
The division has a team of board - certified surgeons, each proficient in multiple areas of specialization. For example, Dr. Christine Rohde is a highly skilled clinician, researcher, and teacher, trained in the diagnosis and treatment of the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, specializing in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, body contouring, cosmetic surgery, and breast, trauma, and cancer reconstruction.
Research and Education
The plastic surgery research laboratory is actively conducting numerous research studies, including those related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and the study of bone substitutes. They also have programs for students and healthcare professionals, such as a plastic surgery residency program and surgical CME events.
3. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
Expertise in Breast Implant Removal
The top - rated breast surgery team at the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC is highly trained in breast implant removal surgery and world - renowned for their advanced breast implants removal techniques. They understand the importance of helping patients achieve their desired chest aesthetic, whether it's through breast implant removal or replacement.
Procedures Available
They offer a variety of breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. The ultimate surgical method is determined based on the patient's unique anatomy and desired post - op result. During the initial consultation, the plastic surgeon explains each variation of the procedure and works with the patient to develop a customized treatment plan.
Facility and Recovery
The breast implant removal surgery is performed at their 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 surgeons closely monitor the patients' recovery process and provide necessary post - operative care and guidance.
4. Mount Sinai - New York Dubin Breast Center
Comprehensive Breast Reconstruction
At the Dubin Breast Center, they offer expert breast reconstruction. Their plastic surgeons work closely with breast surgeons and oncologists to offer seamless and advanced care, paying close attention to both medical and aesthetic outcomes.
Reconstruction Types
- Implant Reconstruction: They start by placing a tissue expander in the breast at the time of the mastectomy. The tissue expander is a temporary inflatable implant, which is inflated in the plastic surgeon’s office soon after surgery. After about three months, a second ambulatory surgery is performed to remove the tissue expander and place a permanent implant in the breast. Permanent implants can be filled with silicone or saline.
- Autologous Reconstruction: They perform several types of reconstruction that use the patient's own body tissue, such as the DIEP flap (using skin and fat from the lower abdomen) and the latissimus dorsi flap (using skin and muscle from the back). The initial surgery is generally longer than with an implant, but more can be accomplished in the first procedure.
Patient - Centered Approach
The center takes a patient - centered approach, providing detailed information to patients about the different reconstruction options and helping them make informed decisions based on their body type and preferences. They also offer support throughout the entire treatment and recovery process.
5. NYU Langone Health - Hansjörg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery
Advanced Reconstruction Techniques
Plastic surgeons at NYU Langone offer all of the latest reconstruction techniques for the breast. These include breast reduction using the short scar method, breast lift surgery, secondary breast reconstruction and augmentation surgery, and breast reconstruction using perforator flaps, such as the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) and superior gluteal artery perforator (S - GAP).
Specialized Surgeons
Their team of plastic surgeons, including Dr. Eduardo D. Rodriguez and Dr. Nolan S. Karp, specialize in the latest techniques to perform breast reconstruction and cosmetic breast surgery. They are experts in treating conditions such as breast sagging, breast hyperplasia, breast hypoplasia, etc.
Breast in a Day Program
NYU Langone has an innovative “Breast in a Day” program for women diagnosed with breast cancer or at increased risk for cancer. It involves performing a nipple - sparing mastectomy and breast reconstruction using implants in one day. This requires fewer surgeries and less time in the hospital, which can play a significant role in the patient's physical and emotional recovery.
Collaborative Care
The breast surgical oncologists at the Perlmutter Cancer Center and the plastic surgeons at NYU Langone maintain ongoing communication throughout the planning process, creating a customized surgical plan for each patient. They also use three - dimensional imaging to assist in preoperative planning, long - term evaluation, and follow - up care.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital
Surgeon Expertise
The skill and experience of the surgeon are of utmost importance. Look for surgeons who are board - certified, have a good reputation, and extensive experience in breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation. Check their past patients' testimonials and before - and - after photos to get an idea of their work.
Hospital Reputation
Research the hospital's overall reputation for providing high - quality healthcare. Consider factors such as its accreditation, patient satisfaction ratings, and the number of successful procedures performed in the past.
Range of Services
Choose a hospital that offers a comprehensive range of services related to breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation. This may include different types of implant removal procedures, various reconstruction options, and pre - and post - operative care.
Technology and Facilities
Modern technology and well - equipped facilities can contribute to a more successful surgery and better patient experience. Look for hospitals that have state - of - the - art operating rooms, advanced imaging technology, and comfortable recovery areas.
Patient - Centered Care
A hospital that provides patient - centered care will take the time to understand your concerns, answer your questions, and involve you in the decision - making process. They will also offer support and follow - up care throughout your recovery.
Conclusion
New York City offers a wealth of options for breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation. The top 5 hospitals mentioned in this article - Antell Plastic Surgery, Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC, Mount Sinai - New York Dubin Breast Center, and NYU Langone Health - all have their unique strengths in terms of surgeon expertise, range of services, and patient care. Whether you are seeking these procedures for medical or aesthetic reasons, it's important to do your research and choose a hospital that meets your specific needs. If you are considering breast prosthesis removal and re - augmentation, take the next step and schedule a consultation with a hospital or surgeon of your choice to learn more about the process and your options.
