The top 3 hospitals for silicone breast implant removal in New York City

Silicone breast implant removal is a surgical procedure that some women choose for various reasons, such as medical complications, aesthetic dissatisfaction, or changes in personal preferences. In New York City, a bustling metropolis renowned for its world - class medical facilities, several hospitals stand out for their expertise in this area. This article will introduce you to the top 3 hospitals for silicone breast implant removal in New York City.

Why Do Women Choose Silicone Breast Implant Removal?

Before delving into the top hospitals, it's important to understand the common reasons why women opt for silicone breast implant removal:

• Medical Complications
  • Capsular Contracture: Scar tissue around the implant can harden and tighten, causing pain, distortion of the breast shape, and discomfort. The rate of capsular contracture is about 3 - 4%, and it increases gradually over the years.
  • Implant Rupture or Leakage: Silicone implants can rupture or leak over time, which may lead to pain, swelling, and changes in breast appearance. An MRI may be required to determine if a silicone implant has ruptured.
  • Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): A rare cancer associated with breast implants, primarily with certain textured implants. Symptoms may include pain or swelling around the breasts, and treatment usually involves surgical removal of the tumor, capsule, and breast implant.
  • Breast Implant Illness (BII): A wide variety of symptoms that patients may report after breast augmentation, including fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, and more. While the cause is uncertain, it may be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
• Aesthetic Reasons
  • Unsatisfactory Results: The implants may not have achieved the desired aesthetic outcome, such as unevenness, incorrect size, or an unnatural appearance.
  • Changes in Body Image: Over time, a woman's body image and aesthetic preferences may change, leading her to want to remove the implants.

Top 3 Hospitals for Silicone Breast Implant Removal in New York City

1. Practices Associated with Dr. Olivia Hutchinson

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon on the Upper East Side in NYC. As a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon, she focuses on cosmetic breast surgery. She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal in the city.

Reasons to Choose

• Expertise: With her extensive experience, Dr. Hutchinson can handle various implant - related concerns, from simple removals to complex cases involving complications like BIA - ALCL or severe capsular contracture.
• Patient - Centered Care: She takes the time to understand each patient's unique situation and goals, advising them on the best surgical options available and the best course of action to achieve their desired results. In some cases, she may recommend a secondary procedure like a breast lift to enhance the aesthetic outcome.
• Positive Patient Feedback: Patients have reported exceptional experiences with Dr. Hutchinson and her staff. The atmosphere is calming, and everything is super clean. Dr. Hutchinson makes patients feel comfortable, and the results are often amazing.

2. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice

Dr. Darrick Antell is a widely - regarded top New York plastic surgeon. He is known for his custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery and is experienced in removing existing silicone or saline implants from the body. He also performs en bloc capsulectomy when indicated and has dealt with the removal of recalled allergan textured breast implants due to their association with BIA - ALCL.

Reasons to Choose

• Renowned Expertise: Dr. Antell has been listed in magazines like Harper’s Bazaar as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. He has performed numerous custom breast removal surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons, demonstrating his high - level surgical skills and ability to achieve beautiful results.
• Comprehensive Consultation: During the initial consultation, he thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. He discusses the patient's desired outcome and creates a personalized surgical plan, which may include pairing the explant surgery with another procedure like a breast lift.
• State - of - the - Art Facility: Most patients prefer to have the procedure in his discreet, private operating room located across the street from Lenox Hill Hospital. The facility is fully accredited, designed for patient comfort, and equipped with the latest technology.

3. Dr. Steven Wallach's Practice

Dr. Steven Wallach offers breast implant removal services conveniently located to serve the areas of New York. He typically makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket and remove the implants, and also removes implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary.

Reasons to Choose

• Versatile Approach: Dr. Wallach can address both medical and cosmetic reasons for implant removal. He offers options such as implant replacement at the same time as removal if the patient desires, and can also guide patients through other breast enhancement options during the consultation.
• Detailed Consultation and Preparation: He takes the time to explain the procedure, techniques, and possible results to patients during the consultation. He also provides detailed information on preparation for the surgery, including terms related to breast implants like ptosis, deflation, capsulectomy, and explantation.
• Post - operative Support: After the surgery, he provides clear instructions on recovery, including activity restrictions and expected post - operative effects. His team is available to answer patients' questions throughout the recovery process.

What to Expect During the Silicone Breast Implant Removal Process

Consultation

The consultation is a crucial first step. Surgeons will evaluate your general health, medical history, and the current condition of your breasts. They will also discuss your reasons for wanting the implant removal and your desired outcome. It is important to be open and honest during this consultation, bringing any information you have about your existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. Surgeons may also recommend additional tests, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, depending on your situation.

Preparation

Before the surgery, you may be asked to stop taking certain medications, such as blood - thinners and anti - inflammatory drugs, for a specific period. You will also need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure and stay with you for at least 24 hours. In some cases, you may be required to obtain pre - operative clearance from another doctor.

Surgery

Silicone breast implant removal is usually performed under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or “twilight” anesthesia, and in some rare cases, only local anesthesia may be used. The surgeon will make an incision, usually using the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery if possible. The implant and, in some cases, the surrounding scar tissue will be removed. The incisions will then be closed with sutures, and a bandage or gauze will be placed over the breasts to aid in healing. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours, but it can take longer for more complex cases.

Recovery

After the surgery, you will recover in a post - operative suite while being monitored by a nurse. You may experience swelling, bruising, and soreness in the breast area. Pain medication will be provided to manage discomfort. Most patients can return home the same day as the procedure. You will need to follow the surgeon's post - operative instructions carefully, which may include wearing a support bra, avoiding strenuous activities for several weeks, and attending follow - up appointments. It may take several months for the final results to be visible, and the scars will gradually fade over time.

Comparison of the Top 3 Hospitals

Cost Considerations

The cost of silicone breast implant removal can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's experience, the location of the facility, and whether additional procedures are required. In general, the cost may include the surgeon's fee, anesthesia fees, operating room costs, and post - operative care. Some insurance companies may cover the cost of the surgery if it is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases of implant rupture or BIA - ALCL. However, in most cases where the removal is for cosmetic reasons, it is likely to be an out - of - pocket expense. It is important to discuss the cost with your surgeon during the consultation.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hospital for silicone breast implant removal in New York City is a significant decision. The top 3 hospitals mentioned - associated with Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, Dr. Darrick Antell, and Dr. Steven Wallach - each offer unique advantages in terms of expertise, patient - centered care, facilities, and post - operative support. Whether you are considering removal due to medical complications or aesthetic reasons, these hospitals can provide the high - quality care and professional services you need. Before making a decision, it is advisable to schedule consultations with multiple surgeons to discuss your specific situation and expectations.

Take the first step towards achieving your desired breast appearance and well - being. Contact one of these top hospitals today to schedule a consultation and start your journey to a new you!