The top 4 hospitals for surgical removal of accessory breasts in New York City

When it comes to surgical removal of accessory breasts in New York City, there are several outstanding hospitals to consider. Accessory breast tissue can cause discomfort and self - consciousness for many individuals, and finding the right medical facility and surgeon is crucial for a successful outcome. Here are the top 4 hospitals known for their expertise in this area:

1. Preminger MD

Expertise in Accessory Breast Tissue Surgery

Dr. Preminger at Preminger MD is a well - known Manhattan plastic surgeon. She is highly empathetic to the struggles of patients with axillary breast tissue, also known as accessory breast tissue. Many patients, both men and women, often feel uncomfortable with their bodies due to these abnormal growths. The displaced mounds of tissue are typically benign and non - cancerous, which is a relief for patients.

Dr. Preminger offers various treatment options for axillary breast tissue, including coolsculpting, liposuction, or breast tissue removal surgery. A 2009 study of 51 patients published in the Journal of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reported high patient satisfaction rates after the surgery, with only two patients experiencing infection. This indicates the overall low risk and high effectiveness of the procedures performed at Preminger MD.

Surgical Procedure and Recovery

In the past, the removal of breast tissue was done through general open surgery, which left long and ugly scars. However, today, Dr. Preminger uses a minimally invasive method. A minimal incision is made, and the tumescent liposuction technique is used to aspirate the breast and fat tissue. If nipples or areolas are present, they are excised after the liposuction part of the procedure.

The recovery process has a well - defined timeline. The procedure usually takes 1 - 3 hours under local anesthesia, and it is an outpatient procedure. Common side effects include bruising, inflammation, lymphedema, and numbness. Most patients can return to work in as little as 1 week, although 3 weeks is ideal. They can resume light exercise at 1 week and strenuous activity at 4 - 6 weeks as directed. Swelling typically resolves in 2 weeks, and the full improvement is visible at six months.

After the surgery, Dr. Preminger prescribes Tylenol with codeine to help with the initial discomfort. Patients are advised to eat well, rest, and drink plenty of water. The original operation dressing can be changed after 48 hours, and a nurse can assist with this. Patients can shower at this point but should avoid baths, hot tubs, and soaps for another five days. The incision usually heals in about 10 days, after which normal grooming routines can resume.

2. NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue

Comprehensive Breast Surgery Services

NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue has a dedicated breast surgery team. Their breast surgeons manage and treat a wide range of patients, including those diagnosed with breast cancer, patients at increased risk of developing breast cancer based on family history or genetic mutations, and patients who need surgery for benign and high - risk lesions.

The hospital works in a multi - disciplinary manner with a team of doctors, including radiologists, pathologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. This ensures that every patient gets the latest treatment approaches to breast cancer care. Their goal is to support patients through the entire process, from diagnosis through surgery.

Operations Performed

• Excisional biopsies for benign tumors: This procedure is used to remove and examine suspicious benign growths in the breast.
• Mastectomies: There are different types of mastectomies, such as nipple - sparing mastectomies, which aim to remove all breast tissue while preserving the nipple and areola in selected cases, and regular mastectomies that remove the entire breast.
• Lumpectomies: A lumpectomy is a breast - conserving surgery that removes only the cancerous tissue along with a surrounding rim of normal tissue. It may be performed with savi scout localization (wireless removal of tumors) or with needle localization.
• Sentinel node biopsies: This procedure is used to determine if cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. The sentinel nodes, which are the first lymph nodes to receive cancer cells from breast tumors, are mapped, removed, and microscopically examined.
• Axillary node dissections: When cancer has spread to the axillary lymph nodes, these nodes are removed.
• Terminal duct excisions (for nipple discharge): This procedure is used to address abnormal nipple discharge.

Additional Services

The hospital also offers access to clinical trials, patient navigation, social work, genetic testing, tomosynthesis, MRI/MRI - guided biopsy, diep flap reconstruction/implants, psychological support, lymphedema treatment/physical therapy, nutrition, and radiation oncology. The breast surgery team at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue consists of highly qualified doctors, such as Kathie - Ann Joseph, MD, and Erica Friedman, MD, who are board - certified by the American Board of Surgery.

3. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice

Renowned Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Darrick Antell is a top - new - york plastic surgeon 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. He has an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results, having performed custom breast removal surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons.

Breast Implant Removal

Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. Women may choose to have breast implants removed for various reasons, such as lifestyle, cosmetic, or medical reasons. He also performs an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant when indicated. In addition, he removes 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).

Patient Selection and Consultation

Anyone in good health who wishes to have her existing implants removed is likely a candidate for explant surgery. Ideal candidates include those experiencing medical complications related to the implants, those unhappy with the result of their original breast augmentation and wanting to return to their natural breast size, and those with textured implants recalled by the FDA and experiencing symptoms of BIA - ALCL.

During the initial consultation, Dr. Antell thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health and medical history, assesses the current condition of the breasts, and discusses any symptoms the patient may be experiencing. He goes through the procedure, the risks, and the recovery in detail to ensure the patient is fully informed. It is beneficial for the patient to bring any information about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery to the appointment.

Surgical Procedure and Recovery

The breast implant removal surgery is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or “twilight” anesthesia. A board - certified anesthesiologist monitors the patient throughout the procedure. If possible, Dr. Antell removes the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. When the implant and scar tissue are removed simultaneously, it is called en - bloc resection.

After the surgery, patients recover in Dr. Antell’s state - of - the - art recovery suite. The procedure is an outpatient one, and patients can return home the same day. They may feel tired or sore initially, and it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. Most of the swelling and bruising will fade in the first few weeks, but it may take several months before the final results are visible.

4. NewYork - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital

Oncologic Breast Surgery Expertise

Surgeons at NewYork - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital are highly skilled in oncologic breast surgery. They perform procedures such as sentinel lymph node biopsy, partial mastectomy, and mastectomy. The hospital offers advanced surgical techniques for breast surgery that yield optimal cosmetic results without compromising the excellence of the cancer surgery.

They achieve optimal cosmetic results in close coordination with their reconstructive surgeons through breast conservation surgery, nipple - sparing mastectomy, or skin - sparing mastectomy. For women undergoing surgery for benign disease, the cosmetic outcome is also taken into consideration along with the treatment.

Patient - Centered Care

The hospital also provides consultative second - opinion services. All physicians at NewYork - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital are on the faculty of Weill Cornell Medical College. This allows patients to experience a high level of care in a community - hospital setting, similar to that found in a leading academic medical center.

Comparison of the Four Hospitals

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Accessory Breast Surgery

Surgeon Expertise

The experience and reputation of the surgeon are of utmost importance. A highly skilled surgeon is more likely to perform the surgery successfully with fewer complications. You can check the surgeon's board certifications, years of experience, and patient reviews. For example, Dr. Preminger at Preminger MD has a long - standing reputation for her work in axillary breast tissue removal, and Dr. Darrick Antell is widely recognized as a top breast plastic surgeon.

Surgical Techniques

Modern and minimally invasive surgical techniques can lead to better cosmetic results and shorter recovery times. For instance, Preminger MD uses a minimally invasive method for axillary breast tissue removal, which reduces scarring compared to traditional open - surgery methods.

Hospital Facilities

The quality of the hospital's facilities can impact your overall experience. State - of - the - art equipment and a clean, comfortable environment are essential. Dr. Antell's private operating room is equipped with the latest technology and is designed for patient comfort.

Patient Support

Comprehensive patient support, including pre - surgery consultations, post - surgery care instructions, and follow - up appointments, is crucial. Hospitals like NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue offer patient navigation, social work, and psychological support, which can be very helpful during the entire surgical process.

Cost and Insurance

Consider the cost of the surgery and whether your insurance will cover it. Some hospitals may offer financing options or work with your insurance provider to ensure affordability. It is important to have a clear understanding of the financial aspects before making a decision.

Preparing for Accessory Breast Surgery

Medical Consultation

Schedule a consultation with the surgeon. During this appointment, the surgeon will ask about your medical history, perform a physical examination, and discuss your goals for the surgery. They will also evaluate your suitability for the procedure and answer any questions you may have.

Medical Tests

You may need to undergo certain medical tests, such as blood tests, mammograms, or MRIs, depending on the surgeon's recommendation. These tests help the surgeon understand your overall health and the specific characteristics of your accessory breast tissue.

Lifestyle Changes

Your surgeon may advise you to make some lifestyle changes before the surgery. This could include quitting smoking, if you are a smoker, as smoking can affect the healing process. You may also be asked to avoid certain medications, vitamins, or supplements that could increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.

Arrangements at Home

Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and assist you during the initial days of recovery. Stock up on groceries, prepare meals in advance, and make sure your living environment is clean and comfortable.

Recovery and Aftercare

Immediate Post - Surgery

After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area. You may feel groggy from the anesthesia, and there may be some pain and discomfort. The surgeon will prescribe pain medications to help manage the pain. You will be given instructions on how to care for the incision site, such as keeping it clean and dry.

Follow - up Appointments

You will need to attend follow - up appointments with the surgeon. These appointments are important for the surgeon to monitor your healing progress, check for any complications, and remove any stitches if necessary.

Physical Activity

You will need to gradually resume physical activity. Light exercise can usually be started within a week or two, but strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks as directed by the surgeon. It is important to listen to your body and not overdo it during the recovery period.

Emotional Well - being

Undergoing surgery can be emotionally challenging. It is normal to experience a range of emotions during the recovery process. Seek support from family, friends, or a mental health professional if needed. Many hospitals also offer psychological support services for patients.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hospital for the surgical removal of accessory breasts in New York City is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your health and well - being. The four hospitals mentioned - Preminger MD, NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue, Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice, and NewYork - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital - each have their own strengths in terms of surgeon expertise, surgical techniques, patient support, and other services.

When making your decision, carefully consider factors such as surgeon reputation, surgical methods, hospital facilities, and the level of patient support offered. By doing thorough research and consulting with the appropriate medical professionals, you can make an informed choice that suits your specific needs.

If you are considering accessory breast surgery, we encourage you to reach out to these hospitals to schedule a consultation. Take the time to ask questions, understand the procedure, and ensure that you are comfortable with the surgeon and the hospital. This will help you embark on a successful surgical journey and achieve the best possible results.