Introduction
Breast implant removal has become a significant consideration for many women in New York City. Whether due to medical complications, changes in personal preferences, or concerns about long - term health, the demand for high - quality breast implant removal procedures is on the rise. In this article, we will explore the top ten hospitals or medical practices in New York City that are known for their excellence in breast augmentation prosthesis removal.
Top Surgeons and Their Practices
Dr. Darrick E. Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a premier breast surgeon in NYC. He is widely regarded as being among the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, removing existing silicone or saline implants from the body. He also has the expertise to perform an en bloc capsulectomy when needed, which involves removing the tissue that has grown around the breast implant.
He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as being among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, a testament to his outstanding results. He has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but most patients prefer to have the procedure in his private operating room near Lenox Hill Hospital. The facility is state - of - the - art and fully accredited, designed for patient comfort and discretion.
Candidates for breast implant removal with Dr. Antell include those experiencing medical complications related to the implants, those unhappy with the result of their original breast augmentation, and those with textured implants recalled by the FDA and experiencing symptoms of Bia - ALCL. During the consultation, Dr. Antell thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. He also provides detailed information about the procedure, risks, and recovery process.
Dr. Barry Weintraub
Dr. Barry Weintraub offers breast implant removal and replacement procedures. Breast implant removal (explant) can be done to change the size, location, or type of implants, or to address concerns about breast implant illness (BII). He also replaces implants with more natural - feeling, - looking, and - acting ones, or with autologous fat. In cases of capsular contracture or implants originally placed over the pectoralis - major muscle, he can reposition the implants under the muscle for a more natural result.
Dr. Weintraub's patients appreciate his aesthetic sense and meticulous attention to detail. He always places implants under the pectoralis - major muscle for a natural look and feel. His consultation process is comprehensive, where he listens to the patient's needs and desires and helps them make an informed decision. He prefers to perform breast implant removal and replacement in his hospital - grade, state - of - the - art surgical center attached to his office at 800a Fifth Avenue.
The best candidates for his procedures are well - balanced, in good general health, and have realistic expectations. They should be motivated to make the change, able to pause their daily responsibilities for the procedure, and have the financial means for elective cosmetic surgery.
Dr. Steven Wallach
Dr. Steven Wallach performs breast implant removal surgery. He usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket created for the implants and removes them. He can also remove implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants. A good candidate for his procedure is someone who is healthy and desires to have their implants removed. Those with medical issues may require medical clearance from their primary care physician.
Benefits of the procedure can be both medical, such as addressing implant rupture or capsular contracture, and non - medical, like changing aesthetic preferences. During the consultation, he will discuss the options and techniques available for the procedure and which will provide the best results with the least amount of scarring.
Recovery after the procedure typically involves swelling and bruising around the breasts, and patients need a caregiver for the first day. Most patients can return to light activity within three to five days, but should avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC, especially on the Upper East Side. She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal. She can address both aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants.
Aesthetic issues may include a palpable or visible implant, implant rupture, movement of the implant from its original position, capsular contracture, breast asymmetry, unsightly scars, and nipple or areola problems. Medical issues may involve severe capsular contracture, chronic pain, Bia - ALCL, BII, infection, and bleeding.
Dr. Hutchinson will advise patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to achieve their goals. In some cases, a secondary procedure like a breast lift may be necessary for the best aesthetic results. She is a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon who is dedicated to ensuring the finest surgical results for her patients.
Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
The breast reconstruction center of nyc based in Manhattan, NY, has a top - rated breast surgery team highly trained in breast implant removal surgery. They are world - renowned for their advanced breast implants removal techniques. The center's board - certified plastic surgeons offer breast implants removal surgery and replacement to help patients achieve their desired chest aesthetic.
They perform various 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. The surgery is performed at their state - of - the - art fully accredited surgical suite, and it takes about 1 - 3 hours under general anesthesia. Patients can expect swelling and tenderness to subside within six to eight weeks.
Dr. Maura Reinblatt
Dr. Maura Reinblatt is a board - certified plastic surgeon who offers breast implant removal surgery in NYC, serving patients in NYC, Westchester, and White Plains. The reasons for breast implant removal with her can be diverse, including dissatisfaction with the appearance or feel of the implants, complications like capsular contracture or implant rupture, or the desire to return to the natural breast size or shape.
She offers advanced techniques such as en bloc capsulectomy and open capsulotomy to address medical issues associated with breast implants. The breast implant removal procedure is an outpatient surgery that typically lasts one to three hours under general anesthesia. After surgery, the recovery process is influenced by factors such as the extent of the procedure and individual patient health.
Ideal candidates for her procedures are those in good overall health, non - smokers or willing to quit, and experiencing discomfort, dissatisfaction, or medical complications related to their breast implants.
New York Group for Plastic Surgery
The New York Group for Plastic Surgery, with surgeons Dr. Andrew Salzberg and Dr. Jordan Jacobs, offers breast implant removal procedures. A breast explant is performed to remove breast implants and some or all of the surrounding scar capsules. Common reasons for the procedure include removing leaking or ruptured implants, addressing pain or other complications, replacing damaged implants, improving aesthetics, and removing capsular contracture.
Before the procedure, patients need to take certain steps such as avoiding specific medications and arranging for a driver. The surgery can be done under local or general anesthesia. After the procedure, patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, but most can resume light activities within a week and more vigorous activity in about six weeks.
Zuckerman Plastic Surgery
At Zuckerman Plastic Surgery in New York City, Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman offers breast implant removal and exchange procedures. Patients may choose to have their breast implants removed for health concerns, cosmetic preferences, or due to aging implants. For those not wanting to remove the implants entirely, implant exchange is an option to adjust the size or type of implants.
The procedures are performed under general anesthesia, and Dr. Zuckerman is meticulous in minimizing scarring and optimizing recovery. Post - operative care includes managing discomfort, wearing a support bra, and avoiding strenuous activities for several weeks. Most patients can return to work within one to two weeks but should avoid heavy lifting and intense physical activity for up to six weeks.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Medical Reasons
- Implant Rupture: Both silicone and saline implants can rupture. In the case of saline implants, the breast will deflate as the saline solution leaks out. For silicone implants, an MRI may be required to determine if there is a rupture. A ruptured implant can cause pain and changes in the appearance of the breast, and it is a common reason for implant removal.
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens. It can cause pain, distortion of the breast shape, and make the breast feel firm. The rate of capsular contracture is relatively small, about 3 - 4%, but it can increase gradually over the years.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (Bia - ALCL): This is a rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. It is primarily associated with certain types of textured breast implants, and symptoms may include pain, swelling, or a change in the size or shape of the breast. Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the implants and surrounding scar tissue.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): BII refers to a wide variety of symptoms that patients may experience after breast augmentation. These symptoms can include fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression, or anxiety. While the exact cause of BII is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
- Infection and Bleeding: Infections can occur years after the initial breast augmentation surgery, and bleeding can also be a complication. These issues can cause pain, swelling, and other health problems, necessitating implant removal.
Non - Medical Reasons
- Change in Aesthetic Preferences: Over time, a woman's aesthetic preferences may change. She may no longer like the size, shape, or feel of her breast implants and may wish to return to her natural breast size or have different - looking implants.
- Lifestyle Changes: Some women may find that their breast implants are not suitable for their current lifestyle. For example, active individuals may find that larger implants hinder their physical activities.
Procedures for Breast Implant Removal
En Bloc Capsulectomy
This procedure involves removing the implant and the entire surrounding scar capsule in one piece. It is often recommended for patients with Bia - ALCL or capsular contracture. By removing the entire capsule, the surgeon aims to minimize the risk of leaving behind any problematic tissue that could cause complications or a recurrence of symptoms.
Partial Capsulectomy
With a partial capsulectomy, the surgeon removes the breast implant material and trims or shapes some of the capsule material to create the desired chest contour. This procedure is suitable for patients who do not need the entire capsule removed but want to improve the appearance of their breasts.
Total Capsulectomy
A total capsulectomy consists of removing the implant, the capsule, and any remaining scar tissue. This is a more extensive procedure and is typically used in cases where there is a significant amount of scarring or other complications.
Pre - operative Considerations
Consultation
The consultation is a crucial step in the breast implant removal process. During the consultation, the surgeon will evaluate the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. They will also discuss the patient's reasons for wanting the implants removed and their desired outcome. The surgeon will explain the different procedures available, the risks involved, and the expected recovery process. Patients should come prepared with questions and be honest about their medical history, current medications, and any smoking habits.
Medical Clearance
Patients may need to obtain medical clearance from their primary care physician, especially if they have any underlying medical conditions. This is to ensure that the patient is healthy enough to undergo the surgery and to minimize the risk of complications.
Preparation for Surgery
- Medication: Patients should avoid taking medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain blood - thinning medications, for a specified period before the surgery. They should also inform their surgeon about any other medications, vitamins, or supplements they are taking.
- Imaging: Depending on the patient's situation, the surgeon may order imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI to assess the condition of the implants and the surrounding tissue.
- Arrangements: Patients should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and to assist them during the initial recovery period. They may also need to take time off work or other responsibilities to allow for proper healing.
Post - operative Recovery
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, patients will be monitored in a recovery room until they are awake and stable. They may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising around the surgical site. Pain medication will be prescribed to manage the pain. Some patients may have drainage tubes to remove excess fluid, which will be removed after a few days.
Short - term Recovery
Most patients can return home on the same day as the surgery if it is an outpatient procedure. They should rest and avoid strenuous activities for the first few days. They will be given instructions on how to care for the incision sites, including keeping them clean and dry, and wearing a compression bra. It is normal to experience some numbness in the breast area, which typically fades over time.
Patients can usually resume light activities within a few days, but they should avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks. They will need to follow up with their surgeon regularly to monitor the 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. The scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade. Most patients do not require a breast lift after surgery, as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally. However, in some cases, a secondary procedure may be necessary to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several excellent hospitals and surgeons in New York City that specialize in breast augmentation prosthesis removal. Whether for medical or non - medical reasons, patients have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to having their breast implants removed. It is important for patients to do their research, choose a qualified and experienced surgeon, and have a thorough consultation to understand the procedure, risks, and recovery process. By making an informed decision, patients can achieve the best possible results and regain confidence in their bodies.
If you are considering breast implant removal in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top surgeons or facilities mentioned in this article. Take the time to discuss your concerns and goals, and ask any questions you may have. With the right medical team by your side, you can take the first step towards a new and comfortable phase of your life.
