Introduction
Breast implant removal is a significant decision that many women in New York City consider for various reasons, including medical complications, aesthetic preferences, or changes in lifestyle. In this article, we will explore the top three and top five hospitals in New York City that offer high - quality breast implant removal plastic surgery services. These hospitals are renowned for their experienced surgeons, state - of - the - art facilities, and comprehensive patient care.
Top Three Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City
1. Dr. Darrick E. Antell's Practice
Dr. Darrick E. Antell is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, which involves removing existing silicone or saline implants from the body. Women may choose to have breast implants removed for lifestyle, cosmetic, or medical reasons. When indicated, he also performs an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant.
- Surgeon's Expertise: Dr. Antell has over twenty years of experience and has performed more than ten thousand procedures. He is repeatedly listed on the best doctors lists for Town and Country, Vogue, and New York Magazine. He is also an official spokesperson for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and has memberships in many regional and national medical societies.
- Patient Referrals: Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which is a testament to the satisfaction of his patients. He has also performed custom breast removal surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons.
- Medical Condition Handling: He specializes in removing 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 also helps patients with other medical complications related to implants.
- Facility: He has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City. Most patients prefer 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 and equipped with the latest technology.
2. Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Columbia University is one of New York’s best hospitals and the world’s top medical centers. The plastic surgery division at Columbia has the experience that few other programs can match, and its mission is to use its many resources to deliver the highest quality care for anybody in need of a cosmetic or reconstructive procedure.
- Range of Services: Their plastic surgeons are proficient in multiple areas of specialization, ranging from routine, non - surgical cosmetic procedures to complex reconstructive operations and body contouring surgery after significant weight loss. They offer a comprehensive range of procedures related to breast implant removal, as well as other associated breast surgeries.
- Research - Driven: The division is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery. Their research includes studies related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and the study of bone substitutes, with a major focus on applications of gene therapy to wound healing.
- Team of Surgeons: The plastic surgery team consists of board - certified surgeons with diverse expertise. For example, Dr. Christine Rohde is a highly skilled clinician, researcher, and teacher, specializing in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, body contouring, cosmetic surgery, and breast, trauma, and cancer reconstruction.
3. New York Group for Plastic Surgery
The New York Group for Plastic Surgery provides effective solutions for breast - related concerns. They offer breast implant removal procedures and ensure that patients have the necessary information to make an educated choice about their bodies.
- Pre - operative Care: Before the breast implant removal procedure, they guide patients on steps such as avoiding certain medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, anti - inflammatory medications, and blood - thinning medications) and arranging for a post - operative escort. They also conduct an examination to determine the patient's breast health.
- Procedural Details: The surgeons, either Dr. Andrew Salzberg or Dr. Jordan Jacobs, administer either local or general anesthesia based on the patient's needs. The incisions for breast implant removal can be formed in one of three locations: the crease under the breast, around the areola, or vertically placed in the armpit. They also remove any excess skin or scar tissue around the nipples and reconstruct the area for a more natural appearance.
- Recovery Support: They provide post - procedure instructions on how to care for the incision sites, wear compression bras, take prescribed antibiotics, and apply cold compresses. They also inform patients about the expected recovery time, which is similar to that of initial breast augmentation surgery.
Top Five Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City
4. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC. She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal surgeries.
- Understanding Patient Concerns: She is well - versed in addressing both aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants. Aesthetic issues may include palpable or visible implants, rupture, leakage, or deflation, while medical issues can involve severe capsular contracture, chronic pain, BIA - ALCL, or breast implant illness (BII).
- Patient - Centered Approach: Dr. Hutchinson advises patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to help them achieve their goals. In some cases, a secondary procedure such as a breast lift may be recommended to achieve the best aesthetic results.
- Reputation: Patients have highly praised her and her staff for the exceptional experience, the calming atmosphere of the facility, and the amazing results of the surgeries.
5. Millennial Plastic Surgery
Dr. David Shokrian at Millennial Plastic Surgery works with patients to create the perfect balance of surgical and natural remedies so that patients feel comfortable in their bodies. Breast implant removal is a common procedure at this practice.
- Reasons for Removal: They understand the various reasons why women may want to remove their breast implants, such as changes in breast shape due to weight, hormone fluctuations or pregnancy, initial surgical errors, medical issues like infection, rupture, or implant - associated diseases, and cultural or cosmetic goal changes.
- Procedural Steps: Breast implant removal is usually done as an outpatient procedure. The process includes anesthesia (general anesthesia or intravenous sedation), making an incision under the breast or around/ below the areola, removing the implants and any present scar tissue, and closing the incisions with stitches or skin adhesions.
- Recovery and Cost: They provide detailed instructions on recovery, including wearing a compression garment, taking pain medication, and following specific activity restrictions. Regarding cost, while insurance may cover the procedure in some cases when it is deemed medically necessary, they also offer financing options.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Implant Removal
Surgeon's Experience and Reputation
The experience and reputation of the surgeon are crucial factors. Surgeons with many years of experience in breast implant removal are more likely to handle complex cases effectively. You can look at patient reviews, awards, and professional affiliations to gauge a surgeon's reputation. For example, Dr. Darrick Antell's inclusion in top - doctor lists and numerous patient referrals speak to his high standing in the field.
Range of Services
A hospital that offers a comprehensive range of services related to breast implant removal is beneficial. This includes handling various types of implants, different medical conditions associated with implants, and the option to combine breast implant removal with other procedures like breast lifts if needed. Columbia University's plastic surgery division, for instance, has a wide - range of expertise in multiple plastic surgery areas.
Facility and Technology
State - of - the - art facilities equipped with the latest technology can enhance the safety and effectiveness of the surgery. Dr. Antell's private operating room across from Lenox Hill Hospital is fully accredited and has the latest technology, ensuring patient comfort and optimal surgical outcomes.
Patient Care and Support
Good patient care from the initial consultation through the recovery process is essential. This includes pre - operative education, answering all patient questions, and providing post - operative support. The New York Group for Plastic Surgery offers detailed pre - and post - operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery for patients.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of breast implant removal can vary depending on several factors such as the facility, medical tests, and medications. Some insurance companies may cover the procedure if it is medically necessary. It's important to understand the cost breakdown and insurance coverage options before making a decision. Millennial Plastic Surgery provides financing options to help patients manage the cost.
Pre - operative and Post - operative Considerations
Pre - operative
Before the breast implant removal surgery, patients need to follow certain guidelines. This includes informing the surgeon about their medical history, current medications, and any allergies. Some medications that can interfere with the procedure, such as aspirin and blood - thinners, may need to be stopped a certain period before the surgery. Patients should also arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and stay with them for the first 24 hours. An examination may be conducted to ensure the breasts are healthy enough for the procedure.
Post - operative
After the surgery, patients will recover in a post - operative suite under the monitoring of nurses. They will be provided with pain relief medication. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia may be used to reduce discomfort. Patients will receive post - operative instructions on how to care for the incision sites, wear compression bras, and take prescribed antibiotics. They should expect some swelling, bruising, and soreness, which will gradually subside. It's important to follow the doctor's instructions regarding activity restrictions, such as avoiding vigorous exercise for a certain period and sleeping on the back to allow proper healing.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hospital for breast implant removal in New York City is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. The top three hospitals - Dr. Darrick E. Antell's practice, Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, and the New York Group for Plastic Surgery - and the top five hospitals, which also include Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's practice and Millennial Plastic Surgery, offer high - quality services, experienced surgeons, and comprehensive patient care. Each hospital has its own unique strengths, whether it's the surgeon's expertise, the range of services, or the quality of patient support. By taking into account factors such as surgeon experience, range of services, facility, patient care, and cost, patients can make an informed decision that is best for their needs.
If you are considering breast implant removal, we encourage you to reach out to these hospitals for a consultation. Schedule an appointment to discuss your specific situation and get all the information you need to make the right choice for your breast health and aesthetic goals.
