Introduction

Breast augmentation has been a popular cosmetic procedure for many years. However, some women may later decide to have their breast implants removed for various reasons, such as health concerns, cosmetic dissatisfaction, or aging implants. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals and surgeons specializing in breast implant removal. This article will explore the top three and top five facilities in the city that offer excellent quality breast implant removal services.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

There are multiple reasons why a woman might choose to have her breast implants removed. Health - related factors include complications like implant rupture, capsular contracture, breast implant illness (BII), and breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens and hardens, causing pain and distortion of the breast shape. BII refers to a wide variety of symptoms that patients may report after undergoing breast augmentation, such as fatigue, fever, and gastrointestinal complaints. BIA - ALCL is a rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that can occur in the scar tissue surrounding the implant.

Cosmetic reasons are also common. Some women may be unhappy with the size, shape, or position of their implants. For example, an implant may become palpable or visible, folded, rippled, or wrinkled. It may also move from its original position, causing breast asymmetry. As implants age, they may degrade or shift, leading to a less aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Types of Breast Implant Removal Surgeries

En Bloc Removal

This surgical procedure involves removing the entire implant, including the capsule that forms around it, in one piece. It is recommended for patients with capsular contracture or those removing implants due to health concerns. En bloc removal reduces the risk of rupturing or spilling silicone gel into the body during surgery. It requires a skilled surgeon who can make an incision around the perimeter of the capsule and carefully dissect it away from surrounding tissues until it can be removed intact. This technique minimizes the risk of contamination, reduces postoperative pain and discomfort, and ensures complete removal of all silicone gel or saline solution from inside the capsule.

Capsulectomy

Capsulectomy involves removing only the capsule that forms around an implant while leaving the implant itself in place. This method is typically recommended for patients who want to remove their implants due to cosmetic reasons or discomfort caused by capsular contracture but do not wish to undergo a more invasive surgery like en bloc removal. During the procedure, an incision is made around the perimeter of the capsule and then carefully dissected away from surrounding tissues until it can be removed intact. The surgeon will then inspect both sides of the removed capsule to ensure complete excision of all scar tissue. It is a less invasive procedure with potentially fewer risks and complications, but it may not be suitable for patients with severe capsular contracture or those removing implants due to health concerns.

Explantation with Mastopexy

This procedure involves removing the breast implant, excess skin, and lifting the breast tissue to create a more youthful appearance. It is recommended for patients who have experienced sagging or drooping of their breasts after having implants. An incision is made around the perimeter of the areola or underneath the breast fold. The implant is then removed along with any surrounding scar tissue. The surgeon will then lift the remaining breast tissue to create a more youthful appearance before closing the incisions. This technique addresses both cosmetic concerns related to sagging breasts and health concerns related to implant removal and avoids leaving behind excess skin that can lead to further sagging after surgery.

Explantation with Fat Transfer

This surgical option involves removing the implant and using the patient's own fat from another area of their body, such as thighs, hips, or abdomen, to reshape and enhance their breasts. It is recommended for patients who want to remove their implants but still desire some degree of breast augmentation. An incision is made around the perimeter of the areola or underneath the breast fold. The surgeon will then remove the implant along with any surrounding scar tissue before harvesting fat from another area of the body through liposuction techniques. The fat is then purified before being injected into the breast tissue to create a more natural - looking and fuller appearance. This technique avoids the need for additional implants or foreign materials in the body and reduces the risk of rejection or allergic reactions.

Top Three Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City

1. Zuckerman Plastic Surgery

Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman at Zuckerman Plastic Surgery offers breast implant removal and exchange procedures. The decision to undergo these procedures is deeply personal, and Dr. Zuckerman understands the changing needs and preferences of his patients. He performs the surgeries under general anesthesia, with the complexity and duration varying depending on the type of procedure (simple removal, removal with a lift, or exchange). His techniques aim to minimize scarring and optimize recovery. Post - operative care is crucial, and patients are provided with support to manage discomfort, wear a support bra, and avoid strenuous activities for several weeks. The clinic has experienced staff who guide patients through every step of the process, from the initial consultation to the final recovery.

2. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice

Dr. Darrick E. 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 offers custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, including the removal of the existing silicone or saline implants from the body. When indicated, he performs an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He also removes the recalled Allergan textured breast implants due to their association with BIA - ALCL. Dr. Antell has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but most patients prefer to have the procedure in his discreet, private operating room across the street from Lenox Hill Hospital. His facility is fully accredited, equipped with the latest technology, and his staff provides personalized care.

3. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC. With over 20 years of experience, she evaluates patients with breast implant - related concerns and performs breast implant removal procedures. She can address both functional and cosmetic issues related to breast implants. For example, she can handle problems like breast implant rupture, leakage, capsular contracture, and breast asymmetry. Dr. Hutchinson will advise patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to help them achieve their goals. In some cases, she may recommend a secondary procedure such as a breast lift to achieve the best aesthetic results.

Top Five Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City

4. Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice

Dr. Barry Weintraub performs breast implant removal and replacement surgeries. He believes in placing implants under the pectoralis - major muscle to create the most natural - looking result. He offers options such as replacing saline implants with more natural - feeling silicone gel implants or using autologous fat to replace lost volume. The doctor prefers to perform the surgeries in a state - of - the - art surgical center attached to his office at 800a Fifth Avenue. He takes a personalized approach, ensuring that patients understand the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes. His attention to detail and experience contribute to high - quality results.

5. Mount Sinai - New York

Mount Sinai has a team of highly qualified and talented board - certified plastic surgeons who offer a wide range of breast enhancement procedures, including breast implant removal. At the consultation, their plastic surgeons listen carefully to patients' goals and can help visualize the desired results using new technology developed specially for Mount Sinai by Microsoft and Touch MD. They can develop a personal breast enhancement plan that may include procedures such as breast augmentation, breast implant revision, breast lift, or breast reduction in addition to implant removal.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Implant Removal

Surgeon Qualifications

It is crucial to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast implant removal. Look for surgeons with credentials from the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and membership in professional organizations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Experienced surgeons are more likely to handle complications effectively and provide better outcomes.

Hospital or Facility Accreditation

Ensure that the hospital or surgical facility is fully accredited. Accreditation indicates that the facility meets certain standards of safety, quality, and patient care. This includes having proper equipment, trained staff, and adhering to strict medical protocols.

Patient Reviews

Online review platforms like RealSelf.com can provide valuable insights into the experiences of previous patients. Look for feedback on the surgeon's bedside manner, communication skills, and the overall satisfaction with the results. Positive reviews from multiple patients can be a good indicator of a high - quality service.

Range of Services

Consider a hospital or practice that offers a wide range of breast implant removal options, as well as the possibility of combining other procedures such as breast lift or fat transfer. This allows for a more personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals.

Cost

While cost should not be the sole deciding factor, it is still an important consideration. Obtain detailed cost estimates from different facilities, including surgeon fees, facility fees, anesthesia fees, and any post - operative care costs. Compare the costs along with the quality of service and the surgeon's experience.

Preparing for Breast Implant Removal Surgery

Consultation

Schedule a consultation with your chosen surgeon. During this consultation, discuss your reasons for wanting breast implant removal surgery, your medical history, and your expectations for the outcome. The surgeon will assess your current health status, including checking your blood pressure, heart rate, and overall physical condition. They may also order additional tests or imaging studies, such as an MRI or ultrasound, to get a more detailed assessment of your breast tissue and surrounding structures.

Lifestyle Changes

Stop smoking at least two weeks before the surgery, as smoking can increase the risk of complications during surgery and slow down the healing process. Avoid taking medications that can increase bleeding, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, for two weeks before the surgery. Your surgeon may also advise you to stop taking certain supplements or herbal remedies that could interfere with anesthesia or cause bleeding.

Arranging Post - operative Care

Since breast implant removal surgery is an outpatient procedure, arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery. Also, arrange for someone to stay with you for at least 24 hours after the surgery to help you with daily activities. Make sure you have comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and take off after the surgery, preferably loose - fitting clothing that does not rub against your incision sites.

What to Expect During and After Breast Implant Removal Surgery

During the Surgery

The implant removal procedure typically takes around 1 - 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case and whether any additional procedures are being performed. Anesthesia is used to ensure patient comfort. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the patient's medical history and preferences, and options may include local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision in the same location as the original breast augmentation incision to remove the implant. If there is any scar tissue or calcification around the implant, this will also be removed. The surgeon will then evaluate the remaining breast tissue to determine if any additional procedures are necessary, such as a breast lift or fat transfer to restore volume.

After the Surgery

After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where you will be closely monitored. You may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising in the days following the surgery. Your surgeon may prescribe pain medication to manage the discomfort and recommend wearing a compression garment around your chest area for several weeks to reduce swelling and promote healing. Apply ice packs to the affected area to help reduce swelling and relieve discomfort. Get plenty of rest and eat a healthy, balanced diet to promote healing. It is important to follow all post - operative instructions provided by your surgeon carefully. Attend all follow - up appointments so that your surgeon can monitor your progress and address any concerns that may arise. Most patients can expect to return to work and normal activities within 1 - 2 weeks, but it may take about four weeks for full recovery. However, patients who have had larger implants removed or those who have had additional procedures performed at the same time as their implant removal may require a longer recovery period.

Risks and Complications of Breast Implant Removal Surgery

Although breast implant removal surgery is generally considered safe, there are some risks and complications associated with it. Breast implant illness or implant illness is a concern. Some women may experience symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, and other issues after getting breast implants. Capsular contracture can also occur during or after the removal process, where scar tissue forms around the implant site and tightens. There are also concerns about cancer, although there is no conclusive evidence linking breast implants to cancer. However, there have been reports of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) in association with textured surface implants, but this type of cancer is extremely rare. Other common risks include bleeding, infection, and scarring. In rare cases, patients may experience complications such as damage to the surrounding tissue or nerve damage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, New York City offers a variety of excellent options for breast implant removal surgery. The top three hospitals - Zuckerman Plastic Surgery, Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice, and Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice - along with the additional two in the top five list (Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice and Mount Sinai - New York) provide high - quality services with experienced surgeons and modern facilities. When considering breast implant removal, it is essential to carefully evaluate your options based on factors such as surgeon qualifications, hospital accreditation, patient reviews, range of services, and cost. Preparing thoroughly for the surgery and following post - operative instructions are crucial for a successful recovery. Although there are risks associated with the surgery, choosing an experienced and specialized surgeon can help minimize these risks.

If you are considering breast implant removal, take the time to schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon at one of these top hospitals in New York City. By doing so, you can make an informed decision and achieve the best possible outcome for your breast health and aesthetic goals.