Introduction
New York City, a hub of medical excellence, is home to numerous hospitals and clinics that offer top - notch breast implant removal and recovery plastic surgery services. This article aims to explore the top three hospitals for this specific procedure, providing you with detailed information about their services, expertise, and what you can expect during the process.
Understanding Breast Implant Removal and Recovery
Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, is a procedure that many women consider for various reasons. Some may have concerns about their health, such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, or breast implant illness. Others may simply want a change in their appearance or to return to their natural breast size. Recovery from breast implant removal involves careful post - operative care, including managing pain, swelling, and ensuring proper healing.
Let's first understand the general aspects of breast implant removal before delving into the top hospitals:
- Reasons for removal: These can range from medical issues to cosmetic preferences. Medical issues include the development of Bia - ALCL (Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma), capsular contracture, and implant rupture. Cosmetic reasons may involve a change in body image or dissatisfaction with the results of the initial augmentation.
- Procedure types: There are different techniques for breast implant removal, such as simple explant, where only the implant is removed, and en - bloc capsulectomy, which involves removing the implant along with the surrounding scar tissue capsule.
- Recovery process: After the surgery, patients typically experience some pain, swelling, and bruising. The recovery time can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure, but most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks. Post - operative care includes taking prescribed medications, wearing a support bra, and avoiding strenuous activities.
The Top Three Hospitals in New York City
1. Weill Cornell Medicine
Weill Cornell Medicine is a renowned medical institution in New York City that offers comprehensive cosmetic breast surgery services, including breast implant removal and recovery.
Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine?
- Exemplary Surgeons: The plastic and reconstructive surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine are leaders in their field. They have extensive experience in performing breast implant removal surgeries and are equipped to handle complex cases. The surgeons work closely with patients from the initial consultation to understand their goals and develop a personalized treatment plan.
- Partnership with New York - Presbyterian: Weill Cornell Medicine partners with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S. This partnership ensures that patients have access to state - of - the - art facilities, advanced medical technologies, and a team of experts from multiple specialties.
- Individualized Care: The surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine understand that every patient's body is unique. They take the time to assess each patient's needs and perform surgeries that are tailored to achieve a natural look. The team also helps patients of all races, ethnicities, genders, and gender identities feel confident in their appearance.
- Focus on Comfort: The medical team at Weill Cornell Medicine prioritizes the comfort of patients throughout the entire process. Before the surgery, patients have the opportunity to ask questions and understand the procedure thoroughly. In the state - of - the - art surgical suites, the latest anesthetics and medications are used to help patients recover more quickly and heal faster. After the surgery, the care team manages pain with medication and provides detailed instructions on self - care during the recovery period.
Services Offered
Weill Cornell Medicine offers a full range of cosmetic breast surgery options, including breast reduction surgery, breast lift surgery (mastopexy), breast augmentation with implants, and DIEP flap surgery. In the context of breast implant removal, they are well - versed in handling different types of cases, whether it's a simple explant or a more complex en - bloc capsulectomy.
Contact Information
Weill Cornell Medicine has multiple locations in the Upper East Side of New York City. You can contact them at:
- 525 East 68th Street, Starr 8, New York, NY 10065. Call (646) 962 - 4210
- 425 East 61st Street, 10th floor, New York, NY 10065. Call (646) 962 - 4210
To request an appointment, you can fill out their online form, and their staff will help you find the physician who best fits your individual medical needs.
2. Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Columbia University's plastic and reconstructive surgery department is another top - tier option for breast implant removal and recovery in New York City. As one of New York’s best hospitals and a world - renowned medical center, it has the expertise and resources to provide high - quality care.
Why Choose Columbia University?
- Experienced Surgeons: Each of the plastic surgeons on the clinical staff at Columbia is proficient in multiple areas of specialization. They have experience in handling both routine and complex reconstructive and cosmetic procedures, including breast implant removal. The surgeons are actively involved in clinical and laboratory research, which allows them to stay at the forefront of the latest advancements in plastic surgery.
- Diverse Services: The department offers a wide range of plastic surgery programs and services. In addition to breast implant removal, they provide cosmetic care such as ear and eyelid lifts, breast augmentation, and tummy tucks. Their reconstructive care includes breast reconstruction after breast cancer, skin lesion excision, and reconstructive surgery for the nose and ears.
- Research - Driven Approach: The plastic surgery research laboratory at Columbia is conducting numerous research studies related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and the study of bone substitutes. A major focus is on applications of gene therapy to wound healing, which can potentially improve the recovery process for patients undergoing breast implant removal surgery.
- Comprehensive Care: Columbia offers specialized care in areas such as cleft palate/cleft lip care and orthoplastic surgery care. In the context of breast implant removal, the team provides compassionate and personalized post - surgical care to help patients reclaim their physical and emotional well - being.
Services Offered
The cosmetic procedures offered at Columbia include brow lift, chin surgery, face lift, Botox injection, injectable fillers, cosmetic nose surgery, cosmetic ear surgery, cosmetic eyelid surgery, neck lift, breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift, liposuction, arm lift surgery, body contouring after weight loss, tummy tuck, and scar revision surgery. The reconstructive procedures include abdominal wall reconstruction, breast reconstruction after mastectomy, cleft lip and palate repair, craniofacial surgery, extremity reconstruction, microsurgery, otoplasty reconstruction, rhinoplasty, skin lesion excision, and skin – Moh's procedure.
Contact Information
To get in touch with one of their plastic surgeons, you can call (212) 305 - 3103 or request an appointment online. They have multiple offices in New York City, including in Washington Heights, Midtown, East Side, Westchester, and New Jersey.
3. Darrick Antell, MD - Manhattan Implant Removal
Dr. Darrick Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon who is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the area and worldwide. His practice focuses on custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery.
Why Choose Dr. Darrick Antell?
- Exceptional Experience: Dr. Antell has over twenty years of experience and has performed more than ten thousand procedures. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which is a testament to his surgical skills and the quality of his results.
- Specialized in Breast Implant Removal: He performs custom breast implant removal surgeries, including en - bloc capsulectomy when indicated. He also specializes in removing the allergan textured breast implants recalled by the FDA due to their association with Bia - ALCL.
- State - of - the - Art Facility: Dr. Antell has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but most patients prefer the procedure to take place in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from Lenox Hill Hospital. The outpatient surgery center is fully accredited, equipped with the latest technology, and designed for patient comfort.
- Personalized Consultation: During the initial consultation, Dr. Antell thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. He has an open and honest conversation with the patient to understand their desired outcome and develops a personalized surgical plan.
Services Offered
Dr. Antell's main service is breast implant removal. He can also perform additional procedures in conjunction with explant surgery, such as a breast lift (mastopexy) to achieve a more plump and rounded appearance if desired by the patient.
Contact Information
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Antell, you can call his office at (212) - 988 - 4040.
Comparison of the Three Hospitals
Hospital | Expertise | Services | Facility | Contact Information |
---|---|---|---|---|
Weill Cornell Medicine | Exemplary plastic and reconstructive surgeons; partnership with New York - Presbyterian | Full range of cosmetic breast surgery options including breast implant removal, reduction, lift, augmentation, and DIEP flap surgery | State - of - the - art surgical suites; focus on patient comfort | 525 East 68th Street, Starr 8, NY 10065; (646) 962 - 4210 425 East 61st Street, 10th floor, NY 10065; (646) 962 - 4210 |
Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery | Experienced surgeons proficient in multiple areas; research - driven approach | Wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures including breast implant removal, facial surgeries, and body contouring | Multiple offices in different locations; access to advanced research facilities | Call (212) 305 - 3103; Multiple office locations in NYC, Westchester, and NJ |
Darrick Antell, MD - Manhattan Implant Removal | Exceptionally experienced in breast implant removal; specialized in en - bloc capsulectomy and removal of recalled implants | Custom breast implant removal; optional breast lift in conjunction with explant | Discreet, private operating room near Lenox Hill Hospital; fully accredited outpatient center | Call (212) - 988 - 4040 |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital
When choosing a hospital for breast implant removal and recovery plastic surgery in New York City, several factors should be considered:
- Surgeon's Expertise: Look for a surgeon who has extensive experience in breast implant removal surgeries, especially in handling cases similar to yours. Check their board certifications and any awards or recognition they have received.
- Hospital Reputation: Research the hospital's reputation for providing high - quality care, patient satisfaction, and safety. You can look for online reviews, patient testimonials, and rankings.
- Range of Services: Consider whether the hospital offers additional services that may be relevant to your needs, such as breast lift or reconstruction in case you require them in the future.
- Facility and Technology: Ensure that the hospital has modern and well - equipped facilities. Advanced technology can contribute to better surgical outcomes and a more comfortable recovery process.
- Cost and Insurance: Understand the cost of the procedure and whether your insurance will cover it. Some procedures may be covered if they are medically necessary, while cosmetic procedures are usually not covered.
Preparing for Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Regardless of which hospital you choose, there are some general steps you can take to prepare for breast implant removal surgery:
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation with your chosen surgeon. During this consultation, be honest about your medical history, any current medications or supplements you are taking, and your expectations for the surgery.
- Medical Tests: Your surgeon may recommend certain medical tests, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, to assess the condition of your breasts and implants.
- Medication and Lifestyle Changes: Stop taking medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood - thinners, as directed by your surgeon. You may also need to quit smoking if you are a smoker, as smoking can delay the healing process.
- Arrange for Support: Since breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, you will need someone to drive you home after the surgery and assist you during the first few days of recovery.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery process after breast implant removal is an important part of achieving the best results. Here are some general guidelines:
- Pain Management: Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort after the surgery. Take the medication as directed and report any excessive pain or side effects to your doctor.
- Wound Care: Follow your doctor's instructions on how to care for the incision sites. Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid exposing the incisions to direct sunlight until they are fully healed.
- Support Bra: Wear a support bra as recommended by your doctor. This can help reduce swelling and provide support to your breasts during the healing process.
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise for the first few weeks after surgery. Gradually increase your activity level as you heal, but follow your doctor's advice.
- Follow - up Appointments: Attend all follow - up appointments with your surgeon. These appointments are important for monitoring your healing progress and addressing any concerns you may have.
Conclusion
New York City offers some of the best options for breast implant removal and recovery plastic surgery. Weill Cornell Medicine, Columbia University Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, and Darrick Antell, MD - Manhattan Implant Removal are three top - notch institutions that provide high - quality care, experienced surgeons, and state - of - the - art facilities. When considering breast implant removal, it is crucial to do thorough research, choose a hospital and surgeon that meet your needs, and follow the pre - operative and post - operative instructions carefully.
If you are considering breast implant removal in New York City, we encourage you to take the next step. Contact one of these top hospitals or surgeons for a consultation. This will give you the opportunity to discuss your specific situation, ask questions, and make an informed decision about your procedure. Don't hesitate to share this article with others who may be interested in breast implant removal, and explore related topics on breast health and plastic surgery to expand your knowledge.