Breast Prosthesis Removal Plastic Surgery in New York City: Top Hospitals and Pricing
Introduction
New York City is a hub for top - notch plastic surgery, especially when it comes to breast prosthesis removal. Whether due to medical complications, lifestyle changes, or simply a change in aesthetic preferences, many individuals seek high - quality breast prosthesis removal services. In this article, we'll explore the top three hospitals for this procedure in New York City and the new standards for pricing and charges.
Why Breast Prosthesis Removal?
There are several reasons why someone might choose to have their breast prostheses removed. Medical issues such as breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma occurring in the scar tissue surrounding the implant, can be a significant factor. Textured breast implants have been associated with a higher rate of BIA - ALCL, leading the FDA to recall specific textured implants. Symptoms of BIA - ALCL include pain or swelling around the breasts and changes in breast size or shape.
Lifestyle changes can also play a role. Some individuals may no longer feel comfortable with the presence of breast implants or may want to return to their natural breast size. In some cases, patients may experience discomfort, pain, or capsular contracture (tight scar tissue around an implant), which necessitates removal.
Top Three Hospitals for Breast Prosthesis Removal in New York City
1. Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Columbia University is one of New York's best hospitals and a world - renowned medical center. Its plastic surgery division has extensive experience in both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including breast prosthesis removal.
The clinical staff at Columbia consists of plastic surgeons proficient in multiple areas of specialization. They are at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery. The division offers a range of services related to breast care, such as breast reconstruction after breast cancer, which indicates their high - level expertise in breast - related procedures.
The hospital's breast cancer reconstructive surgery program is dedicated to empowering individuals who have undergone breast cancer surgery to reclaim their physical and emotional well - being. This holistic approach also extends to breast prosthesis removal, where they focus on not only the physical aspect of the surgery but also the patient's overall psychological recovery.
Contact Information: Call (212) 305 - 3103 or request an appointment online. They have multiple office locations in New York, including Washington Heights, Midtown, East Side, Westchester, and a New Jersey office.
2. Dr. Darrick Antell's Practice
Dr. Darrick Antell is a top - notch plastic surgeon widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the New York area and worldwide. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery and is known for his exceptional surgical skills and beautiful results.
Dr. Antell has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. He also performs en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant when indicated. He has removed the recalled Allergan textured breast implants due to their association with BIA - ALCL.
Most patients prefer to have the procedure in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. His facility is fully accredited, equipped with the latest technology, and his staff offers personalized care.
Contact Information: Call the office at (212) - 988 - 4040 to schedule a consultation.
3. Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice
Dr. Barry Weintraub is known for his expertise in breast implant removal and replacement. He always places implants under the pectoralis - major muscle to create the most natural - looking result. His aesthetic is sophisticated and reflects understated elegance.
He has privileges at multiple hospitals in New York City but prefers to perform procedures in his hospital - grade, state - of - the - art surgical center attached to his office at 800a Fifth Avenue. The center offers the utmost in medical and plastic - surgical care with board - certified anesthesiologists and fully licensed operating - room staff.
Dr. Weintraub believes in patient - centered care and takes the time to understand each patient's specific needs and desires. He is also known for handling complex redos of surgeries performed by other offices, which demonstrates his high - level skill and experience.
Contact Information: Call the office for a private consultation to discuss breast implant removal and replacement.
The New Standard for Price and Charge
The cost of breast implant removal and replacement in New York can vary significantly depending on the facility and the specific components of the procedure.
Cost at Surgery Centers vs. Outpatient Hospitals
According to Sidecar Health, the average cash price for breast implant removal and replacement care in New York is $9,455 at a surgery center versus $16,596 at an outpatient hospital. While surgery centers may offer fewer complimentary services and a more limited range of support services compared to outpatient hospitals, they can save you around 43% on the cost of the procedure.
| Facility Type | Average Cash Price |
|---|---|
| Surgery Center | $9,455 |
| Outpatient Hospital | $16,596 |
Components of the Cost
The cost of the procedure includes various components such as provider fees, facility fees, prescriptions, and anesthesia costs. At a surgery center, a common breast implant removal and replacement includes:
| Component | Units | Average Cash Price |
|---|---|---|
| General Surgeon Visit (First time visit) | 1 | $144 |
| Provider Fee to Insert Breast Prosthesis (Bilateral) | 1 | $2,162 |
| Provider Fee for Breast Implant Removal (Bilateral) | 1 | $1,128 |
| Surgery Center Fee for Breast Implant Removal | 1 | $1,613 |
| Surgery Center Fee to Insert Breast Prosthesis | 1 | $3,162 |
| Prescription (Hydrocodone - Acetaminophen) | 30 | $18 |
| Anesthesiologist Fee to be "Put Under" for Procedure (Level 3) | 1 | $232 |
| Anesthesiologist Time to be "Put Under" for Procedure (Per minute) | 431 | $994 |
At an outpatient hospital, the cost structure is similar, but the facility fees are higher. For example, the outpatient hospital fee for breast implant removal (Level 1) is $4,367, and the fee to insert breast prosthesis (Level 2) is $7,550.
Factors Affecting the Cost
Several factors can affect the cost of breast prosthesis removal and replacement. These include the surgeon's training and expertise, the complexity of the procedure, the type of implants used (if any replacement is involved), and the length of the surgery. A more experienced surgeon with a high - success rate may charge more for their services. If the procedure is complex, such as when there is capsular contracture or a need for en bloc resection, the cost may also increase.
What to Expect During the Procedure
During breast implant removal surgery, the surgeon will make an incision either around the nipple or under the lower fold of the breast to remove the old implant and any scar tissue that has formed. If a replacement is planned, new implants will be inserted. The surgeon will then close the incisions using stitches, adhesive glue, or surgical tape.
The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, and you will be completely asleep during the procedure. It is typically an outpatient procedure, which means you can return home the same day after a short recovery period at the hospital.
You may be instructed to wear a special support or compression bra for a few weeks after surgery to decrease swelling. Small drain tubes may be inserted, which will be removed a few days after the surgery.
Recovery Process
Full recovery after breast implant replacement will take about six weeks. However, many patients start feeling well within three to four days after surgery. In the initial days after the procedure, you may experience some discomfort at the surgical site, and your surgeon will prescribe medication to keep you comfortable.
You should refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. Your surgeon will provide an individualized recovery plan based on your specific procedure and healing rate. It is common to experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. Swelling and bruising will gradually subside, and it may take several months before the final results are visible.
Conclusion
In 2025, New York City continues to offer top - tier options for breast prosthesis removal plastic surgery. Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Dr. Darrick Antell's practice, and Dr. Barry Weintraub's practice are among the leading choices for patients seeking high - quality care. The cost of the procedure can vary depending on the facility and specific factors related to the surgery, but understanding the components of the cost can help you make an informed decision.
If you are considering breast prosthesis removal, we encourage you to do thorough research, schedule consultations with the top surgeons and hospitals mentioned, and discuss your concerns and expectations. Don't hesitate to take the first step towards achieving the outcome you desire. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast prosthesis removal in New York City and continue exploring related topics to learn more about the process.
