Introduction
Prosthetic breast augmentation removal surgery is a significant procedure that many individuals may consider for various reasons, such as medical complications, dissatisfaction with the results, or personal lifestyle changes. In New York City, there are several hospitals renowned for their expertise in this area. Contrary to what one might expect, the top three hospitals for prosthetic breast augmentation removal surgery are all public hospitals. This article will delve into these hospitals, exploring their services, the surgeons, and other essential aspects related to the procedure.
Understanding Prosthetic Breast Augmentation Removal Surgery
Reasons for Removal
There are multiple reasons why someone might opt for prosthetic breast augmentation removal surgery. Medical complications are a common cause. For instance, some patients may experience breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma occurring in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. According to reliable sources, the FDA has recalled certain textured breast implants due to their association with a heightened risk of BIA - ALCL. Other medical issues can include implant rupture, leakage, or capsular contracture, where the tissue around the implant becomes firm.
Some patients may be unhappy with the cosmetic results of their original breast augmentation. They might want to return to their natural breast size or correct an unnatural appearance. Lifestyle changes can also play a role. For example, a patient may find that the implants are no longer suitable for their activities or self - image.
Procedure and Risks
The breast implant removal procedure typically involves the surgeon accessing the breast implants through incisions. In some cases, the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation can be reused, especially if they were made in the inframammary fold or areolar area. However, if there are complications like capsular contracture or BIA - ALCL, it may be necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant, which is known as en - bloc resection.
As with any surgery, there are risks involved. These can include bleeding, infection, numbness at the incision site, or an adverse reaction to the anesthesia. Experienced surgeons will thoroughly discuss these risks with patients during the consultation process to ensure they are well - informed.
The Top Three Public Hospitals in New York City for Prosthetic Breast Augmentation Removal Surgery
NYC Health + Hospitals / Metropolitan
Overview
NYC Health + Hospitals / Metropolitan is a notable public hospital in New York City. While it is well - known for performing gender - affirming surgeries, including top surgeries which can involve aspects related to breast implants or tissue, it also has the expertise for prosthetic breast augmentation removal surgery. The hospital has been at the forefront of providing comprehensive care to a diverse patient population.
Surgeons
Dr. Aron Kressel, the section chief of the division of plastic surgery at NYC Health + Hospitals / Metropolitan, is a key figure. He has extensive experience in performing surgical procedures, and his approach focuses on the emotional and physical well - being of the patients. For patients seeking breast implant removal, his expertise can be invaluable in ensuring a smooth and successful procedure.
Advantages
One of the significant advantages of this hospital is its focus on patient care. Unlike many private hospitals with long wait times between an initial consultation and surgery, NYC Health + Hospitals has prioritized care for patients, bringing the waiting period down to about six weeks. This is a major benefit for patients who may be eager to undergo the procedure due to medical or personal reasons.
Success Stories
There have been numerous success stories related to the surgeries performed at this hospital. For example, patients who have undergone gender - affirming surgeries, which share some similarities with breast implant removal procedures in terms of the surgical approach and patient care, have reported being extremely satisfied with the results and the overall experience at the hospital. Although specific breast implant removal success stories are not as widely publicized, the hospital's track record in related surgeries gives confidence in its ability to handle such procedures.
Columbia University Irving Medical Center
Overview
Columbia University Irving Medical Center is one of New York's best hospitals and a world - class medical center. The plastic and reconstructive surgery department at Columbia offers a wide range of services, including prosthetic breast augmentation removal surgery. The hospital is dedicated to using its extensive resources to provide the highest quality care for patients in need of cosmetic or reconstructive procedures.
Surgeons
The plastic surgery team at Columbia consists of highly skilled and experienced surgeons. Dr. Christine Rohde, the chief of the division of plastic surgery, is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, specializing in areas such as microsurgery and breast reconstruction. Other notable surgeons like Dr. Jeffrey A. Ascherman, who has been included multiple times in lists of America's top doctors, also contribute to the high - level care provided at the hospital.
Services and Research
The hospital offers a comprehensive range of plastic surgery services related to the breast. In addition to breast implant removal, they provide breast reconstruction after breast cancer, breast reduction, and breast lift procedures. The plastic surgery research laboratory at Columbia is also conducting numerous research studies, including those related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy for wound healing. This research - driven approach can potentially lead to better surgical techniques and patient outcomes in breast implant removal surgery.
Patient Experience
Patients at Columbia University Irving Medical Center benefit from the hospital's academic environment. The surgeons take the time to have in - depth consultations with patients, explaining the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes. The post - operative care is also well - organized, with a team of professionals monitoring the patient's recovery and providing necessary support.
New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital
Overview
New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital is a well - respected public hospital in the city. The plastic surgeons at this hospital perform a full range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including breast implant removal. All physicians at the hospital are on the faculty of Weill Cornell Medical College, ensuring a high level of medical expertise and knowledge.
Surgeons
The surgeons at New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital have extensive experience in breast - related surgeries. They are trained to handle various complications that may arise during breast implant removal, such as capsular contracture or implant rupture. Their skills and knowledge are backed by the academic resources of Weill Cornell Medical College.
Benefits for Patients
Patients at this hospital experience a combination of community - based care and the high - quality standards of a leading academic medical center. The hospital's location in the Lower Manhattan area also provides convenient access for many patients in the city. The plastic surgery department offers personalized treatment plans, taking into account each patient's unique needs and circumstances.
Comparing the Three Hospitals
Surgeon Expertise
Hospital | Surgeon Expertise Highlights |
---|---|
NYC Health + Hospitals / Metropolitan | Dr. Aron Kressel has experience in gender - affirming surgeries which can translate to relevant skills for breast implant removal. His focus on patient well - being is a key aspect of his practice. |
Columbia University Irving Medical Center | The team of surgeons, including Dr. Christine Rohde and Dr. Jeffrey A. Ascherman, have broad - based experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery related to the breast. Their research contributions also add to their expertise. |
New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital | The surgeons, backed by Weill Cornell Medical College, have extensive experience in handling various breast - related surgical complications during implant removal procedures. |
Patient Services
Hospital | Patient Services Features |
---|---|
NYC Health + Hospitals / Metropolitan | Short waiting times between consultation and surgery. A focus on providing support throughout the patient's surgical journey. |
Columbia University Irving Medical Center | In - depth consultations, well - organized post - operative care, and an academic environment that allows for a comprehensive approach to patient treatment. |
New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital | Combination of community - based care and academic medical center standards. Personalized treatment plans for each patient. |
Cost and Insurance
It's important to note that the cost of prosthetic breast augmentation removal surgery can vary among the three hospitals. Generally, public hospitals may offer more affordable options compared to some private facilities. However, the final cost will depend on various factors such as the complexity of the procedure, the need for additional services, and the patient's insurance coverage. Some insurance companies may cover the cost of breast implant removal if it is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases of BIA - ALCL or implant rupture. Patients should consult with the hospital's financial counselors to understand the specific costs and insurance implications for their situation.
Preparing for Prosthetic Breast Augmentation Removal Surgery
Consultation
Before undergoing the surgery, patients should schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon at one of the chosen hospitals. During the consultation, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history, as well as assess the current condition of the breasts. It is crucial for patients to share any symptoms they may be experiencing, especially if they are related to medical complications such as pain or swelling around the breasts.
Patients should also bring any information they have about their existing implants and their previous breast augmentation surgery. This will help the surgeon create a more accurate surgical plan. It's important to have an open and honest conversation with the surgeon about the desired outcome of the surgery. Based on the patient's expectations, the surgeon may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift, to achieve a more plump and rounded appearance.
Pre - operative Preparations
Depending on factors such as age and implant condition, the surgeon may order imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI, prior to the surgery. Patients will also be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. Some medications, like aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications, should be avoided for a certain period before the surgery as they can interfere with the procedure. Blood - thinning medications may need to be stopped for up to six weeks prior to the surgery, and patients should inform their prescribing physician about their upcoming surgery so that they can provide appropriate advice.
It is essential to arrange for someone to drive the patient home after the surgery and to have someone assist them during the first few days of recovery. The patient may also be given prescriptions that need to be filled before the surgery, and a custom - made post - surgical garment may be ordered.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, the patient will recover in a dedicated recovery suite at the hospital while being monitored by a registered nurse. A specialized local anesthesia may be used to reduce discomfort. Since breast implant removal is usually an outpatient procedure, the patient can return home on the same day. However, if “twilight” sedation is used, they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia, so an escort is necessary.
Upon leaving the hospital, the patient will be provided with thorough discharge instructions. Their breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage, and they may feel tired or sore as the body begins the healing process. Pain relief medication will be provided as needed.
Long - term Recovery
In the first few days after surgery, the patient is likely to experience swelling, bruising, and soreness. It is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks, and the surgeon will provide an individualized recovery plan based on the details of the procedure and the patient's healing rate. Most patients are able to return to most daily activities within days, but it may take several months for the final results to be visible. There may be some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. Fluid drainage from the incision site may also occur, but this is a normal part of the healing process.
Patients are usually required to return to the office the day after surgery so that the surgeon can monitor the healing process. In most cases, dissolvable sutures or dermabond are used to avoid external sutures. If external sutures are used, they are usually removed around 7 - 10 days after the procedure. The scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the top three public hospitals in New York City - NYC Health + Hospitals / Metropolitan, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, and New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital - offer excellent services for prosthetic breast augmentation removal surgery. Each hospital has its own unique strengths, whether it's the short waiting times at NYC Health + Hospitals / Metropolitan, the research - driven approach at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, or the combination of community and academic care at New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital.
If you are considering prosthetic breast augmentation removal surgery, it is highly recommended that you explore these hospitals further. Schedule consultations with the surgeons to discuss your specific needs and concerns. Don't hesitate to ask questions and gather all the information you need to make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may be interested in this topic, and stay informed about the latest developments in breast surgery by exploring related content on our website.