Introduction
Breast implant removal has become an increasingly sought - after procedure in New York City. Women may choose to have their breast implants removed for various reasons, including medical complications, changes in personal preferences, or the development of breast - related illnesses. In this article, we will explore the top three hospitals on the ranking list for silicone breast prosthesis removal in New York City, examining their services, the expertise of their surgeons, and what patients can expect during the process.
Understanding Silicone Breast Prosthesis Removal
Reasons for Removal
There are multiple reasons why a woman might opt for silicone breast prosthesis removal. Medical reasons include implant rupture, capsular contracture (the hardening of scar tissue around the implant), breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), and breast implant illness (BII). Capsular contracture can cause pain, distortion of the breast shape, and discomfort. BIA - ALCL is a rare form of non - Hodgkin lymphoma associated with certain types of textured breast implants. BII is a collection of symptoms that some women experience after breast augmentation, such as fatigue, fever, and migraines.
Non - medical reasons may involve a change in aesthetic preferences, a desire to return to a more natural look, or lifestyle changes. For example, a woman may no longer want the maintenance or physical implications associated with breast implants.
The Procedure
Silicone breast prosthesis removal, also known as explant surgery, is typically performed under intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia. The surgeon usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach, which could be along the breast fold, the periareola region, or through a transaxillary incision in the armpit. Once the incision is made, the surgeon accesses the breast pocket, removes the implant, and may also remove the scar capsule surrounding it. If there has been a leakage or rupture, the surgeon will take extra care to remove any sterile silicone gel that may have seeped out.
Top Three Hospitals for Silicone Breast Prosthesis Removal in New York City
1. The Practice of Dr. Steven Wallach
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. Steven Wallach, MD, FACS, is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York City. He has extensive experience in breast implant removal surgery. As breast augmentation has grown in popularity in the United States, so has the demand for implant removal, and Dr. Wallach is at the forefront of providing this service. He takes the time to understand each patient's unique situation and goals.
Services Offered
- Comprehensive Consultation: During the consultation, Dr. Wallach assesses the patient's overall health, examines the breasts, and discusses the patient's reasons for wanting the implant removal. If the patient is experiencing complications like capsular contracture, he will perform an examination to confirm the diagnosis and then schedule the explantation surgery. For cosmetic concerns, he may discuss other options such as breast implant replacement or a breast lift.
- Advanced Surgical Techniques: Dr. Wallach is skilled in various techniques for breast implant removal. He can perform a capsulectomy, which involves removing the breast implant and the scar tissue that has formed around it. He also takes care to remove any implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary.
- Post - operative Care: After the surgery, Dr. Wallach provides detailed instructions to his patients for a smooth recovery. He monitors the patient's progress closely and advises on when they can resume normal activities. Patients are instructed to avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks.
Patient Experience
Patients who have undergone breast implant removal with Dr. Wallach often praise his professionalism and the natural - looking results. His office staff is also commended for their friendly and helpful demeanor, which helps to ease the patient's anxiety before and after the surgery.
2. The Practice of Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon. She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal in New York City. She is recognized as one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the Upper East Side.
Services Offered
- Identification and Management of Complications: Dr. Hutchinson is well - versed in dealing with both aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants. She can identify problems such as breast implant rupture, leakage, deflation, capsular contracture, and breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). She will advise the patient on the best course of action, which may include implant removal and, in some cases, a secondary procedure like a breast lift for better aesthetic results.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Each patient's situation is unique, and Dr. Hutchinson creates personalized treatment plans. She discusses all the surgical options available with the patient, ensuring that the patient is fully informed and comfortable with the chosen approach.
- Supportive Environment: Her office provides a calming and professional environment. The staff is highly trained, and patients feel well - cared for throughout the entire process, from the initial consultation to post - operative follow - up.
Patient Experience
Many patients have reported exceptional experiences with Dr. Hutchinson and her staff. They appreciate her attention to detail, her ability to explain complex medical concepts in an easy - to - understand manner, and the excellent results she achieves.
3. The Practice of Dr. Darrick Antell
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. Darrick Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon who is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the New York area and worldwide. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. He has performed custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery on many patients, including celebrities.
Services Offered
- Customized Procedures: Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal, tailoring the procedure to each patient's specific needs. He can also perform an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant when indicated. He is also well - versed in removing the recalled Allergan textured breast implants associated with a heightened risk of BIA - ALCL.
- Comprehensive Consultation Process: During the consultation, Dr. Antell thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. He discusses the patient's goals and expectations, and together they create a surgical plan. He may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift, for a more desirable outcome.
- State - of - the - art Facilities: His private operating room is located just across the street from the world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. The facility is fully accredited, equipped with the latest technology, and designed for patient comfort and privacy.
Patient Experience
Patients of Dr. Antell often commend his surgical skills and the natural - looking results. They also appreciate the personalized care they receive from him and his staff. The post - operative support is also highly regarded, with the team being readily available to answer any questions during the recovery process.
Comparing the Three Hospitals
| Hospital | Surgeon Expertise | Services Offered | Patient Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Practice of Dr. Steven Wallach | Extensive experience in breast implant removal, takes time to understand patient goals | Comprehensive consultation, advanced surgical techniques, detailed post - operative care | Patients praise professionalism and natural - looking results, friendly staff |
| The Practice of Dr. Olivia Hutchinson | Board - certified, over 20 years of experience, skilled in managing implant - related complications | Identification and management of complications, personalized treatment plans, supportive environment | Patients report exceptional experiences, appreciate attention to detail and excellent results |
| The Practice of Dr. Darrick Antell | World - renowned breast surgeon, listed in top magazines, performed surgeries on celebrities | Customized procedures, comprehensive consultation process, state - of - the - art facilities | Patients commend surgical skills, natural - looking results, and personalized post - operative support |
Preparing for Silicone Breast Prosthesis Removal
Medical Preparation
Before the surgery, patients should consult with their primary care physician for medical clearance. They may also need to undergo imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI to assess the condition of the implants and surrounding tissues. Patients should stop taking blood - thinning medications and avoid smoking before the surgery to reduce the risk of complications.
Emotional Preparation
Undergoing breast implant removal can be an emotional process. Patients should discuss their concerns and expectations with their surgeon. They may also find it helpful to talk to support groups or other women who have had similar procedures. It is important to have a realistic understanding of the recovery process and the potential outcomes.
The Recovery Process
Immediate Post - operative
After the surgery, patients will experience swelling and bruising around the breasts. They may also feel mild pain, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by the surgeon. Most patients will need a caregiver to drive them home from the surgery center and stay with them for about a day. Patients should rest and follow the surgeon's instructions regarding wound care.
Short - term Recovery
Most patients can return to light activity within three to five days. However, they should avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks. The surgeon will monitor the patient's progress during follow - up appointments and may recommend wearing a supportive bra to aid in the healing process.
Long - term Recovery
It may take several months for the final results to be visible. Scars will gradually fade over time, and the breasts will continue to heal and adjust. Some patients may experience a loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which usually fades over time.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, silicone breast prosthesis removal carries some risks. These include unfavorable scarring, asymmetry, infection, bleeding, nipple loss, skin loss, fat necrosis, fluid collections, dysesthesias, and the need for revision surgery. However, the risk can be minimized by choosing an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon and following the pre - and post - operative instructions carefully.
Cost Considerations
The cost of silicone breast prosthesis removal can vary depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, whether the implants are being replaced, and if a secondary procedure like a breast lift is required. On average, the cost of breast implant removal in the United States can range from $3000 to $6450. However, it is important to note that this is just an estimate, and patients should get a personalized quote during their consultation with the surgeon.
Conclusion
Silicone breast prosthesis removal is a significant decision for many women in New York City. The top three hospitals on the ranking list - the practices of Dr. Steven Wallach, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, and Dr. Darrick Antell - offer high - quality services, experienced surgeons, and comprehensive care throughout the process. Each hospital has its unique strengths, whether it's in surgical expertise, personalized treatment plans, or state - of - the - art facilities.
If you are considering silicone breast prosthesis removal, it is essential to do thorough research, schedule consultations with these top surgeons, and discuss your concerns and expectations. Remember, a well - informed decision will lead to a more satisfactory outcome. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, don't hesitate to reach out to these experts and start your journey towards a more comfortable and confident you.
