Breast Implant Removal in New York City: Top Hospitals and Surgeons

Breast implant removal is a procedure that has gained significant attention in recent years. Many women opt for this surgery due to various reasons, including medical complications, cosmetic preferences, or simply a change in lifestyle. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals and surgeons known for their expertise in breast implant removal. This article will delve into the top facilities and surgeons in the city, the reasons for breast implant removal, the procedures involved, and recovery.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

There are multiple reasons why a woman might choose to have her breast implants removed. Understanding these reasons is crucial as it helps patients make informed decisions and communicate effectively with their surgeons.

Medical Reasons

• Implant Rupture or Leakage: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture. Saline implants may deflate rapidly if they rupture, while silicone implants may not show obvious signs immediately. Ruptured silicone implants can lead to complications as the gel may migrate to other parts of the body.
• Capsular Contracture: This is the hardening of the scar tissue that forms around the implant. It can cause pain, discomfort, and distortion of the breast shape. Severe cases of capsular contracture may require implant removal.
• Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): A rare cancer that occurs in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. It has been associated with textured breast implants, and in some cases, the removal of implants and surrounding tissue is necessary for treatment.
• Breast Implant Illness (BII): Women may experience a range of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, and more after getting breast implants. Although the exact cause of BII is unknown, it is believed to be related to autoimmune problems.
• Infection or Bleeding: Infections around the implant can occur, and in some cases, they may be severe enough to require implant removal. Excessive bleeding during or after the initial surgery or later on can also be a reason for removal.

Cosmetic Reasons

• Unsatisfactory Results: The patient may be unhappy with the size, shape, or position of the implants. For example, the implants may be too large or too small, or they may have shifted from their original position.
• Changes in Aesthetic Preferences: Over time, a woman's aesthetic goals may change. She may prefer a more natural look or a different body shape, leading to the decision to remove the implants.
• Scarring Issues: Unsightly or widened scars can be a concern for some patients. In some cases, implant removal may be considered along with scar revision procedures.

Top Surgeons and Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the Upper East Side in NYC. As 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. Dr. Hutchinson specializes in cosmetic breast surgery and is known for ensuring the finest surgical results for her patients. She can address various implant - related issues, whether they are functional or cosmetic. In cases where a secondary procedure like a breast lift is necessary to achieve the best aesthetic results, she can provide expert advice and perform the surgery.

Dr. Darrick Antell

Dr. Darrick Antell is a widely - regarded top New York plastic surgeon. He is among the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, and when indicated, he also conducts an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue around the breast implant. He has removed the recalled Allergan textured breast implants due to their association with BIA - ALCL. He has been listed in magazines like Harper’s Bazaar as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Many of his patients are referred by former patients, and he has an impeccable reputation for his exceptional surgical results. His surgeries are often performed in his private operating room near Lenox Hill Hospital, which is a state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center fully accredited and equipped with the latest technology.

Dr. Steven Wallach

Dr. Steven Wallach offers breast implant removal surgery in New York. He usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket and remove the implants. During the procedure, he can also remove implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary. Dr. Wallach evaluates candidates based on their health and desires. Good candidates are generally healthy, non - smokers, and may need to stop taking blood - thinning medications before the surgery. He discusses options for breast implant replacement or other breast enhancement options during the consultation. His approach focuses on minimizing scarring and achieving the best results for the patient.

Procedures Involved in Breast Implant Removal

Pre - operative Consultation

The pre - operative consultation is a crucial step. During this visit, the surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. If the patient is seeking removal due to medical complications, it is essential to discuss all symptoms. The patient should bring any information about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. The surgeon and the patient will have an open conversation about the desired outcome, and based on this, a surgical plan will be created. It may be recommended to combine the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift.

Anesthesia

Breast implant removal can be performed using different types of anesthesia. Local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or “twilight” anesthesia is commonly used. In some cases, general anesthesia may be required. With local anesthesia and sedation, the patient is asleep and comfortable during the operation, and a board - certified anesthesiologist monitors the patient throughout the procedure. In rare cases, only local anesthesia may be used for smaller implants or specific circumstances.

Explantation Methods

• Simple Implant Removal: The surgeon removes the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery, if possible. This method is more likely when the implants were placed with an inframammary fold or areolar incision, but may not be suitable for an armpit incision.
• En - bloc Resection: When the implant and the surrounding scar tissue are removed simultaneously, it is called en - bloc resection. This is often necessary in cases of capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or when the patient has textured breast implants and is experiencing BIA - ALCL.
• Capsulectomy: There are different types of capsulectomies. A partial capsulectomy involves removing the breast implant material and trimming or shaping some of the capsule material. A total capsulectomy consists of removing the implant, capsule, and remaining scar tissue.

Closure of Incisions

After the implant and any necessary tissue are removed, the surgeon will close the incisions. Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures are typically used, and an external layer of sutures may be added if needed. A layer of gauze or a bandage is placed over the breasts to aid in healing.

Recovery from Breast Implant Removal

The recovery process after breast implant removal varies from patient to patient, but there are some general guidelines.

Immediate Post - operative Care

After the surgery, the patient will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. A specialized local anesthesia may be used to reduce discomfort. Breast implant removal is usually an outpatient procedure, so the patient can return home the same day. However, they will need someone to drive them home and assist them in the first few days of recovery. The patient will be given discharge instructions, which include details on how to care for the incisions, wear a compression bra, take any prescribed medications, and apply cold compresses to the surgical site.

Early Recovery

Most patients experience some swelling, bruising, soreness, and sensitivity in the breast area. In the first few days, it is normal to feel tired as the body uses its energy to heal. Many patients can return to light activities within a few days, but it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for about two weeks. The patient may also experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. Fluid drainage from the incision site may occur initially, but this usually stops within a few days.

Long - term Recovery

It may take several months for the final results to be visible. Swelling and bruising will gradually fade, and the scars will start to soften and fade as well. The patient should follow all post - operative instructions carefully, including attending follow - up appointments with the surgeon. In most cases, the breasts will return to their pre - implant size, but some patients may choose to have a breast lift at a later date to address any sagging or changes in breast shape.

Cost and Insurance Considerations

The cost of breast implant removal can vary widely depending on several factors. These factors include the complexity of the procedure, the need for additional procedures like a breast lift or capsulectomy, the surgeon's fees, anesthesia fees, facility fees, medical tests, and post - operative medications.

In most cases, breast implant removal procedures are not covered by health insurance. However, if the removal is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases of implant rupture, infection, or BIA - ALCL, insurance may cover the cost. It is important for patients to check with their insurance carriers to determine coverage eligibility. Some surgeons may offer financing options, such as payment plans or third - party financing, to help patients manage the cost of the procedure.

Conclusion

Breast implant removal is a significant decision that should be made after careful consideration and consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. In New York City, there are several top - tier surgeons and hospitals equipped to handle this procedure with expertise and care. Understanding the reasons for removal, the procedures involved, the recovery process, and the cost and insurance aspects is essential for anyone considering breast implant removal. Whether it is for medical or cosmetic reasons, patients can expect a personalized approach from experienced surgeons to achieve the best possible results.

If you are considering breast implant removal in New York City, we encourage you to reach out to one of the surgeons mentioned in this article for a consultation. Take the time to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and make an informed decision about your breast health and appearance.