Top Five Hospitals for Breast Implant Replacement Surgery in New York City

Breast implant replacement surgery is a significant decision that many women may consider for various reasons, such as changes in aesthetic preferences, implant rupture, or to address complications. New York City, being a global hub for medical excellence, is home to numerous world - class hospitals and surgical centers that offer top - notch breast implant replacement services. In this article, we will explore the top five hospitals for this procedure in the city, while also providing in - depth information about breast implant replacement, New York City's healthcare context, and more.

1. Mount Sinai Hospital

Overview

Mount Sinai Hospital is at the forefront of breast reconstruction surgery, including breast implant replacement. It is a well - respected medical institution that combines cutting - edge technology with highly skilled medical professionals. At Mount Sinai, breast implants are made of a flexible silicone casing filled with either saline (sterile salt water) or silicone gel (a soft gelatin - like substance), and they come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes.

Expertise in Direct - to - Implant Approach

Dr. C. Andrew Salzberg, the chief of the division of plastic and reconstructive surgery at the Mount Sinai Hospital and a professor of surgery at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, pioneered the direct - to - implant approach. This new approach avoids the use of a tissue expander. For eligible patients, the surgeon inserts the implant immediately behind the pectoralis major muscle, using innovative techniques to provide additional soft tissue support.

If a patient does not have enough skin and muscle to cover the implant, the medical team at Mount Sinai can stretch the existing tissue over time with a tissue expander or Alloderm® (an acellular tissue matrix), which the surgeon can explain in detail to the patient. They may also perform an additional procedure to improve symmetry, size, or shape of the breast.

2. Center for Breast Reconstruction Associated with Dr. Joshua L. Levine

Travel and Concierge Services

Many patients choose to travel to New York for surgery with Dr. Joshua L. Levine. The center provides first - class concierge care to traveling patients, making the trip convenient, supported, and stress - free. Whether local patients or those traveling from abroad, arrangements can be easily made for surgery. Local patients in the tri - state area will meet with Dr. Levine prior to scheduling surgery, while out - of - town patients (over 3 hours driving distance) will meet with him the day of or the day before their scheduled surgery.

Hospital Affiliations and Reconstruction Centers

Dr. Levine has developed dedicated natural tissue breast reconstruction centers throughout New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. In New York, the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mt. Sinai, where his procedures are affiliated, has been ranked among “America’s best hospitals” for nine years straight since 2006 and has achieved Magnet® status by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet Recognition Program® for excellence in nursing services. This reflects the high - quality care and advanced medical practices available at the facilities associated with his center for breast implant replacement.

3. Facility Associated with Dr. Olivia Hutchinson

Top - Notch Surgeon and Personalized Care

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is widely recognized as a top breast implant replacement surgeon on NYC’s upper east side. She provides detailed patient evaluations and offers cosmetic surgery options for patients considering changing their breast implants. Her extensive knowledge and experience, combined with her integrity and transparency, make her a trusted choice for patients. She empowers patients to make the best decisions for their overall health, happiness, and well - being.

Range of Procedures

Breast implant replacement with Dr. Hutchinson may entail several procedures. These include changing the size of the implants, changing the type of implants (saline or silicone, smooth, or textured), changing the placement (under the breast or under the muscle) of the implants, and adjusting the capsule around the breast implants (either repositioning or removing part/all of the capsule). In certain patients, fat transfer can also be an option after breast implant removal to correct minor irregularities, provide additional breast volume, or create coverage of visible or palpable implants.

4. Doctors Plastic Surgery NYC

Advanced Techniques and Experienced Surgeons

Doctors Plastic Surgery NYC is a top - rated center for breast implant surgery. It is staffed by double - board - certified surgeons with over 15 years of experience and thousands of successful procedures. Dr. Ross Ratner, a recognized leader in breast augmentation surgery, is part of the team. Their minimally invasive techniques and patient - focused approach make them a popular choice for breast implant replacement.

Variety of Implant Options

The center offers different types of breast implants, including saline implants, silicone implants, and gummy bear implants. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and require smaller incisions, and in case of rupture, the saline solution is safely absorbed by the body. Silicone implants feel more like natural breast tissue but require a slightly larger incision and regular check - ups. Gummy bear implants are a newer type of silicone implant that holds their shape even if the shell breaks and offer a more stable, long - lasting shape and feel, often with a teardrop contour for a natural look. They also offer fat transfer breast augmentation as an alternative to implants.

5. Mount Sinai West

Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction Expertise

Mount Sinai West is known for its expertise in prepectoral breast reconstruction, a groundbreaking muscle - sparing procedure for breast implant replacement. For years, the traditional method of placing implants beneath the pectoralis major muscles had some drawbacks, such as weakening the muscle and causing pain. The prepectoral approach at Mount Sinai West places the breast implant above the chest wall muscles, leaving the pectoral muscles preserved and intact without any cutting or stretching.

This results in less postoperative pain, a faster recovery, and no future loss of strength. Their director, Dr. Hani Sbitany, is an internationally recognized expert who helped pioneer this technique. It is appropriate for any woman who chooses to reconstruct her breasts with an implant after mastectomy and is routinely performed at the hospital.

Understanding Breast Implant Replacement

Indications for Replacement

• Desire for Aesthetic Changes: Some women may wish to change the size, shape, or type of implant to better suit their current aesthetic goals. For example, they may have initially chosen smaller implants but now desire a more voluptuous look, or they may want to switch from saline to silicone implants for a more natural feel.
• Implant Complications:
  • Rupture, Leakage, or Deflation: Over time, implants can develop problems. A saline implant may deflate if the outer shell ruptures, and the saline solution will be absorbed by the body. A silicone implant rupture may be more difficult to detect, but it can still cause discomfort and aesthetic issues.
  • Malposition or Displacement: Implants may shift from their original position, causing asymmetry or an unnatural appearance of the breasts.
  • Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant tightens, resulting in pain and/or distortion of the breast.
• Changes in Breast Shape: Factors such as aging, pregnancy, and weight fluctuations can cause changes in the breast shape, affecting the implant's position relative to the overlying breast tissue.

Procedures Involved in Replacement

• Changing Implant Characteristics:
  • Size: As mentioned earlier, patients may choose to increase or decrease the size of their implants based on their preferences and body changes.
  • Type: There are different types of implants available, including saline, silicone, and gummy bear implants. Each has its own characteristics, and patients may opt to switch between them.
  • Placement: Implants can be placed under the breast or under the muscle. Changing the placement may be recommended to achieve a more natural look or to address specific issues.
• Capsule Adjustment: The capsule around the breast implant may need to be adjusted. This can involve repositioning the capsule or removing part or all of it, especially in cases of capsular contracture.
• Fat Transfer: In some cases, fat transfer can be combined with breast implant replacement. Fat is harvested from areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks, purified, and then injected into the breasts to provide additional volume or to correct minor irregularities.

New York City's Healthcare Landscape

Medical Excellence

New York City is a global leader in healthcare. The city is home to some of the world's best - known medical institutions, top - rated doctors, and advanced research facilities. This concentration of medical expertise ensures that patients undergoing breast implant replacement surgery have access to the latest techniques, technologies, and treatment options. The medical professionals in the city are highly qualified, skilled, and experienced, and they adhere to the highest standards of care.

Accessibility

Getting to and around New York City is relatively easy. The primary international airport, the John F. Kennedy International Airport, is served by more than ninety airlines, including several budget airlines such as JetBlue. The city has an extensive public transportation system, including 27 subway lines stopping at 472 stations and over 5,000 buses. To ride the subway, you can purchase a MetroCard for $1, with fares of $2.75 per trip. You can also buy a one - week unlimited MetroCard for $33 or an unlimited monthly MetroCard for $127. Buses are another convenient option, with fares of $2.75 per trip and accepting MetroCard or exact fare in coins. Taxis, both yellow and green in different areas, as well as ride - sharing services like Uber and Lyft, are also readily available.

Tourist and Cultural Attractions

For patients traveling to New York City for breast implant replacement surgery, the city offers a wealth of tourist and cultural attractions. While recovering, they can enjoy attractions such as the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy; the Empire State Building, an iconic symbol of the city with spectacular views from its 86th and 102nd floors; Central Park, an 843 - acre open space where one can relax, have a picnic, or visit a memorial; and the Staten Island Ferry, which offers a stunning view of the city and the Statue of Liberty for free.

Preparing for Breast Implant Replacement Surgery

Consultation

The first step in preparing for breast implant replacement surgery is to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will discuss your expectations, medical history, and the reasons for your desire to replace the implants. They will also perform a physical examination to assess your breast tissue, implant condition, and overall health. The surgeon will explain the different options available, including the types of implants, placement, and any additional procedures that may be necessary. It is important to have open and honest communication with the surgeon at this stage to ensure that your goals are clear and realistic.

Medical Evaluation

You may be required to undergo a series of medical tests, such as blood tests, mammograms, or breast ultrasounds, to evaluate the condition of your breasts and overall health. These tests help the surgeon to identify any potential issues that may affect the surgery or recovery. You should also inform the surgeon about any medications you are taking, including over - the - counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies, as some of these may interfere with the surgery or anesthesia.

Lifestyle Changes

To ensure a smooth surgery and recovery, you may need to make some lifestyle changes. Smoking can impair the healing process, so it is advisable to quit smoking several weeks before the surgery. You should also limit your alcohol consumption, as alcohol can interact with medications and affect the body's ability to heal. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise routine can help to improve your overall health and prepare your body for the surgery.

Recovery and Aftercare

Immediate Post - Operative Period

After breast implant replacement surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery area until the effects of anesthesia wear off. You may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising, which are normal after the surgery. The surgeon will prescribe pain medications to manage the discomfort. You will also be instructed to wear a compression garment to support the breasts and reduce swelling.

Short - Term Recovery

For the first few days after surgery, you should rest as much as possible and avoid any strenuous activities. You will need to follow a specific post - operative diet to support your healing. You may also be required to take antibiotics to prevent infection. The surgeon will schedule follow - up appointments to monitor your recovery, remove stitches, and check the condition of the implants. It is important to attend these appointments and follow the surgeon's instructions carefully.

Long - Term Recovery

Full recovery from breast implant replacement surgery can take several weeks to months. During this time, you may gradually resume your normal activities, but you should avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise for at least six weeks. You may also notice some changes in the appearance of your breasts as they settle into their new position. It is normal for the breasts to look and feel slightly different during the healing process. However, if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as severe pain, excessive swelling, or discharge from the incisions, you should contact your surgeon immediately.

Cost Considerations

The cost of breast implant replacement surgery in New York City can vary depending on several factors. These include the type of implants used, the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's fees, and the facility costs. While prices in New York City may be relatively high compared to some other locations, the city offers high - quality care and access to advanced techniques. Some of the clinics in the city do not provide pricing information upfront, and all prices are available on request only. However, the national average price for breast implant - related procedures is approximately $5,408. Some facilities also offer flexible financing options to help patients manage the cost of the surgery.

Conclusion

In conclusion, New York City is a prime destination for breast implant replacement surgery, offering a selection of top - notch hospitals and experienced surgeons. Mount Sinai Hospital, the Center for Breast Reconstruction associated with Dr. Joshua L. Levine, the facility associated with Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, Doctors Plastic Surgery NYC, and Mount Sinai West stand out as leaders in providing high - quality breast implant replacement services. Each of these institutions has its own unique strengths, whether it's pioneering surgical techniques, offering concierge care, or having highly skilled and trusted surgeons.

Before undergoing breast implant replacement surgery, it is crucial to thoroughly research your options, have in - depth consultations with your chosen surgeon, and prepare yourself both physically and mentally for the procedure. Recovery and aftercare are also important aspects that require close attention to ensure the best possible results. If you are considering breast implant replacement, we encourage you to reach out to one of these top hospitals in New York City to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards achieving your desired results. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast implant replacement surgery in New York City and explore related topics to further expand your knowledge on the subject.