Top 5 Hospitals for Breast Augmentation Surgery with Prostheses Removal in New York City A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

New York City is a hub for advanced medical procedures, especially when it comes to breast augmentation surgery with prostheses removal. Women may consider having their breast implants removed for various reasons, including lifestyle changes, cosmetic preferences, or medical concerns. In this article, we will explore the top 5 hospitals in New York City that excel in this procedure, each with its own unique technical features and expertise.

Top 5 Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in New York City

1. Practice of Dr. Darrick Antell

Dr. Darrick Antell is a premier breast surgeon in NYC, widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons both 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.

• Technical Features: Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. When indicated, he also performs an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He can also handle the removal of the Allergan textured breast implants recalled by the FDA due to their association with a heightened risk of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).
• Consultation Process: During the initial consultation, Dr. Antell thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health and medical history, assesses the current condition of the breasts, and discusses the patient's desired outcome. He provides detailed information about the procedure, risks, and recovery.
• Recovery: After surgery, patients recover in Dr. Antell’s state - of - the - art recovery suite. The majority of patients can return to most daily activities within days, but vigorous exercise should be avoided for around two weeks. Dr. Antell provides an individualized recovery plan based on the patient's procedure and healing rate.

2. Practice of Dr. Steven Wallach

Dr. Steven Wallach is well - known for his expertise in breast implant removal. His approach is patient - centered, aiming to address both cosmetic and medical concerns.

• Technical Features: Dr. Wallach usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket created for the implants and removes them. He also removes implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary. In some cases, patients may be able to have the implants replaced with new ones at the same time as removal.
• Consultation Process: The consultation depends on the patient's desire for surgery. If there are complications like capsular contracture, Dr. Wallach will perform an examination and schedule the explantation surgery. If it's for cosmetic reasons, he will discuss other options such as implant replacement or breast enhancement alternatives.
• Recovery: Immediately after the procedure, patients may have swelling, bruising, and mild pain. Most patients can go back to light activity within three to five days. Dr. Wallach instructs patients to avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks.

3. Practice associated with Dr. Olivia Hutchinson

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a fellowship - trained, board - certified plastic surgeon who is passionate about delivering outstanding care to patients. Her focus on breast augmentation also extends to breast implant removal and revision.

• Technical Features: Dr. Hutchinson offers plastic surgical evaluations and consultations for patients considering breast implant revision or removal. Surgical revision may include changing the size, type, or placement of the implants, or even complete removal. She also considers additional procedures like a breast lift or fat injections to enhance the results.
• Consultation Process: Before the procedure, patients have a consultation with Dr. Hutchinson. She discusses the patient's medical history, examines the breasts, shows different breast implant options, and creates a customized surgical plan based on the patient's goals.
• Recovery: After breast implant removal, patients may feel tired and sore initially, but this usually resolves in a day or two. They should be able to return to work within the week, and stitches are absorbable. Dr. Hutchinson will follow up with the patient during the postoperative period to ensure a smooth recovery.

4. Practice of Dr. Lara Devgan

Dr. Lara Devgan is a well - respected plastic surgeon in New York City, known for providing beautiful, natural results in breast augmentation and implant removal procedures.

• Technical Features: During breast implant removal, Dr. Devgan focuses on minimizing scarring and ensuring a smooth recovery. She uses advanced techniques to remove the implants safely and can also address any associated complications such as capsular contracture.
• Consultation Process: During the initial consultation, Dr. Devgan examines, measures, and photographs the breasts. She discusses the patient's medical history and desires for surgery, shows samples of breast implants, and allows the patient to "try on" different sizes to determine the best option.
• Recovery: In the first 24 - 48 hours after surgery, patients may have some swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Most patients can return to a desk job within 3 - 4 days. By one month, the vast majority of patients feel "back to normal," and by 6 - 8 weeks, they can resume all types of physical activity.

5. Practice of Dr. John E. Sherman

Dr. John E. Sherman is an experienced and acclaimed plastic surgeon renowned for his commitment to patient care and excellent results in breast augmentation and related procedures.

• Technical Features: Dr. Sherman has in - depth knowledge of breast implants and their removal. He can address various complications that may arise with breast implants, such as BIA - ALCL and breast implant illness. He carefully selects the appropriate incision and implant placement during removal to minimize scarring and ensure optimal results.
• Consultation Process: A consultation with Dr. Sherman involves a detailed discussion of the patient's aesthetic goals, a review of the medical history, an examination of the breasts, and a discussion of implant options. He then devises a personalized treatment plan for the patient.
• Recovery: After breast implant removal, patients may experience moderate fatigue, discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the initial days. They are given a prescription for pain medication and a surgical compression bra. Light activities and work can be resumed in 2 - 3 weeks, and more strenuous activities can be started at 6 - 8 weeks.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

There are several reasons why women may choose to have their breast implants removed:

• Medical Reasons:
  • Implant Rupture: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture. Saline implants will deflate quickly if they rupture, while silicone implants may require an MRI to detect a rupture. Ruptured implants can cause discomfort and may need to be removed.
  • Capsular Contracture: This is the hardening of scar tissue that forms around an implant. It can cause pain, distortion of the breast shape, and discomfort. In severe cases, removal of the implant and the surrounding scar tissue may be necessary.
  • BIA - ALCL: A rare form of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that can occur in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. Treatment typically involves surgically removing the implants and surrounding scar tissue.
• Cosmetic Reasons:
  • Change in Preferences: Over time, a woman's aesthetic preferences may change, and she may no longer be satisfied with the appearance of her augmented breasts.
  • Desire for Natural Look: Some women may prefer to return to their natural breast size and shape.
• Lifestyle Reasons:
  • Physical Activity: Certain high - impact sports or activities may be restricted with breast implants. Some women may choose to remove the implants to have more freedom in their physical activities.

Preparing for Breast Implant Removal

Before undergoing breast implant removal, patients should take the following steps:

• Consultation: Schedule a consultation with a board - certified plastic surgeon. During this consultation, discuss your medical history, current health status, reasons for implant removal, and your desired outcome. The surgeon will evaluate your breasts and provide you with detailed information about the procedure, risks, and recovery.
• Medical Tests: The surgeon may order imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI to assess the condition of the implants and the surrounding tissue. These tests can help detect any complications such as rupture or capsular contracture.
• Medication and Supplements: Inform the surgeon about any medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. Some medications may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery, so you may be advised to stop taking them before the procedure. This may include blood thinners, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and St. John’s wort.
• Smoking: If you are a smoker, you should quit smoking or stop using any nicotine products before the surgery. Nicotine can significantly impact your ability to heal after the treatment.
• Arrange for Help: Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and to assist you during the initial days of recovery. You will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia.
• Prepare Your Home: Designate a comfortable space to recover at home and place necessary items within reach. Stock up on groceries and any medications prescribed by the surgeon.

The Breast Implant Removal Procedure

The breast implant removal procedure generally involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another type of “twilight” anesthesia. In some rare cases, only local anesthesia may be used. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure your comfort and safety.
2. Incision: The surgeon will make an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach, which may be in the inframammary fold, periareolar region, or through a transaxillary incision in the armpit. If the implants were placed with an inframammary fold or areolar incision, it is more likely that the surgeon can remove the implant through the existing incisions.
3. Implant Removal: The surgeon will access the breast pocket and remove the implant. If there is scar tissue around the implant, especially in cases of capsular contracture or BIA - ALCL, the surgeon may also remove the scar tissue. This is known as en - bloc resection when the implant and scar tissue are removed simultaneously.
4. Closure: After the implant and any associated tissue are removed, the incisions are closed with multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and a layer of external sutures if needed. The surgeon may place a layer of gauze or a bandage over the breasts to speed healing.

Recovery After Breast Implant Removal

Recovery after breast implant removal varies from patient to patient, but generally includes the following:

• Immediate Post - Operative Period: After the surgery, you will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. You may have swelling, bruising, and mild pain around the breasts. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia may be used to reduce discomfort. You will be given discharge instructions, including how to care for the incisions, when to take medications, and what activities to avoid.
• Return to Daily Activities: Most patients can return to light activities within a few days after the surgery. However, vigorous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks. Your surgeon will provide you with an individualized recovery plan based on the complexity of your procedure and your healing rate.
• Scarring: The incisions will leave scars, but these scars will gradually fade over time. The surgeon may recommend scar - reducing treatments or creams to help minimize the appearance of the scars.
• Follow - Up Appointments: You will need to schedule follow - up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress. The surgeon will check the incisions, remove any external sutures if necessary, and address any concerns you may have.

Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, breast implant removal carries some risks and complications:

• Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery. In most cases, the bleeding can be controlled during the procedure, but in some rare cases, additional treatment may be required.
• Infection: Infection is a possible complication after any surgery. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. If an infection occurs, it will need to be treated with antibiotics.
• Numbness: You may experience numbness at the incision site or in the breast area. This numbness is usually temporary, but in some cases, it may be permanent.
• Adverse Reaction to Anesthesia: Although rare, some patients may have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used during the surgery. This can include allergic reactions, breathing problems, or other complications.
• Asymmetry: There is a risk of breast asymmetry after implant removal. This may be due to differences in the amount of scar tissue removed, the shape of the breasts before the surgery, or other factors.
• Need for Revision Surgery: In some cases, revision surgery may be necessary to correct any complications or achieve the desired aesthetic result.

Conclusion

When considering breast augmentation surgery with prostheses removal in New York City, it is crucial to choose a reputable hospital and an experienced plastic surgeon. The top 5 hospitals mentioned in this article - the practices of Dr. Darrick Antell, Dr. Steven Wallach, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, Dr. Lara Devgan, and Dr. John E. Sherman - offer a range of technical features and expertise to meet the diverse needs of patients. Each surgeon is committed to providing personalized care, ensuring patient safety, and achieving optimal results.

If you are thinking about breast implant removal, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of these top surgeons. During the consultation, you can discuss your concerns, ask questions, and make an informed decision about your treatment. Remember, the key to a successful procedure and a smooth recovery is choosing the right surgeon and following their pre - and post - operative instructions carefully.