Introduction
New York City stands as a global hub for medical excellence, particularly in the fields of breast implant removal and breast augmentation. The desire for these procedures can stem from a variety of reasons, such as seeking a more natural appearance, addressing health concerns related to existing implants, or enhancing one's body image. In this article, we will explore the top 5 hospitals in New York City that excel in providing these services, along with detailed information about the procedures, recovery, and what to expect.
Understanding Breast Implant Removal and Breast Augmentation
Breast Implant Removal
Breast implant removal, also known as explant surgery, is a procedure where the existing breast implants are taken out of the body. Women may choose to have this surgery for several reasons. For instance, some may be experiencing medical complications related to the implants, like breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), breast implant illness (BII), capsular contracture, or implant rupture. Others may be unhappy with the cosmetic results of their original breast augmentation and wish to return to their natural breast size.
When removing the implants, surgeons may also perform an en bloc capsulectomy in certain cases. This involves removing the implant along with the surrounding scar tissue (capsule) in one piece. It is often recommended for patients with suspected BIA - ALCL or significant capsular contracture. Some of the symptoms that may indicate a need for breast implant removal include pain, swelling, a change in the size or shape of the breasts, or the presence of fluid around the implant.
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing the size and improving the shape of the breasts. There are several methods available, with the most common being the use of breast implants. Implants can be filled with either silicone gel or saline solution. Silicone breast implants tend to look and feel more natural in the breasts, while saline implants are firmer and rounder.
Another option for breast augmentation is naturalfill, a fat - transfer technique. This involves removing fat from one area of the body, such as the buttocks or abdomen, through liposuction and then injecting it into the breasts. This method provides a more natural way to enhance the breasts and also offers the benefit of body contouring in the donor area.
Top 5 Hospitals in New York City for Breast Implant Removal and Breast Augmentation
1. Hospital Associated with Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic and aesthetic surgery. He is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal surgery and is also well - versed in breast augmentation procedures.
**Experience and Reputation**: 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 removal surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons, and many of his patients are referred by former patients, a testament to his excellent surgical results and patient satisfaction.
**Services Offered**: In breast implant removal, he conducts thorough consultations to assess the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. If indicated, he performs en bloc capsulectomy. For breast augmentation, he uses the latest and safest medical technologies and helps patients choose the most suitable implant type based on their body type and desired outcome.
**Facility**: Dr. Antell has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City. Most patients prefer to have the procedure in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited, designed for patient comfort, and equipped with the latest technology.
2. Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai is a well - known medical institution with plastic surgeons who have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation and can also handle breast implant removal cases.
**Advanced Technology**: Before breast augmentation surgery, they use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look on their unique body. This allows patients to virtually try on different sizes of breasts and make a more informed decision about the size and shape they desire.
**Treatment Options**: They offer a variety of options for breast augmentation, including silicone and saline breast implants, as well as the naturalfill fat - transfer technique. In breast implant removal, they have the expertise to address any associated medical issues, such as dealing with BIA - ALCL or other complications.
**Patient - Centered Care**: The surgeons at Mount Sinai consult closely with patients, listening carefully to understand their desires for enhancing or altering their breast size. They also perform a physical exam and ask a series of health - related questions to confirm the patient's suitability for the procedure.
3. Hospital of Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC. She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal.
**Expertise in Addressing Concerns**: She can handle both aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants. Aesthetic issues may include a palpable or visible implant, implant rupture, malposition, or capsular contracture. Medical issues such as severe capsular contracture, chronic pain, BIA - ALCL, and breast implant illness are also within her area of expertise.
**Personalized Approach**: As a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon, she is committed to ensuring the finest surgical results for her patients. She advises patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to help them achieve their goals, and may recommend a secondary procedure like a breast lift if necessary.
**Patient Experience**: Patients have reported exceptional experiences with Dr. Hutchinson and her staff, citing a calming atmosphere, cleanliness, and professional yet friendly service.
4. New York Group for Plastic Surgery
The New York Group for Plastic Surgery provides effective solutions for both breast implant removal and breast augmentation. Their plastic surgeons, including Dr. Andrew Salzberg and Dr. Jordan Jacobs, are well - qualified to perform these procedures.
**Breast Implant Removal Process**: They guide patients through every step of the breast implant removal process, from the pre - procedure preparations to the post - operative recovery. Before the procedure, patients are advised to avoid certain medications that can interfere with the surgery and arrange for a driver and someone to assist them after the procedure. During the surgery, the implants are removed, and any excess skin or scar tissue is also addressed.
**Recovery Support**: They provide detailed post - procedure instructions on how to care for the incision sites, wear a compression bra, take prescribed antibiotics, and apply cold compresses. They also offer support throughout the recovery period to ensure patients have a smooth and comfortable recovery.
**Cosmetic Solutions**: In addition to removal, they can also provide cosmetic procedures to address any post - removal issues, such as a breast lift to improve the appearance of the breasts after implant removal.
5. Hospital Associated with Dr. Maura Reinblatt
Dr. Maura Reinblatt is a board - certified plastic surgeon who offers breast implant removal surgery in NYC, serving patients in NYC, Westchester, and White Plains.
**Advanced Techniques**: She uses advanced techniques such as en bloc capsulectomy and open capsulotomy to address medical issues associated with breast implants. En bloc capsulectomy removes the implant and surrounding scar tissue in one piece, reducing the risk of complications, while open capsulotomy is a less invasive option for treating capsular contracture.
**Patient - Centered Philosophy**: Dr. Reinblatt takes a personalized approach to patient care, understanding each patient's unique needs and goals. She advises patients on whether breast implant removal is the right choice for them and provides comprehensive information about the procedure, recovery, and potential outcomes.
**Credentials and Reputation**: She is certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery and is an active member of esteemed professional organizations. Her practice in White Plains is known for providing state - of - the - art cosmetic and reconstructive procedures with a high standard of patient care.
What to Expect During the Procedures
Breast Implant Removal
- Consultation: The surgeon will thoroughly evaluate your general health, medical history, and the current condition of your breasts. You should discuss any symptoms you are experiencing and bring any information you have about your existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. Based on your expectations, the surgeon may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift.
- Pre - procedure Preparations: You may need to undergo imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI. You will be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. You should arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and assist you during the initial recovery days.
- Surgery: The surgery is typically performed under “twilight” sedation or local anesthesia with intravenous sedation. The surgeon will try to remove the implant through the existing incisions from your initial breast augmentation, if possible. If there is capsular contracture or other issues, the hardened scar tissue may also be removed. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer.
- Recovery: After the surgery, you will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a nurse. You may feel tired or sore, and there may be some swelling, bruising, and fluid drainage. You will be provided with discharge instructions, and most patients can return home the same day. It is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks, and it may take several months for the final results to be visible.
Breast Augmentation
- Consultation: The surgeon will listen to your desire for enhancing your breast size and help you decide about the size and shape that will look best for your body. You will also learn about the different types of implants and treatment options available.
- Pre - procedure Preparations: Similar to breast implant removal, you may need to stop taking certain medications and arrange for post - surgery support. You will also have a physical exam to confirm your suitability for the procedure.
- Surgery: The surgery is performed under anesthesia. The surgeon will insert the implant through a small incision under the breast tissue. The type of implant (silicone or saline) will depend on your preference and the surgeon's recommendation. The surgery usually takes a couple of hours.
- Recovery: After breast augmentation, you may experience some pain, swelling, and tightness. You will need to wear a recovery bra and follow the post - operative instructions, which include rest, taking medication, and having post - op check - ups. It usually takes about six to eight weeks to fully recover, and you should avoid sleeping on your side or stomach during the early stages of recovery.
Complications and Risks
Breast Implant Removal
Although breast implant removal surgery is typically safe when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon, there are still some potential risks. These include bleeding, infection, numbness at the incision site, or an adverse reaction to the anesthesia. However, you can reduce these risks by closely following the surgeon's directions before and after surgery.
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation also poses some risks, such as breast pain, breast numbness, loss of sensation in nipples, implant leak, issues with breastfeeding, breast implant illness, and allergic reactions. Some of these complications may require further surgery or total removal of the implant. It is important to be aware of these risks and discuss them with your surgeon before the procedure.
Cost Considerations
Breast Implant Removal
The cost of breast implant removal in NYC varies widely and depends on factors such as the cost related to the operating facility, post - care essentials, tests used, and prescription medication cost. In most cases, breast implant removal procedures are not covered by health insurance, but it depends on the medical need for the surgery. For example, if the removal is necessary after a mastectomy, insurance companies may be obligated to cover the costs.
Breast Augmentation
The cost of breast augmentation usually ranges from $3,900 to $6,000. However, this may not cover all aspects, such as the cost of the implants. The final cost depends on the type of procedure, the type of implants, and the doctor performing the surgery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New York City offers a plethora of excellent options for breast implant removal and breast augmentation. The top 5 hospitals and surgeons mentioned in this article - those associated with Dr. Darrick Antell, Mount Sinai, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson, the New York Group for Plastic Surgery, and Dr. Maura Reinblatt - have the experience, expertise, and advanced techniques to provide high - quality care. Whether you are considering breast implant removal due to medical or aesthetic reasons or breast augmentation to enhance your appearance, it is crucial to choose a qualified and reputable provider. Take the time to research, have in - depth consultations, and make an informed decision that is right for you.
If you are interested in learning more about these procedures or scheduling a consultation, we encourage you to reach out to the hospitals and surgeons mentioned in this article. Share this information with others who may be considering breast implant removal or breast augmentation, and continue to explore related topics to stay informed about the latest developments in this field.
