Introduction
New York City is a hub of medical excellence, offering a plethora of options for those seeking breast implant removal and injection procedures. Whether it's due to medical complications, a change in aesthetic preferences, or concerns about implant - related illnesses, finding the right hospital and surgeon is crucial. In this article, we'll explore some of the top facilities and surgeons in NYC that are well - known for their expertise in these procedures.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal and Injection
There are several reasons why individuals might consider breast implant removal or injection:
- Medical Complications: Capsular contracture, where the scar tissue around the implant hardens and causes pain or distortion, is a common issue. Other problems include implant rupture, leakage, or the development of breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). According to available data, some textured implants have been linked to a higher risk of BIA - ALCL, leading many patients to seek removal.
- Aesthetic Dissatisfaction: Over time, patients may become unhappy with the size, shape, or position of their implants. They may want a different look, either to return to their natural breast size or to opt for a more natural - looking implant or a different type of augmentation.
- Implant Illness Concerns: Some patients report experiencing a range of symptoms known as breast implant illness (BII), such as fatigue, fever, migraines, and depression. While the exact cause of BII is still being studied, many believe it may be related to the body's reaction to the implants.
Top Surgeons and Their Practices in New York City
Dr. Darrick E. Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is a premier breast surgeon in NYC. He has over twenty years of experience and has performed more than ten thousand procedures. He is widely regarded as being among the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide.
- Expertise: He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. When indicated, he also conducts en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He is also well - versed in removing the recalled Allergan textured breast implants due to their association with BIA - ALCL.
- Reputation: Dr. Antell has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. Many of his patients are referred by former patients, which speaks volumes about his surgical results and patient satisfaction.
- Consultation and Procedure Details: During the initial consultation, he thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. Based on the patient's expectations, he may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift. The surgery is usually performed under “twilight” sedation, and most patients prefer the procedure to take place in his discreet, private operating room across the street from Lenox Hill Hospital.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon. She is considered one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the Upper East Side in NYC.
- Experience: With over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns, she can address both functional and cosmetic issues related to breast implants. She advises patients on the various surgical options available and helps them choose the best course of action to achieve their goals.
- Conditions Treated: She can handle aesthetic issues like palpable or visible implants, implant rupture, capsular contracture, and breast asymmetry. She also deals with medical issues such as severe capsular contracture, chronic pain, BIA - ALCL, and breast implant illness.
- Patient Experience: Patients report exceptional experiences with Dr. Hutchinson and her staff. The office environment is calming, and she makes patients feel comfortable throughout the process.
Dr. Barry Weintraub
Dr. Barry Weintraub is a highly skilled plastic surgeon in NYC who performs breast implant removal and replacement procedures.
- Technique and Approach: He prefers to perform the procedures under twilight sleep, ensuring a comfortable experience for the patient. He is meticulous in his approach, performing every intraoperative maneuver with precision and care. He always places implants under the pectoralis - major muscle to create the most natural - looking result.
- Facility: Although he has privileges at multiple hospitals, he prefers the privacy of his hospital - grade, state - of - the - art surgical center attached to his office at 800a Fifth Avenue.
- Patient Selection: The best candidates for his breast implant removal and replacement procedures are those who are in good general health, have realistic expectations, are motivated for the change, can pause their daily responsibilities, and have the financial means for the elective cosmetic surgery.
New York Group for Plastic Surgery (Dr. Andrew Salzberg and Dr. Jordan Jacobs)
The New York Group for Plastic Surgery offers breast implant removal procedures with the expertise of Dr. Andrew Salzberg and Dr. Jordan Jacobs.
- Procedure Details: The surgeons remove breast implants and some or all of the surrounding scar capsules. They also clean the breast pocket and remove silicone from the implant shell. The incisions for the procedure can be made in one of three locations: the crease under the breast, around the areola, or vertically in the armpit.
- Patient Preparation: Patients are advised to avoid certain medications, like aspirin and anti - inflammatory drugs, for a week prior to the procedure. They should also avoid blood - thinning medications for up to six weeks. Arrangements must be made for a ride home and someone to stay with the patient for at least 24 hours after the surgery.
- Recovery: The recovery process is similar to that of initial breast augmentation surgery. Patients can expect about three days of downtime, followed by a few weeks of swelling, bruising, and soreness. Most patients can resume light activities within a week and more vigorous activities in about six weeks.
Dr. Brian Bassiri - Tehrani at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery
Dr. Brian Bassiri - Tehrani at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery provides capsulectomy and capsulotomy procedures for breast implant removal in NYC.
- Customized Approach: He takes an individualized approach, listening to the patient's concerns and goals during the consultation. Based on the examination, he creates a personalized treatment plan that may include partial or full removal of the scar tissue and replacement of the breast implants.
- Surgery and Recovery: The surgery takes place in the office's state - of - the - art operating room in Manhattan. It usually lasts between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the severity of the breast condition. The downtime is about 1 week, and patients cannot work out for 1 to 2 months during the healing process.
- Cost and FAQs: The cost of implant removal can range from $6,000 - $15,000, and the capsule is typically removed along with the implant.
Dr. John Mesa
Dr. John Mesa is a plastic surgeon based in New York City, New Jersey, and Miami, known for his breast implant removal procedures.
- Procedure Location: He performs breast implant removal at fully accredited hospitals or surgery centers in NYC, NJ, or Miami. The procedure is usually done under general anesthesia and takes approximately two hours.
- Recovery: Patients can expect to be up and moving on the day of the surgery and return to work in about seven to fourteen days. They need to wear a special supportive bra to aid in recovery and should arrange for someone to drive them home and stay with them for the first few days.
Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
The Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC has a top - rated breast surgery team for breast implant removal.
- Procedures Offered: They offer various breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. The ultimate surgical method is determined based on the patient's unique anatomy and desired post - operative goals.
- Surgery and Aftercare: The surgery is performed at their state - of - the - art fully accredited surgical suite under general anesthesia and takes about 1 - 3 hours. Patients can expect swelling and tenderness to subside within six to eight weeks.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
When choosing a hospital and surgeon for breast implant removal and injection in NYC, consider the following factors:
- Board Certification: Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification indicates that the surgeon has met the rigorous standards of education, training, and experience in plastic surgery.
- Experience: Look for a surgeon with extensive experience in breast implant removal and injection procedures. A surgeon who has performed a large number of these surgeries is more likely to have encountered and successfully managed a variety of cases.
- Reputation: Check online reviews, patient testimonials, and the surgeon's listing in reputable medical magazines. A good reputation is a sign of high - quality work and patient satisfaction.
- Facility Quality: The hospital or surgical facility should be clean, well - equipped, and accredited. A state - of - the - art facility with the latest technology and safety measures can contribute to a successful procedure and recovery.
- Communication: A good surgeon should listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes clearly. Open and honest communication is essential for a positive patient - surgeon relationship.
Comparing the Top Options
Surgeon/Hospital | Expertise | Location | Special Features | Recovery Time |
---|---|---|---|---|
Dr. Darrick E. Antell | Custom breast implant removal, en bloc capsulectomy, removal of recalled implants | Near Lenox Hill Hospital | High - profile reputation, personalized approach | Most patients return to daily activities within days, full results in several months |
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson | Handling aesthetic and medical breast implant issues | Upper East Side | Female surgeon, patient - friendly environment | Recovery similar to individual needs, depends on the procedure |
Dr. Barry Weintraub | Breast implant removal and replacement, natural - looking results | 800a Fifth Avenue | Twilight sleep anesthesia, attention to detail | Return to work in three days, full recovery with time |
New York Group for Plastic Surgery | Breast implant removal, scar capsule removal | New York and Tarrytown | Comprehensive patient education | Three days of downtime, resume light activities in one week |
Dr. Brian Bassiri - Tehrani at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery | Capsulectomy and capsulotomy | Manhattan | Individualized treatment plans | 1 - week downtime, no workout for 1 - 2 months |
Dr. John Mesa | Breast implant removal in multiple locations | NYC, NJ, Miami | Available in different regions | Return to work in 7 - 14 days |
Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC | En bloc, partial and total capsulectomy | Manhattan | Advanced breast implant removal techniques | Swelling and tenderness subside in 6 - 8 weeks |
Pre - operative Considerations
Before undergoing breast implant removal or injection, patients should take the following steps:
- Medical Evaluation: Have a thorough medical check - up to ensure your overall health is suitable for the procedure. Inform your doctor about any pre - existing medical conditions, medications, or allergies.
- Research: Learn about the different types of procedures, risks, and expected outcomes. Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of what to expect.
- Consultation: Schedule consultations with multiple surgeons to discuss your goals, concerns, and the best approach for your case. Ask questions about the surgeon's experience, the facility, and the cost of the procedure.
- Preparation: Follow the surgeon's instructions regarding pre - operative preparation, such as stopping certain medications, fasting, and arranging for transportation and post - operative care.
Post - operative Care
Proper post - operative care is essential for a successful recovery:
- Follow Instructions: Strictly adhere to the surgeon's post - operative instructions, including taking prescribed medications, wearing a supportive bra, and avoiding strenuous activities.
- Monitor Healing: Keep an eye on the incision sites for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. Contact your surgeon immediately if you notice any unusual symptoms.
- Nutrition and Rest: Eat a balanced diet to support healing and get plenty of rest. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can interfere with the healing process.
- Follow - up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow - up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
Conclusion
New York City offers a wide range of options for breast implant removal and injection procedures. From experienced surgeons with stellar reputations to state - of - the - art facilities, patients can find the right fit for their needs. When considering these procedures, it's important to do thorough research, choose a qualified surgeon, and follow all pre - and post - operative instructions. By making an informed decision, patients can achieve the desired results and improve their overall quality of life.
If you're considering breast implant removal or injection in New York City, don't hesitate to reach out to the surgeons and facilities mentioned in this article. Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and take the first step towards the change you desire.