Top Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal and Recovery in New York City in 2025
Deciding to have breast implants removed is a significant personal choice. It could be due to various reasons such as health concerns, changing aesthetic preferences, or complications like implant rupture and capsular contracture. In New York City, there are several highly - regarded hospitals and clinics where you can undergo breast implant removal surgery and receive excellent post - operative care. This article will explore some of the best options and provide in - depth information about the process, doctors, and what to expect.
1. Antell MD
Dr. Darrick E. Antell: A Premier Breast Surgeon
Dr. Darrick E. Antell is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons, not only in the New York area but also globally. He has been featured in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. His surgical skills, combined with an artistic eye, ensure beautiful results for his patients.
Services Offered
Dr. Antell performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery. He can remove existing silicone or saline implants from the body. When necessary, he also conducts an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue that has grown around the breast implant. He is also well - known for removing the Allergan textured breast implants that were recalled by the FDA due to the increased 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, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. If the patient is having the implants removed due to medical complications, it's important to discuss all symptoms. Patients are advised to bring any information about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. Based on the patient's desires, Dr. Antell will create a customized surgical plan, which may include pairing the explant surgery with another procedure like a breast lift.
Surgery and Facility
Dr. Antell has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City. However, most patients prefer to have the procedure in his discreet, private operating room across the street from Lenox Hill Hospital. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited, designed for comfort, and equipped with the latest technology. The staff is trained to offer personalized care, and there is a private back entrance for patient discretion.
Recovery and Aftercare
After the surgery, patients recover in Dr. Antell's modern recovery suite under the supervision of a registered nurse. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia is used to reduce discomfort. Since it is an outpatient procedure, patients can return home the same day, but they need an escort. Dr. Antell and his staff provide detailed discharge instructions and are available to answer any questions during the recovery process. Most patients can return to daily activities within days, but vigorous exercise should be avoided for about two weeks. Loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions is common and usually fades over time.
2. Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery
Dr. Brian Bassiri - Tehrani and Services
Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery on Park Avenue offers capsulectomy and capsulotomy procedures for breast explant surgery in NYC. Dr. Brian Bassiri - Tehrani provides breast enhancement tailored to each patient's individual goals. His approach ensures optimal results.
Reasons for Implant Removal and Treatable Conditions
Women may choose to have their breast implants removed for various reasons, including taste preferences, capsular contracture, or issues with the implant itself. The clinic can treat conditions such as capsular contracture, scar tissue, mal - placed implants, and hard or sore implants.
Consultation and Treatment Plan
Patients meet with Dr. Bassiri - Tehrani for a confidential consultation at the New York City office. He listens to the patient's concerns and goals for breast explant surgery. Based on these factors and an examination, an individualized treatment plan is created, which includes whether to partially or fully remove the scar tissue and if the breast implants will be replaced.
Surgery and Recovery
The surgery takes place at the in - office operating room in Manhattan. The procedure lasts between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the severity and Baker grade of the breast condition. The downtime after the procedure is 1 week, and patients cannot work out for 1 to 2 months as they heal. Dr. Bassiri - Tehrani and the team provide support and guidance during post - surgery care, and a follow - up appointment is scheduled to assess recovery and results.
3. Zuckerman Plastic Surgery
Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman and Patient - Centered Care
At Zuckerman Plastic Surgery in New York City, Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman understands that the decision to undergo breast implant removal or exchange is deeply personal. He offers these procedures to meet the changing needs and preferences of his patients.
Reasons for Implant Removal and Exchange Options
Patients may choose to have their breast implants removed due to health concerns like implant rupture, capsular contracture, or breast implant illness (BII), cosmetic preferences, or aging implants. For those who want to alter the size or type of their implants, implant exchange is an option. This allows patients to adjust their breast size or switch between silicone and saline implants.
Procedure and Anesthesia
Breast implant removal and exchange procedures are performed under general anesthesia. The complexity and duration of the procedure vary depending on whether it is a simple removal, removal with a lift, or exchange. Dr. Zuckerman uses techniques to minimize scarring and optimize recovery.
Recovery and Post - Operative Care
Post - operative care is crucial for healing. Patients are advised to manage discomfort with prescribed medication, wear a support bra, and avoid strenuous activities for several weeks. Most patients return to work within one to two weeks but should avoid heavy lifting and intense physical activity for up to six weeks.
4. New York Group for Plastic Surgery
Surgeons and Services
New York Group for Plastic Surgery has two experienced plastic surgeons, Dr. Andrew Salzberg and Dr. Jordan Jacobs. They perform breast explant surgery, which involves removing breast implants and some or all of the surrounding scar capsules. During the procedure, they also remove silicone from the implant shell and clean the breast pocket.
Reasons for Explant Procedure
Common reasons for the explant procedure in NYC include removing leaking or ruptured breast implants, addressing pain or other complications, replacing damaged implants, improving breast aesthetics, and removing capsular contracture.
Preparation for Surgery
Before the procedure, patients should avoid taking medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications for one week and blood - thinning medications for up to six weeks. They need to arrange for a driver after the surgery and have an examination to ensure breast health.
Surgical Process
The surgeon may use either local or general anesthesia. After anesthesia, the surgical area is prepared, incisions are made in one of three locations (crease under the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit), the implants are removed, excess skin and scar tissue are removed, and the incisions are sealed. The surgery usually takes one to three hours.
Recovery
After the procedure, patients are taken to a recovery room and may experience some discomfort, which is managed with pain relief medication. They spend about an hour in the recovery room before going home. Recovery is similar to that after breast augmentation, with three days of downtime and the ability to return to routine activities within a few days. Most patients can resume light activities within one week and more vigorous activity in about six weeks.
5. Dr. Barry Weintraub
Surgeon's Expertise and Philosophy
Dr. Barry Weintraub is a highly skilled plastic surgeon with a strong aesthetic sense. He combines medical science and artistry in his practice. He always places implants under the pectoralis - major muscle for a natural look and feel.
Breast Implant Removal and Replacement
Breast implant removal and replacement can be done to change the size, location, or type of implants. Some patients are concerned about breast implant illness and wish to remove the implants, while others want to replace saline implants with silicone ones. In some cases, autologous fat is used to replace lost volume, and a breast lift may be combined with the procedure.
Consultation and Patient Selection
During the consultation, patients are advised to check for the surgeon's board certification, hospital privileges, reputation, and speak to other patients. The best candidates are in good general health, highly motivated, able to take time off for the procedure, and have the financial means for the surgery.
Surgery and Facility
Dr. Weintraub prefers to perform the surgery in a comfortable state of twilight sleep. He ensures the highest standards of sterility in his private, hospital - grade surgical center attached to his office at 800a Fifth Avenue. The surgery is never rushed, and he executes every step with precision.
Aftercare
There may be some swelling and bruising after surgery, which usually resolves within a week. Patients must follow Dr. Weintraub's instructions, including early showering. He will advise on when to return to normal lifestyle and exercise.
6. 740 Park Plastic Surgery
Dr. Stafford Broumand and Compassionate Care
At 740 Park Plastic Surgery, Dr. Stafford Broumand and his team are dedicated to providing compassionate care and exceptional results for breast implant removal in NYC. They understand that patients' body and personal preferences may change over time.
Benefits and Candidates
Benefits of breast implant removal include restoring a natural breast appearance, alleviating discomfort, addressing implant - related complications, and allowing for resizing or replacing with new implants if desired. Candidates are those seeking to remove their breast implants for reasons such as lifestyle changes, health concerns, or aesthetic preferences.
Surgery and Recovery
The breast implant removal is an outpatient surgery performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Broumand makes well - concealed incisions to remove the implants. In cases of capsular contracture, an en bloc capsulectomy may be performed. After the procedure, patients are given post - operative care instructions, and over time, they will notice improvements in their breast appearance and feel.
7. Steven Wallach MD, FACS
Dr. Steven Wallach and the Procedure
Dr. Steven Wallach performs breast implant removal surgery. He usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the implant pocket and removes the implants. He also removes implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary.
Candidates and Benefits
Good candidates are healthy individuals who desire implant removal. Benefits include addressing medical issues like implant rupture and capsular contracture, as well as meeting cosmetic preferences. Patients may also choose to replace the old implants with new ones.
Consultation and Preparation
During the consultation, Dr. Wallach examines the patient and discusses options and techniques. Patients should be familiar with terms related to breast implants such as ptosis, deflation, capsulectomy, and explantation. Preparation involves avoiding blood - thinning medications and stopping smoking if applicable.
Surgery and Recovery
The surgery is performed under intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia. After the procedure, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and mild pain. Most patients can return to light activity within three to five days, but aerobic activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for a few weeks.
8. Dr. John Mesa
Surgeon's Focus and Locations
Dr. John Mesa is a plastic surgeon based in New York City, New Jersey, and Miami. He is passionate about helping patients look their best in a natural and attractive way. He performs breast implant removal at fully accredited hospitals or surgery centers in these locations.
Procedure and Recovery
The breast implant removal procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately two hours. In many cases, the implant is removed through the original surgical scar. After the surgery, patients can expect to be up and moving around the same day and return to work in seven to fourteen days. They need to wear a special supportive bra and may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with medication.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital or Clinic
- Surgeon's Experience: Look for a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast implant removal. Check their track record, patient testimonials, and before - and - after photos.
- Hospital or Clinic Facilities: Ensure that the facility is fully accredited, equipped with the latest technology, and provides a comfortable and safe environment for surgery and recovery.
- Patient - Centered Care: A good hospital or clinic will have a team that listens to your concerns, provides clear information, and offers personalized care throughout the process.
- Cost: The cost of breast implant removal can vary widely. Consider your budget, but also remember that quality and safety should be your top priorities.
- Location: Choose a facility that is conveniently located for you, especially considering follow - up appointments.
Conclusion
New York City offers a wide range of excellent options for breast implant removal and recovery. From world - renowned surgeons like Dr. Darrick Antell to dedicated clinics such as Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery, patients have access to high - quality care and expertise. When making your decision, carefully consider the factors mentioned above, and don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple surgeons to find the one that best meets your needs. Remember, this is a personal journey, and the right choice can lead to a successful and satisfying outcome.
If you're considering breast implant removal in New York City, take the first step today. Reach out to the hospitals and clinics mentioned in this article, schedule a consultation, and start your path to a more comfortable and confident you. Share this article with others who may be in the same situation and help them make an informed decision.