Introduction
Silicone breast augmentation removal is a significant surgical procedure that requires a high level of expertise and professionalism. In New York City, a bustling metropolis known for its advanced medical facilities, patients have a wide range of options when it comes to choosing a hospital for this surgery. This article aims to explore the top - ranked hospitals that offer professional silicone breast augmentation removal services, providing detailed information about their features, doctors, and surgical procedures.
Reasons for Silicone Breast Augmentation Removal
Before delving into the hospitals, it's essential to understand the reasons why women opt for silicone breast augmentation removal. There are various motivations behind this decision, including medical and aesthetic concerns.
Medical Reasons
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a rare type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. If left untreated, it can spread to nearby lymph nodes. The FDA has recalled certain textured breast implants due to their association with a higher rate of BIA - ALCL. Symptoms may include pain, swelling around the breasts, or a difference in the size or shape of the breasts.
- Capsular Contracture: When the tissue around the implant hardens, it can cause distortion and abnormal appearance of the breasts, as well as pain and discomfort.
- Implant Rupture or Leakage: Silicone implants are factory - sealed, but over time, they can rupture or leak. Saline implants, which have a valve, are more prone to leakage. A ruptured or leaking implant can affect the shape and feel of the breast.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): Women may experience a wide variety of symptoms such as fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression or anxiety, rashes, pain, and discomfort after breast augmentation. Although the exact cause is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
Aesthetic Reasons
- Unsatisfactory Results: Some women may not be happy with the initial breast augmentation results, such as the size, shape, or position of the implants.
- Change in Lifestyle or Preferences: Over time, a woman's lifestyle or aesthetic preferences may change, leading her to desire a more natural look or a different breast size.
Top Hospitals for Silicone Breast Augmentation Removal in New York City
1. Dr. Darrick E. Antell's Practice
Dr. Darrick Antell is a top New York plastic surgeon widely regarded as being among the most experienced breast surgeons both in the New York area and worldwide. He has repeatedly appeared on the best doctors lists for Town and Country, Vogue, and New York Magazine.
Services Offered
- Custom Breast Implant Removal (Explant): He performs explant surgery to remove existing silicone or saline implants from the body. He also offers an en bloc capsulectomy when indicated, which involves removing the tissue that has grown around the breast implant.
- Removal of Recalled Implants: Dr. Antell performs the removal of the Allergan textured breast implants recalled by the FDA due to their association with BIA - ALCL.
Patient Experience
Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, which is a testament to his high - quality work. He has performed custom breast removal surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons in New York and beyond, maintaining total discretion.
Surgical Facilities
Dr. Antell has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City. Most patients prefer for the procedure to take place 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.
Consultation and Preparation
During the initial consultation, Dr. Antell thoroughly evaluates the patient's general health and medical history, as well as assesses the current condition of the breasts. He advises patients to bring any information about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery. Based on the patient's expectations, he may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift. Patients are also given guidelines on eating, drinking, smoking, and taking medications before the surgery.
Recovery and Results
After the surgery, patients recover in Dr. Antell's state - of - the - art recovery suite. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, and patients can return home the same day. Most patients can return to daily activities within days, but they should refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. Although much of the swelling and bruising will fade in the first few weeks, it may take several months before the final results are visible.
2. Dr. Barry Weintraub's Practice
Dr. Barry Weintraub is known for his unique blend of medical science and artwork in cosmetic surgery. He is a "thinking surgeon" who pays close attention to details and aims for the best results for his patients.
Services Offered
- Breast Implant Removal and Replacement: He performs breast implant removal to change the size, location, or type of implants. In some cases, he combines implant removal with replacement to improve the appearance of the breasts. He also offers autologous fat transfer to replace lost volume and breast lift procedures in conjunction with implant removal.
- Repositioning of Implants: Dr. Weintraub re - positions implants under the pectoralis - major muscle to create a more natural - looking result, especially if the implants were originally placed over the muscle.
Consultation Process
Patients should check for board certification, ensure the physician has privileges at a major hospital, confirm his reputation among other medical professionals, and speak to his patients who have undergone similar procedures. During the consultation, Dr. Weintraub listens to the patient's concerns and desires and develops a personalized surgical plan.
Surgical Procedure
Dr. Weintraub prefers his patients to be in a comfortable state of twilight sleep during the surgery. He insists on the most sterile conditions in the operating room, with on - staff, board - certified anesthesiologists and state - of - the - art monitoring equipment. The surgery is performed with precision and care, and all wounds are sewn in multiple layers by his own hand.
Patient Suitability
The best candidates for breast - implant removal and replacement are well - balanced, in good general health, and have realistic expectations. They should be highly motivated, able to pause their daily responsibilities, and have the financial means to undergo the procedure.
Recovery and Cost
There may be a short period of minimal swelling and sometimes bruising after the surgery. Patients must follow Dr. Weintraub's instructions carefully. The cost of the procedure varies depending on the individual patient's needs, and it is best to schedule a consultation for an accurate quote.
3. Mount Sinai Hospitals
Mount Sinai has a team of plastic surgeons with extensive experience in breast - related procedures. Their hospitals, such as Mount Sinai Morningside and Mount Sinai West, are nationally ranked in multiple specialties.
Services Offered
- Breast Augmentation and Related Services: While this is also a center for breast augmentation, they can provide services related to silicone breast augmentation removal, including consultation, explant surgery, and post - operative care.
- Advanced Imaging Technology: Before any procedure, they use the latest 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger (or post - removal) breasts will look, ensuring they are happy with the expected results.
Expert Surgeons
The plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai are highly skilled and experienced. They listen to the patients' desires and help them make informed decisions about the best course of action for their breast health and aesthetics.
Comprehensive Care
Mount Sinai offers comprehensive care from pre - operative evaluation to post - operative follow - up. They perform a physical exam and ask a series of health - related questions to confirm the patient's suitability for the procedure. After the surgery, patients receive detailed instructions for recovery and are closely monitored.
4. Columbia University Plastic Surgery Division
As one of New York's best hospitals and the world's top medical centers, Columbia University's plastic surgery division has a wealth of experience in various plastic and reconstructive procedures, including breast - related surgeries.
Services Offered
- Breast Reconstructive and Cosmetic Care: They offer breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift, and breast implant removal. Their breast cancer reconstructive surgery program is dedicated to helping individuals who have undergone breast cancer surgery reclaim their physical and emotional well - being.
- Research - Driven Approach: The division is at the forefront of clinical and laboratory research in plastic surgery. Their research in areas such as stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy for wound healing can potentially enhance the safety and effectiveness of breast implant removal procedures.
Expert Surgeons
The plastic surgeons at Columbia are proficient in multiple areas of specialization. They are board - certified and have extensive experience in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. For example, Dr. Christine Rohde is a highly skilled clinician, researcher, and teacher specializing in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, and breast reconstruction.
Patient - Centered Care
The division provides patient - centered care, taking the time to understand each patient's unique needs and goals. They offer educational guides to help patients make informed decisions about their breast implant removal and other plastic surgery procedures.
5. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
This center in Manhattan is specifically focused on breast - related surgeries, including silicone breast augmentation removal.
Services Offered
- Customized Implant Removal Procedures: They offer en bloc breast implant removal, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy. The surgical method is determined based on the patient's desired post - op result and unique anatomy.
- Expertise in Breast Reconstruction: In addition to implant removal, they can also assist patients with breast reconstruction if desired, ensuring a comprehensive approach to breast health and aesthetics.
Consultation and Procedure
During the initial consultation, the plastic surgeon explains each variation of the breast implant removal procedure and works with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan. The surgery is performed at their state - of - the - art fully accredited surgical suite under general anesthesia, and it takes about 1 - 3 hours.
Patient Recovery
Patients can expect swelling and tenderness to subside within six to eight weeks. The center provides post - operative care instructions and support to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Choosing the Right Hospital
Selecting the right hospital for silicone breast augmentation removal is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the outcome of the surgery and the patient's overall experience. Here are some factors to consider:
Surgeon's Experience and Reputation
Look for a surgeon who is board - certified and has extensive experience in breast implant removal procedures. Check their patient reviews, before - and - after photos, and any awards or recognition they have received. A surgeon with a good reputation is more likely to provide high - quality care and achieve satisfactory results.
Hospital Facilities and Technology
The hospital should have state - of - the - art facilities and the latest technology for accurate diagnosis, safe surgery, and effective post - operative care. For example, advanced imaging technology can help in pre - operative planning, and a well - equipped operating room with modern monitoring equipment ensures patient safety during the procedure.
Range of Services
Choose a hospital that offers a comprehensive range of services related to breast implant removal. This may include consultation, different types of removal procedures, breast reconstruction options, and post - operative follow - up care. A hospital with a wide range of services can better meet the diverse needs of patients.
Patient - Centered Care
The hospital should provide patient - centered care, with a team of professionals who listen to the patient's concerns, answer their questions, and involve them in the decision - making process. A supportive and caring environment can reduce the patient's anxiety and improve the overall surgical experience.
Cost and Insurance
Understand the cost of the breast implant removal procedure and whether your insurance will cover it. Some insurance plans may cover the removal if it is for medical reasons, such as BIA - ALCL or capsular contracture. It's important to discuss the cost and insurance details with the hospital's billing department before the surgery.
Conclusion
In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals and surgeons that offer professional silicone breast augmentation removal services. Whether you are considering the procedure due to medical or aesthetic reasons, it's essential to do your research and choose a hospital that meets your specific needs. Dr. Darrick Antell, Dr. Barry Weintraub, Mount Sinai Hospitals, Columbia University Plastic Surgery Division, and the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC are all excellent options, each with their own unique strengths and areas of expertise.
If you are considering silicone breast augmentation removal, we encourage you to take the next step and schedule a consultation with one of these top providers. Don't hesitate to reach out and learn more about the procedure, ask questions, and get the information you need to make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may be interested in this topic and explore related content on our website to gain further insights into breast health and plastic surgery.
