Introduction

Breast augmentation has long been a popular cosmetic procedure, offering women the opportunity to enhance their appearance and boost self - confidence. In some cases, polyacrylamide gel was previously used for breast augmentation, but due to various complications, its extraction has become a necessary procedure for many patients. New York City, being a hub of medical excellence, has several hospitals that excel in performing polyacrylamide gel extraction in breast augmentation. In this article, we will explore the top 10 hospitals for this specific procedure in New York City in 2025.

Understanding Polyacrylamide Gel in Breast Augmentation

Polyacrylamide hydrogel (PAAG) is a polymer synthesized from 2.5% acrylamide and 97.5% water. It was once considered a non - biodegradable, non - toxic, non - sensitizing, and non - teratogenic hydrogel. After its introduction from Ukraine in 1997, it was widely used in China as a soft tissue filler for breast augmentation. However, long - term clinical application revealed many complications such as pain, induration, displacement, deformation, milk deposition, and psychological fear. There were even reports that PAAG may cause breast cancer. Due to these issues, PAAG was banned from clinical application in many countries, including by the Chinese Food and Drug Administration in 2006. In the context of New York City, while the use of PAAG might not have been as widespread as in some other regions, there are still patients seeking its extraction due to past exposure or imported products.

Criteria for Ranking Hospitals

When ranking the top 10 hospitals for polyacrylamide gel extraction in breast augmentation in New York City, several factors are taken into account:

1. Expertise of Surgeons: Surgeons should have extensive experience in performing this specific extraction procedure, as well as a solid background in breast surgery in general. This includes experience in handling various complications associated with PAAG.
2. Advanced Technology: The use of state - of - the - art imaging technology, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to accurately locate the gel and advanced surgical tools for safe and efficient extraction.
3. Patient Satisfaction: Feedback from patients who have undergone the procedure at the hospital, including their satisfaction with the results, the level of care during the pre - operative, operative, and post - operative periods, and the overall experience.
4. Research and Innovation: Hospitals that are actively involved in research related to PAAG extraction and breast augmentation, and that can offer innovative solutions and techniques.
5. Success Rate: The percentage of successful extractions with minimal complications, as well as the ability to provide satisfactory cosmetic and functional outcomes.

The Top 10 Hospitals for Polyacrylamide Gel Extraction in Breast Augmentation in New York City

1. Mount Sinai - New York

Mount Sinai is renowned for its plastic surgery department. Its plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation and related procedures. In the case of polyacrylamide gel extraction, they use advanced 3D imaging technology to help visualize the distribution of the gel and the potential outcomes of the extraction. The hospital offers a range of breast augmentation options, including different types of implants and fat transfer techniques. For patients seeking PAAG extraction, they can expect a comprehensive approach, including pre - operative evaluation, personalized surgical planning, and post - operative care to ensure the best possible results. Their surgeons take the time to understand each patient's unique situation and goals, and provide detailed consultations to address any concerns. Additionally, Mount Sinai is involved in research related to breast surgery, which may lead to continuous improvement in the techniques used for PAAG extraction.

2. Dr. Adam R. Kolker's Practice

Dr. Adam R. Kolker is a double - board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He specializes in breast augmentation and a wide range of cosmetic surgery procedures. His education and training span some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world, including Harvard Medical School, New York University, and the University of Melbourne in Australia. As an associate clinical professor of surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, he stays on the cutting edge of advancements in plastic surgery. In terms of polyacrylamide gel extraction, Dr. Kolker's approach combines scientific knowledge with artistic creativity. He has a high level of technical mastery, which is crucial for a complex procedure like PAAG extraction. He is also highly respected by his patients, as evidenced by numerous positive testimonials. His clinic offers comprehensive consultations, both virtually and in person, to ensure that patients are well - informed and comfortable throughout the process.

3. Lara Devgan, MD, MPH, FACS

Dr. Lara Devgan is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York City, specializing in breast augmentation. Her practice focuses on providing beautiful, natural results for breast augmentation procedures. In the context of polyacrylamide gel extraction, she offers a patient - centered approach. During the consultation, she takes the time to examine, measure, and photograph the patient's breasts. She also discusses the medical history and the patient's desires for surgery. She shows samples of silicone and saline breast implants and allows patients to "try on" different sizes of implants to figure out the best option. Her surgical experience and attention to detail make her a strong candidate for PAAG extraction. After the surgery, she provides detailed recovery instructions and support to ensure a smooth and successful recovery process for the patient.

4. Weill Cornell Medicine

Weill Cornell Medicine is an exemplary institution for plastic and reconstructive surgery. Their plastic and reconstructive surgeons are leaders in the field, and they work closely with patients to understand their goals and discuss the best options for their needs. The hospital is affiliated with New York - Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S. For polyacrylamide gel extraction, the surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine are highly skilled and use the latest anesthetics and medications to ensure a comfortable surgical experience and a faster recovery. They focus on providing individualized breast surgery for patients of all races, ethnicities, genders, and gender identities. The post - operative care team also manages pain effectively and teaches patients how to care for themselves during the healing process.

5. Cohen/Winters Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgery

Although located in northern NJ, many women from NYC and other east - coast cities choose Cohen/Winters for their breast surgery needs. The surgeons at this practice have a wealth of experience in both plastic and reconstructive surgery. Their reconstructive experience has given them an in - depth knowledge of breast anatomy, form, and function, which is invaluable for polyacrylamide gel extraction. They take the time to understand each patient's unique needs, desires, and medical history, and use this information to plan a personalized surgical approach. Their meticulous surgical technique ensures natural - looking results with the smallest possible incisions, minimizing scarring. They also provide comprehensive support throughout the recovery process to ensure a successful outcome for the patient.

6. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

While primarily known for cancer treatment, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center has a highly skilled plastic surgery department. Their expertise in breast surgery is well - recognized, especially in cases where there may be a need for complex surgical interventions. In the context of polyacrylamide gel extraction, their surgeons have the knowledge and experience to handle any potential complications related to the presence of PAAG, such as the risk of breast tissue damage or the need for breast reconstruction after extraction. The hospital's research capabilities also allow them to stay updated on the latest advancements in breast surgery techniques, which can benefit patients undergoing PAAG extraction.

7. NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital

NewYork - Presbyterian Hospital is one of the most prestigious medical institutions in New York City. It offers a wide range of medical services, including plastic and reconstructive surgery. Their plastic surgeons are highly trained and experienced in performing complex breast surgery procedures, such as polyacrylamide gel extraction. The hospital has access to advanced technology and resources, which are essential for accurate diagnosis and safe surgical procedures. They also have a team of dedicated nurses and support staff who provide comprehensive care to patients throughout the treatment process, from pre - operative evaluation to post - operative follow - up.

8. NYU Langone Health

NYU Langone Health is known for its excellent medical education and research, as well as its clinical services. The plastic surgery department at NYU Langone offers a variety of breast surgery options, including PAAG extraction. Their surgeons are involved in research and clinical trials related to breast surgery, which means they are constantly exploring new and improved techniques. They also provide patient - centered care, taking the time to answer all of the patient's questions and concerns before, during, and after the surgery. The hospital's multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care from a team of experts, including plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses.

9. Lenox Hill Hospital

Lenox Hill Hospital has a long - standing reputation for providing high - quality medical care. The plastic surgery department at Lenox Hill offers breast augmentation and related procedures, including polyacrylamide gel extraction. Their surgeons are committed to providing personalized care and achieving the best possible results for their patients. They use the latest surgical techniques and technology to ensure a safe and effective extraction process. The hospital also offers a supportive environment for patients, with a focus on comfort and recovery. Their post - operative care program includes follow - up appointments, physical therapy, and emotional support to help patients recover fully.

10. Montefiore Medical Center

Montefiore Medical Center is a large academic medical center in the Bronx. Their plastic surgery team is experienced in performing breast surgery procedures, including polyacrylamide gel extraction. The hospital has a diverse patient population, which has given their surgeons exposure to a wide range of cases and complications. They take a holistic approach to patient care, considering not only the physical aspects of the surgery but also the emotional and psychological well - being of the patient. Their pre - operative counseling and post - operative support programs are designed to ensure that patients have a positive experience and achieve the best possible outcome.

The Process of Polyacrylamide Gel Extraction

Before undergoing polyacrylamide gel extraction, patients typically go through a comprehensive pre - operative evaluation. This includes a physical examination, a review of the patient's medical history, and imaging studies such as MRI to determine the distribution of the PAAG in the breast tissue. During the surgery, the surgeon usually makes an incision, often around the areola, and carefully removes the gel. In some cases, due to the extensive infiltration of the PAAG, partial mastectomy or partial pectoralis muscle resection may be necessary. After the extraction, the surgical site is irrigated with a large amount of physiological saline to remove any remaining gel particles. Drainage tubes may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation, and the patient is then wrapped in an elastic garment to support the healing process.

Post - operatively, patients are closely monitored for any signs of complications such as infection, bleeding, or fluid collection. They are also provided with pain management medication and instructions on how to care for the surgical site. Breast ultrasound is usually recommended 6 months after the operation to check for any residual PAAG. The Augmentation Module of Breast - Q is used to evaluate patient satisfaction with the operation and their postoperative quality of life.

Benefits and Risks of Polyacrylamide Gel Extraction

Benefits

• Relief of Complications: Removing the PAAG can relieve pain, induration, and other complications associated with its presence in the breast tissue.
• Improved Cosmetic Appearance: After extraction, patients may experience an improvement in the shape and appearance of their breasts, especially if there was deformation due to the PAAG.
• Peace of Mind: For patients who are worried about the potential long - term health risks associated with PAAG, extraction can provide psychological relief.

Risks

• Incomplete Extraction: It can be extremely difficult to remove all of the PAAG completely, especially if it has infiltrated the muscle and glandular tissue.
• Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection at the surgical site.
• Scarring: The incisions made during the extraction can result in scarring, although efforts are made to minimize this.
• Breast Deformity: In some cases, removal of the PAAG may lead to breast deformity, especially if there is a significant loss of breast tissue during the extraction process.

Conclusion

In 2025, New York City offers a wide range of excellent hospitals for polyacrylamide gel extraction in breast augmentation. Each of the top 10 hospitals mentioned above has its own unique strengths, whether it's the expertise of the surgeons, the use of advanced technology, a focus on patient satisfaction, or involvement in research and innovation. Patients considering this procedure should carefully research these hospitals and consult with the surgeons to find the best fit for their needs. By choosing a reputable hospital and an experienced surgeon, patients can increase the chances of a successful extraction and a satisfactory outcome.

Call - to - Action

If you or someone you know is considering polyacrylamide gel extraction in breast augmentation, take the time to explore the hospitals listed in this article. Contact the hospitals for consultations, and ask questions about their experience, the surgical process, and the expected outcomes. Share this article with others who may benefit from this information, and continue to educate yourself about the latest advancements in breast surgery. Remember, making an informed decision is the first step towards a successful and satisfying surgical experience.