Introduction
Breast implant removal surgery has become a common option for many women in New York City. Whether it's due to health concerns, dissatisfaction with the cosmetic results, or changes in personal preferences, finding a reliable hospital and surgeon is crucial. In this article, we will explore the top 5 selected hospitals for breast implant removal surgery in New York City in 2025.
Understanding Breast Implant Removal
Before diving into the top hospitals, it's important to understand the reasons for breast implant removal and the procedure itself.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
- Health Concerns: Issues such as implant rupture, capsular contracture (hardening of the scar tissue around the implant), breast implant illness (BII), or breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) can lead to the decision to remove the implants.
- Cosmetic Preferences: Women may be unhappy with the size, shape, or appearance of their implants. Changes in personal taste or body image can also prompt the removal of breast implants.
- Aging Implants: Over time, breast implants may degrade, shift, or lose their shape, making replacement or removal necessary.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
The breast implant removal procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Consultation: The surgeon will evaluate the patient's health, medical history, and the current condition of the breasts. They will also discuss the patient's goals and expectations for the surgery.
- Anesthesia: The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia or "twilight" sedation, ensuring the patient's comfort throughout the procedure.
- Incision: The surgeon will make an incision, often using the original incision from the breast augmentation surgery to minimize scarring. Incisions can be made along the inframammary fold (under the breast), beneath the areola, or in the armpit.
- Implant Removal: The breast implants are removed from the breast capsule. In some cases, the capsule and any scar tissue may also be removed, depending on the patient's condition and the surgeon's recommendation.
- Closure: The incisions are closed using sutures, and a dressing or bandage is applied to the breasts.
Top 5 Selected Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal Surgery in New York City
1. Manhattan Implant Removal (Dr. Darrick Antell)
Dr. Darrick Antell is a top - New York plastic surgeon widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the area and worldwide. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery and also offers en bloc capsulectomy when indicated.
Credentials and Reputation
- Listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country.
- An official spokesperson for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
- Has memberships in many regional and national medical societies, including the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
- A fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
- Has won numerous awards, such as the fellow of the Jacques W. Maliniac Circle of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and multiple "Who's Who" recognitions.
Services Offered
- Custom breast implant removal, including removal of silicone or saline implants.
- En bloc capsulectomy for the removal of the tissue around the breast implant.
- Removal of recalled Allergan textured breast implants associated with BIA - ALCL.
- Potential combination of explant surgery with other procedures like breast lift for a more desired aesthetic outcome.
Patient Experience
Many of Dr. Antell's patients are referred by former patients, indicating high patient satisfaction. He has performed surgeries on many celebrities and well - known persons, and his reputation for exceptional surgical results and discretion is impeccable.
Facility
Most patients prefer to have the procedure in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from the world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. The state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center is fully accredited, equipped with the latest technology, and has a private back entrance for patient privacy.
2. Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC
The breast surgery expert plastic surgeons at the Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC are highly trained in breast implant removal surgery and are world - renowned for their advanced techniques.
Credentials and Reputation
- The board - certified plastic surgeons are top - rated and have extensive experience in breast implant removal procedures.
- Understand the importance of patient comfort and satisfaction, offering a range of services to meet individual needs.
Services Offered
- Multiple breast implant removal procedures, including en bloc, partial capsulectomy, and total capsulectomy.
- Customized treatment plans based on the patient's unique anatomy and desired post - operative goals.
- Breast implant replacement options for patients who wish to change the size or type of their implants.
Patient Experience
The center aims to provide patients with the best possible experience. They offer a complimentary consultation to discuss the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes, ensuring patients are well - informed before making a decision.
Facility
The surgery is performed at their state - of - the - art fully accredited surgical suite. The procedure takes about 1 - 3 hours under general anesthesia, and patients can expect swelling and tenderness to subside within six to eight weeks.
3. Dr. Darren Smith's Practice
Dr. Darren Smith performs breast implant removal surgery in his state - of - the - art medical facility in NYC.
Credentials and Reputation
- Board - certified plastic surgeon, well - versed in breast implant removal and related procedures.
- Helps patients make personalized decisions based on their individual needs and body goals.
Services Offered
- Removal of silicone or saline breast implants.
- Option to replace breast implants with new ones of the same or different size.
- Use of the original incision from the breast augmentation procedure to minimize scarring.
- Removal of scar tissue or silicone from implant leaks if necessary.
Patient Experience
After the surgery, patients spend time in the recovery room under the monitoring of the doctor and medical staff. They are provided with appropriate support garments and detailed aftercare instructions. Dr. Smith emphasizes the importance of having a trusted friend or family member accompany the patient home and stay with them for at least 24 hours post - op.
Facility
The state - of - the - art medical facility is equipped to handle breast implant removal procedures safely and efficiently. The facility provides a comfortable and professional environment for patients.
4. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is recognized as a top breast implant removal surgeon in NYC, with over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns.
Credentials and Reputation
- Board - certified, Harvard and Columbia educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon.
- Considered one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the Upper East Side in NYC.
- Committed to ensuring the finest surgical results for her patients.
Services Offered
- Comprehensive evaluation of patients with breast implant - related concerns, including aesthetic and medical issues.
- Breast implant removal surgery, with advice on various surgical options based on the patient's situation.
- Recommendation of secondary procedures such as breast lift if necessary to achieve the best aesthetic results.
Patient Experience
Patients have reported exceptional experiences with Dr. Hutchinson and her staff. The atmosphere is calming, and the team is professional and friendly. Dr. Hutchinson makes patients feel comfortable throughout the process, and the results are often highly satisfactory.
Facility
The practice provides a clean and comfortable environment for patients. They offer consultations to discuss the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes, and guide patients through the decision - making process.
5. Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery
Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery offers breast explant surgery in NYC, with Dr. Brian Bassiri - Tehrani providing personalized care.
Credentials and Reputation
- The practice has been persistent in the pursuit of perfection as one of the best plastic surgery practices in New York.
- Dr. Bassiri - Tehrani takes an individualized approach to each patient, focusing on their specific concerns and goals.
Services Offered
- Capsulectomy and capsulotomy procedures to remove implants and/or scar tissue surrounding them.
- Personalized consultation to create an individualized treatment plan for each patient.
- Option to partially or fully remove the scar tissue and replace the breast implants if desired.
Patient Experience
The team at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery provides support and guidance throughout the entire process, from consultation to post - surgery care. They encourage patients to ask questions and ensure patients are well - informed about the surgery and recovery process.
Facility
The surgery takes place in their state - of - the - art in - office operating room in Manhattan. The facility is equipped to provide a safe and comfortable environment for the procedure.
Comparing the Top 5 Hospitals
Hospital | Surgeon | Credentials | Services Offered | Patient Experience | Facility |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Manhattan Implant Removal | Dr. Darrick Antell | Listed in top magazines, multiple society memberships, numerous awards | Custom implant removal, en bloc capsulectomy, removal of recalled implants, possible breast lift | High patient satisfaction, many referrals | Private operating room near Lenox Hill Hospital, state - of - the - art and accredited |
Breast Reconstruction Center of NYC | Board - certified plastic surgeons | Top - rated, experienced in breast implant removal | En bloc, partial capsulectomy, total capsulectomy, implant replacement | Complimentary consultation, focus on patient needs | Fully accredited surgical suite |
Dr. Darren Smith's Practice | Dr. Darren Smith | Board - certified plastic surgeon | Implant removal, replacement, use of original incision, removal of scar tissue | Detailed aftercare, emphasis on patient safety | State - of - the - art medical facility |
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson's Practice | Dr. Olivia Hutchinson | Board - certified, Harvard and Columbia educated | Comprehensive evaluation, implant removal, possible breast lift | Exceptional patient reviews, calming atmosphere | Clean and comfortable practice environment |
Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery | Dr. Brian Bassiri - Tehrani | Pursuit of perfection, individualized approach | Capsulectomy, capsulotomy, personalized treatment plans | Supportive team, guidance throughout process | State - of - the - art in - office operating room in Manhattan |
Preparing for Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Regardless of which hospital you choose, proper preparation is essential for a successful breast implant removal surgery.
Medical Evaluation
Your surgeon will conduct a thorough medical evaluation, including a review of your medical history, physical examination, and possibly imaging tests such as ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI. This helps to assess the current condition of your breasts and identify any potential risks.
Lifestyle Changes
- Medication Adjustments: You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and anti - inflammatory medications, for one week prior to the surgery. Blood - thinning medications may need to be stopped for up to six weeks before the procedure. Consult your doctor for specific instructions.
- Smoking Cessation: Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It is recommended to stop smoking before the surgery.
- Arrangements for Recovery: Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and stay with you for at least 24 hours. You may also need to make arrangements for assistance with daily activities during the recovery period.
Emotional Preparation
Undergoing breast implant removal surgery can be an emotional experience. It's important to discuss your expectations and concerns with your surgeon and family members. Remember that it may take some time to adjust to your new appearance.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery process after breast implant removal surgery varies from patient to patient, but there are some general guidelines to follow.
Immediate Post - Operative Period
- You will spend some time in the recovery room under the monitoring of medical staff. You may experience some discomfort, which can be managed with pain relief medication.
- You will be provided with post - procedure instructions on how to care for yourself and the incision sites, including information on wearing a compression bra, taking antibiotics, and applying cold compresses.
- It is important to have someone drive you home after the surgery and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
Short - Term Recovery
- Expect some swelling, bruising, soreness, and sensitivity in the breast area for a few weeks. Most patients are able to return to most of their routine activities within a few days to a week, but it is best to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for about two weeks.
- You may experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time.
- Follow your surgeon's instructions regarding wound care, medication, and follow - up appointments.
Long - Term Recovery
- 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. Your scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade.
- Most patients do not require a breast lift after surgery, as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally. However, if you desire a breast lift, it can be discussed with your surgeon.
- Continue to follow your surgeon's advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular follow - up appointments to monitor your recovery.