Top 5 Selected Hospitals for Funnel Chest Correction for 30 - Year - Olds in New York City in 2025!

Introduction

Funnel chest, also known as pectus excavatum, is a congenital deformity of the front of the chest wall that causes a sunken breastbone and ribs. While it often presents in childhood, some individuals may choose to pursue correction in adulthood, such as at 30 years old. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals equipped to handle funnel chest correction procedures. This article will delve into the top 5 selected hospitals for this specific purpose, along with relevant background information on funnel chest, treatment options, and what to expect during the process.

Understanding Funnel Chest

Funnel chest is a condition where the breastbone (sternum) appears sunken and the chest is concave. It occurs when an abnormal growth of cartilage within the chest wall pushes the sternum and ribs inward. According to Lurie Children's Hospital, it is the most frequent congenital anomaly of the chest wall, occurring in 1 in 400 births and is found in 2.6 percent of children aged 7 - 14. However, it may not fully manifest until adolescence during rapid bone growth. Up to 20 percent of patients may have other skeletal conditions, such as scoliosis. In adults, severe cases can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and self - esteem issues due to the appearance of the chest.

Treatment Options for Funnel Chest

There are two main types of surgical treatments for funnel chest: open surgery (Ravitch procedure) and closed (minimally invasive) surgery (Nuss procedure), as detailed by Mount Sinai - New York.

• Ravitch Procedure: The surgeon makes a cut across the front part of the chest. The deformed cartilage is removed and the rib lining is left in place to allow the cartilage to grow back correctly. A cut is then made in the breastbone, which is moved to the correct location. A metal strut may be used to hold the breastbone in place until it heals (3 to 12 months). The metal struts are removed in 6 to 12 months through a small cut in the skin under the arm, usually on an outpatient basis. This procedure is well - suited for patients who do not want a bar in place for more than one year and those with highly asymmetric chest wall deformities or problematic lower rib flaring.
• Nuss Procedure: The surgeon makes two small incisions, one on each side of the chest. A small video camera (thoracoscope) is placed through one of the incisions to view inside the chest. A curved steel bar shaped to fit the patient is inserted through the incisions and placed under the breastbone to lift it. The bar is left in place for at least 2 years to help the breastbone grow properly. This minimally invasive procedure results in less obvious scarring due to the smaller incisions.

Top 5 Selected Hospitals in New York City for Funnel Chest Correction

1. New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell

New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell is highly regarded in the medical field. According to US News, it is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties. In the context of funnel chest correction, the hospital has a vast pool of experienced surgeons and advanced medical technology.

• Medical Expertise: The hospital's orthopedic and thoracic surgery departments are staffed with board - certified surgeons who have significant experience in treating complex chest wall deformities. They keep up - to - date with the latest research and techniques in funnel chest correction, ensuring the best possible outcomes for patients.
• Comprehensive Care: Patients at New York - Presbyterian can expect comprehensive care from pre - operative evaluation to post - operative rehabilitation. A multidisciplinary team, including cardiologists, pulmonologists, and physical therapists, works together to develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient.
• Research and Innovation: The hospital is actively involved in research related to chest wall deformities. This means that patients may have access to new treatment options and clinical trials that could potentially improve their treatment results.

2. NYU Langone Hospitals

NYU Langone Hospitals are also a top choice for funnel chest correction in New York City. US News reports that it is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties and is high - performing in 1 specialty and 21 procedures/conditions.

• Advanced Technology: The hospital is equipped with state - of - the - art surgical technology, which is crucial for both open and minimally invasive funnel chest correction surgeries. This technology allows for more precise surgeries, reducing the risk of complications and improving recovery times.
• Patient - Centered Care: NYU Langone focuses on providing patient - centered care. The medical staff takes the time to understand each patient's concerns and goals, and they involve patients in the decision - making process regarding their treatment. They also offer support services to help patients and their families cope with the emotional and physical aspects of the surgery.
• Collaborative Approach: Similar to New York - Presbyterian, NYU Langone uses a collaborative approach, bringing together different specialists to ensure the best care for patients. This team approach helps in accurately diagnosing the condition and developing a comprehensive treatment plan.

3. Mount Sinai Hospital

Mount Sinai Hospital is a leading medical institution in New York. It is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties and is high - performing in 20 procedures/conditions according to US News.

• Specialized Surgeons: The hospital has a team of specialized surgeons who are experts in treating funnel chest and other chest wall deformities. These surgeons have performed numerous surgeries, gaining valuable experience that can lead to successful outcomes for patients.
• Post - operative Care: Mount Sinai emphasizes post - operative care, which is essential for a full recovery. The hospital provides pain management, physical therapy, and close monitoring of patients to ensure that they are healing properly and to address any potential complications promptly.
• Medical Education and Training: As a teaching hospital, Mount Sinai is involved in medical education and training. This means that the medical staff is constantly updated on the latest medical knowledge and techniques, which benefits patients seeking funnel chest correction.

4. North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health

North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health is nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties, according to US News. It offers a range of services related to funnel chest correction.

• Multidisciplinary Team: The hospital has a multidisciplinary team that includes orthopedic surgeons, thoracic surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses with experience in treating chest wall deformities. This team approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care throughout the treatment process.
• Advanced Diagnostic Tools: North Shore University Hospital uses advanced diagnostic tools such as CT scans, MRI, and echocardiograms to accurately assess the severity of the funnel chest and plan the most appropriate treatment. These tools help in identifying any underlying heart or lung problems that may need to be addressed during the surgery.
• Rehabilitation Services: The hospital provides extensive rehabilitation services to help patients regain strength and function after surgery. Physical therapists work with patients to develop personalized exercise programs that promote healing and improve the patient's quality of life.

5. Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health

Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health is nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties. It is another excellent option for funnel chest correction in New York City.

• Experienced Staff: The hospital's medical staff, including surgeons and nurses, has significant experience in treating funnel chest. They are well - trained in both open and minimally invasive surgical techniques and can provide high - quality care to patients.
• Patient Support: Lenox Hill Hospital offers patient support services, such as counseling and support groups, to help patients and their families deal with the emotional and psychological aspects of funnel chest and its correction. This support can be crucial for patients during the treatment and recovery process.
• Outcome - Oriented Approach: The hospital takes an outcome - oriented approach to treatment, focusing on achieving the best possible results for patients. They closely monitor patients after surgery to ensure that they are satisfied with the cosmetic and functional outcomes of the correction.

Cost Considerations for Funnel Chest Correction

The cost of funnel chest correction can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of surgery, the hospital, and the patient's insurance coverage. According to bookimed, the average price for funnel chest deformity diagnostic and treatment is $164, with a minimum price of $6 and a maximum price of $830. However, these prices may not reflect the full cost of treatment in New York City hospitals, which can be significantly higher due to factors like the cost of living, the reputation of the hospital, and the complexity of the procedure. It is important for patients to discuss the cost with their insurance provider and the hospital's financial department before undergoing the surgery.

Preparing for Funnel Chest Correction Surgery

Before undergoing funnel chest correction surgery, patients need to prepare both physically and mentally.

• Medical Evaluation: A complete medical exam and various medical tests are necessary. These may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, pulmonary function tests, and CT scan or MRI of the chest. The doctor will also review the patient's medical history and current medications.
• Lifestyle Changes: Patients may be asked to make some lifestyle changes before surgery. For example, they may need to stop smoking, as smoking can increase