Top Ten for Breast Implant Removal in New York City in 2025

Introduction

Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure that has gained significant attention in recent years. In New York City, there are numerous highly skilled plastic surgeons who specialize in this area. Whether due to medical reasons, changes in aesthetic preferences, or other factors, women may seek to have their breast implants removed. This article aims to explore the top ten aspects related to breast implant removal in New York City, including surgeons, procedures, risks, and recovery.

Top Plastic Surgeons for Breast Implant Removal in NYC

Dr. Darrick E. Antell

Dr. Darrick Antell is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the New York area and worldwide. He has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery, including en bloc capsulectomy when indicated. Many of his patients are referred by former patients, and he has worked on many celebrities and well - known individuals. His facility is a state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center located near Lenox Hill Hospital, offering personalized care and ensuring total discretion.

Kevin Tehrani, MD, FACS

Based at Aristocrat Plastic Surgery & Medaesthetics, Dr. Kevin Tehrani is a board - certified plastic surgeon. He has 21 years of experience and has 282 reviews. Virtual appointments are available, and he has 30 before - and - after images showcasing his work. Patients can get a free consultation, making it convenient for those exploring breast implant removal options.

Umbareen Mahmood, MD

Dr. Umbareen Mahmood practices at Umbareen Mahmood MD. She has her practice at 37 West 57th Street in New York. With medical doctor credentials, she offers virtual appointments and has 30 before - and - after images for patients to review her work on breast implant removal.

Adam Schaffner, MD, FACS

At the Plastic Surgery Institute of New York, Dr. Adam Schaffner is a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He has 21 years of experience and 3 board certifications. He offers virtual appointments and has 26 before - and - after images. His previous patients have commended his work, especially on implant replacement and breast augmentation.

Darren Smith, MD, FACS

Dr. Darren Smith, with his practice at Darren M. Smith, MD, FACS, is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He has 3.86 miles from a central reference point in New York and has 24 before - and - after images. Patients can expect high - quality care from a surgeon with extensive experience in the field.

Craig Baldenhofer, MD

Dr. Craig Baldenhofer practices at Craig Baldenhofer MD PLLC. His location is 115 West 27th Street in New York. He has 12 before - and - after images and has a distance of 2.42 miles from a reference point. While not as well - known as some others, he has experience in breast implant removal procedures.

David Shafer, MD, FACS

At the Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue, Dr. David Shafer is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He has 11 before - and - after images and offers virtual appointments. His expertise in the field makes him a viable option for those considering breast implant removal.

David Abramson, MD, FACS

Dr. David Abramson practices at David L. Abramson, MD. He has 70 before - and - after images and offers virtual appointments. His long - standing practice and extensive portfolio of work in breast implant removal make him a reliable choice for patients in New York City.

Jennifer Capla, MD

Dr. Jennifer Capla, with her practice at Jennifer Capla, M.D., has 70 before - and - after images and offers virtual appointments. Her skills and experience in breast implant removal contribute to her reputation as a quality plastic surgeon in the city.

Barry Weintraub, MD, FACS

Dr. Barry Weintraub is well - known for his breast implant removal and replacement procedures. He places implants under the pectoralis - major muscle for a more natural look. His practice offers a high - standard of care in a private and comfortable surgical facility. He has extensive experience, especially in complex redo surgeries. He emphasizes patient safety, precision in surgery, and personalized post - operative care.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

Medical Reasons

• Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs in the scar tissue surrounding the implant. Symptoms include pain or swelling around the breasts, and a change in the size or shape of the breasts. The FDA has recalled certain textured breast implants due to their association with a higher rate of BIA - ALCL. Treatment usually involves surgically removing the implants and surrounding scar tissue, and in more serious cases, chemotherapy or radiation may be necessary.
• Capsular Contracture: It is the hardening of scar tissue that forms around an implant after it is placed in the body. Normally, this tissue is soft and unnoticeable, but it can become hard and painful, while also distorting the appearance of the breasts. Some patients may experience severe capsular contracture, which can cause significant pain and discomfort in addition to affecting cosmetic results.
• Implant Rupture or Leakage: For saline implants, a leading sign of rupture is a rapid decrease in the size of the breast due to the sterile saline solution leaking out and being absorbed by the body. Silicone implants may also rupture, and an MRI may be required to determine if it has occurred. If a silicone implant is leaking, it may look different than normal.
• Breast Implant Illness (BII): This refers to a wide variety of symptoms that patients may occasionally report after undergoing breast augmentation or reconstruction with implants. Symptoms include fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, migraines, breathing difficulties, depression or anxiety, rashes, pain and discomfort, brain fog, and other non - specific complaints. Although the exact cause is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
• Infection and Bleeding: These are potential complications that can occur with breast implants. Infections may develop years after the initial surgery, and they require prompt treatment, which may involve implant removal.

Aesthetic Reasons

• Change in Preferences: Over time, a patient's aesthetic preferences may change. They may no longer desire the size, shape, or appearance of their breast implants and wish to return to their natural breast size or explore other options.
• Unsatisfactory Results: The initial breast augmentation may not have produced the desired results. This could include issues such as breast asymmetry, an unnatural appearance of the implants, visible or palpable implants (folded, rippled, or wrinkled), or unsightly or widened scars.
• Implant Malposition: The implant may have moved from its original position, such as up, down, to the side, or towards the middle of the chest. Conditions like a “double bubble” appearance, where the implant is not centered under the breast, or “symmastia,” where the implants appear to touch in the middle, can also be reasons for removal.

Breast Implant Removal Procedures

En Bloc Capsulectomy

This procedure involves removing the implant and the capsule that has formed around it in one piece. It is often recommended in cases where there are concerns such as BIA - ALCL, silicone implant rupture, or significant capsular contracture. By removing the implant and capsule as a single unit, it helps to ensure that all potentially problematic tissue is removed. Surgeons like Dr. Darrick Antell are experienced in performing en bloc capsulectomy when indicated.

Partial Capsulectomy

In a partial capsulectomy, the plastic surgeon removes the breast implant material and trims or shapes some of the capsule material. This is done to create the patient's desired chest contour. It is a less invasive option compared to total capsulectomy and may be suitable for patients who do not require the complete removal of the capsule.

Total Capsulectomy

Total capsulectomy involves removing the implant, the capsule, and any remaining scar tissue. The procedure starts with the removal of the breast implants, followed by a complete removal of the capsule and associated scar tissue. This is a more extensive procedure but may be necessary in certain cases to address medical or aesthetic concerns.

The Consultation Process

During the initial consultation for breast implant removal, the plastic surgeon will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history. If the patient is seeking removal due to medical complications, it is crucial to discuss any symptoms they may be experiencing. It is also helpful for the patient to bring any information they have about their existing implants and previous breast augmentation surgery.

The surgeon will assess the current condition of the breasts and work with the patient to understand their desired outcome. Based on the patient's expectations, the surgeon may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift (mastopexy). A breast lift performed in conjunction with the explant surgery can help produce a more plump, rounded appearance. The surgeon will go through the procedure, the risks, and the recovery process in detail so that the patient can make an informed decision.

Patients should be honest with the surgeon about any habits, such as smoking, and any medications, vitamins, or drugs they are taking. They should also not hesitate to ask any questions about the surgery, recovery, and expected outcome.

Preparing for Breast Implant Removal Surgery

Depending on various factors, such as age and implant condition, the surgeon may send the patient for imaging tests before the surgery. These tests can include an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI. Ahead of the surgery day, the patient will be given guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, iron tablets, and specific medications. They may also be given prescriptions that should be filled prior to the surgery.

Depending on the patient's history, they may be asked to provide pre - operative clearance from another doctor. Since the procedure is typically performed under “twilight” sedation, the patient should arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and ensure they have someone to assist them in the first few days of recovery.

Anesthesia and Surgical Process

Anesthesia

Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or with another type of “twilight” anesthesia. In some rare cases, implants can be removed with only local anesthesia. A board - certified anesthesiologist will be monitoring the patient throughout the procedure to ensure their comfort and safety.

Surgical Process

If possible, the surgeon will remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery. This is more likely when the implants were placed with an inframammary fold or areolar incision but may not be possible with an armpit incision. If the patient has experienced capsular contracture, had a silicone implant rupture, or has textured breast implants and is experiencing BIA - ALCL, it is often necessary to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant.

When the implant and scar tissue are removed simultaneously, it is called en - bloc resection. Multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and a layer of external sutures, if needed, will typically be used to close the incisions. The surgeon may place a layer of gauze or a bandage over the new breasts to speed healing. The surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete, and an en - bloc resection can take even longer.

Recovery Process

After the surgery, the patient will recover in the surgeon's state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse until they feel well enough to be discharged. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia will be used to reduce discomfort. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient can return home the same day as the procedure. However, they will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia, so they should have an escort.

Upon leaving the facility, the patient will be provided with thorough discharge instructions. Their breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage. They may feel tired or sore following surgery as their body uses energy to heal. Many patients are able to return to most daily activities within days of the procedure, but it is best to refrain from vigorous exercise for around two weeks. The surgeon will provide an individualized recovery plan based on the details of the procedure and the patient's healing rate.

It is expected to experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, and this numbness typically fades over time. The patient may also notice some fluid drainage from the incision site. In most cases, the majority of patients do not require a breast lift after surgery as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally. The patient will typically return to the office the day after surgery so that the surgeon can monitor the healing process. If external sutures are used during surgery, they are usually removed around 7 - 10 days following the procedure. 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. The scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade.

Risks Associated with Breast Implant Removal

While breast implant removal surgery is typically a safe procedure when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon, there are always potential risks, as with any surgery. These risks include:

• Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery. In most cases, it can be managed, but in some rare situations, additional intervention may be required.
• Infection: An infection can occur at the incision site or in the breast tissue. This may require antibiotic treatment, and in severe cases, further surgical intervention may be necessary.
• Numbness at the Incision Site: The patient may experience numbness in the breast area and around the incisions. While this is usually temporary, in some cases, it may be long - lasting.
• Adverse Reaction to the Anesthesia: Although rare, some patients may have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used during the surgery. This can range from mild symptoms such as nausea and vomiting to more severe allergic reactions.
• Unsatisfactory Scarring: The scarring from the surgery may not be as expected. It may be more prominent, wider, or have an irregular shape.
• Asymmetry: There is a risk of the breasts appearing asymmetrical after the surgery. This can be due to differences in healing or the surgical procedure itself.
• Nipple Loss: In very rare cases, there may be damage to the nipples during the surgery, leading to nipple loss.
• Skin Loss: Skin loss at the incision site or in the breast area is a rare but possible complication.
• Fat Necrosis: This occurs when the fat cells in the breast tissue die. It can cause lumps or changes in the texture of the breast.
• Fluid Collections: Fluid may accumulate in the breast area after the surgery, which may require drainage.
• Dysesthesias: This refers to abnormal sensations such as tingling, burning, or pain in the breast area.
• Need for Revision Surgery: In some cases, the initial breast implant removal may not achieve the desired results, and the patient may require further surgery.