Introduction
Funnel chest, also known as pectus excavatum, is a congenital deformity where the breastbone caves inward, creating a sunken appearance in the chest area. This condition can have physical and psychological impacts on individuals. Plastic surgery is often a viable solution to correct funnel chest, improving both appearance and function. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals known for their expertise in funnel chest plastic surgery. In this article, we will explore the top 3 well - reputed funnel chest plastic surgery hospitals in the city.
Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Care
Overview
Columbia University's plastic surgery program stands out as one of the leading institutions in New York City. As one of the city's best hospitals and a world - class medical center, it offers comprehensive care for patients seeking funnel chest plastic surgery. The hospital combines extensive experience, cutting - edge research, and a team of highly skilled plastic surgeons.
Surgeon Expertise
The plastic surgeons at Columbia are proficient in multiple areas of specialization. For funnel chest surgery, they have in - depth knowledge of the latest surgical techniques and understand the unique anatomical requirements of each patient. For example, Dr. Christine Rohde, the chief of the division of plastic surgery, is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, specializing in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, and body contouring, which are relevant skills for funnel chest correction. Dr. Jeffrey A. Ascherman, an experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon, has published over 75 scientific articles and chapters, and has been included multiple times in lists of America's top doctors. His wealth of knowledge and experience contribute to the high - quality care provided at Columbia.
Treatment Options
- Cosmetic Care: In addition to the functional correction of the funnel chest, the hospital also offers cosmetic procedures to enhance the overall appearance of the chest area. This may include procedures to smooth out the skin and improve the contour of the chest after the structural correction.
- Reconstructive Care: For patients with severe funnel chest that has affected the internal organs or caused functional problems, the reconstructive care at Columbia can address these issues. The surgeons use advanced techniques to correct the chest deformity and restore normal function, such as relieving pressure on the heart and lungs.
- Research - Driven Approaches: The plastic surgery research laboratory at Columbia is actively involved in studies related to stem cells, tissue engineering, and gene therapy for wound healing. These research findings can potentially be translated into more effective and less invasive treatment options for funnel chest patients in the future.
Patient Experience
Patients at Columbia can expect personalized care from the moment they make an appointment. The hospital offers multiple contact options, including a phone number (212) 305 - 3103 and an online appointment request form. The surgeons take the time to understand the patient's goals and concerns, and develop a customized treatment plan. Throughout the surgical process, the patient is supported by a team of professionals who ensure their comfort and well - being.
Mount Sinai's Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Why Choose Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai is another well - known hospital in New York City for funnel chest plastic surgery. It offers a combination of surgical expertise, state - of - the - art technology, and a patient - centered approach. The hospital has a long tradition of providing ground - breaking plastic surgical care, especially to underserved communities.
Surgeon Qualifications
The board - certified plastic surgeons at Mount Sinai have the depth of experience to create beautiful results for funnel chest patients. Many of them have undergone further specialized training in addition to holding board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery. The plastic surgeons are also faculty members of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, which means they are actively involved in teaching and staying updated on the latest advancements in the field.
Facility and Technology
- Newly Designed Suite: The newly designed plastic surgery suite at the Mount Sinai Hospital campus, named the Derfner - Lieberman Family Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, provides a comfortable and relaxing environment for patients. The warm lighting, comfortable furnishings, and private rooms help patients feel at ease during their consultations and recoveries.
- Advanced Technology: The consultation suites are equipped with 55 - inch touchscreens, allowing patients to browse patient education materials and videos. Surgeons can also use the touchscreen to help patients visualize their anticipated results and review before - and - after possibilities. In addition, the hospital offers remote telemedicine technology, enabling patients to have video conferences with their doctors from the comfort of their own homes.
Patient - Centered Care
Mount Sinai prides itself on understanding the patients' desire to improve their appearance and self - confidence. The surgeons take the time to listen to the patients' concerns and goals, and help them choose the right procedures for their individual needs. Whether a patient is seeking a purely cosmetic improvement or a functional correction of their funnel chest, the hospital provides personalized care and support throughout the entire process.
NewYork - Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital
Plastic Surgery Division
NewYork - Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital has a dedicated plastic surgery division that specializes in a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries, including funnel chest correction. The plastic surgeons in this division are experts in addressing problems related to trauma, cancer, or congenital defects, which is relevant for funnel chest patients as this is a congenital condition.
Range of Procedures
The hospital offers extensive options for elective cosmetic procedures and reconstructive surgeries. For funnel chest patients, this includes procedures such as breast augmentation and reduction, which may be necessary to achieve a balanced and natural appearance after the chest deformity is corrected. Reconstructive surgery specializations also cover breast reconstruction, cleft lip and palate repair, and major flap procedures, some of which may be applicable in complex cases of funnel chest correction.
Accessibility and Contact
Patients can easily contact the hospital to schedule an appointment. The hospital provides multiple contact numbers, including 718 - 499 - 2273 for advanced and minimally invasive surgery. This makes it convenient for patients in Brooklyn and the surrounding areas to seek treatment for their funnel chest.
Comparing the Three Hospitals
| Hospital | Surgeon Expertise | Facility and Technology | Treatment Options | Patient Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia University | Highly skilled surgeons with multiple specializations and extensive research experience | Part of a leading academic medical center with access to advanced research facilities | Comprehensive cosmetic and reconstructive care with a focus on research - driven approaches | Personalized care with multiple contact options and a team - based approach |
| Mount Sinai | Board - certified surgeons with further specialized training and faculty positions at a medical school | Newly designed suite with advanced touchscreen technology and telemedicine options | Full range of aesthetic and reconstructive procedures with a patient - centered approach | Emphasis on listening to patients' goals and providing personalized support |
| NewYork - Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital | Specialists in a wide range of plastic surgeries related to trauma, cancer, and congenital defects | Access to advanced surgical facilities for cosmetic and reconstructive procedures | Extensive options for elective cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries | Convenient contact options for patients in the Brooklyn area |
Other Considerations for Funnel Chest Plastic Surgery in New York City
Cost
The cost of funnel chest plastic surgery can vary depending on the hospital, the complexity of the procedure, and the surgeon's experience. It is important for patients to discuss the cost with their surgeons and check with their insurance providers to see if the procedure is covered. Some hospitals may offer payment plans or financial assistance options to help patients manage the cost.
Recovery Time
The recovery time after funnel chest plastic surgery can range from a few weeks to several months. It is essential for patients to follow their surgeon's post - operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery. This may include rest, avoiding strenuous activities, taking prescribed medications, and attending follow - up appointments.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Before choosing a hospital for funnel chest plastic surgery, patients should research patient reviews and testimonials. This can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, the surgeon's skills, and the overall patient experience at the hospital. Online review platforms and word - of - mouth recommendations from other patients can be useful sources of information.
Conclusion
In New York City, Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Care, Mount Sinai's Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and NewYork - Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital are three well - reputed hospitals for funnel chest plastic surgery. Each hospital offers unique advantages in terms of surgeon expertise, facility and technology, treatment options, and patient experience. Whether a patient is looking for a research - driven approach, state - of - the - art technology, or a hospital close to home, these institutions can provide high - quality care. If you or someone you know is considering funnel chest plastic surgery, we encourage you to explore these hospitals further, consult with their surgeons, and make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
