Introduction
In New York City, the demand for silicone breast implant removal has been on the rise, and for various reasons. Some patients experience health - related complications from the implants, while others may have cosmetic preferences that lead them to seek removal. Given this, finding a high - quality hospital and an experienced surgeon is of utmost importance. This article aims to provide an update on the ranking of hospitals for silicone breast implant removal in New York City, exploring different hospitals and surgeons along with related aspects such as procedures, recovery, and risks.
Understanding Silicone Breast Implant Removal
Reasons for Removal
There are multiple reasons why a patient might opt for silicone breast implant removal. Medical reasons often include implant rupture, capsular contracture (the hardening of scar tissue around the implant), and breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). According to various studies, capsular contracture can occur in about 3 - 4% of patients, and the incidence gradually increases over the years. Some patients may also suffer from breast implant illness (BII), which is characterized by symptoms like fatigue, fever, gastrointestinal complaints, and more. Although the exact cause of BII is uncertain, it is believed to be associated with pre - existing autoimmune problems.
On the other hand, cosmetic reasons play a significant role. As patients' personal tastes change over time, they may desire to return to their natural breast size or change the appearance of their breasts. For example, some may be unhappy with the way the implants look, such as the implant becoming palpable or visible, or an asymmetrical appearance.
Associated Risks
Like any surgical procedure, silicone breast implant removal comes with risks. The main risks include unfavorable scarring, asymmetry, infection, bleeding, nipple loss, skin loss, fat necrosis, fluid collections, dysesthesias, and the need for revision surgery. Surgeons will typically discuss these risks in detail during the initial consultation to ensure patients are fully informed. However, when performed by an experienced and board - certified plastic surgeon, the procedure is generally safe.
Top Surgeons and Their Hospitals in New York City
Dr. Darrick Antell
Dr. Darrick Antell is widely regarded as one of the most experienced breast surgeons in the New York area and worldwide. He performs custom breast implant removal (explant) surgery and has been listed in Harper’s Bazaar and other magazines as being among the best breast plastic surgeons in the country.
Dr. Antell performs the removal of the allergan textured breast implants recalled by the FDA due to their association with BIA - ALCL. He has privileges in numerous hospitals throughout New York City, but most patients prefer for the procedure to take place in his discreet, private operating room located just across the street from world - renowned Lenox Hill Hospital. His facility is a state - of - the - art outpatient surgery center that is fully accredited, designed for patient comfort, and equipped with the latest technology.
During the consultation, Dr. Antell will thoroughly evaluate the patient's general health and medical history, assess the current condition of the breasts, and discuss the desired outcome to create a proper surgical plan. He may recommend pairing the explant surgery with another procedure, such as a breast lift, depending on the patient's expectations.
Dr. Steven Wallach
Dr. Steven Wallach also offers breast implant removal services in New York. He usually makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the pocket created for the implants and removes them before sealing the incision site with sutures. The procedure may be performed through an incision along the breast fold, the periareola region, or through a transaxillary incision in the armpit.
Good candidates for Dr. Wallach's implant removal are generally healthy individuals who desire implant removal. Those with medical issues may require medical clearance from their primary care physician prior to the procedure. During the consultation, he will walk the patient through the options and techniques available for the procedure and which will provide the best results with the least amount of scarring.
Recovery from the surgery with Dr. Wallach typically involves swelling and bruising around the breasts, and patients may be in mild pain. They will need a caregiver to drive them home and stay with them for about a day. Most patients can go back to light activity within three to five days, but are advised to avoid aerobic activity for three to four weeks and heavy lifting for about six to eight weeks.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a 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. She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns and performing breast implant removal.
She can address both aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants. Aesthetic issues may include the implant becoming palpable or visible, rupture, leakage, deflation, malposition, and capsular contracture. Medical issues may involve severe capsular contracture, chronic pain, BIA - ALCL, BII, infection, and bleeding. Dr. Hutchinson will advise patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action to help them achieve their goals. In some cases, a secondary procedure such as a breast lift may be necessary to achieve the best aesthetic results.
Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman
At Zuckerman Plastic Surgery in New York City, Dr. Joshua D. Zuckerman offers breast implant removal and exchange procedures. Patients may choose to have their breast implants removed for health concerns, cosmetic preferences, or due to aging implants. For those looking to alter the size or type of their implants rather than removing them entirely, implant exchange is an option.
The procedures are performed under general anesthesia, and Dr. Zuckerman is meticulous in employing techniques that aim to minimize scarring and optimize recovery. Post - operative care includes managing discomfort with prescribed medication, wearing a support bra, and avoiding strenuous activities for several weeks. Most patients return to work within one to two weeks but should avoid heavy lifting and intense physical activity for up to six weeks.
Procedure and Recovery Process
Procedure Details
Most silicone breast implant removal surgeries are performed under local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or “twilight” anesthesia. A board - certified anesthesiologist will monitor the patient throughout the procedure. In some rare cases, only local anesthesia may be used.
Surgeons will try to remove the implant through the existing incisions from the initial breast augmentation surgery if possible. For example, it is more likely when the implants were placed with an inframammary fold or areolar incision, but may not be feasible with an armpit incision. If there is capsular contracture, silicone implant rupture, or the patient 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) are used to close the incisions, and a layer of gauze or a bandage may be placed over the 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 Timeline
After the surgery, patients will recover in a state - of - the - art recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse until they are well enough to be discharged. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia is used to reduce discomfort. Breast implant removal is an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can return home the same day as the procedure, but they need an escort as they cannot drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia.
Immediately after the procedure, the breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage, and patients may feel tired or sore. 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. It is expected to experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. Some fluid drainage from the incision site may also be noticed. Most patients do not require a breast lift after surgery as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally. Sutures are usually removed around 7 - 10 days following the procedure if external sutures are used. 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, and scars will likely be firm and pink for at least six weeks before beginning to fade.
Cost Considerations
The cost of silicone breast implant removal can vary widely. According to Bookimed, the average price of breast implant removal in the United States is around $3,441, with a minimum price of $1,923 and a maximum price of $6,250. The cost can increase if breast implant replacement is desired, or a lift or more complex procedure is required. Factors that influence the cost include the surgeon's experience, the complexity of the procedure, the type of anesthesia used, and the location of the hospital or surgical facility.
Patients should also consider additional costs such as pre - operative tests (e.g., ultrasound, mammogram, MRI), post - operative medications, and follow - up visits. It is important to discuss the cost in detail with the surgeon during the consultation to avoid any unexpected expenses.
Importance of Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
Selecting the right hospital and surgeon for silicone breast implant removal is crucial. An experienced and board - certified surgeon will have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the procedure safely and effectively. They can also provide personalized advice based on the patient's specific situation and goals.
A high - quality hospital or surgical facility should have state - of - the - art equipment, a clean and comfortable environment, and a well - trained staff. This can ensure that the patient receives the best possible care during and after the surgery. Patients can research the reputation of the surgeon and the hospital, read patient reviews, and ask for recommendations from friends or family members to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the demand for silicone breast implant removal in New York City continues to grow, and there are several excellent surgeons and hospitals available. Understanding the reasons for removal, the associated risks, the procedure details, the recovery process, and the cost is essential for patients considering this surgery. Whether it is for medical or cosmetic reasons, patients should take the time to choose the right surgeon and hospital to ensure a successful outcome.
If you are considering silicone breast implant removal in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top surgeons mentioned in this article. Take the first step towards achieving your desired results and improved well - being. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about silicone breast implant removal in New York City.
