Introduction
Breast implant removal has become an increasingly sought - after plastic surgery procedure in New York City. Whether due to medical complications like implant rupture, capsular contracture, or simply a change in personal aesthetic preferences, women are turning to qualified surgeons and hospitals for this procedure. In this article, we will delve into the top hospitals and surgeons in New York City for breast implant removal and provide an updated ranking to help you make an informed decision.
Why Consider Breast Implant Removal?
There are several reasons why a woman might opt for breast implant removal. Medical reasons often take precedence. For instance, an implant rupture can lead to various health concerns. If a saline implant ruptures, the saline solution is typically absorbed by the body, causing the breast to deflate. In the case of a silicone implant rupture, the silicone gel may leak into the surrounding tissue, and it might require an MRI to detect the rupture. Capsular contracture, which is the hardening of scar tissue around the implant, can be both painful and cause the breasts to look distorted.
On the aesthetic front, as a woman's body changes over time, her preferences for breast size and shape may also change. The initial results of breast augmentation may no longer align with her current desired appearance. Additionally, factors like aging, pregnancy, and breastfeeding can all affect the look and feel of the breasts with implants.
Top Surgeons in New York City for Breast Implant Removal
Dr. Darrick E. Antell
Dr. Darrick E. Antell is widely regarded as one of the premier breast surgeons in New York City and even globally. He has been listed in well - known magazines such as Harper’s Bazaar as one of the best breast plastic surgeons in the country. With over twenty years of experience and having performed more than ten thousand procedures, he combines meticulous surgical skills, the latest medical technologies, and an artistic eye. Many of his breast implant removal patients are referred by former patients, a testament to his exceptional results. He performs custom breast implant removal surgery, and when indicated, he conducts an en bloc capsulectomy to remove the tissue around the breast implant. He also handles the removal of recalled Allergan textured breast implants due to their association with BIA - ALCL. His practice is often preferred for its discreet private operating room located near Lenox Hill Hospital, and his staff offers personalized care.
Dr. Steven Wallach
Dr. Steven Wallach has extensive experience in breast implant removal. He typically makes an incision using the previous breast implant surgical approach to access the implant pocket and remove the implants. During the procedure, he also takes care to remove implant filler material from ruptured silicone implants if necessary. He guides patients through every step, from the consultation to the recovery process. He provides clear information about the procedure, its risks, and the potential benefits. He also addresses frequently asked questions such as whether breast implants can cause autoimmune diseases, how long implants can last, and what to expect in terms of cost and recovery.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is considered one of the top breast implant removal surgeons on the Upper East Side in NYC. As a board - certified, Harvard and Columbia - educated female aesthetic plastic surgeon, she focuses on achieving the finest surgical results for her patients. She has over 20 years of experience evaluating patients with breast implant - related concerns. She can address both aesthetic and medical issues related to breast implants. For aesthetic issues like visible or palpable implants, rupture, or capsular contracture, and medical issues such as severe capsular contracture, BIA - ALCL, and breast implant illness, she advises patients on the various surgical options available and the best course of action.
Dr. Daniel Maman
Dr. Daniel Maman is a Harvard fellowship - trained and board - certified plastic surgeon. He specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, body, and face. In the context of breast implant removal and revision, he offers comprehensive consultations that include a thorough review of medical history, in - depth physical assessment, and detailed operative plans. He also provides pre - op and post - op support, including luxury recovery room options at NYC hotels and complimentary custom post - operative support garments and scar treatment regimens. His expertise in handling scar tissue and changes in breast tissue makes him a great choice for complex breast implant removal and revision cases.
Leading Hospitals in New York City for Breast Implant Removal
New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center
This hospital is ranked highly in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. It has national rankings in 15 adult specialties and 8 pediatric specialties. In the context of breast implant removal, the hospital's surgical excellence and wide range of specialties can provide comprehensive care. The surgeons here have access to advanced clinical technologies and a large pool of experienced medical staff. The high - performing surgical and medical interventions from the surgeons at Columbia cover various procedures and conditions, which can be beneficial for patients who may require additional medical attention during or after breast implant removal surgery.
Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health
Many well - known plastic surgeons, such as Dr. Darrick E. Antell, have privileges at Lenox Hill Hospital. It is a popular choice for breast implant removal surgeries due to its state - of - the - art facilities, experienced medical team, and high - quality patient care. The hospital's reputation for excellence in surgical procedures and patient safety makes it a reliable option for patients seeking breast implant removal.
Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital offers breast implant revision services, which often involve breast implant removal. Their plastic surgeons are experts in matching and repairing the body's tissue with breast implants to correct various problems such as incorrect implant positioning, wrinkled implants, and capsular contracture. The hospital has a team of nationally recognized specialists who can provide in - depth consultations and use advanced techniques, including fat transfer, to enhance the natural shape and texture of the breasts after implant removal.
Criteria for Ranking Regular Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal
Surgeon Experience
The experience of the plastic surgeons performing breast implant removal is crucial. Surgeons with more years of experience, especially in dealing with complex cases like implant rupture or BIA - ALCL, are more likely to provide better outcomes. Surgeons who have a long - standing reputation in the field and are well - respected by their peers are often a good choice. For example, surgeons like Dr. Darrick E. Antell, who has over twenty years of experience and a track record of performing numerous successful breast surgeries, are highly ranked.
Hospital Reputation
Hospitals with a good reputation for surgical excellence and patient care are preferred. Those that are ranked highly in national or regional lists, such as New York - Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center which is ranked among the top hospitals in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, are considered more reliable. A hospital's reputation is also built on factors like patient satisfaction, low complication rates, and the use of advanced medical technologies.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the actual experience of undergoing breast implant removal at a particular hospital or with a specific surgeon. Positive reviews about the surgical results, the quality of care during the pre - op, op, and post - op periods, and the overall professionalism of the medical staff are indicators of a good hospital or surgeon. For example, Dr. Olivia Hutchinson has many positive patient testimonials highlighting her skill and the exceptional care provided by her and her staff.
Range of Services
Hospitals that offer a comprehensive range of services related to breast implant removal are more attractive. This includes services like pre - operative imaging (ultrasound, mammogram, MRI), post - operative care, and the ability to handle any potential complications. Additionally, if the hospital can offer additional breast - related procedures such as breast lift or reconstruction in conjunction with implant removal, it provides more options for patients.
Accreditations and Certifications
Accreditations and certifications ensure that the hospital and the surgeons meet certain standards of quality and safety. Surgeons who are board - certified by recognized organizations, such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and hospitals that are accredited by relevant agencies, are more likely to provide a high - quality and safe surgical experience.
Preparing for Breast Implant Removal
Consultation
The first step in preparing for breast implant removal is to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your general health and medical history. You should bring any information you have about your existing implants, such as the type, size, and the date of your previous breast augmentation surgery. If you are experiencing any medical complications, it is important to discuss your symptoms in detail with the surgeon. The surgeon will then assess the current condition of your breasts and work with you to create a surgical plan based on your desired outcome. This may include pairing the explant surgery with another procedure like a breast lift to achieve a more desirable result.
Medical Tests
Depending on your age, implant condition, and medical history, the surgeon may recommend imaging tests such as an ultrasound, mammogram, or MRI before the surgery. These tests can help the surgeon better understand the situation of the implants and the surrounding tissue, and plan the surgery more accurately. For example, an MRI can detect a silicone implant rupture that may not be visible on the surface.
Lifestyle Changes
You may need to make some lifestyle changes before the surgery. If you smoke, it is recommended to stop smoking well in advance of the surgery as smoking can affect the healing process and increase the risk of complications. You should also follow the surgeon's instructions regarding eating and drinking, and avoid taking medications, vitamins, or supplements that may increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin or blood - thinning medications. In some cases, you may be asked to obtain pre - operative clearance from another doctor, especially if you have pre - existing medical conditions.
Arranging for Support
Since breast implant removal is often an outpatient procedure performed under “twilight” sedation, you will need someone to drive you home after the surgery. It is also advisable to have someone to assist you in your first few days of recovery. You may need help with daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, and taking care of personal hygiene. Make sure to arrange for this support in advance.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Anesthesia
Breast implant removal is typically performed with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or another type of “twilight” anesthesia. This allows you to be asleep and comfortable throughout the operation. A board - certified anesthesiologist will be monitoring you during the procedure to ensure your safety. In rare cases, only local anesthesia may be used for implant removal.
Incision and Implant Removal
If possible, the surgeon will remove the implant through the existing incisions from your initial breast augmentation surgery. For example, if the implants were placed with an inframammary fold or areolar incision, this method is more likely to be used. However, it may not be possible with an armpit incision. If you have experienced capsular contracture, a silicone implant rupture, or have textured breast implants and are experiencing BIA - ALCL, the surgeon may need to remove the hardened scar tissue surrounding the implant. When the implant and scar tissue are removed simultaneously, it is called en - bloc resection. After removing the implant, the surgeon will carefully clean the area and may use multiple layers of internal, dissolving sutures, and an external layer of sutures if needed to close the incisions. A layer of gauze or a bandage may be placed over the breasts to aid in healing.
Duration of the Procedure
The surgery usually takes between one to two hours to complete. However, an en - bloc resection can take even longer, depending on the complexity of the case.
Recovery after Breast Implant Removal
Immediate Post - Operative Period
After the surgery, you will recover in a recovery suite while being monitored by a registered nurse. A specialized, long - lasting local anesthesia will be used to reduce discomfort. Once you are awake and stable, you will be able to return home the same day. Since you will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia, you must have an escort to take you home. You will be provided with thorough discharge instructions that will guide you through the initial post - operative period, including how to care for the incisions, take medications, and manage any pain or swelling.
Short - Term Recovery
In the first few days after surgery, your breasts may be covered in a layer of gauze or a bandage. You may feel tired or sore as your body is using its 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. You may experience some loss of feeling in the breast area and around the incisions, which typically fades over time. There may also be some fluid drainage from the incision site. You will usually return to the doctor's office the day after surgery so that the surgeon can monitor your healing process. If external sutures are used, they are usually removed around 7 - 10 days following the procedure.
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. It is important to follow all post - operative instructions carefully and refrain from activities that could put stress on your incisions. In most cases, patients do not require a breast lift after surgery as their breasts generally return to their pre - operative shape naturally. However, if a breast lift was performed in conjunction with the implant removal, the recovery process may be a bit more involved.
Potential Risks and Complications
While breast implant removal surgery is generally considered safe when performed by an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon, there are still potential risks and complications. These include unfavorable scarring, asymmetry, infection, bleeding, nipple loss, skin loss, fat necrosis, fluid collections, dysesthesias (abnormal sensations), and the need for revision surgery. The surgeon will provide a thorough discussion of all risks during your initial consultation. You can reduce your risks by closely following the surgeon's directions before and after surgery, such as taking prescribed medications, keeping the incisions clean, and avoiding strenuous activities during the recovery period.
Conclusion
In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals and surgeons available for breast implant removal. The key is to choose a surgeon with extensive experience, and a hospital with a good reputation for patient care and surgical excellence. Factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered, and accreditations also play important roles in making the right choice. Before undergoing the procedure, it is essential to have a detailed consultation with the surgeon, prepare well, and understand the recovery process and potential risks.
If you are considering breast implant removal in New York City, take the time to research and schedule consultations with multiple surgeons. This will allow you to find the best fit for your needs and expectations. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast implant removal, and explore more about breast - related plastic surgeries on reliable medical websites to stay informed.
