When it comes to breast augmentation prosthetic removal and repair, finding the right hospital in Albany is crucial. Patients need facilities with experienced surgeons, advanced technology, and a track - record of successful procedures. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to some of the top hospitals and doctors in Albany for these procedures, as well as the reasons behind prosthetic removal and repair, and what patients can expect during and after the process.
1. Top Hospitals in Albany
There are several high - performing hospitals in the Albany area, each with its own strengths. These hospitals have been recognized for their excellence in different medical specialties and procedures.
1.1 St. Peter's Hospital - Albany
St. Peter's Hospital - Albany is ranked #1 in Albany. It is high - performing in 2 specialties and 15 procedures/conditions. While specific details about its breast augmentation prosthetic removal and repair services may not be fully explored here, its overall high - performance indicates that it likely has a capable team of medical professionals and state - of - the - art facilities. High - performing hospitals generally have strict quality control measures, advanced surgical techniques, and experienced staff, which are all important factors for breast - related surgeries.
1.2 Albany Medical Center
Albany Medical Center is ranked #2 in Albany and #20 in New York. It is recognized in the Hudson Valley and is high - performing in 13 adult procedures and conditions. As a general medical and surgical facility and a teaching hospital, it has a wealth of resources and expertise.
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Services: The Albany Med Health System, which includes Albany Medical Center, offers a broad range of cosmetic and reconstructive options. In terms of breast - related procedures, they provide breast reconstruction, which involves recreating all or part of a breast that has been surgically removed. This can be done using implants, tissue from another part of the body, or a combination of the two. Their surgeons are trained in unique services such as DIEP flap reconstruction.
- Team of Specialists: The hospital has a team of doctors with diverse specializations. For example, there are experts in general surgery, cardiology, oncology, and more. When it comes to breast augmentation prosthetic removal and repair, this multi - disciplinary approach can be beneficial. Surgeons can work closely with oncologists if there are concerns related to cancer, and with cardiologists to ensure the patient's heart health during the procedure.
- Patient Experience: Although the patient experience rating is 2 out of 5, it still offers many services. It has a medical - surgical ICU, cardiac ICU, bariatric/weight control services, and an onsite emergency department. These services can provide comprehensive care during the patient's stay, both before and after the surgery.
1.3 Ellis Hospital
Ellis Hospital in Schenectady, part of the Albany metropolitan area, is high - performing in 5 procedures/conditions. While the exact nature of these procedures may not be breast - specific, the hospital's high - performance status is an indication of its overall quality. It may have the infrastructure and expertise to handle breast augmentation prosthetic removal and repair procedures, including trained surgeons and well - equipped operating rooms.
2. Leading Doctors in Albany for Breast - Related Procedures
Skilled doctors are at the forefront of any successful breast augmentation prosthetic removal and repair. In Albany, there are numerous doctors with high ratings and extensive experience.
2.1 Breast Augmentation Doctors
Healthgrades found 155 doctors who perform breast augmentation in Albany, with an average rating of 4.4 stars. Some of the top - rated doctors include:
| Doctor's Name | Rating | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.60 | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
| Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD | 4.90 | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO | 4.90 | 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211 |
2.2 Breast Surgical Procedure Doctors
There are 21 doctors who perform breast surgical procedures in Albany. Doctors in this group range from 3 - star to 5 - star providers. Some of the well - rated ones are:
| Doctor's Name | Rating | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Jerome Chao, MD | 4.40 | 13 Century Hill Dr, Latham, NY 12110 |
| Dr. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Donna Pietrocola, MD | 4.80 | 25 Hackett Blvd, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Christa Abraham, MD | 4.80 | 43 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
These doctors have demonstrated their proficiency in breast - related surgeries, which is an important consideration for patients looking for breast augmentation prosthetic removal and repair. High - rated doctors are likely to have more experience, better patient satisfaction, and a lower rate of complications.
3. Reasons for Breast Augmentation Prosthetic Removal and Repair
There are several common reasons why patients may choose to have their breast implants removed or repaired.
3.1 Desire for a Different Size
Over time, a patient's body and lifestyle may change. Pregnancy, menopause, and weight fluctuations can all affect the way breast implants look and feel. Some patients may feel that their current implants no longer suit their body proportions or lifestyle, so they opt for either larger or smaller implants.
3.2 Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is the hardening and tightening of scar tissue around an implant. It can occur shortly after the initial breast augmentation surgery or many years later. This condition may cause the breasts to look distorted or asymmetric and can even lead to breast pain. When capsular contracture becomes severe, it may require the removal or replacement of the implant and the removal of the scar tissue.
3.3 Breast Implant Rupture
Both saline and silicone implants can rupture due to daily wear and tear. With saline implants, rupture is usually obvious as the breast deflates as the saline leaks out and is absorbed. Silicone implant rupture may not have obvious symptoms, and a mammogram may not detect it. The FDA recommends using high - definition ultrasound to screen for silicone breast implant rupture regularly, and if a rupture is suspected, it is often confirmed with a breast MRI.
3.4 Implant Malposition
The implant position behind the breast may end up too low, too high, too close together, or too far apart. This can occur shortly after the first procedure or gradually over many years due to factors such as capsular contracture, gravity, thin tissue, asymmetric pocket creation, and tissue changes with age, weight, pregnancy, and menopause. Additional surgery is usually needed to correct the problem.
3.5 Implant Rippling
Implant rippling is a cosmetic concern, more common with saline implants in thinner patients. Even silicone implants can show visible rippling if the tissues covering them are thin or stretched. Switching to a cohesive 'gummy' silicone implant or using fat injections to camouflage the rippling may be solutions.
3.6 Recalled Implants, ALCL, and BII
There have been concerns regarding the rare but serious risk of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) associated with textured implants, leading to their recall. Breast implant illness (BII), a term used by women who self - identify as having a wide range of symptoms, is also a growing concern. In both cases, breast implant removal may be considered.
4. The Breast Implant Removal and Repair Process
4.1 Before the Procedure
Before the surgery, a consultation with a qualified doctor is essential. For example, at Capek Surgical Arts, Dr. Capek will assess the patient's unique situation and explain the various procedure options. The patient should be in optimum health, following a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking. Chronic conditions like high blood pressure should be managed according to the primary care physician's advice.
4.2 The Procedure
The breast implant removal and repair surgery depend on several factors such as the type of implant, existing problems, and additional recommended procedures.
- Simple Implant Removal: Can be done in an accredited office - based operating suite or a hospital operating room under local anesthesia if no capsule removal is needed and silicone implants are not ruptured. Saline breast implants may be drained prior to removal to allow the skin to contract. There is minimal downtime and discomfort with this limited procedure.
- Capsulectomy: If there is a capsular contracture, a capsulectomy is performed to remove the scar tissue. This also creates a fresh pocket for a new implant. Sometimes, the pocket location may be changed, such as switching from under the breast gland to under the pectoralis muscle.
- Replacement with New Implants: In many cases, patients choose to replace their breast implants at the same time as explant or revision. The doctor will determine the appropriate implant type, size, and adjust the implant pocket accordingly.
- Replacement with Autologous Fat: For patients who want a more natural look and feel or to go smaller, their implants can be replaced with their own fat. This is a popular option, especially when the natural breast tissue has been pre - expanded with implants.
- Implant Repositioning: This procedure usually involves modifying the capsular tissue around the implants, such as tightening or releasing the capsule surgically. In rare cases, a biological mesh'sling' may be added to support the implant in a stable position.
- Simultaneous Breast Lift and Resizing of the Areolae: If the patient is going smaller or has loose skin, a breast lift may be combined with the implant removal or repair. This can involve resizing the areola and removing excess skin.
4.3 After the Procedure
After the surgery, patients should plan to rest quietly for 24 to 48 hours and can shower after 48 hours. A surgical bra should be worn around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks. Drains may be present for a few days if a capsulectomy has been performed. Dissolvable sutures and glue are often used, minimizing wound care. Patients with sedentary jobs may return to work within a week, while strenuous activities are restricted for 6 - 8 weeks. Regular mammograms and breast exams should continue, and if silicone implants are used, periodic high - definition ultrasounds are recommended.
5. Risks Associated with Breast Augmentation Prosthetic Removal and Repair
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation prosthetic removal and repair carry some risks. These include scars, changes in nipple or breast sensation, bleeding, infection, side effects from anesthesia, and recurrent implant complications. However, with the care of a professionally trained and board - certified plastic surgeon, the likelihood of serious risks and complications is reduced.
Conclusion
In 2025, Albany offers a variety of excellent options for breast augmentation prosthetic removal and repair. High - performing hospitals like St. Peter's Hospital - Albany, Albany Medical Center, and Ellis Hospital provide a solid foundation of expertise and resources. There are also many highly - rated doctors in the area with extensive experience in breast - related surgeries. Understanding the reasons for prosthetic removal and repair, the surgical process, and the associated risks is crucial for patients. If you are considering breast augmentation prosthetic removal or repair, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with the recommended doctors, and make an informed decision based on your unique needs and circumstances. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about these procedures in Albany.
