Introduction
Breast augmentation has been a popular cosmetic surgery procedure in the United States. However, various reasons lead some patients to consider breast implant removal. In Albany, there are several prominent hospitals and medical centers offering this service. This article will review five major hospitals in Albany known for breast implant removal after breast - augmentation surgery, including information on procedures, reasons for removal, recovery, and other relevant aspects.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are multiple reasons why patients may choose to have their breast implants removed. Initially, patients opt for breast augmentation surgery to replace volume lost from weight loss, breast - feeding, or age, or to increase breast size for aesthetic reasons. They may also undergo breast implant surgery during breast reconstruction for breast cancer. But as patients age and their preferences change, implant removal becomes a consideration.
- Aesthetic Changes: Most patients simply seek a change and no longer desire larger breasts. Some feel the implants are now too big and are experiencing symptoms associated with large breasts, such as heaviness, neck pain, and upper back pain.
- Medical Complications:
- Leak or Rupture: No implant is designed to last forever, and eventually, all implants may develop complications or start leaking. When this occurs, it's crucial to have them removed to prevent harm.
- Capsular Contracture: The body may treat the implant as a foreign object, creating scar tissue that hardens and causes discomfort. This condition can change the feel of the breasts, cause muscle strain, and have other negative side effects.
- Breast Implant Illness: A small number of people with breast implants report symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or joint pain. Although there is no scientific consensus on whether breast implants cause these symptoms, patients worried about their implants often feel better after removal.
Breast Implant Removal Procedure
The removal of breast implants after breast augmentation surgery is often a relatively straightforward outpatient procedure.
- Anesthesia: Patients are usually placed under general anesthesia, though in some cases, local anesthesia may be suitable.
- Incision: The old incision from the original breast augmentation is reopened. Through this incision, the surgeon separates the breast implant from the surrounding tissue and removes it.
- Capsule Removal: Typically, the scar capsule surrounding the implant is also removed. This reduces the occurrence of fluid collections and subsequent infection after implant removal. However, capsule removal usually requires general anesthesia, and the decision depends on factors such as the type, age, and size of the implant. In most cases, it is advisable to remove the capsule.
- Addressing Loose Skin: The loss of volume from implant removal can leave patients with loose skin and droopy breasts. To correct this, options similar to a breast lift can be used, where excess skin is removed, and the nipple is lifted. Fat grafting to the breast can also be combined to add a modest amount of volume and improve the cosmetic result.
Recovery after Breast Implant Removal
Recovery after breast implant removal surgery is variable, mainly depending on whether any additional surgery is performed to correct loose skin.
- Immediate Post - Surgery: Patients will experience pain and swelling, which can be managed with prescription pain medicine. A surgical bra is provided to prevent discomfort and aid the healing process. Occasionally, drains are placed to collect excess fluid and collapse the space left after implant removal.
- Return to Work and Exercise: Most patients can return to work within a week and resume exercise in about two weeks. Strenuous activity or exercise should be avoided for about six weeks.
Review of 5 Major Hospitals in Albany for Breast Implant Removal
1. DeLuca Plastic Surgery
DeLuca Plastic Surgery in Albany, NY, has a team of experienced surgeons. They offer comprehensive consultations to understand the patient's reasons for implant removal and their desired outcomes.
- Expertise: The surgeons at DeLuca are well - versed in the breast implant removal procedure, from the simple removal of the implant to addressing the complex issue of loose skin after removal. They can customize the treatment plan according to each patient's specific situation, such as the type and size of the implant and the quality of the skin.
- Patient Experience: The clinic focuses on providing a comfortable and supportive environment for patients. Pre - operative consultations are detailed, where patients can ask all their questions and understand the procedure thoroughly. Post - operative care is also emphasized, with regular follow - ups to ensure a smooth recovery.
2. K Plastic Surgery
K Plastic Surgery is another well - known option in Albany. Dr. Kayastha, a board - certified plastic surgeon, leads the team.
- Range of Services: In addition to breast implant removal, they offer related procedures like breast lifts and fat grafting to improve the aesthetic results after implant removal. They also provide in - depth consultations to discuss the potential risks and benefits of breast implant removal, as well as answer questions regarding long - term effects of breast implants, such as the possible link with autoimmune diseases and cellulitis.
- Patient Satisfaction: Many patients have reported high satisfaction with their services. Dr. Kayastha's bedside manner is highly praised, as he takes the time to explain the procedure before and after surgery, ensuring patients feel informed and confident throughout the process.
3. The Plastic Surgery Group
The Plastic Surgery Group serves the Albany area, including Schenectady, Latham, and Troy. They have extensive experience in breast - related surgeries.
- Comprehensive Approach: When it comes to breast implant removal, they consider the patient's overall breast condition, including the size of the breasts, the size of the implants, and the quality of the skin. They can provide detailed advice on whether additional procedures, like a breast lift, are necessary to achieve the best results. Their surgeons also take into account the patient's aesthetic goals and ensure realistic expectations.
- Patient Support: The group offers patient financing options to help patients afford the procedure. They also provide detailed pre - operative instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, such as adjusting medications and fasting, and post - operative guidance on recovery and follow - up appointments.
4. Albany Med Health System
The Albany Med Health System is a leading healthcare provider in the region, with a plastic and reconstructive surgery team offering a wide range of services.
- Expert Surgeons: The physicians in the plastic and reconstructive surgery department have trained at some of the most prestigious centers in the world. They bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to breast implant removal procedures. Their team includes fellowship - trained microsurgeons, who can handle complex cases, such as those involving complications from previous surgeries or post - cancer treatment breast reconstruction situations.
- Comprehensive Care: The system offers care throughout the capital region, with services available at Albany Medical Center and Saratoga Hospital. Patients can expect coordinated care, from initial consultation to post - operative follow - up. They also have access to other related services in the hospital, such as oncology consultations if needed due to previous breast cancer history.
5. Healthgrades - Recommended Surgeons' Practices
Healthgrades lists several top - rated surgeons in Albany who perform breast augmentation and potentially breast implant removal. Surgeons like Dr. Susan Gannon, Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, Dr. Todd Beyer, etc., have high patient ratings.
- Patient Trust: These surgeons have a proven track record of providing high - quality care. Their high ratings on Healthgrades are a testament to their skills and the satisfaction of their patients. They likely offer personalized consultations, explaining the breast implant removal procedure in detail and addressing patients' concerns.
- Individualized Treatment: Each surgeon may have their own approach to breast implant removal, but they all strive to achieve the best possible results for their patients. They consider factors such as the patient's body type, medical history, and aesthetic preferences when planning the surgery.
Comparison of the 5 Hospitals
Hospital | Expertise | Services Offered | Patient Experience | Additional Benefits |
---|---|---|---|---|
DeLuca Plastic Surgery | Skilled in customizing implant removal and addressing loose skin | Breast implant removal, related skin - correction procedures | Comfortable environment, detailed consultations | Personalized treatment plans |
K Plastic Surgery | Board - certified surgeon, knowledge of long - term implant effects | Implant removal, breast lifts, fat grafting, consultations on implant - related risks | High patient satisfaction, excellent bedside manner | In - depth consultations on implant - related health concerns |
The Plastic Surgery Group | Comprehensive approach considering multiple factors | Implant removal, advice on additional procedures, patient financing | Pre - and post - operative guidance | Financing options for patients |
Albany Med Health System | Fellowship - trained microsurgeons, wide - ranging experience | Implant removal, complex case handling, coordinated care at multiple locations | System - wide coordinated care | Access to other hospital services |
Healthgrades - Recommended Surgeons' Practices | High - rated, experienced surgeons | Individualized implant removal based on patient factors | High patient trust due to good ratings | Personalized approach based on patient preferences |
Choosing the Right Hospital for Breast Implant Removal
When selecting a hospital for breast implant removal in Albany, several factors should be considered.
- Surgeon's Expertise: Look for board - certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in breast implant removal. Check their credentials, training, and patient reviews to ensure they have the skills to handle your case.
- Range of Services: Consider whether the hospital offers additional procedures, such as breast lifts or fat grafting, to address loose skin after implant removal. Also, check if they provide comprehensive consultations on potential implant - related health risks.
- Patient Experience: Read patient reviews and testimonials to understand the quality of the patient experience. A hospital that provides a comfortable environment, detailed consultations, and excellent post - operative care is more likely to ensure a smooth and satisfactory surgical experience.
- Cost and Financing: While cost should not be the only determining factor, it is important to understand the overall cost of the procedure and whether the hospital offers financing options to help you afford it.
Conclusion
In Albany, there are several excellent hospitals and medical practices that offer breast implant removal services. Each of the five major hospitals reviewed - DeLuca Plastic Surgery, K Plastic Surgery, The Plastic Surgery Group, Albany Med Health System, and the practices of Healthgrades - recommended surgeons - has its own strengths in terms of expertise, services offered, patient experience, and additional benefits. When considering breast implant removal, patients should carefully evaluate these factors to choose the hospital and surgeon that best meets their needs and expectations. By making an informed decision, patients can ensure a successful and satisfactory breast implant removal experience.
If you are considering breast implant removal in Albany, we encourage you to schedule consultations with the hospitals and surgeons mentioned in this article. Take the time to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and understand the procedure fully. You can also share this article with friends or family who may be interested in this topic. Stay informed and make the best decision for your health and well - being.