Introduction
Breast implant removal surgery, often referred to as explant, has witnessed a notable surge in popularity in Albany, NY. As more women opt for more natural lifestyle choices and as the limitations of breast implants become more evident over time, the demand for this procedure continues to grow. This article delves deep into the factors contributing to the popularity of breast implant removal surgery in Albany, examines the leading hospitals and surgeons offering this service, and provides comprehensive information about the procedure, including reasons for removal, the surgical process, recovery, and potential risks.
Factors Driving the Popularity of Breast Implant Removal in Albany
There are several key factors fueling the increasing popularity of breast implant removal surgery in Albany:
- Desire for a Natural Look and Feel: Many women who initially had breast augmentation may later decide that they prefer a more natural appearance. As they age or experience lifestyle changes, the presence of implants may no longer align with their aesthetic goals. They may want to return to their natural breast size or have a more organic look that better suits their current self - image.
- Medical Complications: Breast implants are not lifetime devices, and over time, various medical issues can arise. Capsular contracture, implant rupture, implant malposition, and implant rippling are some of the common complications that can prompt women to seek implant removal. In some cases, rare but serious conditions such as breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) and breast implant illness (BII) also lead to the decision to remove the implants.
- Lifestyle Changes: Life events like pregnancy, menopause, and weight fluctuations can significantly impact a woman's body. These changes may make the existing implants feel uncomfortable or no longer suitable for the woman's new lifestyle. For example, women who become more physically active may find large implants cumbersome during exercise.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Medical Reasons
Medical complications associated with breast implants are among the most common reasons for their removal. Here are some of the prominent medical concerns:
| Complication | Description | Symptoms | Diagnosis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capsular Contracture | The hardening and tightening of scar tissue around an implant. It can occur shortly after the first breast augmentation surgery or many years later. | Breasts may look distorted or asymmetric, and it may cause breast pain. | Clinical examination by a surgeon. |
| Implant Rupture | Both saline and silicone implants can rupture due to daily wear and tear, usually years after implantation. With saline implants, the breast deflates as the saline leaks out and is absorbed. With silicone implants, there may be no symptoms, or a shape change, lump, or new discomfort may be noticed. | For saline implants, visible deflation; for silicone implants, potential shape change, lump, or discomfort. | FDA recommends high - definition ultrasound for screening silicone implant rupture. MRI may be used for confirmation if rupture is suspected. |
| 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 due to various factors such as capsular contracture, gravity, and tissue changes over time. | Abnormal appearance of the breasts, asymmetry. | Clinical examination and possibly imaging studies. |
| Implant Rippling | A cosmetic concern that occurs most often with saline implants in thinner patients. It can also happen with silicone implants if the covering tissues are thin or stretched. | Visible rippling on the surface of the breasts. | Visual inspection by a surgeon. |
| BIA - ALCL | A rare but serious type of cancer associated with certain types of textured implants. Most of these implants have been removed from the market. | Swelling, pain, or a mass in the breast. | Biopsy and imaging studies. |
| BII | A term used by women who self - identify as experiencing a wide range of symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, and neurological conditions. Although not scientifically confirmed to be caused by breast implants, it is a growing concern. | Fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, joint pain, etc. | There is no specific diagnostic test. Diagnosis is often based on a review of symptoms and exclusion of other medical conditions. |
Non - Medical Reasons
Besides medical issues, non - medical factors also play a significant role in a woman's decision to remove breast implants:
- Desire for a Different Size: Some women may have initially chosen a particular implant size that no longer suits their aesthetic preferences. They may want larger - sized implants or, more commonly, smaller breasts. Over the years, changes in the body due to pregnancy, menopause, and weight changes can make the existing implants feel out of proportion.
- Lifestyle Mismatch: As women's lifestyles change, they may find that the implants no longer fit with their daily activities. For example, a highly active woman may find large implants restrictive during sports or exercise.
Leading Hospitals and Surgeons in Albany for Breast Implant Removal
Albany Medical Center Hospital
Albany Medical Center Hospital offers the removal of ruptured breast implants. The hospital reported prices vary depending on whether the patient is paying in cash or is part of an insurance plan with a pre - negotiated rate. During the procedure, an incision is made in the breast, the ruptured implant and surrounding tissue are accessed, the implant is removed, and cells from the surrounding tissue may be examined by a pathologist. After the procedure, the incision is closed with sutures, and the patient may need to wear a compression garment for a few weeks. However, the hospital has a 2 - star overall ranking from CMS, with some areas of performance being below the national average, such as effectiveness of care and patient experience.
Capek Surgical Arts
Dr. Capek at Capek Surgical Arts, an intimate, comfortable, and discreet state - of - the - art quad - A accredited operating suite in Latham, NY, offers breast implant removal and revision services. Dr. Capek has extensive experience in handling various breast implant - related procedures. Before the procedure, she conducts a personalized consultation to assess the patient's unique situation and explain the available options. She aims to make the patient an informed participant in the planning process. Most explant and revision breast implant surgeries are performed in her office - based operating suite or an outpatient hospital operating room. Simple implant removal can be done under local anesthesia, while more complex procedures may require general anesthesia. The recovery process is carefully monitored, and patients are provided with detailed aftercare instructions.
Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, PC
Dr. Steven Yarinsky, a board - certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience at Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, PC, is well - known for his surgical skill and beautiful breast enhancement results. He uses advanced techniques for breast implant removal, including the "en bloc" capsulectomy for eligible patients. This procedure involves the simultaneous removal of the implant and the surrounding scar tissue. Dr. Yarinsky performs the explantation in his joint commission - accredited facility using general anesthesia. After the procedure, patients are given pain medications, antibiotics, a post - surgical bra, and thorough instructions for a safe and successful recovery. The cost of the procedure is customized based on the patient's needs and includes various components such as the surgeon's fee, anesthesia costs, and follow - up visits.
Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore at Rockmore Plastic Surgery is a trusted and popular choice for breast implant removal and breast augmentation revision among women in Latham, Troy, Saratoga, Utica, and throughout Albany County, New York. He has performed thousands of breast procedures, each customized to the patient's unique body and aesthetic desires. His 3 - dimensional approach and personal consultation process ensure natural - looking results. In addition to breast implant removal, he offers breast implant exchange and revision surgeries. Many women also choose to combine these procedures with other treatments such as breast lift, liposuction, or tummy tuck. The surgeries are performed in a fully accredited surgical center near his office, and patients are placed under general anesthesia and monitored by a board - certified anesthesiologist.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Pre - Procedure Consultation
A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is a crucial first step before breast implant removal surgery. During this consultation, the surgeon will assess the patient's medical history, current health status, and the specific reasons for wanting to remove the implants. They will also perform a physical examination of the breasts to evaluate the condition of the implants, the surrounding tissue, and the overall breast anatomy. The surgeon will discuss the available options for the procedure, including whether a simple implant removal, capsulectomy (removal of the scar tissue around the implant), or additional procedures such as breast lift or fat transfer are recommended. The patient will have the opportunity to ask questions and express their concerns and expectations. It is important for the patient to be in optimum health before the surgery, so they may be advised to follow a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and refraining from smoking.
The Surgical Process
The breast implant removal surgery is tailored to the patient's individual needs, taking into account factors such as the type of implant, the presence of any complications, and the desired aesthetic outcome. Here are some common scenarios:
- Simple Implant Removal: This can be done in an office - based operating suite or a hospital operating room under local anesthesia if no capsule removal is needed and the silicone implants are not ruptured. In the case of saline implants, they may be drained prior to removal to allow the skin to contract over several weeks. The patient can then decide whether to replace the implants with new ones or use autologous fat.
- Capsulectomy: If there is a capsular contracture or a ruptured silicone implant, a capsulectomy may be performed. This involves removing the scar tissue (capsule) around the implant. Dr. Capek sometimes performs a procedure to switch the implant pocket from under the breast gland to under the pectoralis muscle. The same incision used to insert the original implants may be used, although a different or larger incision may be required in some cases. An 'en bloc' capsulectomy, which refers to removing the capsule in one piece with the implant contained in it, is more accurately called a total capsulectomy. However, it may not be technically feasible if the capsule is very thin or adherent to the ribs in submuscular implants.
- Implant Replacement: In many cases, patients choose to replace their breast implants at the same time as explant or breast implant revision. If the patient wants to change the implant size, the surgeon will either surgically enlarge or reduce the "pocket" to accommodate the new implants. The surgeon will also recommend the type of implant that best suits the patient's goals and may suggest additional procedures like a breast lift or fat transfer.
- Autologous Fat Transfer: For patients who want a more natural look and feel or to go smaller, the implants can be replaced with their own fat. This procedure is particularly successful when the patient's natural breast tissue has already been 'pre - expanded' with implants.
- Implant Repositioning: This procedure usually involves modifying the capsular tissue surrounding the implants. Capsulorrhaphy and capsulotomy are techniques used to either tighten or release 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 (mastopexy) may be performed at the same time. This can range from a simple resizing of the areola to a more extensive skin removal, resulting in a lollipop (vertical) scar or anchor scar.
Recovery
The recovery process after breast implant removal surgery varies from patient to patient depending on the extent of the procedure and the patient's overall health. Here are some general guidelines:
- Immediate Post - Surgery: Patients should plan to rest quietly for 24 to 48 hours after the surgery. They can shower after 48 hours. A surgical bra is usually recommended to be worn around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks, and the type of bra will be specified according to the procedure. If a capsulectomy has been performed, the patient may have drains for a few days. Dissolvable sutures and glue are commonly used, so minimal wound care is required.
- Return to Work and Activity: Patients with sedentary jobs may typically return to work within a week. However, strenuous or high - impact activities like running may be restricted for 6 - 8 weeks. It is crucial to follow the surgeon's aftercare instructions to avoid any complications.
- Long - Term Follow - Up: Patients should continue with their regular mammograms and breast exams with their primary care physician (PCP) or gynecologist. If they have silicone implants, periodic high - definition ultrasounds are recommended to screen for silent implant rupture. Follow - up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the recovery process and ensure that the patient is satisfied with the results.
Risks Associated with Breast Implant Removal Surgery
Although breast implant removal surgery is generally considered safe when performed by a professionally trained, board - certified plastic surgeon, every surgical procedure carries some risks. These include:
- Scarring: There will be some scarring at the incision site. The appearance of the scar depends on various factors such as the individual's healing ability and the type of incision used.
- Changes in Sensation: The sensation of the nipple or breast may change after the surgery. In some cases, this may be temporary, while in others, it may be permanent.
- Bleeding and Infection: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, and an infection may also occur at the incision site. These complications can usually be managed with appropriate medical treatment.
- Recurrent Implant Complications: If new implants are inserted, there is a risk of developing similar complications as before, such as capsular contracture or implant rupture.
- Anesthesia - Related Risks: As with any surgery involving anesthesia, there are potential side effects and risks associated with the anesthesia. However, these risks are minimized when the procedure is performed in a proper medical setting with an experienced anesthesiologist.
Patient Satisfaction
According to real - patient ratings, breast implant removal has a high level of patient satisfaction. Based on 2272 ratings, the patient satisfaction rate is 96.2%. The majority of patients rate the procedure 4 or 5 stars, indicating their contentment with the results. Many women report an improved sense of self - confidence and a better - proportioned figure after the surgery. However, it is important to note that individual results may vary, and a realistic understanding of the potential outcomes is crucial before undergoing the procedure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breast implant removal surgery has gained significant popularity in Albany in 2025, driven by a combination of medical complications, lifestyle changes, and a desire for a more natural look. There are several leading hospitals and experienced surgeons in the area offering high - quality breast implant removal and related procedures. The procedure is tailored to each patient's specific needs and can involve various techniques, including simple implant removal, capsulectomy, implant replacement, and additional cosmetic procedures. Although there are some risks associated with the surgery, the overall patient satisfaction rate is high. If you are considering breast implant removal, it is essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can provide you with personalized advice and guide you through the entire process.
To learn more about breast implant removal and to find out if it is the right option for you, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a reputable plastic surgeon in Albany. Take the first step towards achieving your desired aesthetic goals and enhancing your quality of life.
