Introduction
Breast implant removal has become a significant topic, especially for those with Aquagel breast implants in Albany. Many factors can lead to the decision to remove breast implants, from medical complications to personal aesthetic preferences. In this article, we will unveil the top five hospitals in Albany for removing Aquagel breast implants and discuss their charging standards. We'll also provide comprehensive information about breast implant removal, including reasons, procedures, recovery, and insurance coverage.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are both medical and individual reasons for wanting to remove breast implants. Understanding these reasons is crucial in making an informed decision about the removal process.
Medical Reasons
- Capsular Contracture: The body treats the implant as a foreign object and forms a layer of scar tissue around it. Sometimes this tissue can harden, causing pain, discomfort, and a distorted appearance. According to Breast Implant Removal | Plastic Surgeon Albany, this is a common medical reason for removal. The hardened scar tissue can also lead to muscle strain and other negative side effects.
- Implant Rupture or Leak: No implant is designed to last forever, and eventually, all implants will develop complications or begin leaking. Saline and silicone implants can both rupture or leak over time. When a rupture occurs, a person may notice that the breast has become misshapen. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that a person get an MRI scan 5 - 6 years after the implant surgery and once every 2 - 3 years following that to detect possible ruptures.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a rare cancer that occurs in the scar tissue around an implant. It has been linked with textured implants. If diagnosed with BIA - ALCL, it is medically necessary to remove the implants.
- Calcium Buildup: Calcium can build up around the implant, causing discomfort and potentially affecting the function of the implant.
- Implant Movement or Shifting: Over time, implants can shift out of place, either moving apart from each other or so close together that they distort the cleavage (a condition called symmastia). This can cause aesthetic concerns as well as discomfort.
- Frequent Infections: Bacterial infections can develop inside the scar capsule around the breast implants, which may require removal of the implants to resolve the issue.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): A term that refers to a wide range of symptoms that can develop after having reconstruction with breast implants. Symptoms include joint and muscle pain, breathing problems, rashes, and sleep disturbances. Although there is no scientific consensus on the ability of breast implants to cause these symptoms, some patients who are worried that their implants are the source of the problem feel better when they have been removed.
Individual Reasons
- Change in Aesthetic Preferences: Some women may discover that their bodies have changed since getting implants and no longer meet their aesthetic needs. They may choose to remove their implants entirely or downsize to a smaller implant that gives them the shape and feel they desire.
- Life - Style Changes: Entering a new phase of life may lead to a decision to remove breast implants. For example, women may want to have a more natural look or feel more comfortable without the implants.
Breast Implant Removal Process
Implant removal surgery is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires careful preparation and follow - up care.
Before the Surgery
Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions to help you prepare for breast implant removal. These may include:
- Medication Adjustment: You may need to adjust current medications or start new ones. It is important to avoid medicines that increase bleeding risks, such as anti - inflammatory drugs or certain herbal supplements.
- Smoking Cessation: Stopping smoking or using tobacco products is highly recommended as smoking can impede the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
- Medical Evaluation: Undergoing a medical evaluation to make sure that you are healthy enough for the procedure. This may include blood tests, imaging studies, and a physical examination.
- Transportation Arrangement: Since breast implant removal is usually an outpatient surgery, you will need to arrange transportation to return home after the operation.
During the Surgery
When it's time for surgery, an anesthesiologist will give you medicine to help you remain numb during the procedure. You may have either intravenous (IV) sedation to help you feel calm and relaxed or general anesthesia to put you in a sleep - like state.
The surgeon will make an incision around the circle of darker skin around your nipple (areola) or under the lower fold of your breasts (inframammary fold). Then, the surgeon will remove the implant and any scar tissue that may have formed, if necessary. If you wish to replace your implants, new ones can be inserted at this time. Finally, the surgeon will close the incision with sutures, tapes, or skin adhesives.
After the Surgery
After surgery, you will receive specific instructions for recovery. Your provider will tell you how to care for your incisions, activity restrictions, what medications to take, and when to follow up with your plastic surgeon.
- Wound Care: Immediately after the surgery, healthcare professionals will dress the wound with gauze and drains as necessary. Drains are small silicone tubes that remove fluid and blood from the wound while you heal. They usually come out after a few days but may stay in place for up to 10 days or more.
- Supportive Garments: You may be provided with a surgical bra or a compression garment to help prevent discomfort and aid the healing process. Wearing this garment for a few weeks can help reduce swelling.
- Medication: You may be prescribed pain medicine to manage the pain and swelling. It is important to take the medications as directed.
- Activity Restrictions: You will need to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for a certain period. For the first one to two weeks after surgery, you may need to avoid activities such as driving. Many people have tenderness or soreness for up to six weeks.
Top Five Hospitals in Albany for Removing Aquagel Breast Implants
Here are the top five hospitals in Albany that are well - known for their expertise in removing Aquagel breast implants. These hospitals have highly skilled surgeons and provide quality care throughout the process.
| Hospital Name | Surgeon Experience | Charging Standard | Patient Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quartz Hospital | Dr. Leyla Arvas, a plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery specialist with 27 years of experience. She has studied microsurgery and laser treatments in multiple locations and has performed various aesthetic operations. | Breast implant removal: $6,000 - $7,500 | 4.4 (Good) |
| Hisar Intercontinental Hospital | Dr. Hasan Şahin, a board - certified plastic surgeon with 19 years of experience. He offers services in primary aesthetic and complex restorative plastic surgery and has a large number of patients and surgeries to his credit. | Doctor's visit: Price on request | 4.5 (Good) |
| Dr. Ilker Manavbasi's Clinic | Dr. Ilker Manav Başı, a Turkish specialist in functional nasal surgery, facial rejuvenation surgery, mega liposuction and breast surgery with 24 years of experience. He has developed unique techniques and is a member of multiple professional associations. | Breast implant removal: $3,122 - $3,122 | 4.6 (Excellent) |
| José Cortés Institute | Dr. José Cortes, a top plastic surgeon in Mexico City, specializing in esthetic and reconstructive surgery with 19 years of experience. He is a member of various international organizations and has won multiple awards. | Doctor's visit: Price on request | 5 (Excellent) |
| Health Point World Clinic | Dr. Ali Can Gunenc, a medical doctor with 12 years of experience, specializing in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. He holds certifications from multiple boards and has experience in various courses and symposiums. | Doctor's visit: Price on request | 5 (Excellent) |
Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of breast implant removal surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the hospital, the surgeon's experience, and the complexity of the procedure.
Cost
According to Breast implant removal: Procedure, cost, and more, the average cost of implant removal surgery in 2020 was about $3,049. However, this figure does not include other expenses, such as those relating to the operating room facilities, anesthesia, and medical screenings, such as x - rays. Some surgeons may offer a payment plan to help patients pay over time instead of all at once.
Insurance Coverage
The original reason for getting your breast implants matters to health insurance companies (as well as Medicare and Medicaid). If your implants were put in after a mastectomy and your doctor believes that removing your implants is “medically necessary,” then your health insurance is legally obligated to cover your breast implant removal under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 (WHCRA).
If the original reason for getting breast implants was for augmentation of healthy breasts, then some health insurance companies will cover your explant surgery if they consider the services to be “medically necessary.” Many companies consider removal of breast implants medically necessary for patients with conditions such as ruptured silicone gel breast implants, severe capsular contracture, infections that don’t go away, chronic breast pain, and breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). However, insurance companies usually won’t cover the cost of breast implant removal for autoimmune or connective tissue diseases or other systemic complications.
To find out if your insurance company is likely to cover removal, you will need to look at your specific policy language. You can usually find this language in a document called “evidence of coverage” (EOC). Most insurance companies will require that you get pre - authorization before the surgery.
Recovery and Outlook
The recovery process after breast implant removal is an important part of the overall experience. It can vary depending on individual factors and the complexity of the surgery.
Physical Recovery
Generally, recovery from explant surgery is similar to recovery from mastectomy. Recovery time can last from two to six weeks or longer, depending on whether the surgeon removed one or two implants, and whether you had aesthetic flat closure or flap reconstruction immediately afterward.
It is important to follow your plastic surgeon's instructions for recovery, including keeping your incisions clean, taking the prescribed medicines, avoiding certain activities, and scheduling follow - up appointments. Some people may experience pain, swelling, and bruising in the early stages of recovery, which can be managed with medication and proper rest.
Breast Appearance After Removal
After implant removal, your breasts may sag, droop, or appear misshapen. This is because the implant caused the skin to stretch, and there is often an excess amount of skin when the implant is removed. Many people choose to have implant removal with a breast lift (mastopexy) to address this issue. During a breast lift, the surgeon removes excess skin and reshapes the breast tissue, resulting in firmer, more elevated breasts.
How to Choose the Right Hospital and Surgeon
Choosing the right hospital and surgeon for breast implant removal is crucial for a successful outcome. Here are some factors to consider:
- Surgeon Experience: Look for a surgeon with extensive experience in breast implant removal, preferably in people who have had breast reconstruction with implants. Check their credentials, the number of procedures they have performed, and their success rates.
- Patient Reviews: Read reviews from other patients who have undergone breast implant removal at the hospital. These reviews can provide insights into the quality of care, the surgeon's bedside manner, and the overall patient experience.
- Hospital Facilities: Ensure that the hospital has modern facilities and a clean, safe environment. This includes well - equipped operating rooms, post - operative care units, and access to necessary medical equipment.
- Cost and Insurance: Consider the charging standards of the hospital and whether they accept your insurance. Also, check if they offer payment plans or financial assistance options.
- Communication and Rapport: Choose a surgeon who listens to your needs, answers all your questions, and takes all your concerns seriously. You should feel comfortable communicating with the surgeon and trust their judgment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breast implant removal is a significant decision that can be influenced by various medical and personal factors. The top five hospitals in Albany for removing Aquagel breast implants offer different levels of expertise and charging standards. It is essential to understand the reasons for removal, the procedure itself, the recovery process, and the cost and insurance implications.
By carefully considering all these aspects and choosing the right hospital and surgeon, you can ensure a safe and successful breast implant removal experience. Whether you are facing medical complications or simply want to change your aesthetic appearance, taking the time to make an informed decision will lead to the best possible outcome.
Are you considering breast implant removal? We encourage you to share this article with others who may be in a similar situation. If you have any further questions or want to learn more about the topic, feel free to explore additional resources or consult with a qualified plastic surgeon.
