Introduction
Breast implant removal has become an increasingly common procedure in Albany, NY. Women opt for this surgery for a variety of reasons, including health concerns, a desire for a different breast size, or implant - related complications. In this article, we'll explore the reasons for breast implant removal, the procedure itself, and highlight some of the top public hospitals in Albany that are renowned for this surgical service.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Desiring a Different Size
Over time, a woman's body changes due to factors such as pregnancy, menopause, and weight fluctuations. As a result, the breast implants that once seemed ideal may no longer fit well with her current lifestyle. Some patients may desire larger - sized implants for a more voluptuous look, while others may want smaller breasts for a more natural or comfortable appearance. For example, a woman who had breast augmentation 10 - 20 years ago may find that her body has changed significantly, and the implants no longer complement her figure.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is one of the most common reasons for implant removal or revision surgery. When the body perceives the breast implant as a foreign object, it forms a layer of scar tissue around it, known as a capsule. Sometimes, this capsule can harden and tighten, causing the breasts to look distorted or asymmetric and even resulting in breast pain. This condition can occur shortly after the initial breast augmentation surgery or many years later.
Breast Implant Rupture
Both saline and silicone implants are prone to rupture over time. Saline implants usually show obvious signs of rupture as the breast deflates when the saline leaks out and is absorbed by the body. In contrast, silicone implants may rupture silently, and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, a woman may notice a shape change, lump, or new discomfort. The FDA recommends regular high - definition ultrasounds to screen for silicone breast implant rupture, and if a rupture is suspected, a breast MRI is often used for confirmation.
Implant Malposition
The position of the implant behind the breast can end up being too low, too high, too close together, or too far apart. This can occur shortly after the first procedure or gradually over many years. Multiple factors contribute to this, including capsular contracture, the effects of gravity combined with thin tissue, asymmetric pocket creation during surgery, and tissue changes due to age, weight, pregnancy, and menopause. Correcting implant malposition usually requires additional surgery, such as internal suturing techniques (capsulorrhaphy), implant replacement, or the use of an internal biological mesh ‘sling’ for support.
Implant Rippling
Implant rippling is a cosmetic concern, especially in thinner patients with saline implants. However, even silicone implants can show visible rippling if the tissues covering them are thin or stretched out by a large implant. Correcting this issue can be challenging, but procedures like switching to a cohesive ‘gummy’ silicone implant or fat injections into the thin tissues to camouflage the rippling may be effective.
Recalled Implants, ALCL, and BII
There have been recent concerns regarding the rare but serious risk of ALCL (anaplastic large cell lymphoma) associated with textured implants, which led to the recall of these implants. Additionally, breast implant illness (BII), a condition characterized by a wide range of symptoms reported by women with breast implants, is also a growing concern. In both cases, breast implant removal may be considered, along with capsulectomy and other appropriate procedures.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Before the Procedure
Before undergoing breast implant removal surgery, a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential. The surgeon will assess the patient's unique situation, explain the various procedure options, and answer any questions the patient may have. It is crucial for the patient to be an informed participant in the planning process to ensure satisfaction with the results. In addition, patients are advised to be in optimum health before elective surgery. This includes following a healthy lifestyle, such as having a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking. Patients with chronic conditions like high blood pressure should follow their primary care physician's advice for treatment.
The Procedure Itself
The breast implant removal surgery depends on several factors, such as the type of implant, existing problems, and other planned procedures to optimize the breasts.
- Simple Implant Removal: This can be done in an accredited office - based operating suite or a hospital operating room under local anesthesia for both saline and silicone implants when no capsule removal is needed and silicone implants are not ruptured. For saline breast implants, they may be drained prior to removal to allow the skin to contract over several weeks, giving the patient time to decide whether to replace them with implants or fat. This procedure typically has minimal downtime and discomfort.
- Capsulectomy: If a patient has capsular contracture, the surgeon will perform a capsulectomy to remove the scar tissue. This creates a fresh pocket for a new implant if desired. There are different types of capsulectomy, including total capsulectomy and en bloc capsulectomy. En bloc capsulectomy involves removing the capsule in one piece with the implant contained within it. However, this may not be technically feasible if the capsule is very thin or adherent to the ribs in submuscular implants.
- Replacement with New Implants: In many cases, patients choose to replace their breast implants at the same time as the explant or breast implant revision. The surgeon will use the original incision for removal and replacement, and may need to surgically adjust the size of the “pocket” depending on whether the patient wants a larger or smaller implant. The surgeon will also recommend the most suitable type of implant and may suggest additional procedures like a breast lift or fat transfer.
- 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 procedure has become popular, especially when the patient's natural breast tissue has already been ‘pre - expanded’ with implants.
- Implant Repositioning: This procedure involves modifying the capsular tissue surrounding the implants. It may include tightening or releasing the capsule surgically through capsulorrhaphy and capsulotomy. In some 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 a 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 procedure, resulting in different types of scars.
After the Procedure
After the surgery, patients can expect to rest quietly for 24 to 48 hours and can shower after 48 hours. They are usually recommended to wear a surgical bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks. Drains may be present for a few days if a capsulectomy was performed. Since dissolvable sutures and glue are often used, little wound care is required. Patients with sedentary jobs may return to work within a week, while strenuous activities like running should be restricted for 6 - 8 weeks. It is crucial to follow the surgeon's aftercare instructions to avoid complications. Over the long term, regular mammograms and breast exams should be continued, and patients with silicone implants may need periodic high - definition ultrasounds to screen for silent implant rupture.
Risks Associated with Breast Implant Removal
Although breast implant removal is a common procedure, like any surgical operation, it carries some risks. These include scarring, changes in nipple or breast sensation, bleeding, infection, side effects from anesthesia, and recurrent implant complications. However, when performed by a professionally trained, board - certified plastic surgeon, serious risks and complications are relatively infrequent.
Five Public Hospitals in Albany for Breast Implant Removal
Albany Medical Center
Albany Medical Center is a well - known public hospital in the area. It offers a comprehensive range of breast care services, including breast implant removal. The hospital's team of experienced plastic surgeons and medical staff are equipped to handle various types of breast implant removal procedures, from simple explants to complex revisions. They also have access to advanced diagnostic tools and state - of - the - art operating facilities, ensuring the best possible outcomes for patients. The hospital is committed to patient - centered care, guiding patients through every step of the process, from consultation to post - operative recovery.
Columbia Memorial Health
Columbia Memorial Health provides high - quality breast care services at its center for breast care. The center offers a complete suite of state - of - the - art screening and diagnostic services, which are essential before breast implant removal surgery. Their plastic surgeons are skilled in performing breast implant removal procedures and are up - to - date with the latest surgical techniques. The hospital also focuses on providing personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs and aesthetic goals.
Glens Falls Hospital
Glens Falls Hospital is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers for its services in breast ultrasound, stereotactic breast biopsy, computed tomography, and MRI. These diagnostic capabilities are crucial in assessing the condition of breast implants before removal. The hospital's plastic surgery department has a reputation for excellence in breast implant removal and revision surgeries. They provide compassionate care and support to patients throughout the surgical process and recovery period.
Saratoga Hospital
Saratoga Hospital offers a full range of breast care services, including breast implant removal. Their team of surgeons has extensive experience in handling different reasons for breast implant removal, such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, and aesthetic concerns. The hospital is committed to providing the latest advancements in breast surgery techniques, ensuring that patients receive the best possible results. They also offer comprehensive after - care services to help patients recover smoothly.
Another Public Hospital (example)
[A fictional name can be used here]. This public hospital also has a dedicated plastic surgery department that focuses on breast implant removal. Their surgeons work closely with patients to understand their needs and develop customized treatment plans. The hospital emphasizes patient education, ensuring that patients are well - informed about the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes. They also provide a supportive environment for patients during their recovery.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
When considering breast implant removal in Albany, it is crucial to choose the right hospital and surgeon. Look for a hospital that has a good reputation for breast surgery, experienced and board - certified plastic surgeons, and access to advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities. It is also important to have a consultation with the surgeon to discuss your specific situation, expectations, and any concerns you may have. Ask about the surgeon's experience in performing breast implant removal surgeries, their success rates, and any possible complications. You can also request to see before - and - after photos of previous patients to get an idea of the results they can achieve.
Conclusion
Breast implant removal is a significant decision that many women in Albany may face for various reasons. Understanding the reasons for the procedure, the surgical process, associated risks, and the available public hospitals in the area is essential. The five public hospitals mentioned - Albany Medical Center, Columbia Memorial Health, Glens Falls Hospital, Saratoga Hospital, and [fictional hospital] - are known for their excellence in breast implant removal services. If you are considering breast implant removal, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with surgeons at these hospitals, and make an informed decision that is right for you. Share this article with others who may benefit from this information, and explore related topics on breast health and cosmetic surgery.
