Introduction
Prosthetic breast augmentation is a common cosmetic surgery that many women choose to enhance their appearance. However, there are various reasons why a woman might decide to remove the breast implants later on, such as health concerns, dissatisfaction with the results, or changes in personal preferences. In Albany, there are several hospitals and doctors that offer breast implant removal services. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the ranking of hospitals for removing prosthetic breast augmentation surgery in Albany, along with relevant information about the procedure, doctors, and cost.
Understanding Breast Implant Removal
What is Breast Implant Removal?
Breast implant removal is a surgical procedure designed to take out the breast implants. As breast implants are not permanent and have a limited lifespan, they may need to be replaced or removed eventually. The procedure can be done with or without replacement of the implants. In cases where replacement is not desired, the previous incision sites are often utilized to avoid new scarring. It can either be performed as a standalone procedure to return the breasts to their natural appearance or combined with a breast lift to correct sagging that may occur after volume loss.
Who is a Candidate for Breast Implant Removal?
Candidates for breast implant removal typically fall into several categories. Women who are unhappy with the current appearance of their breast implants, such as those with asymmetrical results, overly large or small implants, or implants that have shifted, may opt for removal. Those who have experienced complications like implant leaks, ruptures, or capsular contracture (a buildup of scar tissue around the implant) are also good candidates. Additionally, as a woman ages, her aesthetic preferences may change, and she might desire to have smaller or larger breasts. Some may also choose to remove the implants due to concerns about potential long - term health effects, although the scientific evidence regarding these risks is still being studied.
What Happens During the Breast Implant Removal Procedure?
During the breast implant removal procedure, the surgeon makes an incision over the previous scar. Through this incision, the implant is carefully removed. If capsular contracture is present, the surgeon will correct it. In some cases, the patient may choose to have new implants placed at the same time. A breast lift can also be performed concurrently to reposition the breasts higher on the chest and eliminate excess skin. The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, and patients are monitored by a board - certified anesthesiologist throughout the procedure.
Ranking of Hospitals in Albany for Breast Implant Removal
St. Peter’s Hospital - Albany
St. Peter’s Hospital has been ranked as the best hospital in the Albany area for 2024 - 2025 by U.S. News & World Report. It is the 11th consecutive year that the hospital has received the best regional hospital designation. It is ranked 17th in New York State. The hospital is high - performing in two adult specialties (gastroenterology/gi surgery and urology) and 12 conditions/procedures, including aortic valve surgery, colon cancer surgery, and heart - related procedures. Although not specifically mentioned in terms of breast implant removal, its high - quality care across multiple specialties suggests that it has a well - trained and experienced medical team that could handle breast implant removal procedures competently.
Albany Medical Center
Albany Medical Center is ranked second in the Albany area. It is high - performing in 11 procedures and conditions. For breast implant removal, the hospital offers relevant services. According to Turquoise Health, the hospital has reported prices for the removal of a ruptured breast implant, which vary depending on whether the patient is paying in cash or is part of an insurance plan with a pre - negotiated rate. The care quality at the hospital has an overall ranking from CMS, with some metrics like the effectiveness of care being below the national average, while safety of care is above the national average.
Other Hospitals
There are several other hospitals in the Albany area, such as the Albany Stratton Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bernard & Millie Duker Children's Hospital at Albany Medical Center, Burdett Birth Center, Capital District Psychiatric Center, Cobleskill Regional Hospital, Conifer Park Hospital, Ellis Hospital, and Four Winds Hospital - Saratoga Springs. While specific information about their expertise in breast implant removal is limited, Ellis Hospital is high - performing in 5 procedures/conditions, which may indicate a certain level of surgical competence.
Top Doctors for Breast Implant Removal in Albany
There are numerous doctors in Albany who perform breast augmentation - related procedures, and many of them are also likely to offer breast implant removal services.
| Doctor's Name |
Rating |
Address |
| Dr. Susan Gannon, MD |
4.60 out of 5 stars |
455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
| Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD |
4.70 out of 5 stars |
317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Todd Beyer, MD |
4.80 out of 5 stars |
47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Meera Menon, MD |
4.40 out of 5 stars |
50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD |
4.90 out of 5 stars |
50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Francis Cullen, MD |
4.80 out of 5 stars |
5 Palisades Dr Ste 110, Albany, NY 12205 |
| Dr. Jerome Chao, MD |
4.30 out of 5 stars |
13 Century Hill Dr, Latham, NY 12110 |
| Dr. Edward Lee, MD |
4.50 out of 5 stars |
50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO |
4.90 out of 5 stars |
7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211 |
| Dr. Eugene Hoffert, MD |
4.90 out of 5 stars |
250 Delaware Ave Ste 207, Delmar, NY 12054 |
Some other notable doctors with experience in breast - related surgeries are:
- Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore: A board - certified plastic surgeon who is a trusted choice for breast augmentation revision and explant surgery. He has performed thousands of breast procedures, with a 3 - dimensional approach and a personal consultation process to achieve customized, natural - looking results.
- Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha: A board - certified plastic surgeon who serves Albany and the entire capital region. He has an extensive educational background and training, and has received positive patient reviews.
Cost of Breast Implant Removal in Albany
The cost of breast implant removal in Albany can vary significantly depending on several factors. These factors include the complexity of the procedure, whether additional procedures like a breast lift are being performed, the experience and reputation of the doctor, and the hospital or surgical facility where the procedure is carried out.
- **Albany Medical Center**: As mentioned earlier, for the removal of a ruptured breast implant, the price varies based on payment method (cash or insurance). However, specific price ranges for general breast implant removal without rupture are not provided, but it can be assumed that similar cost - influencing factors would apply.
- **Doctor - Specific Pricing**: Doctors may offer personalized price quotes during the consultation. For example, at Rockmore Plastic Surgery, the cost of breast augmentation revision (which includes implant removal) varies with the complexity of the surgery and individual patient factors.
Recovery and Aftercare
What to Expect During Recovery
After breast implant removal surgery, patients can expect some immediate effects. In the days following the procedure, bruising and swelling are common. Prescription pain medication is usually prescribed to minimize discomfort. Patients are also given a surgical bra to wear, which helps with the healing process by providing support to the breasts.
Most patients need to take at least a few days off work to recover at home. They can typically return to normal daily activities after about a week. However, more strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least six weeks after the procedure to allow the body enough time to heal properly.
Importance of Aftercare
Proper aftercare is crucial for a successful recovery. Patients should follow the doctor's instructions carefully, which may include taking prescribed medications on time, wearing the surgical bra as directed, and keeping the incision area clean. Regular follow - up appointments with the doctor are also essential to monitor the healing process and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
Frequently Asked Questions about Breast Implant Removal
Can breast implants cause autoimmune disease?
Although there has been some research on potential links between breast implants and autoimmune diseases, more studies are needed to fully understand the long - term effects of breast implants. Doctors can discuss the potential risks during the consultation.
Can breast implants cause cellulitis?
Cellulitis is a type of infection that can potentially occur after breast augmentation or reduction. To minimize the risk, it is important to select an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon for the procedure.
Can breast implants cause pain years later?
Breast implant illness has drawn significant attention in recent years, leading to widespread investigations into breast implants and their side effects. A doctor can provide the latest information on what to expect regarding breast implant illness and associated pain.
Can breast implants get infected years later?
The risk of breast implant infection decreases over time, but it can still occur. If an infection develops, the implants usually need to be removed to allow the infection to resolve.
Do breast implants cause health problems?
Like any implant surgery, there are health risks associated with breast implants. However, breast implants are one of the most - studied medical devices on the market. A doctor can discuss these risks in detail during the consultation.
Can breast implants last a lifetime?
Although breast implants are designed to be long - lasting, they are not permanent and do not last a lifetime. Most implants need to be replaced or removed after a certain period.
How do you know if my implants are leaking?
If a patient has saline breast implants, a leak will result in a sudden decrease in breast size in one or both breasts. For silicone implants, a leak may cause a distorted shape or an increasingly firm feeling as scar tissue develops.
Do breast implants sag over time?
The implants themselves do not cause breasts to sag. However, due to the aging process, where the skin becomes lax, the results of breast augmentation can start to descend, and the breasts may begin to sag naturally.
How do I prepare for breast implant removal?
Doctors will typically give specific instructions during the consultation. This usually involves adjusting medications and fasting for a certain period of time prior to surgery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering breast implant removal in Albany, patients have several high - quality hospitals and experienced doctors to choose from. St. Peter’s Hospital and Albany Medical Center stand out in the area due to their overall rankings and performance in various medical procedures. There are also many skilled doctors with good patient ratings who can perform the procedure. Understanding the procedure, the cost, recovery, and aftercare is essential for a successful outcome.
If you are considering breast implant removal, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with different doctors, and ask all the necessary questions to make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may be interested in this topic and continue to explore related resources to ensure you have all the information you need for your breast implant removal journey.
