Introduction
Breast prosthesis removal plastic surgery has become increasingly common in recent years. Women may opt for this procedure due to various reasons, such as dissatisfaction with the current breast implants, implant - related complications, or personal lifestyle changes. In Albany, there are several medical facilities and surgeons offering breast prosthesis removal services, each with their own unique approaches and success rates. This article will delve into the details of breast prosthesis removal, explore the hospitals and surgeons in Albany known for better results, and provide comprehensive information to help patients make informed decisions.
Understanding Breast Prosthesis Removal
What is Breast Prosthesis Removal?
Breast prosthesis removal, also known as breast implant removal or explant surgery, is a surgical procedure to take out the breast implants. As indicated by sources like K Plastic Surgery, breast implants don't last forever. Eventually, they may need to be replaced, or some women choose to have them removed for different reasons. The procedure can be a simple one that utilizes the previous incision sites to avoid new scarring. It can be performed alone to return the breasts to their natural appearance or combined with a breast lift to correct sagging after volume loss.
Who is a Candidate for Breast Prosthesis Removal?
- Unsatisfied with current implants: Patients who are unhappy with the size, shape, or feel of their current breast implants may consider removal. For example, a woman who initially wanted larger breasts may later decide that the implants no longer suit her body or lifestyle, as stated in Capek Plastic Surgery.
- Implant - related complications: Complications such as capsular contracture (the hardening and tightening of scar tissue around an implant), implant rupture, or implant malposition can also be reasons for removal. A woman with capsular contracture may experience pain, distortion of the breast shape, or a hard - feeling breast. Both saline and silicone implants can rupture over time, and with saline implants, the deflation of the breast is usually obvious when leakage occurs.
- Health concerns: Although the long - term effects of breast implants are still being studied, some potential links between breast implants and autoimmune diseases or other health issues have been investigated. Conditions like breast implant illness (BII) or breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) may lead to implant removal in rare cases.
What Happens During the Breast Prosthesis Removal Procedure?
Generally, during breast prosthesis removal, an incision is made over the previous scar. The implant is then taken out through the incision. If capsular contracture is present, it can be corrected. Some patients may choose to have new implants placed at the same time, or a breast lift can be performed to reposition the breasts higher on the chest and remove excess skin. The surgical technique used can vary depending on factors such as the type of implant, the presence of complications, and the patient's aesthetic goals. According to Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, the "en bloc" capsulectomy is one of the common explantation procedures, which involves the simultaneous removal of the implant and the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around it.
Top Hospitals and Surgeons in Albany for Breast Prosthesis Removal
K Plastic Surgery
Surgeon: Dr. Kayastha
Dr. Kayastha is a board - certified plastic surgeon who serves Albany, NY, and the entire capital region. He has an extensive educational background, including undergraduate studies at Cornell University, medical school at SUNY Buffalo, and fellowships in surgical pathology at Roswell Park and in hand and microsurgery at the Buncke Clinic in San Francisco.
In terms of breast implant removal, he can perform the procedure using the previous incision sites to avoid new scarring. He can also address complications such as capsular contracture and discuss the risks and potential side effects of breast implants with patients during the consultation. For example, when a patient is concerned about whether breast implants can cause autoimmune diseases or other health problems, Dr. Kayastha can provide up - to - date information based on current research. Patients who have had procedures with Dr. Kayastha have reported high satisfaction rates, praising his hard work, detailed explanations, and excellent bedside manner.
Capek Plastic Surgery
Surgeon: Dr. Lucie Capek
Dr. Lucie Capek offers breast implant removal, revision, and related procedures at her state - of - the - art Quad A accredited operating suite in Latham, NY. She is experienced in handling various reasons for explant surgery, such as desiring a different breast size, capsular contracture, implant rupture, and implant malposition.
Her office - based operating suite allows for some procedures to be done under local anesthesia, providing a more convenient and potentially less invasive option for patients. For example, simple implant removal can be done in the office when no capsule removal is needed and silicone implants are not ruptured. Dr. Capek also offers a variety of options for patients after implant removal, including breast lift, replacement with new implants, or fat transfer. Her team focuses on helping patients achieve beautiful and natural - looking results while maintaining realistic expectations.
The Plastic Surgery Group
This group of plastic surgeons in Albany is known for providing a wide range of breast plastic surgery options, including breast prosthesis removal. Their surgeons understand the importance of a woman's breasts in terms of beauty, confidence, and feminine strength.
During the consultation, their highly trained plastic surgeons will gather necessary information, review the patient's medical history, and physically examine the breasts. They will then create a customized treatment plan based on the patient's concerns and aesthetic goals. For breast implant removal, they can address the potential issues of loose skin and droopy breasts that may occur after implant removal, and offer solutions such as breast lift and fat grafting to improve the overall cosmetic result.
Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery
Surgeon: Dr. Steven Yarinsky
Dr. Steven Yarinsky, a board - certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience, is well - known for his surgical skill and beautiful breast enhancement results. In breast implant removal, he can use the most advanced techniques available to safely remove implants and reshape the skin to restore the natural breast profile.
He favors the "en bloc" capsulectomy method for eligible patients with a thickened, hard, or tender capsule, as it offers benefits such as a reduced risk of leakage and the removal of potentially problematic scar tissue. Dr. Yarinsky will carefully evaluate a patient's overall health and aesthetic goals to determine the most appropriate procedure. He also provides detailed post - operative instructions and support to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
Factors Contributing to Better Results
Surgeon's Experience and Expertise
Experienced surgeons are more likely to achieve better results in breast prosthesis removal. They have encountered a wide range of cases and complications, allowing them to handle unexpected situations during the surgery. For example, a surgeon who has performed numerous "en bloc" capsulectomies will be more skilled at removing the implant and capsule together without causing damage to surrounding tissues. Surgeons with advanced training and fellowship experiences, like Dr. Kayastha and Dr. Yarinsky, are well - versed in the latest surgical techniques and can provide more comprehensive care to patients.
State - of - the - Art Facilities
Hospitals and surgical centers with modern equipment and facilities are essential for better surgical outcomes. For instance, facilities with high - definition ultrasound machines can accurately detect implant rupture, especially in silicone implants where the symptoms may not be obvious. A well - equipped operating room with advanced anesthesia monitoring systems can ensure patient safety during the surgery. Facilities like Capek Plastic Surgery's Quad A accredited operating suite offer a comfortable and safe environment for patients to undergo the procedure.
Comprehensive Pre - and Post - operative Care
Pre - operative care is crucial for ensuring that patients are in the best possible condition for surgery. Surgeons will provide specific instructions on adjusting medications, fasting, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This helps reduce the risk of complications during the surgery. Post - operative care includes pain management, wound care, and follow - up appointments. A hospital or surgeon that provides detailed post - operative instructions and schedules regular follow - up visits can detect and address any potential issues early, leading to a smoother recovery and better results. For example, after breast implant removal, patients may experience swelling and bruising, and a surgeon who prescribes appropriate pain medications and a surgical bra can help the patient manage these symptoms more effectively.
Potential Risks and Complications
- Scarring: Although surgeons try to minimize scarring by using previous incision sites, some degree of scarring is inevitable. The appearance of scars can vary depending on factors such as the patient's skin type and the surgical technique used. In some cases, scars may be more noticeable or raised, which can affect the patient's aesthetic outcome.
- Infection: Infection is a potential risk after any surgical procedure. Signs of infection may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. Surgeons take precautions such as using antibiotic solutions during the surgery and prescribing post - operative antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection. However, in rare cases, infections can still occur and may require additional treatment, such as draining the infected area or taking a longer course of antibiotics.
- Changes in Sensation: Breast prosthesis removal can sometimes cause changes in nipple or breast sensation. Patients may experience numbness, tingling, or decreased sensitivity. In most cases, these changes are temporary, but in some rare instances, they may be permanent.
- Recurrent Implant Complications: If a patient chooses to have new implants placed after removal, there is a risk of recurrent implant - related complications, such as capsular contracture or implant rupture. Surgeons will discuss these risks with patients during the consultation and recommend strategies to minimize them.
Preparing for Breast Prosthesis Removal
Consultation
The consultation is a critical step in the process. During the consultation, the patient will meet with the surgeon to discuss their concerns, goals, and medical history. The surgeon will perform a physical examination of the breasts and may order additional tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to evaluate the condition of the implants. For example, if a patient suspects implant rupture, an ultrasound or MRI can help confirm the diagnosis. The surgeon will then explain the different surgical options available, the potential risks and benefits, and what to expect during the procedure and recovery.
Lifestyle Changes
Patients are usually advised to make some lifestyle changes before the surgery. This may include quitting smoking, as smoking can decrease the body's ability to heal normally. A healthy diet and regular exercise can also help improve the patient's overall health and prepare the body for surgery. Additionally, patients may need to adjust their medications, especially those that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin or certain blood thinners.
Pre - operative Instructions
The surgeon will provide specific pre - operative instructions, which may include fasting for a certain period of time before the surgery. Fasting helps reduce the risk of aspiration during anesthesia. Patients may also be asked to arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery and to have help at home during the initial recovery period.
Recovery Process
Immediate Post - operative Period
In the days following breast prosthesis removal surgery, patients can expect some bruising and swelling. Prescription pain medication can be taken to minimize discomfort. They will also be given a surgical bra to wear, which helps with the healing process by providing support to the breasts. Patients are usually advised to rest quietly for 24 to 48 hours and can shower after 48 hours. Some patients may have drains for a few days if a capsulectomy was performed.
Return to Normal Activity
Patients with sedentary jobs may typically return to work within a week. However, strenuous or high - impact activities like running should be restricted for 6 - 8 weeks. The recovery time can vary from patient to patient depending on factors such as their overall health and the extent of the procedure. For example, if a patient also had a breast lift or other additional procedures, the recovery may take longer.
Long - term Follow - up
Long - term follow - up is important to monitor the patient's recovery and ensure that there are no long - term complications. Patients should continue with their regular mammograms and breast exams as recommended by their primary care physician or gynecologist. If they had silicone implants, periodic high - definition ultrasounds or MRIs may be recommended to screen for silent implant rupture.
Conclusion
In Albany, there are several hospitals and surgeons that offer high - quality breast prosthesis removal plastic surgery. K Plastic Surgery with Dr. Kayastha, Capek Plastic Surgery with Dr. Lucie Capek, The Plastic Surgery Group, and Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery with Dr. Steven Yarinsky are all known for their expertise, advanced techniques, and patient - centered care. When considering breast prosthesis removal, patients should carefully research their options, have in - depth consultations with surgeons, and understand the potential risks and benefits. By choosing a qualified surgeon and following pre - and post - operative instructions, patients can increase their chances of achieving better results and a successful recovery.
Are you considering breast prosthesis removal in Albany? Take the next step and schedule a consultation with one of the top surgeons mentioned in this article. Find out which surgical option is best for you and start your journey towards a more comfortable and confident you!
