Breast implant removal surgery, often called explant surgery, has become a common choice for many women in Albany. Whether due to medical issues, aesthetic preferences, or lifestyle changes, the need for reliable and well - reputed hospitals for this procedure is high. In this article, we will explore the top reasons for breast implant removal, the leading hospitals and surgeons in Albany, and what patients can expect before, during, and after the surgery.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are various reasons why women opt for breast implant removal. Some of the most common reasons are as follows:
- Desiring a Different Size: Over time, women's bodies change due to pregnancy, menopause, and weight fluctuations. As a result, the initial implant size may no longer be suitable for their current lifestyle. For example, some may desire larger - sized implants, while others prefer smaller breasts.
- Capsular Contracture: This is a prevalent reason for implant removal or revision. Capsular contracture refers to the hardening and tightening of scar tissue around an implant. It can occur shortly after the first breast augmentation or many years later. The hardened scar tissue can make the breasts look distorted or asymmetric and may even cause pain.
- Breast Implant Rupture: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture due to daily wear and tear. With saline implants, the rupture is usually obvious as the breast deflates when the saline leaks out and is absorbed. In contrast, silicone implants may show no symptoms or only a shape change, lump, or new discomfort. A mammogram may not detect silicone implant rupture, and the FDA recommends using high - definition ultrasound to screen for it regularly.
- Implant Malposition: The implant may end up in an incorrect position, such as too low, too high, too close together, or too far apart. This can happen due to factors like capsular contracture, gravity, asymmetric pocket creation, and tissue changes over time. Additional surgery is often required to correct the problem.
- Implant Rippling: This is a cosmetic concern, especially common with saline implants in thinner patients. Even silicone implants can show visible rippling if the covering tissues are thin or stretched. Switching to a cohesive 'gummy' silicone implant or fat injections may help correct this issue.
- Recalled Implants, ALCL, and BII: There is a rare but serious risk of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) associated with textured implants, leading to their recall. Breast implant illness (BII), a term used by women reporting a wide range of symptoms, is also a growing concern that may lead to implant removal.
Well - Reputed Hospitals and Surgeons in Albany for Breast Implant Removal
Albany has several well - reputed hospitals and experienced surgeons who specialize in breast implant removal surgery. Let's take a closer look at some of them:
Capek Surgical Arts
Dr. Lucie Capek at Capek Surgical Arts is a board - certified plastic surgeon known for her expertise in breast implant removal. She offers a personalized consultation to discuss the best options for each patient.
- Procedure Options: Dr. Capek's explant surgery may include a breast lift, replacement of the implants with a different type or size, or a fat transfer procedure using the patient's own fat. Simple implant removal can be done in her office - based operating suite under local anesthesia when no capsule removal is needed and silicone implants are not ruptured. For patients with capsular contracture, she performs a capsulectomy to remove the scar tissue.
- Patient Experience: Her entire staff strives to provide patients with an intimate, comfortable, and discreet surgical experience. They are available for follow - up visits and long - term care to help patients navigate any post - surgery questions.
Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, PC
Dr. Steven Yarinsky, a board - certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience, practices at Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, PC. He is well - known for his surgical skill and beautiful breast enhancement results.
- En Bloc Capsulectomy: For eligible patients with a thickened, hard, or tender capsule, Dr. Yarinsky favors the en bloc capsulectomy method. This procedure involves the simultaneous removal of the implant and the surrounding scar tissue. He determines the suitability of this procedure after a thorough evaluation of the patient's overall health and aesthetic goals.
- Recovery and Cost: The recovery timeline depends on various factors, and patients usually experience swelling and bruising that should disappear within a few weeks. The average cost of breast implant removal ranges from $6,000 to $18,000, and patients receive a 'global fee' at the consultation that includes all related costs.
K Plastic Surgery
Dr. Kayastha at K Plastic Surgery is a board - certified plastic surgeon serving Albany and the capital region. He has extensive training and experience in breast implant removal.
- Procedure Details: During breast implant removal, an incision is made over the previous scar, and the implant is taken out. If capsular contracture is present, it is corrected, and new implants can be placed if the patient desires. A breast lift can also be performed at the same time.
- Patient Support: Dr. Kayastha takes the time to explain everything to the patient before and after the surgery, and his bedside manner is highly praised. He provides detailed instructions for the breast removal procedure, including preparation and recovery.
Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore at Rockmore Plastic Surgery is a trusted and popular choice for breast augmentation revision and explant surgery in Albany County. He has performed thousands of breast procedures.
- Customized Procedures: Dr. Rockmore offers various options for breast implant removal, including simple explant, implant exchange, and revision. He uses a 3 - dimensional approach and personal consultation process to achieve customized, natural - looking results.
- Combined Procedures: Many women choose to combine their revision surgery with other procedures like breast lift, liposuction, tummy tuck, or mommy makeover to enhance their overall aesthetic results.
What to Expect Before the Procedure
Before undergoing breast implant removal surgery, patients should take several important steps:
- Consultation: A consultation with the surgeon is essential. The surgeon will assess the patient's unique situation, including the type of implant, any existing problems, and the patient's aesthetic goals. They will explain the various procedure options and help the patient make an informed decision.
- Health Preparation: Patients should be in optimum health. This includes following a healthy lifestyle, having a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and refraining from smoking. They should also follow their primary care physician's advice when treating chronic conditions like high blood pressure.
- Pre - surgery Instructions: The surgeon will provide specific instructions for the pre - surgery period. This may include adjusting medications, fasting for a certain period before surgery, and arranging for someone to accompany the patient to and from the hospital or surgical center.
What Happens During the Procedure
The actual breast implant removal surgery depends on several factors, such as the type of implant, the presence of problems, and any additional procedures planned:
- Anesthesia: Patients are usually placed under general anesthesia, although in some cases, local anesthesia may be used. The choice of anesthesia depends on the complexity of the procedure and the patient's overall health.
- Implant Removal: An incision is made, typically along the previous scar. The implant is then removed through the incision. If there is a capsular contracture, the surgeon may perform a capsulectomy to remove the scar tissue. In some cases, only the implant is removed, while in others, both the implant and the capsule are carefully taken out.
- Additional Procedures: Along with implant removal, the surgeon may perform other procedures such as a breast lift, replacement with new implants of a different size or type, or a fat transfer. These additional procedures are aimed at achieving the best aesthetic result for the patient.
Recovery After the Procedure
The recovery process after breast implant removal surgery varies from patient to patient, but there are some general guidelines:
- Immediate Post - surgery: After the surgery, patients are advised to rest quietly for 24 to 48 hours. 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 is specified based on the procedure.
- Return to Normal Activities: Patients with sedentary jobs may typically return to work within a week. However, strenuous or high - impact activities like running are usually restricted for 6 - 8 weeks. It is crucial to follow the surgeon's aftercare instructions to avoid complications.
- Long - term Follow - up: Patients should continue with their regular mammograms and breast exams with their primary care physician or gynecologist. If they have silicone implants, periodic high - definition ultrasounds or MRIs are recommended to screen for silent implant rupture.
Risks Associated with Breast Implant Removal
Although breast implant removal is a common procedure, like any surgery, it carries some risks:
- Early Risks: The most common early risks include bleeding, infection, problems with anesthesia, and changes in the sensation of the nipple or breast. However, with the care of a professionally trained and board - certified plastic surgeon, serious risks and complications are infrequent.
- Long - term Risks: There may be long - term risks such as scarring and changes in breast shape. Additionally, if implants are reinserted after removal, there is a risk of developing capsular contracture again.
Cost of Breast Implant Removal
The cost of breast implant removal can vary significantly depending on several factors:
- Procedure Complexity: A simple implant removal may cost less than a procedure that involves capsulectomy, breast lift, or implant replacement.
- Surgeon's Fee: The experience and reputation of the surgeon can also affect the cost. More experienced surgeons may charge higher fees.
- Hospital or Facility Fees: The cost of using the hospital or surgical facility, including the operating room, supplies, and nursing care, is also included in the overall cost.
On average, the cost of breast implant removal ranges from $6,000 to $18,000. Patients should get a detailed cost quote during their consultation with the surgeon.
Conclusion
Breast implant removal is a significant decision that many women in Albany make for various reasons. There are several well - reputed hospitals and experienced surgeons in the area who can provide high - quality care. By understanding the reasons for removal, the procedure itself, the recovery process, and the associated risks and costs, patients can make an informed decision. If you are considering breast implant removal, it is recommended to schedule a consultation with a board - certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options.
Call to Action: If you are interested in learning more about breast implant removal surgery in Albany, don't hesitate to contact one of the hospitals or surgeons mentioned in this article. Take the first step towards achieving your aesthetic goals and improving your well - being.
