Introduction

Breast augmentation has become a popular cosmetic procedure in recent years. However, there are various reasons why some women may choose to have their breast implants removed. In Albany, the demand for breast augmentation prosthesis removal is on the rise, and finding a reliable and high - quality hospital is crucial. It has been noticed that most of the top five hospitals for this procedure in Albany are public hospitals. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind breast implant removal, the top hospitals in Albany for this procedure, and other relevant aspects.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

There are multiple factors that can lead a woman to decide to remove her breast implants. Understanding these reasons can help patients make informed decisions and choose the most suitable hospital for the procedure.

Desire for a Different Size

Over time, a woman's body and aesthetic preferences can change. Many patients who initially got breast implants may find that the current size no longer suits their lifestyle. For example, women who have had 10 - 20 year - old implants may experience changes in their breasts and figure due to pregnancy, menopause, and weight fluctuations. Some may desire larger - sized implants, while others prefer smaller breasts. This change in preference is one of the main reasons patients seek breast implant removal.

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is a common complication that occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens and tightens. It can happen shortly after the first breast augmentation surgery or many years later. This condition may cause the breasts to look distorted or asymmetric and can even result in breast pain. When capsular contracture occurs, implant removal or revision surgery is often necessary.

Breast Implant Rupture

Both saline and silicone implants can rupture over time due to daily wear and tear. With saline implants, rupture is usually obvious as the breast deflates when the saline leaks out and is absorbed. On the other hand, silicone implant rupture may sometimes show no symptoms, or patients may notice a shape change, lump, or new discomfort. The FDA recommends using high - definition ultrasound to screen for silicone breast implant rupture regularly, and if a rupture is suspected, a breast MRI is often used for confirmation.

Implant Malposition

The implant position behind the breast can end up being too low, too high, too close together, or too far apart. This can occur shortly after the initial procedure or gradually over many years. Various factors such as capsular contracture, gravity in combination with thin tissue, asymmetric pocket creation, and tissue changes with age, weight, pregnancy, and menopause can contribute to implant malposition. Additional surgery is usually required to correct this problem.

Implant Rippling

Implant rippling is a cosmetic concern, especially more common with saline implants in thinner patients. However, even silicone implants can show visible rippling if the covering tissues are thin or stretched out by a very large implant. Correcting implant rippling can be challenging, but procedures like switching to a cohesive ‘gummy’ silicone implant or fat injections into the thin tissues may be effective.

Recalled Implants, ALCL, and BII

There have been concerns regarding textured implants and the rare but serious risk of Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL) associated with them. The sale of these implants has been recalled. Breast Implant Illness (BII), a term used by women who report a wide range of symptoms, is also a growing concern among breast implant patients. In both cases, breast implant removal may be considered.

Top Hospitals for Breast Augmentation Prosthesis Removal in Albany

While specific information about the top five hospitals for breast augmentation prosthesis removal in Albany may vary, let's take a look at some well - known medical institutions in the area that offer this service.

Albany Medical Center Hospital

Albany Medical Center Hospital is a well - recognized public hospital in the region. It provides services for the removal of ruptured breast implants. The price of the procedure varies depending on whether the patient is paying in cash or is part of an insurance plan with a pre - negotiated rate. The hospital has a certain care quality rating, with some metrics performing above or below the national average. For example, its safety of care is above the national average, while the effectiveness of care is below the national average.

During the removal of a ruptured breast implant, an incision is made in the breast to access the ruptured implant and surrounding tissue. The implant is then removed, and cells from the surrounding tissue may be examined by a pathologist to check for abnormalities. After the procedure, the incision is closed with sutures, and patients may need to wear a compression garment for a few weeks to aid in healing.

Capek Surgical Arts

Dr. Capek at Capek Surgical Arts offers breast implant removal and revision services. It is a state - of - the - art Quad A accredited operating suite. Dr. Capek has experience in various procedures related to breast implant removal, such as capsulectomy for capsular contracture. Simple implant removal can be done in their office - based operating suite or a hospital operating room under local anesthesia when no capsule removal is needed and silicone implants are not ruptured.

Patients who choose Capek Surgical Arts can expect a personalized consultation with Dr. Capek, where she will discuss the best options for breast implant removal based on the patient's situation and aesthetic goals. She also provides comprehensive after - care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

K Plastic Surgery

Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha at K Plastic Surgery is a board - certified plastic surgeon who offers breast implant removal services. He has advanced training and experience in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery. Before the procedure, patients can schedule a consultation with Dr. Kayastha. During the consultation, he will listen to the patient's goal results, examine the treatment area, and review the patient's relevant health history to create a unique plan for the surgery.

The cost of breast implant removal at K Plastic Surgery ranges from $5500 - $6500, and the recovery time is typically 2 days - 1 week. The hospital also provides information on other breast procedures such as breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction.

Rockmore Plastic Surgery

Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore at Rockmore Plastic Surgery is a trusted choice for breast augmentation revision and explant surgery. He has performed thousands of breast procedures, each individualized to match the patient's unique body and aesthetic desires. Breast implant removal (explant) at Rockmore Plastic Surgery is ideal for women who no longer want implants. The doctor will fully remove the breast implants while maintaining an attractive breast shape.

The cost of breast augmentation revision, which may include implant removal, varies with the complexity of the surgery and individual patient factors. Patients receive a personalized price quote during their consultation with Dr. Rockmore. The surgery is performed in a fully accredited surgical center near his office under general anesthesia, and patients usually return home the same day as it is an outpatient procedure.

DeLuca Plastic Surgery

At DeLuca Plastic Surgery, the removal of breast implants after breast augmentation surgery is often a straightforward outpatient procedure. However, they also take into account the challenges that may arise after implant removal, such as loose skin and droopy breasts. The doctors at DeLuca Plastic Surgery can combine techniques similar to a breast lift and fat grafting to the breast to correct these issues and improve the overall cosmetic result.

The recovery time after breast implant removal at this hospital is variable, mostly depending on whether any additional surgery is performed to correct the loose skin. Most patients can get back to work within a week and return to exercise in 2 weeks.

Why Public Hospitals in Albany are Preferred for Breast Implant Removal

There are several reasons why most of the top five hospitals for breast augmentation prosthesis removal in Albany are public hospitals.

Quality of Medical Staff

Public hospitals in Albany usually have a large pool of highly qualified and experienced medical staff. These doctors and nurses have extensive training in various aspects of plastic surgery, including breast implant removal. They keep up - to - date with the latest medical research and techniques, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.

Advanced Medical Equipment

Public hospitals often have access to the latest and most advanced medical equipment. This is crucial for accurate diagnosis, such as detecting breast implant rupture through high - definition ultrasound or MRI. During the surgery, advanced equipment can also contribute to a more precise and successful procedure, reducing the risk of complications.

Comprehensive Medical Services

Public hospitals can offer comprehensive medical services. In addition to breast implant removal, they can provide post - operative care, follow - up examinations, and treatment for any potential complications. This comprehensive approach ensures that patients' health is monitored and taken care of throughout the entire process.

Affordability

For many patients, the cost of the procedure is an important consideration. Public hospitals may offer more affordable options, especially for patients with insurance. The pre - negotiated rates with insurance companies can help reduce the financial burden on patients.

Pre - procedure Considerations

Before undergoing breast implant removal, patients need to consider several aspects to ensure a successful procedure and a smooth recovery.

Consultation with a Surgeon

A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential. The surgeon will assess the patient's unique situation, including the type of implant, the presence of any complications, and the patient's aesthetic goals. They will then explain the various procedure options available, such as simple implant removal, capsulectomy, implant replacement, or combination procedures.

Patients should use this opportunity to ask any questions they may have about the procedure, recovery time, potential risks, and expected results. The surgeon will also evaluate the patient's health status to determine if they are suitable candidates for the surgery.

Health Status

Patients should be in optimum health before considering elective surgery. This includes following a healthy lifestyle, having a balanced diet, and exercising regularly. Smoking should be avoided as it can decrease the body's ability to heal normally. Patients with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure should follow their primary care physician's advice for treatment.

Understanding the Procedure and Risks

Patients need to have a clear understanding of the breast implant removal procedure and its associated risks. Although most procedures are relatively straightforward, there are still potential risks such as bleeding, infection, side effects from anesthesia, and recurrent implant complications. However, with the care of a professionally trained and board - certified plastic surgeon, the likelihood of serious risks and complications is reduced.

The Breast Implant Removal Procedure

The breast implant removal procedure can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implant, the presence of complications, and the patient's aesthetic goals.

Simple Implant Removal

Simple implant removal can be done under local anesthesia in some cases. The surgeon will make an incision on the scar where the implants were originally placed and then remove the implant. For saline breast implants, they may be drained prior to simple removal to allow the skin to contract over several weeks, giving the patient time to decide whether they want to replace the implants with new ones or use fat transfer.

Capsulectomy

When capsular contracture occurs, a capsulectomy is often performed. This involves removing the scar tissue (capsule) around the implant. Dr. Capek at Capek Surgical Arts, for example, performs capsulectomy to create a fresh pocket for a new implant if the patient wishes to replace the implant. Sometimes, the pocket location may be changed, such as switching from a pocket under the breast gland to one under the pectoralis muscle.

Implant Replacement

Some patients may choose to replace their old implants with new ones during the same procedure. The surgeon will select the appropriate type and size of implant based on the patient's goals. If the patient wants a larger - sized implant, the surgeon will surgically enlarge the “pocket” under the breast to accommodate the new implant. For those who want a smaller - sized implant, the pocket size may be surgically reduced.

Other Procedures

In addition to the above - mentioned procedures, other options may be combined with breast implant removal. For example, a breast lift can be performed to correct sagging breasts, especially after implant removal. Fat transfer to the breasts can also be used to add back a modest amount of volume and improve the overall cosmetic result.

Post - procedure Recovery

The recovery process after breast implant removal is an important part of the overall treatment. Proper post - operative care can help patients recover faster and achieve better results.

Immediate Post - operative Care

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 will be specified depending on the procedure. If a capsulectomy has been performed, patients may have drains for a few days to collect excess fluid.

Return to Normal Activities

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. It is important to follow the surgeon's after - care instructions to avoid any complications.

Long - term Monitoring

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 are recommended to screen for silent implant rupture.

Comparing Different Hospitals in Albany

When choosing a hospital for breast augmentation prosthesis removal in Albany, patients can compare different hospitals based on several factors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, breast implant removal is a common procedure for various reasons such as changes in aesthetic preferences, medical complications, or health concerns. In Albany, most of the top five hospitals for this procedure are public hospitals, which offer advantages such as high - quality medical staff, advanced equipment, comprehensive services, and affordability. Before undergoing the procedure, patients should have a thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon, ensure they are in good health, and understand the procedure and its risks. The recovery process also requires proper care and long - term monitoring.

If you are considering breast augmentation prosthesis removal in Albany, we encourage you to do further research, compare different hospitals, and schedule a consultation with a trusted plastic surgeon. By making an informed decision, you can achieve the best possible results and regain your confidence.