Public and Private Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal and Breast Augmentation in Albany in 2025

Breast procedures, such as breast implant removal and breast augmentation, are among the most sought - after plastic surgery options in Albany. Whether for enhancing one's appearance or dealing with complications from previous procedures, Albany offers a range of public and private hospitals and clinics to meet these needs. This article will delve into the various aspects of these procedures, the available medical facilities, and the top surgeons in the area.

Overview of Breast Procedures

Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. It can help patients achieve a more balanced, proportionate look. In Albany, the procedure is quite popular, with many patients opting for it to boost their self - confidence. There are different types of implants available, including saline and silicone, each with its own characteristics. Recovery time for breast augmentation typically ranges from 1 - 2 weeks for initial recovery, and it takes about 6 months for full results. The cost of breast augmentation in Albany is approximately between $6,400 - $7,500 (K Plastic Surgery).

Breast Implant Removal

Breast implant removal, also known as explant, is another common procedure. Breast implants are not lifetime devices, and there are various reasons why a patient may choose to have them removed. Some of the most common reasons include capsular contracture (hardening and tightening of scar tissue around the implant), a desire for a different breast size, implant rupture, or changes after menopause or childbearing. The recovery time for breast implant removal is relatively shorter compared to breast augmentation, usually ranging from 2 days to 1 week, and the cost is around $5,500 - $6,500 (K Plastic Surgery).

Top Surgeons in Albany for Breast Procedures

Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha

Dr. Kayastha is a board - certified plastic surgeon serving Albany and the entire capital region. He completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University and graduated with distinction. He then attended medical school at SUNY Buffalo, followed by a fellowship in surgical pathology at Roswell Park. He also has extensive training in a Michigan State - Grand Rapids integrated plastic surgery residency, a one - year fellowship in hand and microsurgery at the Buncke Clinic in San Francisco, and additional learning from top cosmetic surgeons in San Francisco. He offers a variety of breast procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, breast implant removal, and more. He approaches plastic surgery with finesse and professionalism, aiming to provide excellent results that improve patients’ self - confidence or help them recover from trauma or cancer. Before the first appointment, patients can review before - and - after photos of his previous patients to get an idea of the possible results.

Dr. Lucie Capek, MD

Dr. Capek is well - experienced in breast implant removal procedures. At a personalized consultation, she discusses the best options for breast implant removal to keep patients looking and feeling their best. Her revision surgeries 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. She also takes the time to ensure that patients are well - informed participants in the planning of their procedure. Before surgery, she assesses the patient's unique situation and explains the various procedure options. Her office is centrally located in Latham, New York, just minutes from Albany, and she also offers telehealth virtual consultations.

Steven Yarinsky, MD, FACS

With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Yarinsky is well - known for his surgical skill and consistently beautiful breast enhancement results. If a patient chooses explantation, he uses the most advanced techniques available to safely remove the implants and tighten, lift, and reshape the skin to restore the natural breast profile. He is proficient in the “en bloc” capsulectomy procedure, which involves the simultaneous removal of the implant and the surrounding scar tissue. This method has benefits such as a reduced risk of leakage and the removal of potentially problematic scar tissue. He will guide patients in deciding whether to undergo explantation or revision surgery based on their overall health and aesthetic goals.

Best Breast Augmentation Doctors in Albany

According to Healthgrades, there are 155 doctors who perform breast augmentation in Albany. Here are some of the top - rated ones:

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

Desiring a Different Size

Many patients come to have their breast implants removed because they desire a different breast size. This could be due to changes in lifestyle, body weight, or simply a change in personal preference. For example, after pregnancy or menopause, a woman's breasts may change in size, and the existing implants may no longer be suitable.

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is a common reason for implant removal or revision surgery. It refers to the hardening and tightening of scar tissue around the implant. This can occur shortly after the first breast augmentation surgery or many years later. Capsular contracture may cause the breasts to look distorted or asymmetric and can even be painful.

Breast Implant Rupture

Both saline and silicone implants can rupture due to daily wear and tear, usually after years or even decades of use. With saline implants, rupture is usually obvious as the breast deflates as the saline leaks out and is absorbed. With silicone implants, there may be no symptoms, or the patient may notice a shape change, lump, or new discomfort. A mammogram may not detect silicone implant rupture, and it is usually confirmed with high - definition ultrasound or a breast MRI.

Implant Malposition

In some cases, the implant may end up in an improper position, such as being too low, too high, too close together, or too far apart. This can be caused by various factors, including capsular contracture, gravity, asymmetric pocket creation, and tissue changes with age, weight, pregnancy, and menopause. Additional surgery is often needed to correct the problem, which may involve internal suturing techniques, implant replacement, or the use of an internal biological mesh ‘sling’ for support.

Implant Rippling

Implant rippling is a cosmetic concern, especially with saline implants in thinner patients. However, even silicone implants can show visible rippling if the overlying tissues are thin or stretched. Correcting this problem 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 are rare but serious risks associated with breast implants, such as anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) associated with textured implants, which has led to the recall of these implants. Breast implant illness (BII), a term used by women who complain of a wide range of symptoms, is also a growing concern. In both cases, breast implant removal may be considered, depending on the patient's unique evaluation.

Pre - Procedure Considerations

Consultation

Before any breast procedure, a consultation with a qualified surgeon is essential. During the consultation, the surgeon will listen to the patient's goals, examine the treatment area, and review the patient's relevant health history. For example, Dr. Kayastha will create a unique plan for the surgery and determine whether the procedure the patient is interested in is the best option. Patients should be prepared to answer questions about any medications they take, health conditions they may have, or similar medical concerns. They can also prepare by reading more about the procedure on the surgeon's website.

Health Preparation

Patients should strive to be in optimum health before undergoing elective surgery. This includes following a healthy lifestyle, having a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking. Smoking can decrease the body's ability to heal normally. Patients with chronic conditions like high blood pressure should follow their primary care physician's advice.

Procedure Details

Simple Implant Removal

Simple implant removal can potentially be done in the office under local anesthesia for both saline and silicone implants when no capsule removal is needed and the 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 they want the implants replaced. This limited procedure has minimal downtime and discomfort.

Capsulectomy

If a patient has capsular contracture, the surgeon may perform a capsulectomy to remove the scar tissue. This procedure also creates a fresh pocket for a new implant if desired. Sometimes, it may involve switching the implant pocket from under the gland to under the muscle. The surgeon may use the same incision as the original implant insertion, or a different or larger incision may be necessary. However, once a patient has had a capsular contracture, they are at a higher risk of getting it again if implants are reinserted.

En Bloc Capsulectomy

En bloc capsulectomy, more accurately called total capsulectomy, involves removing the capsule in one piece with the implant contained inside. It is often done for ruptured silicone implants but may not be technically feasible if the capsule is very thin or adherent to the ribs in submuscular implants.

Replacement with Implants

In many cases, breast implants can be replaced at the same time as explant or breast implant revision. If the patient wants to change the implant size, the surgeon will use techniques such as surgically enlarging or reducing the “pocket” to accommodate the new implants. The surgeon will also recommend the type of implant that best suits the patient's goals and may suggest additional procedures like a breast lift.

Replacement with 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, also known as natural breast augmentation, is becoming increasingly popular, especially when the patient's natural breast tissue has already been ‘pre - expanded’ with implants.

Implant Repositioning

Implant repositioning usually involves modifying the capsular tissue surrounding the implants. Surgical techniques such as capsulorrhaphy (tightening the capsule) and capsulotomy (releasing the capsule) may be used. In rare cases, a biological mesh ‘sling’ may be added to support the implant in a stable position. This procedure is often combined with a breast lift.

Simultaneous Breast Lift and Resizing of the Areolae

If the 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, resulting in different types of scars, such as a lollipop or anchor scar.

Post - Procedure Care and Recovery

Immediate Aftercare

After the surgery, patients should plan to rest quietly for 24 to 48 hours. They can shower after 48 hours. A surgical bra should be worn around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks, with the type of bra specified according to the procedure. If a capsulectomy has been performed, the patient may have drains for a few days. Since dissolvable sutures and glue are often used, little wound care is required.

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 crucial to follow the surgeon's aftercare instructions to avoid any complications. Recovery times can vary from patient to patient depending on their health and the extent of the procedure. Follow - up appointments will be scheduled to oversee the recovery process.

Long - Term Health 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 or MRIs are recommended to screen for silent implant rupture.

Risks Associated with Breast Procedures

Every surgical procedure carries some risk, even with the care of a professionally trained, board - certified plastic surgeon. The most common early risks include bleeding, infection, problems with anesthesia, and changes in the sensation of the nipple or breast. Scarring and recurrent implant complications are also possible trade - offs. However, with proper pre - operative, intra - operative, and post - operative care, serious risks and complications are infrequent. Surgeons like Dr. Kayastha, Dr. Capek, and Dr. Yarinsky and their staff are available for follow - up visits and long - term care to help patients navigate any questions that arise after surgery.

Conclusion

Albany offers a wide range of options for breast implant removal and breast augmentation procedures. With experienced and board - certified surgeons, patients can find the appropriate medical professionals to meet their needs. Whether it's enhancing the appearance through breast augmentation or dealing with implant - related complications through removal, patients should carefully consider all aspects, from the surgeon's credentials to the pre - and post - procedure care. By being well - informed and working closely with their chosen surgeon, patients can achieve the desired results and improve their self - confidence.

If you are considering breast implant removal or breast augmentation in Albany, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top surgeons mentioned in this article. Take the time to research and ask questions to ensure that you make the best decision for your health and aesthetic goals. Share this article with others who may be interested in these procedures to help them make informed choices.