Introduction

Breast implant removal, also known as explant, is becoming an increasingly common procedure. There are various reasons for women to choose this surgery, such as capsular contracture, a desire for a different breast size, implant rupture, or changes after menopause or childbearing. In Albany, there are several hospitals and medical practices that offer high - quality breast implant removal services. This article will introduce the top five hospitals in Albany for removing breast implants, taking into account factors like surgeon experience, available procedures, patient reviews, and safety measures.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

Before delving into the top hospitals, it's crucial to understand the common reasons why women opt for breast implant removal. The following are the key factors:

• Desiring a different size: Over time, women's bodies change due to pregnancy, menopause, or weight fluctuations. Their aesthetic preferences may also evolve, leading them to desire either larger or smaller breasts. Some may feel that their existing implants no longer fit their lifestyle.
• Capsular contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens and tightens. It can happen shortly after the initial breast augmentation or many years later. Capsular contracture can cause the breasts to look distorted, asymmetric, and may even lead to pain.
• Breast implant rupture: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture from daily wear and tear. Saline implant rupture is usually obvious as the breast deflates, while silicone implant rupture may be asymptomatic or present with a shape change, lump, or discomfort. Mammograms may not detect silicone implant rupture, and high - definition ultrasound or MRI is often recommended for screening.
• 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 be caused by factors like capsular contracture, gravity, asymmetric pocket creation, and tissue changes over time.
• Implant rippling: This is more common with saline implants in thinner patients but can also occur with silicone implants if the overlying tissues are thin or stretched. It is a cosmetic concern that can be challenging to correct.
• Recalled implants, ALCL, and BII: Textured implants have been associated with a rare but serious risk of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). Breast implant illness (BII), a condition with a wide range of reported symptoms, is also a growing concern for some patients.

Top Five Hospitals for Breast Implant Removal in Albany

1. Capek Surgical Arts

Dr. Lucie Capek at Capek Surgical Arts is a well - known board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast implant removal and revision surgeries. Here are the details:

Surgeon Expertise

Dr. Capek is highly experienced in performing various breast implant removal procedures. She can assess each patient's unique situation and recommend the most suitable option, whether it's a simple implant removal, capsulectomy, implant replacement, or additional procedures like a breast lift or fat transfer.

Available Procedures

• Simple implant removal: Can be done under local anesthesia in the office for saline and non - ruptured silicone implants, with minimal downtime and discomfort. In some cases, saline implants may be drained before removal to allow skin contraction.
• Capsulectomy: For patients with capsular contracture, Dr. Capek performs a capsulectomy to remove the scar tissue. This can create a fresh pocket for a new implant if desired.
• Implant replacement: Dr. Capek can replace the old implants with new ones of a different size or type. She will adjust the implant pocket as needed to achieve the best aesthetic result.
• Replacement with autologous fat: If patients want a more natural look and feel or to go smaller, their implants can be replaced with their own fat. This procedure works well when the natural breast tissue has been pre - expanded by the previous implants.
• Implant repositioning: Involves modifying the capsular tissue around the implants, often combined with capsulorrhaphy or capsulotomy, and in rare cases, using a biological mesh ‘sling’ for support.
• Simultaneous breast lift and resizing of the areolae: This may be necessary for patients who are going smaller or have loose skin, helping to achieve a more youthful and proportionate breast appearance.

Patient Experience

Dr. Capek and her team focus on providing personalized care. They ensure that patients are well - informed about the procedure, expectations, and aftercare. The state - of - the - art Quad A accredited operating suite at Capek Surgical Arts offers a comfortable and discreet surgical experience.

Safety Measures

Dr. Capek is a board - certified plastic surgeon, which means she has met high standards of education, training, and ethical practice. The surgical facility is equipped with the latest technology and follows strict safety protocols to minimize risks during the procedure.

2. Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, PC

Dr. Steven Yarinsky at Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, PC is a board - certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience in breast enhancement surgeries, including breast implant removal.

Surgeon Expertise

Dr. Yarinsky is well - known for his surgical skill and ability to achieve beautiful breast enhancement results. He is proficient in using the most advanced techniques for breast implant removal, such as the en bloc capsulectomy, which is beneficial for eligible patients with thickened, hard, or tender capsules.

Available Procedures

• En bloc capsulectomy: Involves the simultaneous removal of the implant and the surrounding scar tissue (capsule) as a whole. This method can reduce the risk of leakage and remove potentially problematic scar tissue.
• Simple implant removal: Depending on the patient's condition, Dr. Yarinsky may perform a simple implant removal procedure, ensuring minimal scarring and a relatively quick recovery.
• Breast revision surgery: For patients who may benefit from implant replacement or repositioning, Dr. Yarinsky can perform breast revision surgery to improve the appearance of the breasts.

Patient Experience

The practice offers a comprehensive pre - operative consultation to help patients make informed decisions. After the surgery, patients receive detailed instructions for recovery and follow - up care. The staff is also available to assist with financing options if needed.

Safety Measures

Dr. Yarinsky performs surgeries in a joint commission - accredited facility, which adheres to strict safety and quality standards. General anesthesia is used during the procedure, and the surgical team takes all necessary precautions to ensure patient safety.

3. Albany Medical Center Hospital

Albany Medical Center Hospital is a large - scale medical institution with a team of experienced surgeons who can perform breast implant removal procedures.

Surgeon Expertise

The hospital has a group of skilled plastic surgeons and surgical teams who are trained to handle various breast implant removal cases, including those with complex complications.

Available Procedures

• Removal of ruptured breast implants: In the case of a ruptured implant, the hospital can perform the necessary surgery to remove the implant and examine the surrounding tissue for any abnormalities. The procedure involves making an incision in the breast, removing the implant, and may include checking the cells of the surrounding tissue by a pathologist.
• Comprehensive breast reconstruction: Along with implant removal, the hospital offers options for breast reconstruction if needed, to help patients achieve a more natural and aesthetically pleasing breast appearance.

Patient Experience

As a large hospital, Albany Medical Center Hospital provides a wide range of support services for patients, including pre - operative education, post - operative pain management, and follow - up care. However, the patient experience may vary depending on the individual patient's needs and the workload of the hospital.

Safety Measures

The hospital follows strict safety protocols and infection control measures. The surgical facilities are equipped with advanced monitoring and life - support systems to ensure patient safety during the procedure.

4. DeLuca Plastic Surgery

DeLuca Plastic Surgery offers breast implant removal procedures with a focus on personalized care and achieving optimal results.

Surgeon Expertise

The surgeons at DeLuca Plastic Surgery are experienced in breast augmentation and removal surgeries. They can accurately assess the patient's breast condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

Available Procedures

• Breast implant removal: The removal of breast implants is often a straightforward outpatient procedure. The surgeons will re - open the old incision, separate the implant from the surrounding tissue, and remove it. In most cases, the scar capsule is also removed to reduce the risk of fluid collections and infection.
• Correction of droopy breasts: After implant removal, patients may be left with loose skin and droopy breasts. The clinic offers techniques similar to a breast lift, combined with fat grafting if necessary, to correct the droopy appearance and improve the overall cosmetic result.

Patient Experience

The staff at DeLuca Plastic Surgery emphasizes patient education and communication. They will discuss the procedure details, expected results, and recovery process with the patients in advance. The recovery time after surgery is relatively short, with most patients able to return to work within a week and resume exercise in two weeks.

Safety Measures

The surgical facility at DeLuca Plastic Surgery adheres to high - standard safety protocols. The surgeons are trained to minimize risks during the procedure and provide appropriate aftercare to ensure a smooth recovery.

5. K Plastic Surgery

Dr. Kayastha at K Plastic Surgery offers comprehensive breast implant removal services.

Surgeon Expertise

Dr. Kayastha is a board - certified plastic surgeon who is well - versed in breast implant removal procedures. She can address both medical and aesthetic concerns related to breast implants.

Available Procedures

• Breast implant removal: The surgery is performed under general anesthesia in most cases, although local anesthesia may be suitable for some patients. The surgeon makes an incision on the original scar, removes the implant and any scar tissue if necessary, and then closes the incision.
• Breast lift: To counteract the sagging of breasts after implant removal, Dr. Kayastha can perform a breast lift procedure. This involves tightening the breast skin and re - shaping the tissues to create a more youthful and fuller breast appearance.
• Other body procedures: In addition to breast - related procedures, the clinic may also offer other body contouring procedures, such as tummy tuck or liposuction, to help patients achieve overall body proportion and beauty.

Patient Experience

Dr. Kayastha and her team provide personalized consultations to understand the patients' needs and goals. They offer clear explanations of the procedure, recovery process, and expected results. The clinic also provides support with financing options if needed.

Safety Measures

As a board - certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Kayastha follows strict safety and ethical standards. The surgical facility is equipped with the necessary equipment and supplies to ensure a safe surgical environment.

Comparing the Top Five Hospitals

Pre - operative Considerations

Before undergoing breast implant removal surgery, patients should take the following steps:

• Consultation: Schedule a consultation with the surgeon at the chosen hospital. During the consultation, discuss your medical history, reasons for implant removal, aesthetic goals, and any concerns you may have. The surgeon will perform a physical examination and provide you with a treatment plan.
• Health assessment: Ensure that you are in good health before the surgery. Follow a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoid smoking. If you have any chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure, follow your primary care physician's advice for management.
• Understand the procedure: Be well - informed about the breast implant removal procedure, including the type of anesthesia, expected surgical time, and possible risks and complications. Ask the surgeon any questions you may have to clarify your doubts.
• Prepare for recovery: Arrange for someone to accompany you to and from the hospital on the day of the surgery. Stock up on necessary supplies, such as pain medications, surgical bras, and comfortable clothing. Plan to take time off work and limit strenuous activities during the recovery period.

Post - operative Care

After the breast implant removal surgery, proper post - operative care is essential for a smooth recovery:

• Rest: Plan to rest quietly for 24 - 48 hours after the surgery. Avoid unnecessary movement and exertion during this time.
• Showering: You can usually shower after 48 hours, but follow the surgeon's instructions regarding wound care and water exposure.
• Surgical bra: Wear a surgical bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks as recommended. The type of bra will depend on the procedure performed.
• Drains: If you had a capsulectomy, you may have drains for a few days. Follow the instructions on how to care for the drains and monitor the fluid output.
• Wound care: Since dissolvable sutures and glue are often used, little wound care may be required. However, keep the surgical area clean and dry, and watch for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or fever.
• Return to work: Patients with sedentary jobs may typically return to work within a week, while those with strenuous jobs may need to wait 6 - 8 weeks. Avoid high - impact activities and exercise during the initial recovery period.