Introduction
When it comes to breast implant removal and breast augmentation in Albany, making the right choice of hospital and surgeon is crucial. The decision can significantly impact the outcome of the procedure, as well as the patient's overall satisfaction and well - being. This article will provide a comprehensive summary of the top 3 hospitals in Albany for these procedures, highlighting their surgeons, services, and patient - relevant information.
1. Capek Plastic Surgery
Surgeon: Dr. Lucie Capek, MD
Dr. Lucie Capek is an experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in breast implant removal and related procedures. She understands that breast implants are not lifetime devices and that patients may have various reasons for wanting to remove, replace, or adjust them.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
- Desire for a different size: Many patients may want larger - sized implants or smaller breasts. After pregnancy and menopause, breast size can change significantly, and the existing implants may no longer suit the patient's lifestyle.
- Capsular contracture: This is one of the most common reasons for implant revision. Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens and tightens, distorting the breast shape and potentially causing pain. It can happen shortly after the initial breast augmentation or many years later.
- Breast implant rupture: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture due to daily wear and tear. Saline implant rupture is usually obvious as the breast deflates, while silicone implant rupture may be asymptomatic or present as a shape change, lump, or discomfort. Confirmation of silicone implant rupture often requires high - definition ultrasound or breast MRI.
- Implant malposition: The implant can end up in an improper position, such as too low, too high, too close together, or too far apart. Various factors like capsular contracture, gravity, asymmetric pocket creation, and tissue changes with age, weight, pregnancy, and menopause can contribute to this issue.
- Implant rippling: This is a cosmetic concern, more common with saline implants in thinner patients. Silicone implants can also show rippling if the covering tissues are thin or stretched.
- Recalled implants, ALCL, and BII: The rare but serious risk of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) associated with textured implants, along with the recall of these implants, and the growing concern of breast implant illness (BII) are other reasons that may lead to breast implant removal.
Pre - procedure Preparation
Before the surgery, a consultation with Dr. Capek is necessary. She will assess the patient's unique situation and explain the various procedure options. Patients are advised to be in optimum health, follow a healthy lifestyle, have a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking. If the patient has chronic conditions like high blood pressure, they should follow their primary care physician's advice.
Procedures Offered
- 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. Saline breast implants may be drained prior to simple removal to allow for skin contraction.
- Capsulectomy: Performed to remove the scar tissue in case of capsular contracture. It creates a fresh pocket for a new implant and may involve switching the implant pocket from under the gland to under the muscle.
- Replacement with implants: In many cases, breast implants are replaced at the same time as explant or revision. Dr. Capek will use the original incision for implant removal and replacement in most cases. She may also surgically enlarge or reduce the implant pocket depending on the desired implant size.
- Replacement with fat: A popular option for patients who want a more natural look and feel or are choosing to go smaller. It works well when the natural breast tissue has already been pre - expanded with implants.
- Implant repositioning: Involves modifying the capsular tissue surrounding the implants through procedures like capsulorrhaphy and capsulotomy. A biological mesh ‘sling’ may be added in rare cases to support the implant in a stable position.
- Simultaneous breast lift and resizing of the areolae: Recommended for patients going smaller or dealing with loose skin. It can be a simple resizing of the areola or a more extensive skin removal procedure.
Post - procedure Care
Patients should rest quietly for 24 to 48 hours after surgery. They can shower after 48 hours and are recommended to wear a surgical bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks. Drains may be used for a few days if a capsulectomy has been performed. Dissolvable sutures and glue are used, requiring minimal wound care. Patients with sedentary jobs can typically return to work within a week, while strenuous activities should be restricted for 6 - 8 weeks. Regular mammograms and breast exams should be continued, and periodic MRIs are recommended for patients with silicone implants to screen for silent implant rupture.
Risks
Like any surgical procedure, breast implant removal with Dr. Capek's care still carries some risks. The most common early risks include bleeding, infection, problems with anesthesia, and changes in nipple or breast sensation. However, serious risks and complications are infrequent under her supervision.
2. Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, PC
Surgeon: Dr. Steven Yarinsky, MD, FACS
Dr. Steven Yarinsky is a board - certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. He is well - known for his surgical skill and consistently beautiful breast enhancement results.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
- Dissatisfaction with size or shape: Some patients may not be happy with the appearance of their breasts after the initial augmentation and want to make changes.
- Leak, rupture, or capsular contracture: Similar to other hospitals, these issues can lead to discomfort and a desire to remove the implants.
- Personal preference: With weight and hormonal changes during menopause, some women find that their natural breast tissue enlarges, and they no longer want the implants.
- Rare conditions: Although extremely uncommon, breast implant illness (BII) and breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) may warrant implant removal.
Explantation and En Bloc Capsulectomy
Breast explantation refers to the removal of breast implants, which may also involve removing some of the surrounding tissue. One of the most common explantation procedures is the “en bloc” capsulectomy. Derived from the French “en bloc,” meaning “as a whole,” this procedure involves the simultaneous removal of the implant and the scar tissue (capsule) around it. Dr. Yarinsky favors this method for eligible patients due to its benefits, such as reduced risk of leakage and removal of potentially problematic scar tissue. He will determine if this procedure is right for the patient after a thorough evaluation of their overall health and aesthetic goals.
Procedure Details
Dr. Yarinsky performs breast explantation in his joint commission - accredited facility using general anesthesia. Usually, a single incision is made along the inframammary fold, but additional incisions may be necessary for larger implants or if a breast lift or skin tightening is also required. The implants and capsule (if applicable) are carefully removed, and the pocket is cleansed with an antibiotic solution to prevent postoperative infection.
Recovery
The recovery timeline depends on the patient's overall health and the technique used. Patients can expect swelling and bruising during the healing process, which should disappear within a few weeks, although swelling may take a few months to fully resolve. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for approximately six weeks. Dr. Yarinsky will prescribe pain medications, antibiotics, a post - surgical bra, and provide thorough instructions for a safe and successful recovery.
Cost
The average cost of breast implant removal ranges from $6,000 to $18,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure. At the consultation, after determining the best procedure for the patient, a “global fee” will be provided, which includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia costs, supplies, use of the operating facility, nursing care, and follow - up visits. Financing options are available if needed.
3. K Plastic Surgery
Surgeon: Dr. Kayastha
Dr. Kayastha is a board - certified plastic surgeon who serves Albany 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, plastic surgery, hand, and microsurgery.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
- Medical complications: Such as leaks, ruptures, and capsular contracture.
- Personal preference: Patients may change their mind about the implants over time, desiring smaller or larger breasts.
Procedure Process
During breast implant removal, an incision is made over the previous scar. The implant is then removed, and if capsular contracture is present, it will be corrected. New implants can be placed if the patient desires, and a breast lift can also be performed at the same time to reposition the breasts and remove excess skin.
FAQs Answered
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can breast implants cause autoimmune disease? | Although some potential links are under study, more research is needed. Dr. Kayastha can discuss the risks during the consultation. |
| Can breast implants cause cellulitis? | Cellulitis is a potential infection after breast augmentation or reduction. It's important to choose an experienced, board - certified plastic surgeon. |
| Can breast implants cause pain years later? | Breast implant illness has drawn attention, and Dr. Kayastha can provide the latest information on its potential side effects. |
| Can breast implants get infected years later? | Infection becomes rarer over time, but if it occurs, the implants should be removed to resolve the infection. |
| Do breast implants cause health problems? | There are health risks with any implant surgery, and breast implants are one of the most - studied medical devices. Dr. Kayastha can discuss the risks during the consultation. |
| Can breast implants last a lifetime? | Breast implants are designed to be long - lasting but are not permanent. |
| Can you get your breast implants removed? | Yes, it can be done due to medical complications or personal preference. |
| How do you know if my implants are leaking? | Saline implant leakage causes a sudden decrease in breast size, while silicone implant leakage may present as a distorted shape or firm feeling. |
| Do breast implants sag over time? | Although the implants themselves don't cause sagging, breast augmentation results can descend due to the aging process. |
Pre - and Post - procedure Care
Dr. Kayastha will give specific instructions for the breast removal procedure during the consultation, which usually includes adjusting medications and fasting for a certain period before surgery. After the surgery, patients can expect bruising and swelling. Prescription pain medication can be taken to minimize discomfort, and a surgical bra will be provided to aid the healing process. Patients should take a few days off work and wait about a week to return to normal daily activity, and strenuous exercise should be avoided for six weeks.
Comparison of the Top 3 Hospitals
| Hospital | Surgeon | Special Procedures | Cost Range | Recovery Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capek Plastic Surgery | Dr. Lucie Capek, MD | En bloc capsulectomy, replacement with fat, implant repositioning | Not specifically mentioned, customized to patient | 24 - 48 hours rest, 1 - 2 weeks for sedentary work, 6 - 8 weeks for strenuous activity |
| Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, PC | Dr. Steven Yarinsky, MD, FACS | En bloc capsulectomy | $6,000 - $18,000 | Swelling and bruising for a few weeks, avoid strenuous exercise for about six weeks |
| K Plastic Surgery | Dr. Kayastha | Combination of implant removal with breast lift | Not specifically mentioned, will be evaluated | A few days off work, one week for normal activity, six weeks for strenuous exercise |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the top 3 hospitals in Albany for breast implant removal and breast augmentation - Capek Plastic Surgery, Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, PC, and K Plastic Surgery - offer a range of services and expertise. Each hospital has experienced surgeons who can address various patient needs, whether it's due to medical complications or personal preferences. Patients should carefully consider the surgeon's experience, the procedures offered, the cost, and the recovery process when making their decision.
If you are considering breast implant removal or breast augmentation in Albany, it is highly recommended that you schedule consultations with the surgeons at these hospitals. This will allow you to discuss your goals, ask questions, and make an informed decision about which hospital and surgeon are the best fit for you. Share this article with others who may be interested in these procedures and continue to explore related topics to ensure you are well - informed throughout the process.
