Introduction
Silicone breast prosthesis removal is a surgical procedure that some individuals may opt for due to various reasons such as personal preference, medical necessity, or complications related to the implants. In Albany, there are several hospitals and clinics that offer this service. This article aims to provide a comprehensive list of affordable and reliable hospitals for silicone breast prosthesis removal in Albany, along with a preview of the charging price list. We will also explore the reasons for breast implant removal, the procedure itself, the recovery process, and factors affecting the cost.
Reasons for Silicone Breast Prosthesis Removal
Personal Reasons
- Dissatisfaction with Results: Some patients may not be happy with the appearance or feel of their breast implants. This could be due to factors such as incorrect sizing, asymmetry, or changes in the way the implants look over time. As people age, gain or lose weight, or go through pregnancy, the implants may not maintain their initial aesthetic appeal, leading to a desire for removal.
- Lifestyle Change: A change in lifestyle, such as a more active fitness routine or a shift in personal values, may prompt individuals to remove their breast implants. For example, some athletes may find that the implants interfere with their performance or cause discomfort during physical activities.
- Desire to Return to Natural State: There are those who simply wish to return to their pre - augmentation body state. This could be driven by a longing for a more natural look or a change in self - perception.
Medical Reasons
- Infection: Infections around the breast implants can occur, sometimes caused by bacteria entering the body during the initial implantation surgery or later through the skin. Symptoms of infection may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. If the infection does not respond to antibiotics, implant removal may be necessary.
- Rupture: Over time, silicone breast implants can rupture. A ruptured implant can cause the silicone to leak into the surrounding tissue. In some cases, this may lead to pain, swelling, or changes in the shape of the breast. Even a silent rupture (one without obvious symptoms) may require removal to prevent potential long - term complications.
- Capsular Contracture: This is a condition where the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant tightens and compresses the implant. It can cause the breast to feel hard, look distorted, and be painful. Severe cases of capsular contracture often necessitate implant removal.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): Although rare, BIA - ALCL is a type of cancer that can develop in the scar tissue around the implant. It is more commonly seen with textured breast implants. If diagnosed, removal of the implants and the surrounding tissue is typically part of the treatment plan.
Procedure of Silicone Breast Prosthesis Removal
Consultation
Before the surgery, patients will have a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this appointment, the surgeon will ask about the patient's medical history, including any previous surgeries, allergies, and current medications. The patient will also discuss their reasons for wanting the implant removal and their desired outcome. The surgeon will then perform a breast examination and may take photographs for documentation. This is also an opportunity for the patient to ask questions and get a better understanding of the procedure, risks, and recovery process.
Anesthesia
Silicone breast prosthesis removal is usually performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. General anesthesia means the patient will be completely asleep during the procedure and will not feel any pain or remember the surgery. Intravenous sedation allows the patient to be relaxed and drowsy but may still be aware of their surroundings to some extent. The choice of anesthesia depends on several factors, including the patient's health, the complexity of the procedure, and the surgeon's preference.
Surgical Incision
The surgeon will make an incision, typically either under the folds at the bottom of the breast (inframammary fold) or around the areola. The choice of incision site depends on various factors such as the location of the original incision used for implantation, the patient's breast anatomy, and the surgeon's experience. Through this incision, the surgeon can access the implant and the surrounding tissue.
Implant and Scar Tissue Removal
The surgeon will carefully remove the silicone breast implant. In some cases, if there is scar tissue or leaked silicone around the implant, this will also be removed. The amount of scar tissue removed depends on the individual situation. If the implant is ruptured, special care will be taken to remove all the leaked silicone to minimize the risk of complications.
Closure
After the implant and any associated tissue are removed, the incisions will be closed using stitches, tape, or glue. The type of closure method used depends on the surgeon's preference and the nature of the incisions. Some surgeons may also place small drains under the skin to help remove excess fluid during the early stages of recovery.
Recovery Process
Immediately After Surgery
After the surgery, the patient will be taken to a recovery area where they will be monitored as the anesthesia wears off. They may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising in the breast area. Medications will be prescribed to manage the pain. The patient will be given instructions on how to care for the incisions, which may include keeping the area clean and dry, and changing dressings as needed. If drains were placed, the patient will be taught how to empty and measure the fluid.
First Few Days
During the first few days, it is important for the patient to rest and have someone to assist them with daily activities. The swelling and pain are likely to be at their peak during this time. The patient may be required to wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling and support the breasts. They should avoid strenuous activities, lifting heavy objects, and exercise for at least the first week or as advised by the surgeon.
First Few Weeks
As the weeks progress, the swelling will gradually subside, and the pain will decrease. The patient will need to attend follow - up appointments with the surgeon to monitor the healing process. Stitches may be removed during these appointments. The patient should continue to follow the surgeon's instructions regarding activity restrictions. It may take several weeks before the patient can return to normal daily activities, including work and exercise.
Long - Term Recovery
Full recovery can take several months. The final result of the implant removal, including the appearance of the breasts and any changes in sensation, will become more apparent over time. In some cases, the skin may sag due to the removal of the implants, and a breast lift may be considered if the patient desires a more aesthetically pleasing result.
Hospitals in Albany for Silicone Breast Prosthesis Removal
Albany Medical Center Hospital
Albany Medical Center Hospital, located at 43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY, 12208, and with a contact number of (518) 262 - 2400, offers a range of breast - related surgical procedures, including silicone breast prosthesis removal. While it does not have publicly available comprehensive price lists for this specific procedure, it's known that the cost of breast - related surgeries at this hospital can vary depending on whether you are paying in cash or are part of an insurance plan with a pre - negotiated rate.
The hospital has a 2 - star overall ranking from CMS, with performance in different metrics such as effectiveness of care being below the national average, while safety of care is above the national average. This indicates that while there may be room for improvement in some areas, the hospital maintains certain safety standards for surgical procedures.
K Plastic Surgery (Dr. Kayastha)
Dr. Kayastha at K Plastic Surgery in Latham, NY (serving Albany) is a board - certified plastic surgeon. He completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University and graduated with distinction. He then attended medical school at SUNY Buffalo and has had extensive training in plastic surgery, including fellowships in surgical pathology and hand and microsurgery.
For breast implant removal, the approximate price is $8,000. However, this is just an average estimate. The final price includes the surgeon's fee, anesthesia fee, hospital fee, recovery room, and overnight stay in the hospital (if required). There is also a $500 non - refundable scheduling fee when you book your surgery, which is deducted from the surgical cost estimate. The balance of the payment is due at the pre - operative appointment or 3 weeks before surgery. Other incidental fees may include those for a physician assistant, garments, and lab work.
Charging Price List Preview
The cost of silicone breast prosthesis removal can vary widely depending on multiple factors. Here is a comparison of some cost estimates from different sources:
Source | Procedure | Price |
---|---|---|
K Plastic Surgery | Breast implant removal | $8,000 (approximate, additional fees may apply) |
Affordable Plastic Surgery | Implant removal - silicone | $5,900 |
Affordable Plastic Surgery | Implant removal – silicone with capsule removal | $9,500 |
American Society of Plastic Surgeons | Average cost of breast implant removal surgery | $3,979 (excluding anesthesia, operating room facilities, etc.) |
CareCredit | Average cost of breast explant surgery in the U.S. | $6,837 (excluding anesthesia, operating room costs, medications, etc.) |
It's important to note that these prices are only estimates and can be affected by several factors:
- Surgeon's Experience: More experienced and well - known surgeons may charge higher fees. A surgeon with a long history of successful breast implant removal surgeries and a good reputation in the field may command a premium for their services.
- Complexity of the Procedure: If there are complications such as a ruptured implant, extensive scar tissue, or the need for additional procedures during the removal (e.g., capsule removal), the cost will likely be higher. For example, removing a ruptured implant with leaked silicone requires more careful handling and may take longer, increasing the overall cost.
- Location of the Hospital or Clinic: In areas with a higher cost of living, the fees for surgical procedures tend to be higher. Albany's cost of living and local market dynamics can influence the pricing of silicone breast prosthesis removal. Additionally, well - equipped and prestigious hospitals may charge more compared to smaller clinics.
- Anesthesia and Operating Room Fees: The type of anesthesia used (general anesthesia or intravenous sedation) and the cost of the operating room facilities can vary. Specialized anesthesia services or high - end operating room setups may add to the overall cost.
Insurance Coverage
Health insurance policies generally do not cover cosmetic procedures or complications related to cosmetic procedures. However, there are some exceptions when it comes to breast implant removal:
- Medical Necessity: If the removal is considered medically necessary due to a ruptured implant, severe capsular contracture, or breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), some insurance policies may cover the procedure. For example, if a patient has a ruptured implant that is causing pain and potential health risks, the insurance company may be more likely to provide coverage.
- Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 (WHCRA): According to the National Center for Health Research, if a doctor believes that removing breast implants is medically necessary for a patient who had breast implants after a mastectomy, the health insurance provider is legally obligated to cover the breast implant removal under the WHCRA.
It is crucial for patients to contact their insurance provider before the surgery to determine the extent of coverage and what out - of - pocket expenses they may be responsible for.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
When selecting a hospital and surgeon for silicone breast prosthesis removal in Albany, consider the following factors:
- Credentials and Experience: Look for a board - certified plastic surgeon with significant experience in breast implant removal. Check their education, training, and any certifications or awards they may have received. You can also ask about the number of breast implant removal surgeries they have performed and their success rate.
- Reputation: Read patient reviews and testimonials online to get an idea of the surgeon's and hospital's reputation. You can also ask for referrals from friends, family, or your primary care physician who may have experience with plastic surgery in the area.
- Communication: Choose a surgeon who is willing to listen to your concerns, answer your questions thoroughly, and explain the procedure and recovery process in detail. Good communication is essential for a successful surgical outcome and a positive patient experience.
- Cost and Insurance: Compare the prices of different hospitals and surgeons, but do not make cost the only determining factor. Ensure that you understand the breakdown of the costs and how insurance coverage applies. Some hospitals may offer financing options if the procedure is not fully covered by insurance.
Conclusion
In summary, silicone breast prosthesis removal is a surgical procedure that can be necessary for various personal and medical reasons. In Albany, there are several hospitals and clinics where this procedure can be performed, such as Albany Medical Center Hospital and K Plastic Surgery. The cost of the procedure can vary significantly depending on factors like surgeon experience, complexity of the procedure, and location. It's important to have a clear understanding of the recovery process and to choose the right hospital and surgeon based on their credentials, reputation, and communication skills.
If you are considering silicone breast prosthesis removal, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with multiple surgeons, and discuss your options with your insurance provider. By being well - informed, you can make the best decision for your health and well - being. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about silicone breast prosthesis removal in Albany, and don't hesitate to explore related topics such as breast reconstruction options after implant removal.