Introduction
Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure, but there are times when women decide to have their breast implants removed. In Albany, there are several reliable options for breast implant removal. This article will explore the reasons for breast implant removal, the top surgeons in Albany for this procedure, the process involved, recovery, and other important considerations.
Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
There are various reasons why women may choose to have their breast implants removed. These can be broadly classified into medical and non - medical reasons:
Medical Reasons
- Implant Complications: Over time, breast implants can develop issues such as leaks, ruptures, or capsular contracture. A capsular contracture occurs when the body forms scar tissue around the implant, which can harden and cause discomfort, pain, or a change in the shape of the breast. For example, if the implant shell weakens and starts to leak, it can cause the breast to change in size or feel lumpy.
- Breast Implant Illness (BII): Although not scientifically confirmed to be caused by breast implants, some patients report symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, and neurological conditions. Patients worried that their implants are the source of these problems may opt for implant removal. For instance, a woman may experience persistent fatigue that she believes is related to her breast implants and decides to have them removed to see if her symptoms improve.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): This is a rare type of cancer associated with certain types of textured implants. However, the most common textured implants linked to this condition have been removed from the market.
Non - Medical Reasons
- Change in Aesthetic Preferences: As women age or their lifestyles change, their aesthetic preferences may also change. They may no longer want the large breasts they once desired and prefer a more natural or smaller look. For example, a woman who had breast augmentation in her 20s may decide in her 40s that she wants to return to her natural breast size.
- Weight and Hormonal Changes: Weight gain or loss, as well as hormonal changes during menopause, can affect the appearance of the breasts. Some women may find that their natural breast tissue enlarges, making the implants look disproportionate. In such cases, they may choose to have the implants removed.
Top Surgeons for Breast Implant Removal in Albany
Albany has a number of highly skilled plastic surgeons who perform breast implant removal procedures. Here are some of the top surgeons:
Dr. Steven Yarinsky
Dr. Steven Yarinsky, MD, FACS, 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. If a patient chooses to have explantation, Dr. Yarinsky 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 favors the “en bloc” capsulectomy method for eligible patients, which involves the simultaneous removal of the implant and the scar tissue (capsule) around it, reducing the risk of leakage and removing potentially problematic scar tissue.
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha is a board - certified plastic surgeon who serves Albany, NY, and the entire capital region. He has advanced training and experience in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery. He is passionate about providing excellent results that improve patients’ self - confidence or help them recover from trauma or cancer. Patients can review before - and - after photos of his previous patients to get an idea of the results. For breast implant removal, he offers a personalized approach based on the patient's specific needs and health history.
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore
Board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore is a trusted choice for breast augmentation revision and explant surgery among women in Latham, Troy, Saratoga, Utica, and throughout Albany County, New York. He has performed thousands of breast procedures, each one individualized to match the woman’s unique body and aesthetic desires. His 3 - dimensional approach and personal consultation process lay a framework for customized, natural - looking results. In breast implant removal, he fully removes the breast implants while maintaining an attractive breast shape.
There are also other notable surgeons in Albany, as identified in various sources:
| Surgeon | Rating | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.60 out of 5 stars | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
| Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 out of 5 stars | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Meera Menon, MD | 4.40 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Francis Cullen, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 5 Palisades Dr Ste 110, Albany, NY 12205 |
| Dr. Jerome Chao, MD | 4.30 out of 5 stars | 13 Century Hill Dr, Latham, NY 12110 |
| Dr. Edward Lee, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211 |
| Dr. Eugene Hoffert, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 250 Delaware Ave Ste 207, Delmar, NY 12054 |
The Breast Implant Removal Process
Pre - operative Consultation
The first step in the breast implant removal process is a consultation with the chosen surgeon. During this consultation, the patient should discuss their reasons for wanting the implants removed, their medical history, any medications they are taking, and their expectations for the outcome. The surgeon will perform a physical examination of the breasts, assess the size and position of the implants, and the condition of the surrounding tissue. They will also explain the different surgical techniques available, the potential risks and complications, and the expected recovery process. For example, if a patient has a history of high blood pressure, the surgeon needs to take this into account when planning the surgery and prescribing post - operative medications.
The Surgical Procedure
Most breast implant removal surgeries are performed under general anesthesia, although in some cases, local anesthesia may be used. The surgeon will make an incision, usually along the inframammary fold (the crease beneath the breast), where the original implants were placed. If the implants are larger or if a breast lift or skin tightening is needed for a better result, additional incisions may be necessary. The surgeon will then carefully remove the implants. In many cases, the surrounding scar tissue (capsule) is also removed to reduce the risk of fluid collections and infection after the implant removal. After the implants and capsule are removed, the surgeon will cleanse the pocket with an antibiotic solution to prevent infection and then close the incision with sutures.
One of the most common explantation procedures is the “en bloc” capsulectomy. As mentioned earlier, this involves removing the implant and the capsule as a single unit. It is often recommended when there is a thickened, hard, or tender capsule, as it reduces the risk of implant leakage and removes potentially problematic scar tissue. However, the decision to perform an “en bloc” capsulectomy depends on the patient's overall health, the condition of the capsule, and the surgeon's assessment.
Post - operative Recovery
The recovery time after breast implant removal can vary depending on several factors, such as the patient's overall health, the surgical technique used, and whether any additional procedures were performed. Generally, patients can expect some swelling and bruising in the days following the surgery, which should gradually subside over a few weeks. Swelling may take a few months to completely disappear.
Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous exercise for approximately six weeks to allow the body to heal properly. The surgeon will prescribe pain medications to manage any discomfort and antibiotics to prevent infection. A post - surgical bra is also provided to support the breasts and aid in the healing process. Most patients are able to return to work within a week, but this can vary depending on the nature of their job. For example, someone with a sedentary office job may be able to return sooner than someone with a physically demanding job.
What to Expect in Terms of Breast Appearance After Implant Removal
The appearance of the breasts after implant removal can vary from patient to patient. Several factors can influence the final result:
Original Breast Size
Women with smaller natural breasts before augmentation may find that their breasts return closer to their original size after implant removal. However, the skin may have stretched due to the implants, resulting in some degree of sagging. On the other hand, women with larger original breasts may still have a relatively full appearance, but the shape may be different.
Implant Size
The size of the implants also plays a role in the post - removal appearance. Larger implants tend to cause more stretching of the skin, and when removed, the breasts are more likely to sag. Smaller implants may result in less sagging, but there may still be some change in the shape and firmness of the breasts.
Scar Tissue Formation
The formation of soft scar tissue around the implants can affect the feel and appearance of the breasts after removal. In some cases, the scar tissue may remain, causing the breasts to feel firmer or have an uneven texture. However, if the scar tissue is removed during the implant removal surgery, the breasts may feel more natural.
To address the issue of sagging breasts after implant removal, a breast lift may be recommended. A breast lift involves tightening the breast skin and re - shaping the tissues to create fuller and more youthful - looking breasts. It can be performed during the implant removal surgery or at a later stage, depending on the patient's preference and the surgeon's advice.
Cost of Breast Implant Removal in Albany
The cost of breast implant removal in Albany can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the surgical technique used, the surgeon's experience and reputation, and the facility where the surgery is performed. On average, the cost of breast implant removal ranges from $6,000 to $18,000. This may include the surgeon's fee, anesthesia costs, supplies, use of the operating facility, nursing care, and follow - up visits. However, at the consultation, the surgeon will provide a personalized “global fee” based on the patient's specific needs.
Some patients may also need financing options to cover the cost of the surgery. Many surgical facilities offer assistance with financing, and patients can apply for payment plans with third - party financers. It is important for patients to discuss the cost and financing options with the surgical facility during the consultation.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
Choosing the right surgeon for breast implant removal is crucial for a successful outcome. Here are some factors to consider:
Board Certification
Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified in plastic surgery by a recognized organization, such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Board certification indicates that the surgeon has met the rigorous standards of education, training, and experience in the field of plastic surgery.
Experience
Look for a surgeon with extensive experience in performing breast implant removal procedures. Ask about the number of similar surgeries they have performed and their success rates. A surgeon with more experience is likely to be more familiar with different types of implants and potential complications, and can provide better outcomes.
Patient Testimonials and Reviews
Read patient testimonials and reviews to get an idea of the surgeon's reputation and the quality of their work. You can find these reviews on the surgeon's website, third - party review sites, or by asking for referrals from previous patients. Positive reviews can give you confidence in the surgeon's abilities, while negative reviews may raise red flags.
Communication and Rapport
During the consultation, pay attention to how the surgeon communicates with you. They should listen to your concerns, answer your questions clearly and honestly, and provide you with realistic expectations about the procedure and the outcome. A good rapport with the surgeon is important, as you will be working closely with them throughout the process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breast implant removal is a viable option for women in Albany who have various reasons for wanting to remove their breast implants. There are several top - notch surgeons in the area who can perform the procedure safely and effectively. The decision to have breast implant removal should be based on a careful consideration of the reasons, the expected outcome, and the potential risks and benefits. The surgical process involves a pre - operative consultation, the actual surgery, and a post - operative recovery period. The appearance of the breasts after implant removal can vary, but there are options available to address issues such as sagging. The cost of the procedure can also vary, and financing options may be available.
If you are considering breast implant removal in Albany, it is recommended that you schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. Discuss your concerns, goals, and expectations with the surgeon, and take the time to make an informed decision. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek second opinions if needed. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast implant removal, and explore more resources on this topic to learn even more about the process.
