Introduction

Breast prosthesis removal is a surgical procedure that may be necessary for various reasons, such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, a desire for a different breast size, or health - related concerns. In Albany, there are several hospitals and medical facilities that offer high - quality breast prosthesis removal services. In this article, we will explore the top three hospitals for this procedure, taking into account factors like the expertise of the doctors, available treatment options, patient satisfaction, and after - care services.

Factors to Consider in Choosing a Hospital for Breast Prosthesis Removal

• Doctor Expertise: The skill and experience of the surgeons performing the breast prosthesis removal are crucial. Surgeons with specialized training in breast surgery and a proven track record are more likely to deliver successful outcomes.
• Range of Services: A hospital that offers a comprehensive range of services related to breast prosthesis removal, including different surgical techniques, implant replacement options, and post - operative care, is more favorable.
• Patient Satisfaction: High patient satisfaction rates, as indicated by reviews and ratings, suggest that the hospital provides good care, effective communication, and positive overall experiences for patients.
• Accreditations and Certifications: Accreditation from recognized organizations ensures that the hospital meets high standards of quality and safety in its surgical procedures.
• Cost and Insurance: Understanding the cost of the procedure and whether the hospital accepts your insurance can be a significant factor in the decision - making process.

Top Three Hospitals for Breast Prosthesis Removal in Albany

1. Albany Medical Center

Doctor Expertise

Albany Medical Center has a team of highly skilled and experienced surgeons who are well - versed in breast prosthesis removal procedures. According to a list of doctors in Albany who perform mastectomy on Healthgrades, some well - rated doctors are affiliated with the hospital. For example, Dr. Lynn Choi, MD, rated 5.00 out of 5 stars, is located at 25 Hackett Blvd, Albany, NY 12208. While specific to mastectomy, her high rating suggests a high level of expertise in breast - related surgeries, which is likely applicable to breast prosthesis removal as well. These doctors have the necessary training and knowledge to handle complex cases, such as those involving capsular contracture or implant rupture.

Range of Services

The hospital offers a comprehensive range of breast care services. It is involved in both the diagnostic and treatment phases of breast diseases. In terms of breast prosthesis removal, patients can expect options like simple implant removal, capsulectomy (removal of the scar tissue around the implant), and the possibility of implant replacement or complementary procedures like breast lifts. Albany Medical Center also provides access to state - of - the - art diagnostic imaging services such as 3D digital mammography and breast ultrasound, which are useful for pre - operative assessment. Along with its partners at New York Oncology Hematology (NYOH), the hospital has access to the latest therapies and clinical trials, indicating that patients may benefit from the most advanced treatment options.

Patient Satisfaction

While the overall patient experience at Albany Medical Center has some areas where it falls below the national average according to Turquoise Health (patient experience below the national average), there are many patients who have had positive experiences. The hospital has a patient - focused approach, guiding patients through screening, diagnostic procedures, and treatment of breast disease, as well as through routine preventive care. The presence of nurse navigators helps patients navigate the complex healthcare system and ensures that they receive personalized care and support throughout their treatment journey.

Accreditations and Certifications

Albany Medical Center, along with Glens Falls Hospital and Saratoga Hospital (part of the Albany Med Health System), is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers for services in breast ultrasound, stereotactic breast biopsy, computed tomography, and MRI. This accreditation indicates that the hospital meets high - quality standards in breast care, which is reassuring for patients considering breast prosthesis removal.

Cost and Insurance

The cost of breast prosthesis removal at Albany Medical Center can vary. Turquoise Health shows that the price for the removal of a ruptured breast implant varies depending on whether the patient is paying in cash or is part of an insurance plan with a pre - negotiated rate. The hospital also provides information on what the cost might cover and what to expect during and after the procedure. It is advisable for patients to contact their insurance providers to determine the extent of coverage for breast prosthesis removal procedures at this hospital.

2. St. Peter's Breast Surgery

Doctor Expertise

St. Peter's Breast Surgery has a team of fellowship - trained surgeons in breast and plastic surgery. These surgeons specialize in all areas of breast surgery, including the treatment of primary breast cancer, secondary breast surgery requiring complex reconstruction, and all diseases of the breast. Some well - rated doctors are associated with this location. For example, Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD, and Dr. Sarah Pesek, MD, are located at 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208, the address of St. Peter's Breast Surgery. Dr. Kaufman has a rating of 4.80 out of 5 stars on Healthgrades, which reflects his high level of patient satisfaction and surgical skill.

Range of Services

The practice is committed to offering a full range of services for women's breast health. For breast prosthesis removal, patients can expect a personalized approach. The surgeons can address various reasons for explantation, such as capsular contracture, implant rupture, or a desire for a different breast size. They also offer treatment plans for women with breast cancer, benign breast concerns, and those at high risk of developing breast cancer. Working together with colleagues in radiology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and physical therapy, patients receive a multi - disciplinary approach to their diagnosis and treatment.

Patient Satisfaction

With a rating system in place that shows high ratings for associated doctors, it can be inferred that patients generally have positive experiences at St. Peter's Breast Surgery. The practice's commitment to providing a comprehensive and compassionate approach to each patient is an important factor in patient satisfaction. The fact that it is accepting new patients also suggests that it is a popular choice among the local community.

Accreditations and Certifications

Although specific details of accreditations are not fully presented in the available information, the presence of fellowship - trained surgeons and the multi - disciplinary approach indicate a high standard of care. The hospital's affiliation with St. Peter's Health Partners also likely means that it adheres to strict quality and safety standards.

Cost and Insurance

While there is no specific information about the cost of breast prosthesis removal at St. Peter's Breast Surgery, patients are likely to be informed about the financial aspects during the consultation process. It is expected that they accept a range of insurance plans, and patients are encouraged to contact the practice to inquire about insurance coverage.

3. Capek Surgical Arts

Doctor Expertise

Dr. Lucie Capek, MD, at Capek Surgical Arts, is a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast implant removal. She is well - versed in all the procedures related to breast prosthesis removal, including simple implant removal, capsulectomy, implant replacement, and other complementary procedures like breast lifts and fat transfer. Her personalized approach to each patient ensures that the surgical plan is tailored to the patient's specific needs and aesthetic goals.

Range of Services

Capek Surgical Arts offers a wide range of options for breast prosthesis removal. If a patient desires a different breast size, Dr. Capek can surgically adjust the size of the implant pocket or replace the implants with ones of a different size. In cases of capsular contracture, she performs a capsulectomy to remove the scar tissue. Patients also have the option of replacing the implants with their own fat for a more natural look and feel. The practice also provides pre - operative and post - operative care, including instructions on recovery and follow - up appointments.

Patient Satisfaction

The focus of Dr. Capek and her entire staff is to help patients achieve the most beautiful and natural - looking results. They strive to make patients feel confident and have realistic expectations about their breast augmentation procedures. The positive reviews and testimonials from patients suggest a high level of patient satisfaction. The staff is also available for follow - up visits and long - term care, which helps to build trust and ensures that patients have a good experience throughout the treatment process.

Accreditations and Certifications

Capek Surgical Arts is a state - of - the - art Quad A accredited operating suite. This accreditation means that the facility meets high standards of quality, safety, and patient care. It provides patients with the assurance that they are receiving treatment in a well - regulated and professional environment.

Cost and Insurance

The cost of breast prosthesis removal at Capek Surgical Arts is customized based on the specific procedure needed for each patient. At the consultation, Dr. Capek will determine the best course of action and provide a “global fee” that includes the surgeon's fee, anesthesia costs, supplies, use of the operating facility, nursing care, and follow - up visits. The practice also offers financing options for patients who may need assistance with payment.

Comparison of the Top Three Hospitals

Reasons for Breast Prosthesis Removal

There are several reasons why a patient may choose to undergo breast prosthesis removal, and understanding these reasons can help patients better communicate with their doctors at these hospitals.

Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is a common reason for breast implant removal or revision. It occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens and tightens. This can happen shortly after breast augmentation surgery or many years later. Capsular contracture may cause the breasts to look distorted or asymmetric and can even be painful. All three hospitals - Albany Medical Center, St. Peter's Breast Surgery, and Capek Surgical Arts - have the expertise to address this issue through procedures like capsulectomy.

Desire for a Different Breast Size

Over time, a patient's aesthetic goals may change. They may desire larger - sized implants or smaller breasts. This is especially common after events such as pregnancy, menopause, or weight changes. For example, at Capek Surgical Arts, Dr. Capek can surgically adjust the implant pocket size or replace the implants with ones of a different size to meet the patient's needs.

Implant Rupture

Both saline and silicone implants can rupture due to daily wear and tear. Saline implants are more obvious when they rupture as the breast simply deflates. Silicone implants may not show obvious symptoms immediately, and sometimes an MRI or high - definition ultrasound is needed to detect the rupture. Albany Medical Center, with its advanced diagnostic imaging services, is well - equipped to diagnose and treat implant rupture cases. The hospitals can then perform the necessary surgery to remove the ruptured implant.

Implant Malposition

The implant position behind the breast may end up too low, too high, too close together, or too far apart. This can be due to factors like capsular contracture, gravity, or tissue changes over time. Additional surgery may be needed to correct the problem, such as internal suturing techniques or the use of an internal biological mesh “sling.” The surgeons at these hospitals are trained to handle such complex cases.

Other Concerns

Recent concerns include the rare but serious risk of ALCL (anaplastic large cell lymphoma) associated with textured implants and breast implant illness (BII). In both cases, breast implant removal may be considered. The hospitals in Albany are likely to stay updated on the latest research and guidelines regarding these issues and can provide appropriate advice and treatment options.

Pre - operative and Post - operative Care

Pre - operative Care

Before breast prosthesis removal surgery, patients at all three hospitals are expected to undergo a thorough consultation. For example, at Capek Surgical Arts, Dr. Capek will assess the patient's unique situation and explain the various procedure options. Patients are advised to be in optimum health. This includes following a healthy lifestyle, such as having a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking. For patients with chronic conditions like high blood pressure, they should follow their primary care physician's advice.

Post - operative Care

After the surgery, patients can expect different levels of post - operative care. At Albany Medical Center, patients are likely to receive instructions on wound care, pain management, and follow - up appointments. At Capek Surgical Arts, patients are advised to rest quietly for 24 to 48 hours, shower after 48 hours, and wear a surgical bra for the first 2 - 3 weeks. They may also have drains for a few days if a capsulectomy was performed. St. Peter's Breast Surgery, with its multi - disciplinary approach, may involve different specialists in the post - operative care to ensure a smooth recovery.

Conclusion

In Albany, Albany Medical Center, St. Peter's Breast Surgery, and Capek Surgical Arts stand out as the top three hospitals for breast prosthesis removal. Each hospital has its own strengths, whether it's the extensive range of services at Albany Medical Center, the multi - disciplinary approach at St. Peter's Breast Surgery, or the personalized care and expertise of Dr. Capek at Capek Surgical Arts. When choosing a hospital for breast prosthesis removal, patients should carefully consider factors such as doctor expertise, range of services, patient satisfaction, accreditations, and cost. By making an informed decision, patients can ensure that they receive the best possible care and achieve their desired results.

If you or someone you know is considering breast prosthesis removal in Albany, take the time to research these hospitals further, schedule consultations, and ask any questions you may have. Don't hesitate to reach out to the medical staff for more information and guidance on your journey towards better breast health.