Unexpectedly, these are the top three hospitals for removing prostheses in prosthetic breast augmentation in Albany in 2025!

Introduction

Prosthetic breast augmentation has become a popular cosmetic procedure for many women. However, there are various reasons why some may opt to have their breast implants removed. In Albany, there are several hospitals and clinics that offer high - quality breast implant removal services. This article will explore the top three hospitals or medical practices in Albany known for their excellence in this field. We will also look into the reasons for breast implant removal, the procedures involved, recovery, and potential risks.

Reasons for Breast Implant Removal

There are multiple factors that can lead a woman to consider removing her breast implants. These reasons can be medical, aesthetic, or related to lifestyle changes.

• Desiring a Different Size: Over time, a woman's body changes due to factors like pregnancy, menopause, or weight fluctuations. She may initially have been satisfied with the size of her implants, but as her body changes, she may want either larger or smaller breasts. For example, after pregnancy and breastfeeding, the breasts may become larger naturally, and the existing implants may no longer be in proportion with her new body shape.
• Capsular Contracture: This is a common complication where the scar tissue around the implant hardens and tightens. It can occur soon after the initial breast augmentation surgery or many years later. Capsular contracture can cause the breasts to look distorted or asymmetric and may also lead to pain. The hardening of the scar tissue can put pressure on the implant and the surrounding breast tissue, affecting both the appearance and comfort of the patient.
• Breast Implant Rupture: Both saline and silicone implants are susceptible to rupture. Saline implants rupture is usually more obvious as the breast deflates when the saline leaks out and is absorbed by the body. In contrast, silicone implants may not show immediate symptoms, or a patient may notice a shape change, a lump, or new discomfort. Regular high - definition ultrasound and, if necessary, breast MRI are recommended for early detection of silicone implant rupture.
• Implant Malposition: The implant may end up in an improper position behind the breast, such as being too low, too high, too close together, or too far apart. This can happen shortly after the first procedure or gradually over the years due to factors like capsular contracture, gravity, asymmetric pocket creation, and tissue changes associated with age, weight, pregnancy, and menopause. Corrective surgery is often required to improve the position of the implant.
• Implant Rippling: This is mainly a cosmetic concern, especially common with saline implants in thinner patients. However, silicone implants can also show visible rippling if the covering tissues are thin or stretched. Rippling can make the breasts look less smooth and natural, and it can be challenging to correct.
• Recalled Implants, ALCL, and BII: There is a rare but serious risk of Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL) associated with textured implants, which has led to the recall of these implants. Breast Implant Illness (BII) is another concern, where women report a wide range of symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and anxiety. In such cases, breast implant removal may be considered.

Top Three 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. The practice offers a personalized approach to breast implant removal. Before the procedure, Dr. Capek conducts a detailed consultation to assess the patient's unique situation and discuss the best options. This includes evaluating the type of implant, existing problems, and the patient's aesthetic goals.

• Procedures Offered:
  • Simple Implant Removal: This can be done in their office - based operating suite under local anesthesia for both saline and silicone implants when no capsule removal is needed and the silicone implants are not ruptured. Saline implants may be drained prior to removal to allow the skin to contract over several weeks.
  • Capsulectomy: For patients with capsular contracture, Dr. Capek performs a capsulectomy to remove the scar tissue. This also creates a new pocket for a possible new implant. In some cases, she may switch the implant pocket from under the breast gland to under the pectoralis muscle.
  • Implant Replacement: If the patient wishes to change the implant size or type, Dr. Capek can perform implant replacement. She may need to surgically adjust the implant pocket size to accommodate the new implants. For larger implants, she will enlarge the pocket, while for smaller ones, she may reduce it with permanent sutures.
  • Fat Transfer: As an alternative to implants, Dr. Capek offers fat transfer to the breasts. This is a popular option for patients who want a more natural look and feel or those who are choosing to go smaller. It works well when the natural breast tissue has been pre - expanded with implants.
  • Implant Repositioning: This procedure involves modifying the capsular tissue around the implants. Capsulorrhaphy and capsulotomy are used to tighten or release the capsule, and in rare cases, a biological mesh ‘sling’ may be added for support.
  • Simultaneous Breast Lift and Resizing of the Areolae: For patients who are going smaller or have loose skin, a breast lift may be performed simultaneously. This can involve simple resizing of the areola or more extensive skin removal, resulting in different scar patterns.
• Recovery and Aftercare: After the procedure, patients are advised to rest quietly for 24 to 48 hours. They can shower after 48 hours and are required to wear a surgical bra 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, minimizing wound care. Patients with sedentary jobs can usually return to work within a week, while strenuous activities are restricted for 6 - 8 weeks. Long - term, patients should continue with regular mammograms and breast exams, and those with silicone implants may need periodic high - definition ultrasounds.

2. DeLuca Plastic Surgery

DeLuca Plastic Surgery in Albany provides comprehensive breast implant removal services. The surgeons here understand that each patient's situation is unique and take the time to explain the procedure and potential outcomes.

• Procedures:
  • Standard Implant Removal: The removal of breast implants is often a straightforward outpatient procedure. The old incision is reopened, and the implant is separated from the surrounding tissue and removed. In most cases, the scar capsule surrounding the implant is also removed to reduce the risk of fluid collection and infection. However, the decision to remove the capsule depends on factors such as the type, age, and size of the implant.
  • Correcting Loose Skin: One of the challenges after implant removal is dealing with loose skin and droopy breasts. The clinic offers techniques similar to a breast lift, where excess skin is removed, and the nipple is lifted. Fat grafting may also be combined with the breast lift to add back some volume and improve the cosmetic result.
• Recovery: Recovery time varies depending on whether additional procedures are performed to correct loose skin. Drains may be placed to collect excess fluid. Most patients can return to work within a week and resume exercise in 2 weeks.

3. Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, PC

Dr. Steven Yarinsky at Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, PC is an experienced board - certified plastic surgeon. He uses the most advanced techniques for breast implant removal.

• Procedures:
  • En Bloc Capsulectomy: Dr. Yarinsky favors the en bloc capsulectomy method for eligible patients, especially when there is a thickened, hard, or tender capsule. This procedure involves removing the implant and the surrounding scar tissue (capsule) as a single piece. It reduces the risk of leakage and removes potentially problematic scar tissue.
  • Breast Revision Surgery: Instead of simply removing the implants, some patients may benefit from breast revision surgery. Dr. Yarinsky can reposition the implants, change their size or pocket location to improve the appearance of the breasts after the original augmentation.
• Procedure Details: The breast explantation is performed in his joint commission - accredited facility under general anesthesia. Usually, one 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 required. After removing the implant and/or capsule, the pocket is cleansed with an antibiotic solution to prevent infection.
• Recovery and Cost: Patients can expect swelling and bruising during the healing process, which should disappear within a few weeks to a few months. Strenuous exercise is restricted for approximately six weeks. The average cost of breast implant removal ranges from $6,000 to $18,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure. A “global fee” is provided after the consultation, which includes all relevant costs.

Comparing the Top Three Hospitals

Choosing the Right Hospital

When deciding on a hospital for breast implant removal, several factors should be considered.

• Surgeon's Experience: Look for a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast implant removal. Check their credentials, years of practice, and patient reviews. A seasoned surgeon is more likely to handle complex cases and achieve better results.
• Available Procedures: Different hospitals may offer a variety of procedures. Consider which procedures are most relevant to your needs, such as simple implant removal, capsulectomy, implant replacement, or additional cosmetic procedures to correct loose skin or improve breast shape.
• Patient Comfort and Care: The hospital's environment, the friendliness of the staff, and the quality of aftercare are important. A comfortable and supportive environment can make the entire process less stressful for the patient.
• Cost: While cost should not be the only determining factor, it is still a consideration. Make sure to understand the total cost, including any additional fees for procedures, anesthesia, and follow - up appointments. Some hospitals may offer financing options to help with the cost.

Recovery and Follow - up

Recovery after breast implant removal is an important phase. It is essential to follow the doctor's instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and complication - free recovery.

• Initial Recovery: In the first few days after surgery, patients can expect pain, swelling, and bruising. Prescription pain medicine can help manage the pain, and a surgical bra is usually provided to support the breasts and aid in healing. Rest is crucial during this period, and patients should avoid strenuous activities.
• Return to Normal Activities: The time it takes to return to work and normal daily activities varies depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. Patients with sedentary jobs may be able to return to work within a week, while more strenuous activities like running should be avoided for 6 - 8 weeks.
• Long - term Follow - up: Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are necessary to monitor the healing process and address any concerns. In the long term, patients should continue with regular mammograms and breast exams as recommended by their primary care physician or gynecologist. Those with silicone implants may also need periodic high - definition ultrasounds or MRIs to screen for silent implant rupture.

Potential Risks

Although breast implant removal is a common procedure, it still carries some risks, even when performed by a highly skilled surgeon.

• Bleeding and Infection: These are general risks associated with any surgical procedure. Proper surgical techniques and post - operative care can help minimize the risk of bleeding and infection. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection.
• Changes in Sensation: Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation after the surgery. This can be temporary or permanent, and the extent of the change varies from person to person.
• Recurrent Implant Complications: If new implants are inserted, there is a risk of developing similar complications in the future, such as capsular contracture or implant rupture.
• Scarring: Incisions made during the surgery will result in scars. While efforts are made to minimize scarring, the appearance and visibility of the scars can vary depending on factors such as the patient's skin type and the location of the incisions.

Conclusion

In Albany, there are excellent hospitals and clinics that specialize in breast implant removal. Capek Surgical Arts, DeLuca Plastic Surgery, and Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, PC are among the top choices, each offering unique procedures and high - quality care. When considering breast implant removal, it is important to understand the reasons for the procedure, the available options, the recovery process, and the potential risks. By carefully choosing the right hospital and surgeon, patients can achieve the desired results and improve their overall well - being.

If you are considering breast implant removal in Albany, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the recommended hospitals. Discuss your concerns, goals, and expectations with the surgeon to make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast implant removal in Albany.