Introduction

Prosthetic breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery that aims to enhance the size, shape, and contour of the breasts. In Albany, there are several plastic hospitals and surgeons offering this procedure. This comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision when selecting a prosthetic breast augmentation plastic hospital in Albany.

A selection guide for prosthetic breast augmentation plastic hospitals in Albany!

Types of Breast Enhancement Surgeries

Before choosing a hospital, it's important to understand the different types of breast enhancement surgeries available. Here are the most common ones:

Breast Lift: By removing excess skin and repositioning breast tissues, a breast lift lifts the breasts to sit higher on the chest for a more youthful and “perky” look. The cost ranges from $9,000 to $10,000, and the recovery time is 1 to 2 weeks.
Breast Augmentation: One of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world, breast augmentation adds volume and size to the breasts through the placement of silicone or saline breast implants. The cost is typically between $8,000 and $8,500, and the recovery time is about 1 week.
Breast Lift with Implants: This surgery removes excess skin and repositions existing breast tissue before placing a silicone or saline implant in the breast. It creates fuller and more lifted breasts, providing double the results without adding extra recovery time. The cost varies per person, and the recovery time is 1 to 2 weeks.
Breast Reduction: A breast reduction removes excess breast tissue to bring the breasts into proportion with the rest of the body. It may also include areola resizing and the correction of breast asymmetry. The cost is between $9,500 to $10,000, and the recovery time is 2 weeks.
Breast Revision: This secondary procedure revises the results of a previous breast augmentation. It typically includes an exchange of implants, removal of implants, or repositioning of the tissues surrounding the implants. The cost is between $8,000 to $9,500, and the recovery time is 1 to 2 weeks.

Which Surgery is Right for You?

To determine the most suitable breast enhancement surgery for you, consider the following factors:

Sagging or Drooping: If breastfeeding, weight loss, or aging has left you with sagging breasts, a breast lift may be the best solution.
Small Size: Women with little natural breast tissue who want to increase the size of their breasts may opt for breast augmentation.
Breast Asymmetry: To correct breast asymmetry, you can choose either breast augmentation (to increase the size of one breast) or breast reduction (to decrease the size of one breast).
Lost Volume and Sagging: If you have lost breast volume and are dealing with sagging, a breast lift with implants can address both concerns in one procedure.
Overly Large Breasts: If you experience chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain due to overly large breasts, breast reduction may be the answer.
Compromised Breast Augmentation Results: In case of complications or a change of heart after a previous breast surgery, a breast augmentation revision can help adjust the results.

Choosing the Right Plastic Hospital in Albany

Selecting the right plastic hospital is crucial for a successful breast augmentation procedure. Here are some key factors to consider:

Surgeon's Credentials

Look for a board - certified plastic surgeon. Board certification indicates that the doctor has successfully passed rigorous exams in plastic surgery, demonstrating a deep level of practical knowledge. For example, Dr. Kaufman is a double - board certified reconstructive and plastic surgeon in Albany, bringing a wealth of experience and artistic vision to every breast augmentation procedure.

Experience and Expertise

An experienced surgeon is more likely to achieve the desired results. Check how many breast augmentation surgeries the surgeon has performed and ask to see before - and - after photos of their patients. Surgeons like Dr. Lucie Capek are experts in the field and have helped many patients achieve their desired figures through breast augmentation.

Hospital Reputation

Research the hospital's reputation by reading online reviews, patient testimonials, and checking with local medical associations. A hospital with a good reputation is more likely to provide high - quality care.

Facility and Equipment

The hospital should have modern and well - maintained facilities and equipment. This ensures that the surgery is performed in a safe and comfortable environment. For instance, some hospitals use the latest technology, like the harmonic scalpel, which helps to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during breast augmentation surgery.

Patient - Surgeon Communication

During the consultation, you should feel comfortable and unrushed. The surgeon should address all of your questions and concerns completely, and their staff should be friendly, professional, knowledgeable, and organized. This good communication is essential for a successful surgery and a positive patient experience.

Breast Implant Considerations

When it comes to breast augmentation, choosing the right breast implants is also very important. Here are some factors to think about:

Implant Type

There are two main types of breast implants: saline and silicone.

Saline Implants: Filled with sterile salt water, saline implants are FDA - approved, typically less expensive than silicone implants, and the volume can be easily adjusted after insertion. They are very safe, even when ruptured, as the saline can be absorbed by the body naturally. They are recommended for patients who are at least 18 years old.
Silicone Implants: Filled with silicone gel, silicone implants are FDA - approved and pre - filled before insertion. They are often thought to have a more natural feel than saline implants and are ideal for patients who are at least 22 years old. There is also a form - stable silicone ( “gummy bear” ) implant, which is firmer and retains its shape, and the silicone does not leak from the shell when a rupture occurs.

Implant Shape

The shape of breast implants can be round or teardrop (anatomical). Round implants provide more lift and projection and can create a more symmetrical breast result. Teardrop implants are designed to mimic the natural shape of the breast.

Implant Size

Breast implant sizes are measured in ccs instead of cup size. Your surgeon will work with you to determine the appropriate size based on your body type, existing breast tissue, and desired outcome.

Implant Profile

Profile refers to the projection of the implant and takes width and depth into account. Profile options include low, moderate, moderate plus, high, and ultra - high. Low - profile implants have a wider base and less projection, while high - profile implants have a narrower base and greater projection.

Implant Texture

You have two options for texture: smooth and textured. Smooth breast implants allow for a natural movement of the device. However, textured breast implants have been associated with a number of rare adverse outcomes and are not commonly used at present.

Cost of Breast Augmentation in Albany

The cost of breast augmentation in Albany can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of implants, the complexity of the procedure, and whether it is combined with other procedures. Here is a general overview of the costs:

Breast augmentation with implants typically costs between $6,000 to $8,500. However, the actual amount can be higher or lower depending on individual circumstances.
Breast lift costs around $9,000 to $10,000.
Breast lift with implants has a variable cost per person.
Breast reduction costs between $9,500 to $10,000.
Breast revision costs between $8,000 to $9,500.

It's important to note that insurance usually does not cover the cost of breast augmentation as it is considered an elective surgery. However, many hospitals offer patient financing options to help make the procedure more affordable.

Pre - surgery and Post - surgery Care

Pre - surgery Preparation

Before your breast augmentation surgery, you need to prepare properly. Your surgeon will give you detailed instructions, which may include:

Avoiding certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin.
Quitting smoking, as smoking can decrease your body's ability to heal normally.
Following a healthy diet and exercise routine to be in optimum health.
Having a consultation with your surgeon to discuss your goals, review your medical history, and get a personalized recommendation.

Post - surgery Recovery

The recovery process after breast augmentation varies from person to person. Here is a general timeline:

First Few Days: You may be tired and sore after the surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to control the discomfort. You may also experience a slight burning feeling in your nipples, which will subside as the bruising lessens and healing continues.
7 to 10 Days: If you have gauze dressings, they will be removed, and you will be switched to a surgical bra. Your stitches will be taken out.
3 to 5 Weeks: Your breasts will be sensitive to physical contact during this time.
Next Several Months: Your scars will gradually fade, thin, and soften. It may take several months for the final results to become apparent.

It's crucial to follow your surgeon's aftercare instructions, which may include wearing a supportive bra, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow - up appointments.

Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries some risks and complications. Common ones include:

Capsular Contracture: This condition involves tightening of the scar or capsule around the implant, which makes the breast feel hard. It may require removing the scar tissue and, in some cases, replacing the implant.
Infection: There is a small chance of infection around the implant area. In rare cases, the implant may have to be removed for a few months and replaced once the infection is gone.
Impact to Nipple Sensation: Some women may experience hypersensitive nipples, loss of sensitivity, or slight numbness around the incision area. In most cases, these symptoms disappear over time.
Implant Leak/Rupture: Saline implants will lose their contents over a short period if they rupture, and the body will naturally absorb the saltwater. For gel - filled implants, there may not be any noticeable change if the scar capsule surrounding the implant does not break. Usually, another breast augmentation operation is needed to replace the implants.

However, with a skilled surgeon and proper care, the risk of these complications can be minimized.

Conclusion

Choosing a prosthetic breast augmentation plastic hospital in Albany is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. By understanding the different types of breast enhancement surgeries, considering the surgeon's credentials and experience, evaluating the hospital's reputation and facilities, and being aware of the costs, risks, and recovery process, you can make an informed choice. Remember to have an open and honest communication with your surgeon throughout the process. If you're interested in learning more about breast augmentation in Albany, schedule a consultation with a reputable plastic surgeon today. This is your first step towards achieving the breast size and shape you've always desired.