Introduction
Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that has helped numerous women enhance their appearance and boost their self - confidence. Allergan is a well - known brand in the field of breast prostheses, recognized for its high - quality implants. In Albany, there are several options when it comes to hospitals and clinics that perform breast augmentation using Allergan prostheses. This article aims to provide comprehensive information on choosing the right hospital for this procedure, exploring the key factors to consider, and introducing some of the notable medical facilities in the area.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as breast enlargement or augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size and enhance the shape of the breasts. It typically involves inserting breast implants, such as those from Allergan, into the breast tissue. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation with implants has been consistently in the top 5 cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States since 2006, with nearly 300,000 procedures performed in 2022. The main reasons women opt for this procedure include enhancing the appearance of their breasts, correcting uneven breasts, and restoring breast volume after pregnancy, weight loss, or due to natural aging.
The Procedure
The surgery usually takes around 1 to 2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with an oral sedative. The surgeon makes an incision in one of several locations: around the areola (periareolar), in the armpit (transaxillary), or underneath the breast in its crease (inframammary). The breast tissue is then separated from the underlying connective tissue and muscles to create a space, and the implant is inserted. Finally, the incision is closed with sutures.
Post - procedure Expectations
After the procedure, patients may be given a prescription to control pain. The stitches are usually removed within a week. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities like weight - lifting for at least 4 weeks as the breasts will be sensitive during the healing process. Scars will fade over time but may not completely disappear. Some pain and swelling are normal in the first few weeks. Patients should contact their surgeon immediately if they notice abnormal redness, warmth, or have a fever.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Augmentation with Allergan Prostheses
Surgeon's Expertise
The skill and experience of the plastic surgeon are of utmost importance. A board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation procedures is more likely to achieve satisfactory results. Surgeons with a proven track record in using Allergan prostheses are especially beneficial as they are familiar with the unique features and handling of these implants. For example, they can accurately select the appropriate size, shape, and placement of the Allergan implants based on the patient's body type and aesthetic goals. According to Healthgrades, there are 155 doctors who perform breast augmentation in Albany, and those with high ratings and a significant number of past patient ratings (at least 10) are often more reliable choices.
Hospital Reputation and Quality of Care
The reputation of the hospital or clinic can provide valuable insights into the quality of care it offers. Look for hospitals that have a good record in patient safety, surgical outcomes, and patient satisfaction. Quality metrics such as the effectiveness of care, efficient use of medical imaging, mortality rates, patient experience, readmission rates, and safety of care can be used to evaluate a hospital. For instance, Albany Medical Center Hospital has been rated for various metrics, including having above - average safety of care but below - average patient experience in some areas.
Available Implant Options
Allergan offers a range of breast implant options, including different sizes, shapes, and materials. A good hospital should be able to provide a comprehensive selection of Allergan implants to meet the diverse needs and preferences of patients. Some of the popular Allergan implants include the Natrelle brand, which comes in smooth - walled saline, soft, and firmer silicone gel options.
Cost and Financing Options
Breast augmentation costs can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of implants, the complexity of the procedure, and the surgeon's fees. It's important to get a clear understanding of the total cost upfront and inquire about financing options. At some facilities, patient financing solutions are available to help patients afford the procedure. For example, The Plastic Surgery Group offers up to 100% financing for breast augmentation, and patients at the Williams Center can achieve their cosmetic goals with the help of PatientFi’s accessible financing solutions.
Facility Accreditation and Safety Standards
Choose a hospital or clinic that is accredited by recognized organizations. Accreditation ensures that the facility meets certain safety and quality standards. For example, a hospital may be accredited by the Joint Commission, which evaluates and accredits healthcare organizations in the United States. Additionally, facilities should follow strict safety protocols during surgery, such as proper sterilization, use of appropriate anesthesia, and post - operative care procedures.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an idea of other patients' experiences at the hospital. Positive reviews regarding the surgical results, the professionalism of the staff, and the quality of after - care are indicators of a good hospital. For example, Dr. Steven Yarinsky in Albany has many positive patient testimonials praising his surgical skills and the support of his staff throughout the breast augmentation process.
Notable Hospitals and Clinics in Albany for Breast Augmentation with Allergan Prostheses
Albany Medical Center Hospital
General Information
Located at 43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY, 12208, Albany Medical Center Hospital offers breast enlargement using prosthetic implants. It has a wide - range of medical services and a dedicated team of healthcare professionals.
Cost and Payment
The price reported by the hospital for breast enlargement using prosthetic implants varies depending on whether the patient is paying in cash or is part of an insurance plan with a pre - negotiated rate. Patients can choose to view cash prices or insurance prices on the Turquoise Health Price Transparency Page.
Care Quality
The hospital has a care quality rating. In terms of various metrics, it has an effectiveness of care below the national average, efficient use of medical imaging the same as the national average, mortality the same as the national average, patient experience below the national average, readmission below the national average, safety of care above the national average, and timeliness of care below the national average.
Williams Center
Services Offered
The Williams Center in Latham, New York, offers breast augmentation procedures. Dr. Alfredo Lloreda, an experienced surgeon at the center, has performed many breast - related procedures. The center uses a variety of breast implant options, including Allergan implants, to help patients achieve their desired breast size and shape. The implants can be placed either directly underneath the breast tissue or underneath the pectoral muscle, with Dr. Lloreda preferring the sub - muscular placement for a more natural appearance and reduced interference with mammograms.
Cost and Financing
The cost of breast augmentation at the Williams Center can vary. The average cost of breast implants is around $4,875, which includes surgeon fees, implants, and basic facility costs. Combining a breast lift with implants may cost between $10,000 and $12,000, and a mommy makeover starts around $20,000. The center offers patientfi’s accessible financing solutions to help patients manage the cost.
Capak Surgical Arts
Expertise of Dr. Lucie Capek
Dr. Lucie Capek at Capek Surgical Arts is an expert in breast augmentation. She helps patients choose the appropriate breast implant size, shape, and material based on their unique breast shape, tissue characteristics, body type, and desired results. She uses breast implant sizers during the consultation to help patients visualize their desired breast size.
Procedure and Safety
The breast augmentation procedure at Capek Surgical Arts is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure in their quada - accredited office - based operating suite. Dr. Capek makes a small incision either under the breast or around the areola to place the implant, with the inframammary fold incision being the most commonly recommended approach due to a lower risk of capsular contracture. She uses a harmonic scalpel to create the pocket for the implants, which helps minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during the surgery.
Dr. Steven Yarinsky's Practice
Implant Options
Dr. Steven Yarinsky is a well - known plastic surgeon in Albany. He offers a wide range of breast implant options, including those from Allergan, as well as Mentor and Sientra brands. He has extensive experience with Sientra's “gummy bear” gel implants since 2012. Dr. Yarinsky helps patients choose the right implants based on their cosmetic goals, natural breast tissue, chest measurements, and skin quality.
Patient Experience
Dr. Yarinsky and his staff are highly regarded for their patient - centered approach. Patients have reported positive experiences, with the staff being kind, patient, and available throughout the pre - surgery, surgery, and recovery phases. The center provides comprehensive after - care instructions and support to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Allergan Breast Prostheses: An Overview
Types of Allergan Breast Implants
Natrelle Smooth - Walled Saline Implants
These implants have a silicone shell filled with a sterile salt - water solution. They can be filled after insertion, allowing for a smaller incision. In case of a rupture, the saline solution is safely absorbed by the body.
Natrelle Silicone Gel Implants
Silicone gel implants from Allergan offer a more natural look and feel compared to saline implants. The cohesive silicone gel material has a consistency similar to honey, providing a more realistic appearance and reducing the risk of rippling.
Benefits of Allergan Implants
Allergan implants are known for their high - quality materials and manufacturing processes. They undergo rigorous testing to ensure safety and effectiveness. The company also offers warranties for its implants, which can provide peace of mind to patients. Additionally, Allergan invests in research and development to continuously improve the design and performance of its breast implants.
Preparing for Breast Augmentation
Consultation with the Surgeon
Before the procedure, it's essential to have a detailed consultation with the surgeon. During this consultation, you should discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations. The surgeon will examine your breasts, take measurements, and discuss the appropriate implant size, shape, and placement. They will also explain the procedure, including the potential risks and complications.
Medical Preparations
You may need to undergo a series of medical tests, such as blood tests, mammograms, and electrocardiograms, to ensure you are in good health for the surgery. Your surgeon may also advise you to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, and to refrain from smoking for at least 6 weeks prior to the procedure as smoking can decrease the body's ability to heal normally.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Adopting a healthy lifestyle before the surgery can improve your chances of a successful outcome. This includes following a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep. You should also arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery and to assist you with daily activities during the initial recovery period.
Recovery Process after Breast Augmentation
Immediate Post - operative Care
After the surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery room until the anesthesia wears off. You will have a compression bandage and a supportive surgical bra on your breasts. Pain medication will be prescribed to manage any discomfort. You may experience swelling, tenderness, and bruising, which are normal after the procedure.
Short - term Recovery
Most patients need at least a week of downtime to rest and recover. You should avoid strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting and exercise, for 4 to 6 weeks. You can gradually resume light activities, such as walking, as tolerated. The stitches will usually be removed within two weeks, and you will be instructed on how to care for the incisions to prevent infection.
Long - term Recovery
Over the next few months, the swelling will gradually subside, and the breasts will start to look and feel more natural. Scars will fade over time but may never completely disappear. You should continue to follow your surgeon's after - care instructions, including wearing a supportive bra and attending follow - up appointments to monitor your recovery.
Potential Risks and Complications
Common Risks
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries some risks. These include adverse anesthesia reactions, bleeding, capsular contracture (tightening of the scar tissue around the implant), changes in nipple or breast sensation, implant deflation or rupture, infection, and interference with mammograms. Although these complications are relatively rare, it's important to discuss them with your surgeon before the procedure.
Addressing Complications
If a complication occurs, your surgeon will recommend the appropriate treatment. For example, capsular contracture may require the removal of the scar tissue and, in some cases, replacement of the implant. In case of an infection, the implant may need to be removed temporarily until the infection is treated, and a new implant can be placed later.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hospital for breast augmentation with Allergan prostheses in Albany is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the outcome of the procedure. By considering factors such as the surgeon's expertise, hospital reputation, available implant options, cost, and safety standards, you can make an informed choice. Some of the notable hospitals and clinics in Albany, such as Albany Medical Center Hospital, the Williams Center, Capek Surgical Arts, and Dr. Steven Yarinsky's practice, offer high - quality breast augmentation services.
It's important to have realistic expectations, understand the procedure and its potential risks, and follow your surgeon's pre - and post - operative instructions. If you're considering breast augmentation, take the time to research your options, schedule consultations with different surgeons, and make a decision that is right for you.
Call to Action: If you're interested in learning more about breast augmentation with Allergan prostheses in Albany, schedule a consultation with a board - certified plastic surgeon today. Take the first step towards achieving your aesthetic goals and enhancing your self - confidence.
