Introduction

Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that can enhance a woman's appearance and boost her self - confidence. In Albany, if you're considering breast augmentation with Dechamps prostheses, it's crucial to find a reliable hospital and a skilled surgeon. This article will explore various aspects of breast augmentation in Albany, including different hospitals, doctors, and the procedure itself, to help you make an informed decision.

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, improve the shape, and enhance the contour of the breasts. It can be achieved by using breast implants (such as silicone or saline implants) or through fat transfer. Breast implants are added to the breast tissue to make it look bigger. This procedure is mostly sought by women who aren't confident enough about their appearance, have uneven breasts, or have lost breast volume due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging.

Why Choose Breast Augmentation?

• Enhanced Appearance: It can enhance the appearance of your breasts, giving them a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing look. For example, it can make naturally small breasts larger and create a more attractive silhouette.
• Correction of Asymmetry: If you have uneven breasts, breast augmentation can correct this issue, providing a more balanced and symmetrical look.
• Restoration of Volume: After pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss, breasts may lose their volume and firmness. Breast augmentation can restore the lost volume and bring back the pre - pregnancy shape.
• Boost in Self - Confidence: Feeling good about your appearance can significantly improve your self - esteem and body image, allowing you to feel more confident in various aspects of your life, such as in social situations or when wearing certain types of clothing.

Top Hospitals and Doctors in Albany for Breast Augmentation

Albany Medical Center Hospital

General Information

Albany Medical Center Hospital is located at 43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY, 12208. It has a contact number of (518) 262 - 2400. In terms of care quality, it has 2 stars. While some metrics like efficient use of medical imaging, mortality are the same as the national average, effectiveness of care, patient experience, readmission, and timeliness of care are below the national average. However, safety of care is above the national average, and it has a 5 - star rating for price transparency.

Breast Augmentation Procedure

The surgery for breast augmentation at this hospital takes around 1 to 2 hours and is done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with an oral sedative. The surgeon will make a single cut in the breast (either under the breast or around the nipple), separate the breast tissue from the underlying connective tissue and muscles to create a space, insert the implant into the space, and then close the incision with sutures. After the procedure, patients will be given a prescription to control pain if needed, and stitches may be removed in a week. They are also advised to avoid strenuous activities like weight - lifting for at least 4 weeks as the breasts will be sensitive during the healing process.

Price

The price that Albany Medical Center Hospital has reported for breast enlargement using prosthetic implant varies depending on if you would be paying in cash or if you are part of an insurance plan that has a pre - negotiated rate. You can choose to view cash prices or insurance prices to get more specific information.

Williams Center

General Information

The Williams Center in Latham, New York offers breast augmentation procedures. It focuses on achieving beautiful, full breasts through breast augmentation. Their surgeon, Dr. Lloreda, has experience in performing many breast - related procedures and helps patients make informed choices about the procedure.

Breast Augmentation Procedure

The breast augmentation procedure at the Williams Center typically takes about an hour to perform, along with an additional one to two hours spent in a post - surgery recovery room. Dr. Lloreda prefers to place the implants under the muscle as it gives the augmented breast a more natural appearance and feel and is less likely to interfere with mammograms. The implant may be placed either directly underneath the breast tissue or underneath the pectoral muscle and then centered beneath the nipples, and the incisions are sutured closed.

Implant Options

Some of the most frequently used implants at the Williams Center include silicone gel implants, saline implants, and fat deposits collected from the patient's body. Silicone gel implants are preferred by many patients because of their more natural look and feel and reduced likelihood of rippling. Saline implants are relatively safer in the event of a leak and easier to replace. Fat transfer breast augmentation is a good option for women looking for a small increase in breast size.

The Plastic Surgery Group

General Information

This group is conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, & Troy. It offers breast augmentation surgeries and provides a comprehensive range of services related to the procedure.

Breast Augmentation Procedure

The surgeons at The Plastic Surgery Group typically perform breast augmentation surgery at a nearby outpatient surgical center using general anesthesia administered by a board - certified anesthesiologist. The procedure takes approximately 1 hour to perform, and patients can go home the same day. They need to have an adult drive them and care for them for the first 24 hours.

Cost and Financing

The cost for breast augmentation is typically $6,000 to $7,000, but the actual amount depends on many factors including the choice of implants, the complexity of the procedure, and whether it will be combined with other procedures. The group offers patient financing to help most patients afford to pursue their desired improvements.

Dr. Lucie Capek, MD

General Information

Patients throughout the capital district areas of Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga trust board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lucie Capek to perform their breast augmentation surgery. Many patients also travel from New York City, Vermont, Massachusetts, and beyond to receive her skilled and compassionate care.

Breast Augmentation Procedure

The breast augmentation procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. Dr. Capek makes a small incision either under the breast or around the areola to place the implant. She creates the pocket for the implants using a harmonic scalpel to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching. The implants are placed in either a sub - muscular or sub - glandular position depending on the patient's shape, natural anatomy, and lifestyle. Dr. Capek does not typically use drains in first - time breast augmentation patients and closes the incisions with dissolvable sutures and glue. The entire surgery generally takes 1 - 2 hours to complete.

Aftercare

After the surgery, patients can shower within 48 hours and wear a sports bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks. They should plan to rest quietly for 24 to 48 hours. Patients with sedentary jobs may return to work within a week, while strenuous or high - impact activities like running may be restricted for 6 - 8 weeks. It is important to follow Dr. Capek's aftercare instructions to avoid any complications.

Rockmore Plastic Surgery

General Information

Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore performs breast augmentation at his practice in Latham, serving Albany, Utica, Saratoga, and Troy, New York. He has experience performing more than 4,000 breast procedures and uses a 3 - dimensional approach for consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts.

Breast Augmentation Procedure

Dr. Rockmore begins the surgery by making an incision, and common incision locations include inframammary, periareolar, and transaxillary. He creates a pocket for the implant, which can be subglandular, submuscular, or biplanar. The initial recovery timeline includes showering the day after surgery (with caution), resuming driving within 72 hours if comfortable and off prescription medication, swelling peaking around days 3 - 5, and most patients being able to return to work by day 7. Strenuous activities can be resumed around weeks 2 - 4.

Implant Options

Both saline - and silicone - filled implants are used. Saline implants are made of silicone shells filled with sterile salt water and typically require smaller incisions. Silicone implants have durable silicone shells filled with a gel, and the most cohesive ones are called “gummy bear” breast implants.

Best Breast Augmentation Doctors in Albany

According to Healthgrades, there are 155 doctors who perform breast augmentation in Albany. Here are some of the highly - rated ones:

Considerations for Choosing a Hospital and Surgeon for Breast Augmentation

Surgeon's Experience and Credentials

It is crucial to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation procedures. Board certification indicates that the doctor has passed rigorous exams in plastic surgery and has a deep level of practical knowledge. For example, Dr. Kaufman is a double - board - certified reconstructive and plastic surgeon, which gives patients more confidence in his skills and expertise. You can also review the surgeon's before - and - after photos to get an idea of the type of results they can achieve.

Hospital's Reputation and Quality of Care

Look at the hospital's reputation in terms of patient satisfaction, safety records, and quality of care. Hospitals like Albany Medical Center Hospital have their care quality metrics publicly available, which can give you an idea of how they perform compared to the national average. Consider factors such as the effectiveness of care, patient experience, and safety of care.

Implant Options

Different hospitals and surgeons may offer a variety of implant options, including silicone gel implants, saline implants, and fat transfer. Silicone gel implants are known for their natural look and feel, while saline implants are relatively safer in case of a leak. Fat transfer is a good option for those looking for a more natural and subtle increase in breast size. Make sure the hospital and surgeon can provide the type of implant you prefer.

Cost and Financing

Breast augmentation can be a significant investment. The cost varies depending on factors such as the choice of implants, the complexity of the procedure, and the hospital or surgeon's fees. Some hospitals, like The Plastic Surgery Group, offer patient financing options to help make the procedure more affordable. It's important to have a clear understanding of the total cost and any available financing plans before making a decision.

Aftercare and Follow - up

Good aftercare is essential for a successful breast augmentation. The hospital and surgeon should provide detailed instructions on post - operative care, including pain management, wound care, and restrictions on activities. They should also schedule regular follow - up appointments to monitor your recovery and address any concerns. For example, Dr. Capek schedules follow - up appointments to oversee the recovery process and provides long - term care to help patients navigate any questions that arise after surgery.

Breast Augmentation Procedure Details

Pre - Surgery Consultation

Before the surgery, you will have a consultation with the surgeon. During this consultation, you should discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have. The surgeon will explain the procedure in detail, including the different implant options, incision locations, and implant placement. They will also perform a physical examination and may take measurements and photos. This is also the time to ask any questions you have about the procedure, recovery, and potential risks.

Anesthesia

Breast augmentation surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia or monitored anesthesia care (MAC). General anesthesia puts you to sleep during the entire procedure, while MAC allows you to be sedated but still aware to some extent. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the surgeon's recommendation and your personal preference.

Incision Locations

• Inframammary Incision: This is a thin line that traces the fold beneath the breast. It is a common choice as it allows the surgeon good access to the breast tissue and the scar is often well - hidden in the breast fold.
• Periareolar Incision: The incision is made along the lower border of the areola, where the dark skin meets the lighter skin. This location can result in less visible scarring as the scar can blend in with the natural color change of the areola.
• Transaxillary Incision: The incision is hidden in the armpit. This option is favored by some patients who want to avoid having a scar on the breast itself. However, it may be more challenging for the surgeon to place the implant precisely through this incision.

Implant Placement

• Subglandular Placement: The implant is placed directly behind the breast tissue. This can result in more projection but may be more prone to rippling and can interfere more with mammograms compared to submuscular placement.
• Submuscular Placement: The implant is placed beneath the pectoralis muscle. It provides a more natural slope of the breast, reduces the possibility of capsular contracture, and interferes less with mammograms. It is usually a good choice for women with little of their own breast tissue.
• Biplanar Placement: This is a combination of subglandular and submuscular placement. It can be a good option for patients with some sagging of the breast, as it may avoid the need for a lift in some cases.

Post - Surgery Recovery

Recovery time varies from person to person, but generally, you can expect the following:

• First Few Days: You may be tired and sore after the surgery. The surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help control the discomfort. There may be a slight burning feeling in the nipples, which will subside as the bruising lessens and healing continues.
• 7 to 10 Days: Gauze dressings, if any, will be removed, and you will be fitted with a surgical bra. 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 implants to settle into their final position, and the swelling to completely subside.

Potential Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation

Immediate Risks

• Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, which may require additional treatment to control.