Introduction
For many women in Albany struggling with overly large breasts, breast reduction surgery can be a life - changing solution. This procedure not only addresses physical discomfort like neck, shoulder, and back pain but also boosts self - confidence. However, choosing the right hospital and doctor is crucial for a successful outcome. In this article, we will explore the best options for breast reduction in Albany, including the top hospitals and experienced doctors, as well as provide detailed information about the procedure, recovery, and associated costs.
Best Breast Reduction Doctors in Albany
Healthgrades has identified several doctors in Albany who perform breast reduction with high ratings. Here are some of the top - rated doctors:
Doctor's Name | Rating | Address |
---|---|---|
Dr. Patricia Fox, MD | 3.90 out of 5 stars | 1214 Troy Schenectady Rd Ste 7, Latham, NY 12110 |
Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 out of 5 stars | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Marthe Gabey, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 333 Hoosick St, Troy, NY 12180 |
Dr. Malcolm Roth, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 43 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Jerome Chao, MD | 4.40 out of 5 stars | 13 Century Hill Dr, Latham, NY 12110 |
Dr. Kristen Rezak, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave # 11, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Douglas Hargrave, MD | 4.40 out of 5 stars | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
Dr. Casian Monaco, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Debbie Kennedy, MD | 4.20 out of 5 stars | 4 Executive Park Dr, Albany, NY 12203 |
These doctors have been reviewed by past patients, and their ratings can give you an idea of their experience and the quality of care they provide. When choosing a doctor, it's advisable to consider factors such as their expertise, patient reviews, and how comfortable you feel during the consultation.
Top Hospitals and Clinics for Breast Reduction in Albany
The Plastic Surgery Group
Conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, and Troy, The Plastic Surgery Group offers breast reduction surgery. Their plastic surgeons in Albany usually perform the surgery using an anchor - shaped incision. Through this incision, they reduce the extra tissue, fat, and skin that cause the breasts to be too large. Sometimes, liposuction is used to reduce extra fatty tissue under the arms.
Recovery from the surgery at this clinic generally involves a few stages. In the first week, patients may have a drainage tube inserted, experience some discomfort that can be controlled with prescription medication, and need to wear an elastic bandage and surgical bra. Stitches are usually removed within 3 weeks, and patients need to continue wearing the surgical bra until the swelling and bruising subside. Scarring is inevitable but can be minimized with proper post - operative care.
The cost of breast reduction surgery at The Plastic Surgery Group ranges from $7,500 to $8,000, and they offer financing options to make the procedure more accessible.
Malcolm Z. Roth, MD, FACS
Dr. Malcolm Roth provides breast reduction surgery in Albany. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and can take from 2 to 5 hours depending on the technique and individual case. Incision options include two rings around the areola, a keyhole shape, or an anchor shape. Liposuction alone may be used for patients with more fatty tissue in their breasts, leaving little - to - no scarring.
After surgery, patients typically experience soreness, swelling, and bruising for several days. Bandages are removed after 2 days and replaced with a surgical bra. Physical activity should be limited for 1 to 2 weeks, and strenuous activity should be avoided for at least 4 weeks. Stitches are removed after 2 to 3 weeks, at which point most patients can return to work and regular activities.
There are risks associated with the procedure, such as loss of sensation, scarring, asymmetry, and inability to breast - feed. However, the long - term results can be very rewarding for patients who are good candidates for the surgery.
K Plastic Surgery
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha at K Plastic Surgery is a board - certified plastic surgeon who offers breast reduction services. He will recommend the most suitable technique based on individual factors. Options include liposuction for minimal size changes caused by fat, a vertical (lollipop) incision for moderate reductions with significant sagging, and an inverted t (anchor) incision for the most dramatic reduction and reshaping.
The cost of breast reduction at K Plastic Surgery is in the range of $13,000 - $14,500. Recovery typically takes 2 - 3 weeks, during which patients need to wear a surgical support bra. Discomfort is well - controlled with oral pain medication, and patients should wait between four and six weeks before returning to their active routines.
Dr. Kayastha also offers alternative procedures like breast lift (mastopexy) for patients who may not be ideal candidates for breast reduction.
Capek Plastic Surgery
Dr. Lucie Capek at Capek Plastic Surgery offers breast reduction surgery. Before the procedure, patients will have a consultation with Dr. Capek to discuss the best options, medical history, and expectations. It's important to be in good health, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and avoid smoking and certain medications before and after the surgery to reduce the risk of complications.
The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia in either the Quada - accredited office - based operating suite or a hospital operating room. Dr. Capek typically uses an anchor incision for most cases, but smaller reductions may use a lollipop incision. She uses the harmonic ® scalpel to remove excess tissue and reshapes the breasts to create a smaller and more lifted appearance.
After the procedure, patients will wake up in a surgical bra and may experience some discomfort for a few days. They need to follow post - operative care instructions, such as sleeping on their back with the torso elevated and avoiding strenuous activity for the first 2 weeks. High - impact exercise can be resumed after 8 weeks.
DeLuca Plastic Surgery
At DeLuca Plastic Surgery, breast reduction is often combined with a breast lift or mastopexy and liposuction. Dr. Tauber or Dr. Yan will discuss incision options with patients during the consultation. Incision choices include a circular incision (producing a donut scar), a keyhole incision (producing a lollipop scar), and an inverted - t (anchor) incision.
One of the important considerations for patients is insurance coverage. The clinic can help patients determine if their insurance will cover the surgery by meeting with the doctor to discuss medical problems caused by large breasts and providing the necessary information to the insurance provider.
Post - operative care at DeLuca Plastic Surgery is comprehensive, with the doctor available 24/7 during the recovery period and post - operative appointments offered at no cost.
Fox and Schingo
Dr. Fox and Dr. Schingo, board - certified plastic surgeons with a combined 30 years of experience, offer breast reduction surgery. The surgery is performed at Ellis Hospital, a convenient location near Albany, and is an outpatient procedure under anesthesia.
Patients can expect mild surgical discomfort, bruising, swelling, and nipple sensitivity for about 2 - 3 weeks after surgery. Most patients return to work 1 - 3 weeks following surgery depending on their occupation, can start light physical activity at 2 - 4 weeks, and resume their normal exercise routine at 6 weeks. Scar maturation occurs in 18 - 24 months.
Breast Reduction Procedure
Indications for Breast Reduction
Large breasts can cause a variety of problems, making breast reduction a viable solution for many women. Indications for the procedure include:
- Breasts that are too large for the body frame, making it difficult to find well - fitting clothing.
- Neck, shoulder, and back pain due to the weight of the breasts.
- Self - consciousness about the size of the breasts, which can affect a woman's self - esteem and social life.
- Skin irritation or rashes under the breasts.
- Poor posture caused by the excessive weight of the breasts.
- Difficulty breathing or shoulder grooving from bra straps.
Pre - operative Preparation
Before undergoing breast reduction surgery, patients need to take several steps to ensure a successful outcome:
- Schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss the procedure, expectations, and any concerns.
- Undergo a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests and a physical examination, to assess overall health.
- Stop smoking and avoid nicotine - containing products for at least 6 weeks before and after surgery to reduce the risk of complications.
- Inform the doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements being taken, as some may need to be stopped before surgery.
- Maintain a healthy weight, as significant weight fluctuations before or after surgery can affect the results.
Incision Options
There are several incision options available for breast reduction surgery, and the choice depends on factors such as the size of the breasts, the amount of sagging, and the patient's desired outcome:
- Circular Incision: This incision creates a round, donut - shaped scar around the areola. It is suitable for patients with relatively high - sitting breasts and less skin to remove.
- Keyhole (Lollipop) Incision: This incision goes around the areola and then vertically down towards the breast crease, resulting in a lollipop - shaped scar. It is used for moderate reductions with significant sagging.
- Inverted - T (Anchor) Incision: This is the most common incision for large breast reductions. It circles around the areola, extends vertically down to the breast crease, and then follows the crease under the breasts in an anchor shape. It allows for the removal of a large amount of tissue and correction of significant sagging and asymmetry.
Surgical Process
Breast reduction surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make the chosen incision and remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. The nipple and areola may be repositioned to a more natural and youthful position. In some cases, liposuction may be used in combination with the tissue removal to achieve a more refined result. The incisions are then closed with sutures or skin glue.
The length of the surgery can vary from 2 to 5 hours depending on the complexity of the case and the technique used.
Recovery from Breast Reduction Surgery
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, patients will wake up in a surgical bra and may have drains in place to remove excess blood and fluids. There will be some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by the doctor. Patients may need to stay in the hospital for an overnight stay or be discharged as an outpatient, depending on the doctor's recommendation.
It is important to follow the doctor's instructions regarding rest, wound care, and wearing the surgical bra. For the first few days, patients should sleep on their back with the torso elevated to reduce swelling and pressure on the breasts.
First Week
During the first week, discomfort and pain may gradually subside, but patients should still take it easy and avoid any strenuous activity. Drains will usually be removed within the first few days, and the patient will need to continue wearing the surgical bra. Most patients experience some numbness or altered sensation in the breasts and nipples, which may improve over time.
Weeks 2 - 3
Stitches are typically removed within 2 - 3 weeks after surgery. By this time, swelling and bruising should start to improve, and patients may feel more comfortable. However, they should still avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise and continue to wear the surgical bra as recommended.
Weeks 4 - 6
Many patients can start to return to their normal daily activities and light physical activity during this period. However, strenuous exercise and activities that involve a lot of upper body movement should still be avoided. The breasts will continue to heal, and the final shape and size will become more apparent as the swelling subsides.
Long - term Recovery
Scarring will gradually fade over time, but it may take several months to a year for the scars to become less noticeable. It is important to follow the doctor's advice on scar care, which may include using silicone sheets, creams, or massaging the scars. Some patients may experience long - term changes in nipple sensitivity, and in rare cases, it may be permanent. It's also important to maintain a stable weight to preserve the results of the surgery.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, breast reduction surgery carries some risks and potential complications:
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site, which can be treated with antibiotics. Patients should follow proper wound care instructions to reduce this risk.
- Bleeding: Some bleeding may occur during or after the surgery. In rare cases, additional treatment may be required to stop the bleeding.
- Scarring: While the surgeon will try to minimize scarring, it is inevitable with breast reduction surgery. The appearance of the scars can vary depending on the incision type and individual healing factors.
- Loss of Sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent loss of sensation in the breasts and nipples. This is more likely with certain incision patterns.
- Asymmetry: There may be some degree of asymmetry between the two breasts after surgery. In most cases, this can be corrected with additional surgery if necessary.
- Inability to Breast - feed: Since breast reduction surgery removes a significant amount of breast tissue, it may affect a woman's ability to breast - feed in the future.
However, choosing an experienced and qualified plastic surgeon can significantly reduce the risk of these complications.
Cost of Breast Reduction in Albany
The cost of breast reduction surgery in Albany can vary depending on several factors, including the surgeon's experience, the complexity of the procedure, the hospital or clinic where the surgery is performed, and the geographic location.
As mentioned earlier, at The Plastic Surgery Group, the cost ranges from $7,500 to $8,000,