Introduction
Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammaplasty, is a procedure that aims to reduce the size and weight of the breasts. This surgery can provide relief from a variety of physical problems associated with large breasts, such as back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, poor posture, and skin irritation. It can also improve a person's self - confidence and quality of life. In Albany, there are several hospitals and doctors renowned for their expertise in breast reduction surgery. In this article, we will explore some of the best options available, the procedure itself, recovery, risks, and more.
Best Doctors for Breast Reduction in Albany
Healthgrades lists 155 doctors who perform breast reduction in Albany, many of whom have high patient ratings. Here are some of the top - rated doctors:
| Doctor's Name | Rating (out of 5) | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Patricia Fox, MD | 3.90 | 1214 Troy Schenectady Rd Ste 7, Latham, NY 12110 |
| Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.50 | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
| Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Marthe Gabey, MD | 4.50 | 333 Hoosick St, Troy, NY 12180 |
| Dr. Malcolm Roth, MD | 4.50 | 43 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Jerome Chao, MD | 4.40 | 13 Century Hill Dr, Latham, NY 12110 |
| Dr. Kristen Rezak, MD | 5.00 | 50 New Scotland Ave #11, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Douglas Hargrave, MD | 4.40 | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
| Dr. Casian Monaco, MD | 5.00 | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Debbie Kennedy, MD | 4.20 | 4 Executive Park Dr, Albany, NY 12203 |
RealSelf also lists several well - regarded breast reduction doctors in Albany:
| Doctor's Name | Distance from Center | Years of Experience | Board Certifications | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, MD | 7.5 mi | 20 yrs | 1 | 156 |
| Dr. David Tauber, MD | 5.5 mi | 17 yrs | 1 | 89 |
| Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore, MD | 5.9 mi | 25 yrs | 1 | 159 |
| Dr. Lucie Capek, MD | 8.5 mi | 28 yrs | 2 | 76 |
| Dr. Susan M. Gannon, MD | 3.3 mi | 19 yrs | 1 | 12 |
| Dr. Victor A. Schingo, Jr., MD | 9 mi | 24 yrs | 1 | 7 |
| Dr. Patricia A. Fox, MD | 13.3 mi | 45 yrs | 1 | 5 |
| Dr. Jeffrey Ridha, MD | 29.8 mi | 16 yrs | 2 | 49 |
Candidates for Breast Reduction Surgery
Women
Breast reduction surgery can be beneficial for women who have large breasts that cause various problems. Ideal candidates are women with oversized breasts leading to medical issues, low self - esteem, or physical and social discomfort. Some of the specific conditions that may make a woman a good candidate include:
- Breasts that are too large for their frame, causing difficulty in finding well - fitting clothes.
- Frequent neck, shoulder, or back pain due to the weight of the breasts.
- Chafing or rashes under the breasts.
- One breast being larger than the other.
- Limited physical activity because of the weight and size of the breasts.
- Self - consciousness about the size of the breasts.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding cannot undergo breast reduction surgery. Also, the breasts should be fully developed, usually beyond 18 years of age, although the surgery can be done earlier if large breasts are causing serious physical discomfort and social problems.
Men
Gynecomastia, the overdevelopment of male breasts, affects an estimated 40 to 60 percent of men. It can be caused by hormonal imbalance, obesity, certain drugs, or heredity. Candidates for male breast reduction are men who have large or sagging breasts that make them feel physically and/or emotionally uncomfortable. Good candidates are those whose breast development is complete, are in good physical and emotional health, do not smoke, are not overweight, and have firm, elastic skin that can reshape after surgery.
The Breast Reduction Procedure
For Women
Breast reduction surgery for women is typically performed under general anesthesia. The duration of the surgery can range from 2 to 5 hours, depending on the technique used and the individual case. The following are common incision methods:
- Two rings around the areola: One ring is larger than the other and is placed around the areola.
- Keyhole shape: It is around the areola and extends down to the breast crease. This often results in a lollipop - shaped scar.
- Anchor shape: The incision begins in the breast crease, extends up to and around the areola. This is commonly used for more significant reductions.
Liposuction alone can sometimes be used to reduce breast size. It has the advantage of leaving little - to - no scarring, but it is only suitable when patients have more fatty than glandular tissue in their breasts. In some cases, it is also used on men with enlarged breasts.
For Men
Male breast reduction is usually performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis and takes about 1 to 3 hours. It can be done using liposuction, surgery, or a combination of both:
- Liposuction: If the enlarged breasts are mainly due to excessive fatty tissue, a cannula (a thin, hollow tube) is inserted through very small incisions around the lower halves of the areolas or in the underarms. The cannula is moved back and forth to loosen the excess fat, which is then suctioned out using a vacuum or a cannula - attached syringe.
- Surgery: When the enlarged breasts are caused primarily by excess glandular tissue, incisions are made to remove the tissue. Repositioning the areolas/nipples and excising excess skin also require incisions. Sutures are used to close the incisions, and the area is covered with a compression garment.
Recovery from Breast Reduction Surgery
Women
After breast reduction surgery, women typically experience soreness, swelling, and bruising for several days. Here is a general recovery timeline:
- First few days: Bandages are removed after 2 days and replaced with a surgical bra. Patients may have a drainage tube inserted in the first day or 2 to eliminate blood and fluids from the incision areas. Most patients experience discomfort and pain for about 3 to 7 days, which can be controlled with prescription medication.
- 1 - 2 weeks: Physical activity should be limited during this time. Exercise and other strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 4 weeks.
- 2 - 3 weeks: Stitches are usually removed at this stage, and most patients can return to work and other regular activities.
- Several weeks: The surgical bra needs to be worn until the swelling and bruising subside. As the patient heals, they will feel less discomfort, but may still feel achy for a few weeks. Heavy lifting and strenuous pushing should be avoided.
The results of breast reduction are noticeable immediately after surgery. As swelling and bruising subside, the breasts’ appearance improves, and scars fade over time.
Men
After male breast reduction surgery, there is bruising, swelling, and discomfort. Here is the recovery process:
- First few days: Discomfort usually dissipates after a few days and can be lessened with prescribed pain medication. A compression garment is worn to help reduce swelling, initially all the time for about 2 weeks and then at night for several additional weeks.
- 1 - 2 weeks: Swelling and any skin discoloration partially subside, and stitches are removed.
- 1 week: Patients typically return to work within a week. Light aerobic exercise can be performed after a week.
- 4 - 6 weeks: Strenuous activities should be avoided during this period.
Risks Associated with Breast Reduction Surgery
Common Risks for Both Genders
In addition to the risks associated with any surgery, such as reactions to anesthesia, infection, and bleeding, breast reduction surgery has the following specific risks:
- Loss of sensation: Patients may experience temporary or permanent loss of sensitivity in the breasts and nipples.
- Scarring: Scarring is inevitable with breast reduction surgery, although doctors try to conceal and minimize the incisions. The scars will fade over time but will not disappear completely.
- Asymmetry: There may be a difference in the size or shape of the two breasts after surgery.
- Excessive firmness: The breasts may feel overly firm after the procedure.
- Inability to breast - feed: Since the surgery eliminates many of the ducts that produce breast milk, women may not be able to breastfeed after the surgery.
- Loss of skin/tissue where incisions meet: This can occur, especially if there are complications during healing.
- Partial or total loss of areola and nipple: Although rare, this is a possible risk.
Specific Risks for Men
- Skin injury: During the surgery, there is a risk of skin damage.
- Discoloration: The skin in the breast area may develop a different color after surgery.
Insurance Coverage for Breast Reduction Surgery
Insurance coverage for breast reduction surgery depends on several factors. In general, two main conditions must be met for insurance to cover the procedure:
- Medical need: There must be documented medical problems caused by large breasts, such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, pain from bra indentations in the shoulders, and rashes.
- Tissue weight requirement: The amount of tissue to be removed must meet certain weight requirements calculated based on the patient's height and weight. Sometimes, the amount of tissue that insurance requires is more than the amount of breast tissue that can be removed, in which case a cosmetic breast lift and a reduction may be the only surgical option.
During the consultation, doctors will discuss the patient's medical problems and may write a letter to the insurance provider, including a photo of the breasts (without showing the face) and an estimate of the weight of tissue to be removed. If the requirements are met, the insurer is likely to cover the surgery.
Cost of Breast Reduction Surgery in Albany
The cost of breast reduction surgery can vary. The Plastic Surgery Group states that the cost ranges from $7,500 to $8,000. K Plastic Surgery mentions that the cost is between $13,000 - $14,500. The final cost depends on various factors such as the surgeon's experience, the complexity of the procedure, the location of the surgery, and any additional fees for anesthesia and the surgical facility. Many providers offer financing options to make the procedure more affordable.
Conclusion
Breast reduction surgery can be a life - changing procedure for both women and men who are dealing with the problems associated with large breasts. In Albany, there are several highly - qualified doctors and hospitals that can perform this surgery. However, it is essential to understand the procedure, the recovery process, the risks involved, and the insurance coverage before making a decision. Before undergoing the surgery, patients should consult with a board - certified plastic surgeon, discuss their expectations, and ensure that they are well - informed about all aspects of the procedure.
If you are considering breast reduction surgery in Albany, we encourage you to reach out to one of the reputable doctors mentioned in this article. Schedule a consultation to learn more about the procedure and determine if it is the right choice for you. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast reduction surgery to help them make an informed decision.
