Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure, and in Albany, both public and private hospitals are making a mark on the ranking lists, especially when it comes to breast augmentation with textured implants. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into various aspects of breast augmentation in Albany, including top doctors, leading hospitals, the procedure itself, implant types, and more.
Top Doctors for Breast Augmentation in Albany
Finding a skilled and experienced doctor is crucial for a successful breast augmentation. According to Healthgrades, there are 155 doctors in Albany who perform breast augmentation. Here are some of the highly - rated ones:
| Doctor's Name | Rating | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.60 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. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Meera Menon, MD | 4.40 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Francis Cullen, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 5 Palisades Dr Ste 110, Albany, NY 12205 |
| Dr. Jerome Chao, MD | 4.30 out of 5 stars | 13 Century Hill Dr, Latham, NY 12110 |
| Dr. Edward Lee, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211 |
| Dr. Eugene Hoffert, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 250 Delaware Ave Ste 207, Delmar, NY 12054 |
Leading Hospitals in Albany for Breast Augmentation
US News Best Hospitals has ranked several hospitals in the Albany area. These hospitals not only provide high - quality general care but are also well - equipped to handle breast augmentation procedures:
| Hospital Name | Rank in Albany | High - Performing Specialties/Procedures |
|---|---|---|
| St. Peter's Hospital - Albany | #1 in Albany, NY | High performing in 2 specialties and 15 procedures/conditions, including gastroenterology/gi surgery, urology, aortic valve surgery, colon cancer surgery, etc. |
| Albany Medical Center | #2 in Albany, NY | High performing in 13 procedures/conditions |
| Albany Stratton Veterans Affairs Medical Center | Not regionally ranked (alphabetically listed) | - |
| Bernard & Millie Duker Children's Hospital at Albany Medical Center | Not regionally ranked (alphabetically listed) | - |
| Burdett Birth Center | Not regionally ranked (alphabetically listed) | - |
| Capital District Psychiatric Center | Not regionally ranked (alphabetically listed) | - |
| Cobleskill Regional Hospital | Not regionally ranked (alphabetically listed) | - |
| Conifer Park Hospital | Not regionally ranked (alphabetically listed) | - |
| Ellis Hospital | Not regionally ranked (alphabetically listed) | High performing in 5 procedures/conditions |
| Four Winds Hospital - Saratoga Springs | Not regionally ranked (alphabetically listed) | - |
What is Breast Augmentation?
Many women may feel that their breasts are too small, lack enough volume or youthful contour, lack upper pole fullness, or are too droopy. Breast augmentation is a procedure that enhances the breasts by adding volume and fullness, giving them a more youthful and sensual shape and appearance that improves the breasts’ proportion to the body frame. It can be achieved using silicone or saline breast implants, or even one's own fat in some cases.
Types of Breast Implants
Saline Implants
Saline implants have silicone shells filled with a salt - water (saline) solution directly from a sterile i.v. bag. They are filled after they are inserted into the breast pocket, which allows for a smaller incision and less visible scarring. If a rupture occurs, the salt water can be safely and easily absorbed by the body until the implant is removed and replaced. These implants are FDA - approved for patients 18 years and older and can also be used in younger women to balance asymmetry or correct congenital breast shape or size problems.
Silicone Gel Implants
Silicone gel - filled implants have cohesive silicone shells and are filled with a softer silicone gel material with the consistency of honey. They tend to provide a very natural - looking appearance and a more natural breast feel compared to salt - water filled implants. There is a lower risk of rippling, making them a preferred choice for thinner women with less natural breast tissue. Silicone implants are FDA - approved for women over age 21 and may also be used for younger women in certain circumstances.
Cohesive Gel or “Gummy Bear” Implants
“Gummy bear” implants are also known as “form stable” implants since they are firmer and maintain their shape better. The silicone within these implants is a thicker consistency. If the shell of the implant breaks, it maintains its shape and does not leak gel into the body. Dr. Steven Yarinsky in the Albany area has extensive experience using Sientra® “gummy bear” gel implants. These implants have a very low risk of breakage and capsular contracture. The Sientra® opus™ line of implants is available in textured and smooth surface options, round or shaped, and multiple projection levels. They are covered by the Platinum20™ warranty program.
Breast Implant Surfaces
Smooth Breast Implants
Smooth breast implants are considered the softest option. They can create a more mobile breast appearance as they are able to move within the breast implant pocket. However, to prevent hard breast or thick capsular formation, the pocket for placement typically has to be made much larger than the implant. Complications such as rippling and scar tissue formation around the implant (capsular contracture) can occur. Surgeons at many major breast augmentation centers believe that using smooth implants increases the risk and rate of hard breast or capsular contracture formation.
Textured Breast Implants
Textured breast implants are less likely to move or become repositioned. The formation of scar tissue around these implants helps them adhere to the surrounding breast tissue like “velcro®”. This “texturing” can reduce the risk of thick capsule formation and tight capsular contracture, which can cause hard breasts. Outside the United States and in highly recognized American breast augmentation centers, textured breast implants are the most common selection amongst board - certified plastic surgeons. However, it's important to note that textured implants from Allergan named Biocell® have been recalled per FDA recommendation due to an association with a rare condition called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). Textured implants from Sientra® and Mentor® are still available and have an exceedingly rare association with BIA - ALCL, if any.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
For most breast augmentation procedures, it is typically done as an outpatient procedure using general anesthesia or IV sedation. The doctor will make a small incision, usually around the areola or in the fold beneath the breast. The implant is then inserted under the breast tissue and usually placed partially beneath the chest wall (pectoralis) muscle to camouflage the surface and provide a more naturally appearing upper breast contour. After the implant is in place, the incisions are closed with absorbable sutures, and the breasts are supported in a post - operative bra.
Recovery from Breast Augmentation
The recovery process is an important part of the breast augmentation journey. Immediately after the surgery, patients can expect to feel some discomfort and grogginess. The initial recovery timeline generally includes the following milestones:
- Day 1: Most patients can shower the day after surgery if they are careful not to get the incision site too wet. In some cases, sponge baths may be recommended.
- Days 2 & 3: If comfortable and no longer taking prescription medication, patients should be able to resume driving within 72 hours of the procedure.
- Days 3 - 5: Swelling, tightness, and soreness tend to peak during this period, but any discomfort is usually easily remedied with over - the - counter medicine.
- Day 7: By this point, most patients feel well enough to return to work, school, and other light activities. A postoperative appointment is usually scheduled to ensure that healing is progressing as planned.
- Weeks 2 - 4: Patients should be able to resume most strenuous activities during this time. Restrictions on lifting objects and moving arms above shoulder height may also be eased.
Patients are usually provided with a support bra to wear continuously except when showering for several weeks until swelling and bruising have disappeared. They should avoid tub bathing, swimming, and hot tub use for six to eight weeks.
Risks Associated with Breast Augmentation
While breast augmentation is considered a generally safe procedure when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, there are still some risks involved. These risks may include infection, loss of nipple sensation, capsular contracture (forming firmer breasts), fluid accumulation around the implant, and implant rupture or leakage. A qualified doctor will go over these risks in detail during the consultation process and help patients understand what to expect and what to do if any problems arise after surgery.
Cost of Breast Augmentation
The cost of breast augmentation can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the type of implants, the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's fee, anesthesia costs, and operating room facilities. On average, the cost of breast augmentation can range from $7,900 to $11,900. Additional expenses may be incurred if a breast lift is performed in conjunction with the augmentation. It's important to note that health insurance usually does not cover cosmetic breast augmentation, but may cover pre - operative lab work and tests.
Choosing the Right Surgeon and Hospital
Selecting the right surgeon and hospital is crucial for a successful breast augmentation. When choosing a surgeon, consider their experience, reputation, and the before - and - after photos of their previous patients. It's also important to have a thorough consultation where you can discuss your goals, concerns, and ask any questions you may have. For hospitals, look at their rankings, the quality of their medical staff, and the range of services they offer. You may also want to consider factors such as location and the overall patient experience.
Conclusion
In Albany, patients have access to top - level public and private hospitals for breast augmentation with textured implants. There are many experienced doctors, a variety of implant options, and well - ranked hospitals to choose from. Whether you are looking to enhance your breast size, improve symmetry, or restore volume after pregnancy or weight loss, breast augmentation can be a life - changing procedure. However, it's important to do thorough research, have a detailed consultation with a qualified surgeon, and understand all aspects of the procedure, including the risks, recovery process, and cost.
If you're considering breast augmentation in Albany, take the next step and schedule a consultation with one of the top - rated doctors mentioned in this article. Share this information with friends or family who may also be interested in breast augmentation and explore more about this topic by doing further research or contacting local plastic surgery clinics.
