Introduction
Breast augmentation is one of the most sought - after cosmetic surgery procedures, offering women the opportunity to enhance their appearance and boost their self - confidence. In Albany, there are numerous plastic hospitals that provide high - quality breast augmentation services. This comprehensive review aims to evaluate the top 10 breast augmentation surgery plastic hospitals in Albany, taking into account various factors such as doctor ratings, expertise, facilities, and patient experiences.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
Reasons for Breast Augmentation
There are several reasons why women choose to undergo breast augmentation. Some may have always desired larger, fuller breasts to look better in clothing and swimwear. Others may have experienced a loss of breast fullness due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or the natural aging process. According to The Plastic Surgery Group, many women from areas like Clifton Park, Saratoga Springs, and Schenectady in Albany opt for breast augmentation to gain a shapely, feminine appearance and a confidence boost.
Candidates for Breast Augmentation
Good candidates for breast augmentation are those who have realistic expectations about the procedure. They should be in good overall health, and their breast concerns could range from underdeveloped natural breast tissue, disproportionately small breasts compared to the lower body, asymmetrical or oddly - shaped breasts, to deflation and lost volume after pregnancy or weight loss. As mentioned in the resources, during a consultation, the plastic surgeon will discuss the patient's feelings, review their medical history, and conduct a physical examination to determine if breast augmentation is the right choice.
Types of Breast Implants
| Implant Type | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saline Implants | Made of silicone shells filled with sterile salt water. They typically require smaller incisions than silicone implants. | Lower cost, easier to detect leaks as the saline is absorbed by the body. In case of a rupture, the deflation is noticeable quickly. | May feel less natural compared to silicone implants, especially in thinner patients. Can sometimes cause rippling or wrinkling under the skin. |
| Silicone Implants | Have durable silicone shells filled with a gel of various degrees of cohesiveness. The most cohesive ones are called “gummy bear” breast implants. | Feel more natural and are less likely to cause rippling. They closely mimic the feel of natural breast tissue. | Higher cost. In case of a rupture, it may be silent and undetectable without proper imaging, such as ultrasounds. |
Both saline and silicone implants are FDA - approved, with saline implants being approved for women over 18 and silicone implants for women over 22.
Incisions for Breast Augmentation
- Inframammary Incision: A thin line that traces the fold beneath the breast. This is a common and popular choice as it provides good access for implant placement. It is also relatively well - hidden and has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture according to recent studies (The Plastic Surgery Group).
- Transaxillary Incision: Hidden in the armpit. This incision allows for a scar that is not visible on the breast itself, but it may be more challenging to place the implant precisely.
- Periareolar Incision: Along the lower border of the areola, where the dark skin meets the lighter skin. This can result in a scar that is less noticeable as it blends with the natural pigment of the areola, but it may have a slightly higher risk of affecting nipple sensation.
Implant Placement
- Subglandular Placement: The implant is placed directly behind the breast tissue, above the chest muscle. This can result in a quicker recovery, but there may be a higher risk of visible rippling and less natural - looking results, especially in women with little breast tissue.
- Submuscular Placement: The implant is placed beneath the chest wall muscle. This placement is usually better for women with little natural breast tissue as the chest muscle helps cover the implant. It also reduces the possibility of capsular contracture and interferes less with mammograms compared to subglandular placement (The Plastic Surgery Group).
- Biplanar Placement: A combination of subglandular and submuscular placement. It can provide the benefits of both, such as a natural slope of the breast and additional coverage of the implant.
Top 10 Breast Augmentation Surgery Plastic Hospitals in Albany
1. Hospitals Associated with Highly - Rated Doctors
Based on Healthgrades, there are many well - regarded doctors in Albany who perform breast augmentation. For example, Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD, with a rating of 4.90 out of 5 stars at 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, and Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO, also rated 4.90 out of 5 stars at 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211. These doctors' affiliations likely suggest high - quality care at the associated hospitals. Patients can have more confidence in hospitals where these top - rated doctors practice as their high ratings imply experience and patient satisfaction.
2. The Plastic Surgery Group
Conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, & Troy, The Plastic Surgery Group offers a comprehensive approach to breast augmentation. They have detailed consultations to discuss all aspects of the procedure, including implant types, incision options, and implant placement. They also address post - operative care, financing options, and answer patients' questions about the surgery. Their surgeons typically perform breast augmentation surgery at a nearby outpatient surgical center using general anesthesia administered by a board - certified anesthesiologist. The cost of breast augmentation at this group is typically $6,000 to $7,000, with the actual amount depending on various factors such as implant choice and procedure complexity. They offer patient financing to help patients afford the procedure.
3. Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore at Rockmore Plastic Surgery in Latham, serving Albany, Utica, Saratoga, and Troy, New York, has extensive experience, having performed more than 4,000 breast procedures. He uses a 3 - dimensional approach for breast augmentation, which aims to achieve consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts. The cost of breast augmentation at his practice varies based on implant choice, surgery specifics, and individual patient factors. He customizes each breast augmentation to meet the patient's unique needs, from implant size and shape selection to incision and placement decisions. For example, he offers different types of incisions (inframammary, periareolar, transaxillary) and implant placements (subglandular, submuscular, biplanar) and helps patients decide the best options for their bodies.
4. Capek Plastic Surgery
Dr. Lucie Capek at Capek Plastic Surgery is an expert in breast augmentation. She uses breast implant sizers during the consultation to help patients visualize their desired breast size. The breast augmentation procedure at her office is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure in their quada - accredited office - based operating suite or a hospital operating room. She uses a harmonic scalpel to create the implant pocket, which helps minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during the surgery. She also offers options for implant placement based on the patient's shape, natural anatomy, and lifestyle. After the procedure, she provides detailed aftercare instructions and schedules follow - up appointments to oversee the recovery process.
Evaluating the Strength of These Hospitals
Doctor Qualifications
Board certification in plastic surgery is a crucial factor. Doctors like those at the mentioned hospitals are likely board - certified, which indicates that they have successfully passed rigorous exams in the field, demonstrating a deep level of practical knowledge. For example, according to The Plastic Surgery Group, patients are encouraged to choose board - certified surgeons as they have the expertise to perform the procedure safely and effectively. High patient ratings also reflect a doctor's skill, experience, and ability to meet patient expectations.
Facility Quality
Modern and well - equipped facilities are essential for breast augmentation surgery. Hospitals with state - of - the - art operating rooms, advanced imaging technology for pre - and post - operative evaluations, and comfortable recovery areas provide a better surgical experience. For instance, Capek Plastic Surgery has a quada - accredited office - based operating suite, which shows that it meets certain quality and safety standards.
Patient Care
Comprehensive patient care includes pre - operative consultations, during - surgery attention, and post - operative follow - up. Hospitals that take the time to understand a patient's goals, answer all their questions, and provide detailed instructions for pre - and post - operative care contribute to a positive patient experience. The Plastic Surgery Group offers detailed consultations to ensure patients have realistic expectations and are well - informed about the procedure. They also provide post - operative pain management and guidance on recovery, such as when to return to work and resume normal activities.
Success Rates and Complications
A low complication rate is a sign of a hospital's strength. Common complications in breast augmentation include capsular contracture, infection, nipple sensation changes, and implant rupture. Reputable hospitals have experienced surgeons who take precautions to minimize these risks. For example, The Plastic Surgery Group's surgeons review possible complications as part of the consultation, and they take steps during the surgery to reduce the likelihood of complications. Also, hospitals that have a high rate of patient satisfaction with the final results are more likely to be considered strong.
Preparing for Breast Augmentation Surgery
Consultation
The first step is to schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon at one of the top hospitals in Albany. During this consultation, the surgeon will discuss the patient's goals, perform a physical examination, and review the patient's medical history. They will also explain the different options for breast augmentation, including implant types, incisions, and placements. The patient should come prepared with a list of questions to ensure they have a clear understanding of the procedure.
Lifestyle Changes
Patients should follow a healthy lifestyle before the surgery. This includes eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking. Smoking can decrease the body's ability to heal normally, so it is advisable to quit smoking well in advance of the surgery. Patients should also follow their primary care physician's advice when treating chronic conditions like high blood pressure.
Medication and Supplements
Some medications and supplements can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. The surgeon will provide instructions on which medications to avoid, such as aspirin, non - steroidal anti - inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and certain herbal supplements. Patients should follow these instructions carefully to minimize surgical risks.
Recovery After Breast Augmentation Surgery
Immediate Post - operative Period
Right after the surgery, patients may feel tired and sore. They will need to have an adult drive them home and care for them for the first 24 hours. Surgeons usually prescribe pain medication to manage discomfort. Most patients can shower within a day or two, being careful not to get the incision site too wet. The Plastic Surgery Group mentions that patients may experience a slight burning feeling in their nipples, which will subside as the bruising lessens and healing continues.
Short - term Recovery
- 7 - 10 days: Gauze dressings are usually removed and replaced by a surgical bra. Stitches are taken out during this time. Patients should follow the surgeon's guidelines for wearing the surgical bra.
- 3 - 5 weeks: Breasts will be sensitive to physical contact during this period. Most patients can return to work within a week if their job is sedentary, but strenuous or high - impact activities like running may be restricted for 6 - 8 weeks (Capek Plastic Surgery).
Long - term Recovery
Over several months, the scars will gradually fade, thin, and soften. The breasts will also continue to settle into their final positions. Women with silicone implants may need to have periodic ultrasounds to screen for silent implant rupture, and they should continue with their regular mammograms and breast exams.
Potential Risks and Complications
Immediate Risks
- Bleeding or Hematoma: There is a small risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, which can lead to the formation of a hematoma. Surgeons take precautions to minimize this risk during the procedure.
- Anesthesia Side Effects: General anesthesia can cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting. Board - certified anesthesiologists are trained to manage these side effects and ensure the patient's safety during the surgery.
- Changes in Nipple Sensation: Some women may experience hypersensitive nipples, a loss of sensitivity, or slight numbness around the incision area. In most cases, these symptoms disappear over time.
Long - term Risks
- Capsular Contracture: This is the tightening of the scar or capsule around the implant, which can make the breast feel hard. It may require a second surgery to remove the scar tissue and, in some cases, replace the implant.
- Implant Malposition: The implant may shift into an undesirable position, such as dropping too low. This can sometimes be corrected with additional surgery.
- Implant Rupture: Saline implants will lose their contents quickly if they rupture, and the body will naturally absorb the saltwater. Silicone implants may have a silent rupture, so women with silicone implants are recommended to have periodic ultrasounds to check their integrity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that can offer significant benefits to women in Albany. The top 10 breast augmentation surgery plastic hospitals in the area have a lot to offer in terms of experienced doctors, high - quality facilities, comprehensive patient care, and positive patient outcomes. When considering breast augmentation, it is essential to do thorough research, choose a reputable hospital and surgeon, and have realistic expectations about the procedure. By carefully weighing all the factors, patients can make an informed decision and achieve the results they desire.
If you are considering breast augmentation in Albany, we encourage you to reach out to one of the top plastic hospitals mentioned in this review. Schedule a consultation, ask all your questions, and take the time to make the best decision for your body and your goals. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in Albany.
