Introduction

Breast augmentation has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure, and Allergan breast implants are among the well - known options in the market. In Albany, there are public hospitals that stand out for their expertise in using Allergan breast augmentation prostheses. In this article, we will delve into the details of the strength of the top three public hospitals in Albany for this particular procedure. First, let's understand what Allergan breast implants are all about.

Allergan Breast Implants: An Overview

Allergan Inc. is one of the largest breast implant manufacturers globally. It started selling breast implants in 2006, and in 2020, Abbvie acquired Allergan and its aesthetics portfolio. Allergan's flagship breast implant brand is Natrelle, though it previously sold implants under subsidiaries like Inamed and McGhan. The company offers a range of products including saline and silicone - filled devices for breast augmentation and reconstruction.

Types of Allergan Breast Implants

Allergan offers several types of breast implants, each with its own characteristics:

• Biocell Textured Implants: These were saline and silicone - filled implants and tissue expanders. However, in July 2019, after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) linked the devices to a rare cancer called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), Allergan issued a worldwide recall of its textured implants. Currently, the company no longer sells textured implants.
• Natrelle Inspira Smooth Round Gel Implants: These implants have a smooth outer shell and are filled with silicone gel. The smooth shell allows the implant to move under the skin or muscle, mimicking the movement of natural breast tissue.
• Natrelle Inspira Textured Round Gel Implants: Before the recall, these were available. Textured shells allow tissue to grow into the surface of the implant and keep it in place.
• Natrelle 410 Anatomical Gel Implants: Designed to mimic the curve of a natural breast, these are tear - drop shaped implants.
• Natrelle Saline - filled Smooth Round Implants: Filled with sterile saline (a saltwater solution), they are an option for those who prefer a less expensive alternative or have certain concerns about silicone.
• Natrelle 133 and 133 Plus Tissue Expanders: Used in reconstruction surgery, doctors or nurses slowly fill these expanders with saline over several weeks or months to stretch skin and muscle to create a pocket for a more permanent implant. The Natrelle 133 tissue expanders have a silicone shell and a textured surface to prevent movement.

Composition of Allergan Breast Implants

Allergan breast implants have an outer shell made of silicone elastomer, a type of silicone with elastic properties similar to rubber. The shells can be filled with either silicone gel or sterile saline. According to Samuel Sarmiento, MD, MPH, MBA, “In addition to cost differences, saline - and silicone - filled implants may lead to different clinical outcomes. Ultimately, the choice of implant for breast augmentation or reconstruction is also influenced by the preferences of both the surgeon and the patient.”

Top Three Public Hospitals in Albany for Allergan Breast Augmentation

Albany Medical Center Hospital

Facility and Resources

Albany Medical Center Hospital has the necessary infrastructure and equipment for breast augmentation surgeries. The hospital is well - equipped with modern operating rooms that adhere to strict safety and hygiene standards. This is crucial for any surgical procedure as it helps minimize the risk of infections and complications.

Surgeon Expertise

It is likely that the hospital has a team of experienced plastic surgeons who are well - versed in using Allergan breast implants. When performing breast augmentation, surgeons need to have a detailed understanding of the patient's anatomy, the characteristics of different Allergan implant types, and the surgical techniques required for proper implant placement. For example, they need to be able to determine the appropriate incision location (periareolar, inframammary, or axillary) based on the patient's body type and preferences. According to Turquoise Health, the hospital offers breast enlargement using prosthetic implant services.

Patient Care

The hospital provides comprehensive patient care before, during, and after the surgery. Before the surgery, patients are typically given detailed pre - operative instructions, which may include things like avoiding certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding. They also undergo a thorough medical evaluation to ensure they are suitable candidates for the procedure. After the surgery, patients receive post - operative care instructions, which may include pain management, wound care, and activity restrictions.

Price and Insurance

The price for breast enlargement using prosthetic implant at Albany Medical Center Hospital varies depending on whether the patient is paying in cash or is part of an insurance plan with a pre - negotiated rate. This flexibility allows patients to choose the payment option that best suits their financial situation. However, according to the Turquoise Health price transparency page, the hospital's performance in some care quality metrics shows both strengths and areas for improvement. For example, it has above - average safety of care but below - average patient experience and timeliness of care.

Other Potential Public Hospitals (Based on General Qualities in Albany)

Although specific information on the other top two public hospitals might not be as readily available as Albany Medical Center Hospital, we can still infer some general strengths they might possess based on the overall qualities of public hospitals in the area.

Multidisciplinary Approach

Public hospitals in Albany are likely to have a multidisciplinary approach to breast augmentation. This means that in addition to plastic surgeons, they may involve other specialists such as anesthesiologists, nurses, and counselors. Anesthesiologists play a crucial role in ensuring the patient's safety during the surgery by administering the appropriate anesthesia. Nurses are responsible for pre - and post - operative care, monitoring the patient's vital signs, and providing emotional support. Counselors can help patients deal with the psychological aspects of undergoing a cosmetic procedure, such as body image concerns.

Research and Innovation

Many public hospitals are involved in research and innovation in the field of plastic surgery. They may participate in clinical trials to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new Allergan implant designs or surgical techniques. This research not only benefits the hospital's patients but also contributes to the advancement of the field as a whole. For example, they might be involved in studying the long - term effects of Allergan breast implants or finding ways to reduce the risk of complications.

Continuing Education

Surgeons and staff at these hospitals are likely to participate in continuing education programs. This ensures that they stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in breast augmentation using Allergan implants. For example, they may attend conferences, workshops, and training courses to learn about new implant materials, placement techniques, and patient management strategies.

Breast Augmentation Procedure Details

Primary Augmentation

Primary augmentation is the first surgery someone undergoes to increase breast size. It is an outpatient procedure that uses general anesthesia. The operation can take anywhere from one hour to several hours, depending on the patient and the implant. For example, if a patient has a lot of excess skin, the surgeon may also perform a breast lift at the same time as placing the implant.

Implant Placement

There are two main ways to place the Natrelle implant: submuscular and subglandular. Submuscular implant placement involves placing the implant under the chest muscle (pectoralis). This technique can reduce the risk of capsular contracture, which occurs when scar tissue squeezes the implant. It also makes breast tissue easier to see in mammograms and is preferred in women with weakened or thin breast tissue. However, surgery and recovery are longer and may be more painful, and reoperation may also be more difficult. Subglandular implant placement means placing the implant on top of the muscle and under the breast glands. This method has a greater likelihood of capsular contracture and makes it more difficult to see breast tissue in mammograms. However, the surgery and recovery may be shorter and less painful, and it is easier to perform revision surgery on these implants.

Incision Location

There are three common incision sites for Allergan silicone implants:

Recovery and Complications

Recovery

After the surgery, women generally feel tired and sore for several days. As the skin adjusts to the implant, there may be discomfort and tightness. Swelling can decrease feeling in the nipple and breast. In most cases, women can return to work a few days after breast augmentation, but they should avoid strenuous activities. Recovery may involve using a special bra or other support to help speed up healing, and some women may need pain medication infusion devices. It usually takes 3 to 6 months to see the final result as the implants “drop and fluff,” which means they settle into a more natural position as the swelling subsides and the soft tissues relax.

Complications

Like any surgery, breast augmentation has its risks. The FDA classified breast implants as class III, high - risk devices. Some of the key complications include:

• Reoperation: This may be necessary due to various reasons such as implant rupture, deflation, or capsular contracture.
• Implant Rupture: Silicone - filled implants can rupture, which may require removal or replacement of the implant.
• Implant Deflation: Saline - filled implants can deflate, causing the breast to change shape.
• Severe Capsular Contracture: Scar tissue can squeeze the implant, causing pain and hard, misshapen breasts.
• Asymmetry: The breasts may not look symmetrical after the surgery.
• Nipple, Breast, or Skin Sensation Changes: There may be changes in sensation in the nipple, breast, or surrounding skin.
• Scarring: Incisions can leave scars, which may vary in appearance depending on the individual's healing process.
• Wrinkling/Rippling: Folds of the implant may be visible through the skin, especially in thin women or with certain types of implants.

Allergan conducted the Allergan Core Study, a 10 - year study with 715 patients. The study found that 49 percent of primary augmentation patients and 64 percent of revision - augmentation patients will have at least one complication within 10 years of surgery, including reoperation.

Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon

Hospital Reputation

When considering a hospital for Allergan breast augmentation, it is important to look at the hospital's reputation. This can be determined by factors such as patient reviews, success rates of the procedures, and the hospital's standing in the medical community. For example, you can check online review platforms, speak to former patients, or look at medical rankings.

Surgeon Qualifications

The qualifications of the surgeon are crucial. Surgeons should be board - certified in plastic surgery, which means they have met certain standards of education, training, and experience. They should also have experience specifically with Allergan breast implants. You can ask the surgeon about their past cases, success rates, and any complications they have encountered. For example, in Albany, according to Healthgrades, there are many doctors who perform breast augmentation, and you can look at their ratings and patient reviews to make an informed decision. Doctors like Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD with a rating of 4.90 out of 5 stars, and Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO with the same high rating, might be good options to consider.

Consultation

It is recommended to have a consultation with the surgeon before making a decision. During the consultation, you can discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations for the breast augmentation. The surgeon can then assess your anatomy, recommend the most suitable implant type and placement, and answer any questions you may have. This is also an opportunity to get a feel for the surgeon's communication style and bedside manner.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Albany has public hospitals that are well - equipped and staffed to perform Allergan breast augmentation procedures. The top three public hospitals likely offer a combination of experienced surgeons, advanced facilities, and comprehensive patient care. However, breast augmentation is not without risks, and it is important for patients to be fully informed about the procedure, the implants, and the potential complications. By choosing the right hospital and surgeon, patients can increase their chances of a successful and satisfying outcome.

If you are considering Allergan breast augmentation in Albany, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with different surgeons, and make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about this topic and explore related resources to gain a more comprehensive understanding of breast augmentation.