Introduction
For individuals in Albany seeking breast shape improvement, having access to a reliable ranking of hospitals is crucial. Whether it's a breast lift, augmentation, or other related procedures, choosing the right hospital and doctor can significantly impact the outcome and overall experience. In this article, we will explore the top - ranked hospitals in Albany for breast shape improvement, along with key information about doctors, procedures, and what to expect.
Top - Ranked Hospitals in Albany for Breast Shape Improvement
St. Peter's Hospital - Albany
St. Peter's Hospital is highly regarded in Albany. In the 2024 - 2025 rankings by U.S. News & World Report, it was named the best in the Albany area for the 11th year in a row. It was also ranked the 15th best hospital in New York overall. The hospital is high - performing in various medical and surgical services relevant to breast shape improvement, such as procedures for cancer (colon, lung, prostate) which are important as breast health is often associated with overall body health. It also excels in heart - related procedures like heart attack treatment, aortic valve surgery, and heart bypass surgery. Moreover, it shows high performance in conditions like hip replacement, knee replacement, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and pneumonia.
While it may not be exclusively a plastic surgery hospital, its comprehensive medical services and high - quality patient care can provide a safe and supportive environment for patients undergoing breast shape improvement procedures. For example, if a patient experiences any post - operative medical complications related to heart or other systems, the hospital is well - equipped to handle them.
Albany Medical Center
Albany Medical Center is another top - tier hospital in Albany. It is regionally ranked #20 in New York and #2 in Albany. It is a general medical and surgical facility and also a teaching hospital, which means it is likely to stay updated with the latest medical advancements. The hospital is rated high - performing in 13 adult procedures and conditions. In terms of procedures relevant to breast shape improvement, it has high - performance ratings in cancer - related procedures such as colon cancer surgery, lung cancer surgery, ovarian cancer surgery, prostate cancer surgery, and uterine cancer surgery. This indicates a high level of surgical expertise within the hospital.
When it comes to breast - related surgeries, having a hospital with strong oncology and general surgical capabilities is an advantage. If there are any unexpected findings during a breast shape improvement procedure, the hospital can handle further diagnosis and treatment. For example, if a patient has a pre - existing undiagnosed breast cancer that is detected during augmentation or lift surgery, the hospital has the resources to manage it.
Other Hospitals
There are other hospitals in the Albany area, such as Ellis Hospital, which is high - performing in 5 procedures and conditions. However, compared to St. Peter's and Albany Medical Center, it may not have the same level of comprehensiveness in services related to breast shape improvement. There are also specialized centers like the Capital District Psychiatric Center, which are not directly related to breast shape improvement surgeries but can provide support for patients dealing with psychological aspects of body image changes post - surgery.
Top Doctors for Breast Shape Improvement in Albany
Healthgrades has identified 21 doctors in Albany who perform breast surgical procedures. These doctors have varying levels of experience and patient ratings.
| Doctor Name | Rating | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Jerome Chao, MD | 4.40 out of 5 stars | 13 Century Hill Dr, Latham, NY 12110 |
| Dr. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 out of 5 stars | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
| Dr. Donna Pietrocola, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 25 Hackett Blvd, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. David Tauber, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 5 Ulenski Dr, Albany, NY 12205 |
| Dr. Christa Abraham, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 43 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore, MD | 4.30 out of 5 stars | 15 Old Loudon Rd, Latham, NY 12110 |
| Dr. Ankesh Nigam, MD | 4.70 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
These doctors bring different levels of expertise and experience to the table. For example, Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore is a board - certified plastic surgeon who specializes in breast lift surgery. He has vast experience with thousands of breast procedures and can use a variety of lifting procedures to meet individual patient needs. He has developed his skills over more than 15 years of working with an array of different breast sizes and shapes, giving patients the confidence that they are in good hands.
Common Breast Shape Improvement Procedures
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Over time, many women experience sagging, drooping, or loss of fullness in their breasts due to factors such as pregnancy, weight loss, and aging. A breast lift is a surgical procedure that can address these issues. It involves removing excess skin and tightening tissues to create a more youthful breast contour.
There are several types of breast lift procedures, each suitable for different degrees of sagging:
- Breast Augmentation for Mild Ptosis: When there is mild or first - degree ptosis, placement of breast implants alone can sometimes restore the upper or superior volume of the breast and provide sufficient lift. This is a less invasive option for those with minimal sagging.
- Crescent Lift: This method can be used to slightly elevate the nipple position. It leaves a scar on the edge of the areola on its top portion. It is a relatively minor procedure for a small amount of lift.
- Periareolar Lift (Benelli Mastopexy): This technique can be used to treat mild degrees of ptosis or laxity. A doughnut - shaped portion of skin is removed from around the areola, creating some tightening of the breast skin. However, the degree of lifting effect is limited, so it is suitable for only mild degrees of ptosis.
- Vertical Mastopexy: This is a more powerful lifting technique used when there is more significant sagging. It results in a scar around the areola and straight down like a lollipop and can be used to treat mild to moderate degrees of sag.
- Full Mastopexy: This method is used for more significant types of sag and allows for maximum lifting and reshaping of the breast. The resultant scar is around the areola, straight down, and then along the crease of the breast in an anchor configuration.
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a procedure to increase the size and enhance the shape of the breasts. It involves the placement of breast implants. During the planning phase, patients have a consultation with their surgeon to discuss their goals and the current shape and position of their breasts. Surgeons use scientific sizing systems, such as the Mentor breast implant sizing system, to help patients “try on” different implants and get an idea of how they will look and feel.
There are different types of implants available, including saline and silicone implants. Saline implants can be placed through a smaller incision and filled with saline after they are in place. Silicone implants come in two varieties: silicone gel and form - stable silicone (gummy bear implants), which are known for their natural - feeling.
The procedure is typically an outpatient one and lasts between one and two hours. The surgeon makes a small incision, usually in the breast fold or at the border of the nipple, creates a pocket for the implant, usually partially behind the muscle, inserts the implant, and then closes the skin with absorbable sutures. After the surgery, patients need to follow post - operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing, including wearing a post - operative bra and avoiding physical activity for a few weeks.
Combined Breast Augmentation and Lift
Combining breast augmentation with a breast lift is an effective way to completely rejuvenate the size, projection, and position of the breasts, especially for those with sagging. This procedure can restore lost volume and lift the breasts to a more youthful position. Ideal candidates are those who want to increase breast size as well as re - position their breasts at the same time and are in good health and done breastfeeding and having children.
During the consultation, patients can customize the procedure by selecting the type of breast implant (saline or silicone), implant size, shape (round or anatomical), texture (smooth or textured), incision pattern (circumvertical or wise pattern), and implant placement (on top of the chest muscle or underneath the chest muscle).
What to Expect Before, During, and After Breast Shape Improvement Procedures
Before the Procedure
Before any breast shape improvement procedure, patients will have a detailed consultation with their doctor. For a breast lift, the doctor will physically examine the quality and tone of the breast skin and evaluate the sagging (ptosis). In the case of breast augmentation or a combined procedure, the doctor will discuss the patient's goals, measure the breasts, and recommend implant sizes and profiles. Patients may also have the opportunity to use advanced imaging techniques like 3 - D computer simulations to visualize the expected results.
Patients will also receive instructions on how to prepare for the surgery. This may include stopping or adjusting medications, such as blood thinners, coordinating with a caregiver for post - operative support, purchasing essentials for the recovery period, and refraining from eating or drinking beginning at midnight before the procedure.
During the Procedure
Most breast shape improvement procedures are performed under general anesthesia. For breast lift and augmentation procedures, a board - certified anesthesiologist will administer the anesthesia. The surgeon will then perform the procedure according to the planned technique. During the surgery, the medical team will closely monitor the patient's vital signs and ensure their safety.
After the Procedure
After a breast lift, patients will wake up with a bra in place and may have some swelling and bruising, which can take 1 to 2 weeks to resolve. They are usually prescribed pain medications, but most women need them for only a couple of days. They can shower the next day and should avoid strenuous activities for 2 weeks and heavy lifting for 3 weeks.
For breast augmentation, patients will be given a post - operative bra and possibly a superior strap to support the implants while they heal. They need to follow post - op care instructions carefully, including attending follow - up visits to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. It is important to avoid physical activity for a few weeks.
After a combined breast augmentation and lift, patients can expect swelling, tenderness, redness, and bruising. They will be fitted with a specialized surgical bra and drains. They should take 1 - 2 weeks away from work and social activities to rest and recover. Most swelling will subside within 1 - 2 weeks, but it can take a few months for the implants to settle into their final position.
Cost Considerations
The cost of breast shape improvement procedures can vary significantly. For a breast lift, on average, it costs about $5,000, but this can vary depending on the specifics of the surgery, such as the technique used and individual patient factors. The cost of breast augmentation also varies depending on the type of implant, the complexity of the procedure, and other factors. Many clinics offer financing plans to help patients cover the cost of the procedures. It is important for patients to have a clear understanding of the costs involved and to get a personalized price quote during their consultation.
Conclusion
In Albany, there are excellent hospitals and doctors available for breast shape improvement procedures. St. Peter's Hospital and Albany Medical Center are top - ranked hospitals that offer high - quality medical services, which can provide a safe and reliable environment for these surgeries. The doctors in the area have diverse experience and expertise, allowing patients to find the right fit for their needs. Whether it's a breast lift, augmentation, or a combined procedure, understanding the different options, what to expect before, during, and after the surgery, and the cost considerations is crucial.
If you are considering a breast shape improvement procedure in Albany, we encourage you to take the time to research the hospitals and doctors, schedule consultations, and ask all the questions you may have. You can also reach out to the offices of the hospitals and doctors mentioned in this article to learn more and start your journey towards achieving your desired breast shape.
