Introduction to Breast Augmentation in Albany
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the United States, and Albany offers a variety of excellent hospitals and surgeons for this treatment. This article will take you through the powerful hospitals and top - rated doctors in Albany for breast augmentation, as well as provide comprehensive information about breast augmentation itself.
Popularity and Motivations for Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation has seen a significant rise in popularity over the years. Data from global intelligence platform Statista showed that in 1997, there were 900,000 cosmetic surgical procedures in the U.S., and by 2022, that number had grown to more than 1.87 million. Women may elect to undergo breast augmentation for various medical and aesthetic reasons. Some of these include balancing breast size, compensating for reduced breast mass after pregnancy or surgery, and enhancing self - confidence.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a breast enhancement procedure where a board - certified plastic surgeon increases the size of the breasts and improves their shape. Usually, silicone or saline breast implants are used, but in some cases, a patient's own fat can also be used to add a modest volume to the breasts.
Top - Rated Doctors for Breast Augmentation in Albany
According to Healthgrades, there are 155 doctors who perform breast augmentation in Albany, and here are some of the highly - rated ones:
| Doctor's Name | Rating (out of 5 stars) | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.60 | 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. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Meera Menon, MD | 4.40 | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD | 4.90 | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Francis Cullen, MD | 4.80 | 5 Palisades Dr Ste 110, Albany, NY 12205 |
| Dr. Jerome Chao, MD | 4.30 | 13 Century Hill Dr, Latham, NY 12110 |
| Dr. Edward Lee, MD | 4.50 | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO | 4.90 | 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211 |
| Dr. Eugene Hoffert, MD | 4.90 | 250 Delaware Ave Ste 207, Delmar, NY 12054 |
Expertise and Patient Satisfaction
These doctors have an average rating of 4.4 stars or above, indicating a high level of patient satisfaction. Their experience and skills in breast augmentation are well - recognized in the area. For example, a patient who visited Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore in Latham, serving Albany, had a great experience with breast augmentation. One 45 - year - old patient who had lost significant breast volume after having kids was able to achieve her desired big B/small C cup size using a 330 cc silicone implant and was very happy with the results.
Top Hospitals in Albany for Medical Services (Including Breast - Related)
US News Rankings
According to US News Best Hospitals, in the Albany, New York metropolitan area, the following hospitals are highly - regarded:
| Hospital Name | Rank in Albany | High - performing Specialties/Procedures |
|---|---|---|
| St. Peter's Hospital - Albany | #1 in Albany, NY | High performing in 2 specialties & 15 procedures/conditions |
| Albany Medical Center | #2 in Albany, NY | High performing in 13 procedures/conditions |
| Albany Stratton Veterans Affairs Medical Center | Not regionally ranked | - |
| Bernard & Millie Duker Children's Hospital at Albany Medical Center | Not regionally ranked | - |
| Burdett Birth Center | Not regionally ranked | - |
| Capital District Psychiatric Center | Not regionally ranked | - |
| Cobleskill Regional Hospital | Not regionally ranked | - |
| Conifer Park Hospital | Not regionally ranked | - |
| Ellis Hospital | Not regionally ranked | High performing in 5 procedures/conditions |
| Four Winds Hospital - Saratoga Springs | Not regionally ranked | - |
Women's Choice Award Considerations
The Women's Choice Award® identifies America's best hospitals and healthcare facilities based on robust criteria, including relevant clinical performance, patient satisfaction, and appropriate accreditations. This can also be a valuable reference when considering a hospital for breast - related services, as it focuses on the female experience. The award uses the most recent publicly available clinical data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) patient satisfaction survey results, relevant accreditation information from appropriate sources, and the American Hospital Directory.
St. Peter's Hospital's Excellence
For the 2024 - 2025 rankings, U.S. News named St. Peter’s Hospital 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. St. Peter’s Hospital was ranked high performing in procedures such as colon cancer surgery, lung cancer surgery, prostate cancer surgery, heart - related surgeries, kidney failure treatment, joint replacements, and treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and pneumonia. While these may not be directly breast - augmentation related, it shows the hospital's high - quality medical care and infrastructure, which can be reassuring for patients considering any medical procedure at the hospital.
Key Factors in Breast Augmentation
Implants
Implant Size and Shape
Breast implants come in a wide range of sizes and shapes. Choosing the right implant is crucial for achieving the desired look. Some doctors, like Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore, take a 3 - dimensional approach to implant selection. Instead of focusing solely on implant volume, he matches the width of the implant to the width of the patient's chest and breasts, which helps prevent excess space between the breasts and results in a more natural look.
Implant Material
There are two main types of breast implants: saline and silicone. Saline implants are made of silicone shells filled with sterile salt water and typically require smaller incisions. 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, which have the advantage of the gel sticking together and not leaving the breast pocket if a rupture occurs. Both types are FDA - approved: saline for women older than 18 and silicone for women older than 22.
Implant Profile
The implant profile refers to the degree to which implants stick out or project from the chest. Higher profile implants have more upper fullness but may look more “implanted,” while moderate profile implants can look more natural, especially for women with larger frames and wider chests. The choice of profile depends on the patient's existing anatomy and desired results.
Incisions and Placement
Incisions
Common incision locations for breast augmentation include inframammary (a thin line along the breast fold), periareolar (along the lower border of the areola), and transaxillary (hidden in the armpit). Each incision type has its advantages, and the surgeon will help the patient decide which is best based on their body and specific needs.
Implant Placement
There are three main types of implant pockets: subglandular (above the muscle), submuscular (behind the pectoralis muscle), and biplanar (a combination of the two). For most women, a submuscular pocket provides a natural slope of the breast and additional coverage of the implant. If there is some sagging, a biplanar approach may be recommended to avoid the need for a lift.
Recovery from Breast Augmentation
Initial Recovery Timeline
- Day 1: Most patients can shower the day after surgery if they are careful not to get the incision site too wet. Sponge baths may be recommended in some cases.
- Days 2 & 3: If the patient is comfortable and no longer taking prescription medication, they 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 discomfort can usually be managed with over - the - counter medicine.
- Day 7: By this point, most patients feel well enough to return to work, school, and other light activities. They will have their first postoperative appointment a week after surgery to ensure proper healing.
- Weeks 2 - 4: Patients should be able to resume most strenuous activities, and restrictions on lifting objects and moving arms above shoulder height may be eased.
Long - term Recovery and Follow - up
Additional follow - up visits are usually scheduled for 8 weeks and 6 months after the procedure, although the timeline can be adjusted for patients traveling from a distance. As months pass, the augmented breasts will soften and settle into their final positions, and scars will fade. The patient may need to replace the implants after about 15 years to keep the results aligned with their body shape and goals.
Common Questions and Concerns
Scarring
The appearance of scars depends on the incision used during the procedure. Surgeons like Dr. Rockmore are careful when making incisions to ensure they heal well. Patients can also follow the surgeon's incision - care instructions after surgery to encourage healthy healing.
Breastfeeding
It is possible to breastfeed after breast augmentation. Surgeons use techniques that ensure a high likelihood of successful breastfeeding, and the presence of implants does not hinder milk production. However, patients should inform the surgeon if they plan to breastfeed in the future.
Combining with a Lift
If there is breast sagging, whether a lift is necessary depends on the degree of sagging. Slight sagging may be reduced with breast augmentation alone, but more significant sagging may require a combined breast augmentation and lift. The surgeon will help the patient understand the best approach during the consultation.
Implant “Drop”
“Dropping” or “drop and fluff” refers to the process where the muscles and tissues around the implants soften and relax, allowing the breasts to take on a more natural appearance. It is a gradual process that can take several months to complete.
Safety
When performed by a board - certified plastic surgeon, breast augmentation is a relatively low - risk procedure. However, potential complications, such as infection, implant rupture, and capsular contracture, can occur, although they are rare. Surgeons take precautions to minimize these risks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Albany is home to a number of powerful hospitals and highly - skilled doctors for breast augmentation. The availability of experienced surgeons, top - rated hospitals, and a variety of implant options makes it a great place for women considering breast augmentation. Patients can choose from different implant sizes, shapes, materials, and profiles, and the surgeons will customize the procedure according to their needs and desires. Additionally, proper understanding of the recovery process and common concerns can help patients make informed decisions.
If you are considering breast augmentation in Albany, take the time to research the hospitals and doctors, read patient reviews, and schedule consultations to find the best fit for you. Don't hesitate to ask questions and discuss your expectations with the medical professionals. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in Albany and explore related topics to expand your knowledge.
