Introduction
Breast augmentation has long been a sought - after cosmetic procedure for many women. In Albany, NY, the demand for high - quality prosthetic breast augmentation, especially with silicone implants, has been on the rise. There are several hospitals and medical facilities in the area that stand out in providing this service. In this article, we will explore some of the top hospitals in Albany for silicone prosthetic breast augmentation and also delve into important aspects related to the procedure.
Overview of Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. It is typically done for various reasons such as increasing breast volume to improve self - confidence, restoring breast volume lost due to pregnancy, weight reduction, or aging, altering the shape of the breast to be more rounded or teardrop - shaped, correcting unevenly sized breasts, or for breast reconstruction after surgeries like mastectomy.
The most common method of breast augmentation involves the placement of implants, which can be filled with either saline or silicone. Silicone implants, in particular, are often favored for their more natural feel compared to saline implants. Form - stable silicone, or “gummy bear” implants, are also a popular choice as they have a more solid consistency and retain their shape well, even in the event of a rupture.
Candidates for Breast Augmentation
Generally, healthy adults (at least 18 years old for saline implants and 22 years old for silicone implants) who are interested in breast augmentation for the reasons mentioned above are suitable candidates. However, it's crucial for potential candidates to consult a doctor, preferably one familiar with their full medical history, due to the rare complications associated with the surgery. Women who plan to breastfeed in the future should also discuss this with their surgeon as breast augmentation can still allow for breastfeeding, but there are important considerations.
Top Hospitals in Albany for Silicone Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
1. St. Peter's Hospital - Albany
St. Peter's Hospital is ranked #1 in Albany. It is high - performing in 2 specialties and 15 procedures/conditions. While there isn't direct information stating it is a top - notch breast augmentation hospital, its overall high performance in medical procedures suggests it has a capable medical team. Their doctors are likely experienced in handling complex surgical cases, which gives patients a certain level of confidence when it comes to silicone prosthetic breast augmentation. The hospital's advanced medical equipment and a reputation for high - quality patient care can contribute to a successful breast augmentation procedure.
2. Albany Medical Center
Albany Medical Center ranks #2 in Albany and is high - performing in 13 procedures/conditions. This hospital is likely to have a well - trained plastic surgery department. Their expertise in multiple procedures can mean that they have a wide range of skills and knowledge applicable to breast augmentation. The hospital can potentially offer comprehensive pre - operative and post - operative care, from in - depth consultations to ensuring a smooth recovery process for patients undergoing silicone prosthetic breast augmentation. They may also have access to the latest advancements in silicone implant technology.
3. Ellis Hospital
Ellis Hospital is high - performing in 5 procedures/conditions. This hospital's capabilities in various medical procedures indicate that their medical staff is experienced and competent. For silicone prosthetic breast augmentation, they may offer different types of implants and surgical techniques. Their focus on patient safety and satisfaction can be expected, and they are likely to provide personalized care plans for each patient, taking into account their individual anatomical features and aesthetic goals.
4. The Plastic Surgery Group - Albany
Although it may not be a large - scale general hospital, the Plastic Surgery Group in Albany specializes in plastic surgery services, including breast implants. Patients come to this group to achieve their ideal breast aesthetic through breast augmentation. They offer a variety of breast implants, including saline, silicone, and form - stable silicone (gummy bear) implants. Their plastic surgeons work closely with patients to find the ideal implants based on body type and aesthetic goals. During the consultation, they use the Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients experience different breast sizes and make an informed decision. This specialized focus on plastic surgery gives them an edge in providing high - quality silicone prosthetic breast augmentation services.
5. Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore at Rockmore Plastic Surgery has over 25 years of experience performing breast procedures. His practice, which serves Albany and surrounding areas, is well - known for breast augmentation. Dr. Rockmore uses a 3 - dimensional approach to achieve consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts. He offers individualized breast augmentation, taking into account each patient's unique needs. He is experienced in handling different types of breast implants, including silicone ones, and can provide detailed guidance on implant size, shape, material, and profile. The practice also provides information on the cost of breast augmentation, which varies based on the choice of implants and specifics of the surgery, and can offer financing plans to help patients.
Top Plastic Surgeons in Albany for Breast Augmentation
1. Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD
Dr. Canete has a high rating of 4.90 out of 5 stars. His experience and patient satisfaction suggest that he is highly skilled in performing breast augmentation procedures. He is likely to provide high - quality care from the initial consultation to the post - operative follow - up. Patients can expect personalized treatment plans and attention to detail when it comes to choosing the right silicone implants and achieving their desired aesthetic results.
2. Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO
With a rating of 4.90 out of 5 stars, Dr. McDonald is also a top - rated surgeon in Albany for breast augmentation. His expertise in plastic surgery likely includes a deep understanding of silicone implants and their placement. He may be well - versed in the latest surgical techniques to ensure natural - looking results and minimize the risk of complications.
3. Dr. Eugene Hoffert, MD
Dr. Hoffert has a rating of 4.90 out of 5 stars. His patients' high satisfaction levels may be due to his ability to understand their aesthetic goals and deliver excellent results. He can guide patients through the process of choosing the appropriate silicone implants and perform the surgery with precision and care.
4. Dr. Todd Beyer, MD
Dr. Beyer is rated 4.80 out of 5 stars. His surgical skills and patient - centered approach make him a reliable choice for breast augmentation. He can offer professional advice on silicone implant selection based on a patient's body structure and preferences.
5. Dr. Francis Cullen, MD
Dr. Cullen also has a rating of 4.80 out of 5 stars. He is likely to have the experience and knowledge required to perform successful silicone prosthetic breast augmentation procedures. His focus on patient comfort and satisfaction during the entire process is commendable.
Factors to Consider in Silicone Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
Implant Characteristics
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water, are FDA - approved, and are typically less expensive. The volume can be adjusted after insertion. Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel, are pre - filled, and are often thought to have a more natural feel. Form - stable silicone (gummy bear) implants are firmer and retain their shape, and the silicone does not leak in case of a rupture. |
| Shape | Can be round or teardrop (anatomical). Round implants tend to provide more upper - pole fullness, while teardrop implants offer a more natural slope. |
| Size | Measured in ccs (cubic centimeters) rather than cup size. The choice of size depends on a patient's body frame, existing breast tissue, and aesthetic goals. |
| Profile | Refers to the projection of the implant. Options include low, moderate, moderate plus, high, and ultra - high. Higher profile implants have more upper fullness, while moderate profile implants can look more natural for women with larger frames. |
| Texture | Patients can choose between smooth and textured breast implant shells. Textured implants may be less likely to rotate but have a slightly different feel compared to smooth implants. |
Surgical Considerations
1. **Incision Location**: Surgeons typically make incisions in one of three locations - under the breast (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). The choice depends on the patient's anatomy and the type of implant being used. Each incision type has its advantages, such as minimizing visible scarring or providing better access for implant placement.
2. **Implant Placement**: Implants can be placed either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or under the chest muscle (submuscular). The submuscular placement is more common as it provides a more natural slope of the breast and additional coverage of the implant. A biplanar approach, which is a combination of the two, may also be used in some cases, especially for patients with slight breast sagging.
Cost
The cost of silicone prosthetic breast augmentation varies. It depends on factors such as the type of implant (e.g., silicone, gummy bear), the brand and model of the implant, the surgical fees of the doctor, the location of the hospital or surgical facility, and any additional services such as pre - operative consultations and post - operative care. In the United States, prices in western countries can be quite high, often reaching up to $10,000 at top clinics. However, some practices may offer financing options to help patients manage the cost.
Recovery Process after Silicone Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
The recovery process after breast augmentation is an important part of the overall experience. Immediately after the surgery, patients can expect to feel some discomfort and grogginess. Since it is an outpatient procedure, patients can return home after a brief period of observation.
Initial Recovery Timeline
- **Day 1**: Most patients can shower the day after surgery, as long as they are careful not to get the incision site too wet. Sponge baths may be recommended in some cases.
- **Days 2 & 3**: If patients are 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. 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. The first postoperative appointment is typically scheduled a week after surgery 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.
Surgeons usually provide patients with a comfortable surgical bra to wear continuously after surgery for the first couple of weeks. This compression garment supports the breasts as they continue to heal and helps to minimize swelling. Although the breasts will likely feel sensitive for some time, patients can gradually return to more vigorous activities, including working out, over the next several weeks. As months pass, the augmented breasts will soften and settle into their final positions, and the scars will fade.
Potential Risks and Complications
While breast augmentation with silicone implants is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a board - certified plastic surgeon, there are potential risks and complications. These include:
- **Infection**: Although rare, infections can occur at the incision site or around the implant. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, and in severe cases, the implant may need to be removed.
- **Implant Rupture**: Silicone implants can rupture, either due to trauma or over time. Ruptured implants may need to be removed or replaced. In the case of form - stable silicone implants, the gel is less likely to leak out.
- **Capsular Contracture**: This occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant tightens and compresses the implant. It can cause the breast to feel hard, look distorted, and be painful. Treatment options may include massage, medication, or in severe cases, surgery to remove or replace the implant.
- **Changes in Sensation**: Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation, which can be temporary or permanent.
Conclusion
In Albany, there are several excellent hospitals and surgeons that hold the fort in the ranking list of silicone hospitals for prosthetic breast augmentation. St. Peter's Hospital, Albany Medical Center, Ellis Hospital, The Plastic Surgery Group - Albany, and Rockmore Plastic Surgery are all well - known for their high - quality services. Top plastic surgeons like Dr. Jonathan Canete, Dr. Matthew McDonald, and others offer their expertise in the field. When considering silicone prosthetic breast augmentation, it's important to carefully weigh factors such as implant characteristics, surgical options, cost, and the recovery process. Patients should also be aware of the potential risks and complications. By doing thorough research and consulting with a qualified surgeon, patients can make an informed decision and achieve their desired aesthetic results.
If you're interested in learning more about silicone prosthetic breast augmentation in Albany, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top - rated hospitals or surgeons mentioned in this article. Share this article with others who may be considering the same procedure, and explore more resources on breast augmentation to make the best choice for your body and goals.
