Introduction
Breast augmentation has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure, offering women the opportunity to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. Among the various types of breast implants available, Allergan prostheses have been a well - known choice in the market. In Albany, there are several hospitals and medical professionals with a good reputation for performing breast augmentation using Allergan prostheses. This article will explore and rank five of the top hospitals for this specific procedure.
Understanding Allergan Breast Implants
History and Brand Overview
Allergan is one of the largest breast implant manufacturers in the world. It started selling breast implants in 2006. In 2020, AbbVie acquired Allergan and its aesthetics portfolio. The company's flagship breast implant brand is Natrelle, and it has previously sold implants under its subsidiaries Inamed and McGhan. Allergan's products have been widely used by surgeons, but they also faced some challenges. In July 2019, the company issued a worldwide recall of its textured implants after the FDA linked the devices to a rare cancer called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).
Types of Allergan Breast Implants
Implant Type | Description |
---|---|
Biocell textured saline and silicone - filled implants and tissue expanders | These were part of the recalled products due to the risk of BIA - ALCL. |
Natrelle Inspira smooth round gel implants | Offer a smooth surface and a gel - filled option, providing a natural look and feel. |
Natrelle Inspira textured round gel implants | Similar to the smooth version but with a textured surface that allows tissue to grow into it to keep the implant in place. However, textured implants had safety concerns. |
Natrelle 410 anatomical gel implants | Shaped like a teardrop to mimic the natural curve of the breast. |
Natrelle saline - filled smooth round implants | Have a smooth shell filled with sterile saline solution. |
Natrelle saline - filled textured implants | Textured saline - filled implants that also faced safety scrutiny. |
Natrelle 133 tissue expanders | Used in reconstruction surgery. Made of a silicone shell with a textured surface to prevent movement. |
Natrelle 133 plus tissue expanders | An enhanced version of the tissue expanders. |
Complications and Safety Considerations
Breast augmentation with Allergan implants, like any surgery, has risks. The FDA classified breast implants as class III, high - risk devices. Complications can include reoperation, implant rupture (for silicone - filled implants) or deflation (for saline - filled implants), severe capsular contracture, asymmetry, nipple and breast sensation changes, scarring, and wrinkling/rippling. Allergan conducted a 10 - year core study with 715 patients, and it 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.
Breast Augmentation Process
Consultation
The first step in breast augmentation is the consultation. Surgeons will discuss the patient's goals from the surgery, analyze the current shape and position of the breasts, and take measurements. They will recommend a range of implant sizes and profiles based on these factors. Some clinics, like Deluca Plastic Surgery, use the scientifically - designed Mentor breast implant sizing system, allowing patients to “try on” different implants. Advanced 3 - D computer simulations based on breast photos and AI algorithms may also be used to give patients an idea of the expected results.
Surgery
Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure that uses general anesthesia. The operation can take from one hour to several hours depending on the patient and the implant. Incision locations commonly include periareolar (around the nipple), inframammary (in the breast fold), and axillary or transaxillary (under the arm). The implant can be placed submuscular (under the chest muscle) or subglandular (under breast glands). Submuscular placement can reduce the risk of capsular contracture but may have a longer and more painful recovery. Subglandular placement may have a shorter recovery but a higher risk of capsular contracture.
Recovery
After surgery, women generally feel tired and sore for several days. There may be discomfort, tightness, and swelling. In most cases, patients can return to work a few days after surgery but should avoid strenuous activities. Recovery may involve using a special bra or other support to aid healing, and some patients may need pain medication infusion devices. Follow - up visits are scheduled to ensure proper healing and detect any complications.
Top Five Hospitals for Breast Augmentation with Allergan Prostheses in Albany
Hospital 1: [Name if Available or General Description 1]
Based on the available information, we can infer that there are well - regarded plastic surgeons in Albany. Although the specific "hospitals" aren't directly named, some of the top - rated doctors performing breast augmentation in the area can give an indication of where quality procedures might be available. For example, Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD, who has a 4.90 rating out of 5 stars, practices at 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208. The practice associated with this doctor is likely to offer high - quality breast augmentation services with Allergan prostheses. The doctor's high rating suggests patient satisfaction, which could be due to factors such as surgical skill, after - care, and the use of reliable products like Allergan implants.
Hospital 2: [Name if Available or General Description 2]
Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO, with a 4.90 rating, operates from 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211. A practice with a doctor of this caliber may be a top choice for breast augmentation with Allergan prostheses. Such a high - rated doctor is likely to have in - depth knowledge of different implant options, including Allergan's, and be able to provide personalized advice based on the patient's needs. The doctor's experience and skill can contribute to better surgical outcomes and reduced risks during the procedure.
Hospital 3: [Name if Available or General Description 3]
Dr. Eugene Hoffert, MD, rated 4.90 out of 5 stars at 250 Delaware Ave Ste 207, Delmar, NY 12054, is another great option. His practice may offer a comprehensive approach to breast augmentation. This could involve detailed pre - operative consultations to ensure the patient fully understands the procedure, implant choices, and potential risks. During the surgery, the doctor's skill and attention to detail can lead to a more natural - looking and satisfactory result for the patient when using Allergan prostheses.
Hospital 4: [Name if Available or General Description 4]
Dr. Todd Beyer, MD, with a 4.80 rating and located at 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, has a good reputation in the field. His practice may have a well - trained team that can support the patient throughout the entire breast augmentation process. From handling pre - operative preparations to providing post - operative care, the team can ensure that the patient has a smooth experience when using Allergan implants. The doctor's experience can also help in selecting the right type and size of Allergan implant for each patient.
Hospital 5: [Name if Available or General Description 5]
Dr. Francis Cullen, MD, rated 4.80 out of 5 stars at 5 Palisades Dr Ste 110, Albany, NY 12205, can be considered for breast augmentation with Allergan prostheses. The doctor's practice may focus on patient education, ensuring that patients are well - informed about the benefits and risks of using Allergan implants. This can lead to more informed decision - making on the part of the patient. Additionally, the doctor's surgical expertise can contribute to a successful breast augmentation procedure.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Augmentation with Allergan Prostheses
Surgeon Experience
The experience of the surgeon is crucial. Surgeons with more experience in performing breast augmentation with Allergan prostheses are likely to have better - developed skills. They will be more familiar with the nuances of different implant types, such as placing the implants correctly to achieve a natural look and minimizing the risk of complications. Surgeons who have performed a large number of procedures are also more likely to handle unexpected situations during surgery.
Patient Reviews
Patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of care at a hospital or practice. Positive reviews regarding the surgeon's bedside manner, the staff's helpfulness, and the overall satisfaction with the breast augmentation results can indicate a good choice. However, it's important to read a wide range of reviews to get a balanced view. Negative reviews should also be considered and investigated to understand the specific issues.
Cost
The cost of breast augmentation can vary significantly depending on the hospital, the surgeon, the type of Allergan implant used, and additional services included. It's important to get a detailed breakdown of the costs upfront, including the cost of the implant, surgical fees, anesthesia fees, and post - operative care. However, cost should not be the only determining factor. Choosing a high - quality, experienced surgeon and a reputable practice may be worth the investment to ensure a safe and satisfactory outcome.
Facility Accreditation
Hospitals and surgical facilities should be properly accredited. Accreditation ensures that the facility meets certain standards of safety, hygiene, and quality of care. It also indicates that the facility has the necessary equipment and resources to perform breast augmentation procedures safely.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breast augmentation with Allergan prostheses is a popular procedure in Albany, and there are several high - quality options available. Understanding the different types of Allergan implants, the breast augmentation process, and the factors to consider when choosing a hospital or practice is essential for anyone considering this procedure. The top five hospitals or practices highlighted in this article, represented by their highly - rated surgeons, offer a great starting point for patients. It's important for patients to do their research, have in - depth consultations with the surgeons, and make an informed decision based on their individual needs and goals.
If you're considering breast augmentation with Allergan prostheses in Albany, we encourage you to reach out to the practices mentioned in this article for more information. Schedule consultations with the surgeons to discuss your specific case and get a better understanding of what to expect. You can also share this article with friends or family who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in Albany.