Introduction to Breast Augmentation in Albany

Albany, a vibrant city in New York, offers a range of options for girls considering breast augmentation. Breast augmentation has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure, helping women enhance their self - confidence and achieve a more proportionate body shape. In this article, we will explore the top hospitals and doctors in Albany for breast augmentation, along with detailed information about the procedure, recovery, and other related aspects.

Overview of Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size and improve the shape of the breasts. It typically involves the use of either breast implants (silicone or saline) or fat transfer. This procedure is sought after by many women for various reasons, such as adding volume to naturally small breasts, restoring fullness after pregnancy or weight loss, or balancing asymmetrical breasts.

Popularity of Breast Augmentation

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation with implants has been one of the top cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States and has been consistently in the top 5 since 2006. In 2022, nearly 300,000 breast augmentations were performed in the USA. In Albany, many women are also exploring this option to enhance their physical appearance and boost their self - esteem.

Top Doctors for Breast Augmentation in Albany

Healthgrades research has identified numerous doctors in Albany who perform breast augmentation. Here are some of the highly - rated doctors:

Doctor Profiles

Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore

Dr. Rockmore has an office in Latham, serving Albany and other areas in New York. He has extensive experience, having performed more than 4,000 breast procedures. He uses a 3 - dimensional approach for breast augmentation, which helps in achieving consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts. He offers a wide range of options for breast implants, including different sizes, shapes, and materials. Dr. Rockmore also takes the time to understand each patient's unique needs and desires, allowing for a more personalized breast augmentation experience.

Dr. Lucie Capek

Dr. Capek is an expert in breast augmentation and helps patients choose the right implant type, size, and shape based on their unique breast shape, tissue characteristics, body type, and desired results. She uses breast implant sizers during the consultation to help patients visualize their desired breast size. Her surgical techniques are advanced, such as using a harmonic scalpel to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during the surgery. She also provides detailed after - care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery for her patients.

Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha

Dr. Kayastha is a board - certified plastic surgeon with advanced training in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery. He is passionate about providing excellent results for his patients. He offers a variety of breast procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction. Before the surgery, he spends time with the patient during the consultation to create a unique plan based on the patient's goal results and to determine the best procedure option. He also has a collection of before - and - after photos of his previous patients, which can give potential patients an idea of the results they can expect.

Breast Augmentation Procedure

Pre - procedure Considerations

Before undergoing breast augmentation, it is essential to have a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the doctor will discuss the patient's medical history, including any previous surgeries, allergies, and current medications. The doctor will also perform a physical examination of the breasts to assess their current shape, size, and tissue quality.

Patients should also be in good overall health. They should follow a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise. Smoking should be avoided as it can decrease the body's ability to heal normally. If the patient has any chronic conditions like high blood pressure, they should follow their primary care physician's advice for treatment.

When considering breast implants, the patient will need to make decisions about the implant type (saline or silicone), size, shape, profile, and placement. The doctor will help the patient make these decisions based on their body type and desired results. For example, Dr. Rockmore offers a different approach to implant selection, matching the width of the implant to the width of the patient's chest and breasts to prevent excess space between the breasts for more natural - looking results.

Types of Breast Implants

There are two main types of breast implants available: saline and silicone.

• Saline Implants: These implants have a silicone shell filled with sterile salt water. They typically require smaller incisions than silicone implants. Saline implants are FDA - approved for women older than 18. If a saline implant ruptures, the saltwater is naturally absorbed and expelled from the body.
• Silicone Implants: Silicone implants have a durable silicone shell filled with a gel of various degrees of cohesiveness. The most cohesive implants are often referred to as “gummy bear” breast implants. The cohesive silicone gel sticks together and does not leave the breast pocket if a rupture occurs. Silicone implants are FDA - approved for women older than 22.

Procedure Steps

The breast augmentation procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. Here are the general steps:

1. Incision: The surgeon will make an incision in one of several locations, depending on the patient's body and preferences. Common incision locations include the inframammary fold (under the breast), periareolar (along the lower border of the areola), and transaxillary (in the armpit). For example, recent studies suggest that the inframammary fold incision has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture.
2. Pocket Creation: The surgeon will create a pocket for the implant. There are three types of pockets: subglandular (above the muscle), submuscular (behind the pectoralis muscle), and biplanar (a combination of each). For most women, the submuscular pocket is recommended as it provides a natural slope of the breast and additional coverage of the implant. If there is some slight sagging of the breast, a biplanar approach may avoid the need for a lift.
3. Implant Placement: The surgeon will insert the chosen implant into the pocket and position it correctly.
4. Closure: The incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures and glue. The entire surgery generally takes 1 - 2 hours to complete.

Recovery Process

Immediate Post - procedure

After the surgery, patients can expect to feel some discomfort and grogginess. Since it is an outpatient procedure, they will be able to return home after a brief period of observation. 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).

Patients are usually provided with a comfortable surgical bra to wear continuously for the first couple of weeks. This compression garment supports the breasts as they heal and helps to minimize swelling.

Recovery Timeline

The initial recovery timeline typically aligns with the following milestones:

• Day 1: Most patients can shower with caution.
• 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 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. They will have their first postoperative appointment a week after the surgery to ensure that their 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 the arms above shoulder height may also be eased.

Additional follow - up visits are scheduled for 8 weeks and 6 months after the procedure, though this timeline can be adjusted for patients traveling from a distance.

Cost of Breast Augmentation in Albany

The cost of breast augmentation in Albany can vary depending on several factors. At Dr. Rockmore's practice near Albany, the cost varies with the choice of implants, specifics of the surgery, and individual patient factors. Patients receive a personalized price quote during their consultation.

Dr. Kayastha's practice provides the following cost ranges for different breast procedures:

Risks and Complications

While breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, there are some risks and complications associated with it.

Early Risks

• Bleeding or Hematoma: This can occur during or after the surgery. In most cases, it can be managed with appropriate medical treatment.
• Anesthesia Side Effects: Common side effects of anesthesia include nausea and grogginess. These usually subside within a short period after the surgery.
• Changes in Sensation: Some patients may experience changes in the sensation of the nipple or breast. In some cases, this may be temporary, while in others, it may be permanent.

Long - term Risks

• Capsular Contracture: This is the most common long - term complication. It occurs when abnormal scar tissue forms around the implant, causing the breast to become firm and potentially change shape. It may require a second surgery to correct.
• Implant Malposition: The implant may shift into an undesirable position, such as dropping too low. This may also require corrective surgery.
• Implant Rupture: If a saline implant ruptures, the saltwater is absorbed by the body. However, a silicone implant rupture may be silent (have no associated symptoms). The FDA recommends that women with silicone implants should have periodic ultrasounds to check their integrity.

Choosing the Right Hospital and Doctor

When choosing a hospital and doctor for breast augmentation in Albany, it is crucial to consider the following factors:

• Experience and Expertise: Look for doctors with a significant amount of experience in performing breast augmentation surgeries. Check their patient reviews and ratings to get an idea of their skill level. For example, doctors like Dr. Rockmore, who has performed more than 4,000 breast procedures, are likely to have a high level of expertise.
• Board Certification: Ensure that the doctor is board - certified in plastic surgery. Board certification indicates that the doctor has met the high standards of training and competence set by the relevant medical board.
• Personalized Approach: A good doctor will take the time to understand your individual needs and goals and create a personalized treatment plan for you. They should also be willing to answer all your questions and address your concerns.
• Facility Quality: The hospital or surgical facility where the procedure will be performed should be clean, well - equipped, and accredited. A high - quality facility reduces the risk of complications during and after the surgery.