Introduction
Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery that many women in Albany consider to enhance their appearance and boost self - confidence. Allergan, a well - known manufacturer of breast implants, offers a range of prostheses for this procedure. However, choosing the right hospital for breast augmentation with Allergan prostheses is a crucial decision. This article will provide you with in - depth information about public and private hospitals in Albany, their advantages and disadvantages, and help you make an informed choice.
Allergan Breast Implants: An Overview
Allergan Inc., now part of AbbVie, is one of the largest breast implant manufacturers in the world. It started selling breast implants in 2006. The company's flagship brand is Natrelle, but it also previously sold implants under its subsidiaries Inamed and McGhan. Allergan's breast implants come in different types, including saline and silicone - filled devices.
Types of Allergan Breast Implants
- Biocell Textured Saline and Silicone - filled Implants and Tissue Expanders: These implants have a textured surface, which was once thought to reduce the risk of capsular contracture. However, in July 2019, the FDA linked Allergan's textured implants to a rare cancer called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), leading to a worldwide recall of these products.
- Natrelle Inspira Smooth Round Gel Implants: These implants are filled with a silicone gel and have a smooth outer shell. The smooth shell allows the implant to move more naturally under the skin or muscle, mimicking the movement of natural breast tissue.
- Natrelle Inspira Textured Round Gel Implants: Similar to the smooth version but with a textured surface. After the recall of textured implants, their use has become more restricted.
- Natrelle 410 Anatomical Gel Implants: Designed to mimic the curve of a natural breast, these anatomical implants have a teardrop shape. They are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that maintains its shape well.
- Natrelle Saline - filled Smooth Round Implants: Filled with sterile saline, these implants are generally less expensive than silicone - filled ones. The amount of saline can be adjusted during the surgery to achieve the desired size.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Allergan Breast Implants
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Public Hospitals in Albany for Breast Augmentation with Allergan Prostheses
Benefits of Choosing a Public Hospital
- Lower Costs: Public hospitals are often more affordable compared to private hospitals. This can be a significant advantage for patients on a budget. They may also have access to government subsidies or insurance programs that can further reduce the cost of the procedure.
- High - Quality Medical Staff: Public hospitals usually have a team of experienced and well - trained surgeons, nurses, and other medical professionals. These staff members often have a wealth of experience in performing breast augmentation surgeries.
- Advanced Facilities: Many public hospitals in Albany are equipped with state - of - the - art medical facilities. This includes modern operating rooms, advanced imaging equipment for pre - and post - operative evaluations, and well - maintained recovery areas.
Drawbacks of Choosing a Public Hospital
- Long Wait Times: Due to high patient volume, there may be long waiting lists for breast augmentation surgeries in public hospitals. This can delay the procedure and may not be suitable for patients who want a more immediate result.
- Less Personalized Care: With a large number of patients to attend to, the level of personalized care may be lower compared to private hospitals. Patients may have less one - on - one time with their surgeons and medical staff.
Private Hospitals in Albany for Breast Augmentation with Allergan Prostheses
Benefits of Choosing a Private Hospital
- Short Wait Times: Private hospitals typically have shorter waiting lists, allowing patients to schedule their breast augmentation surgeries more quickly. This can be beneficial for those who are eager to undergo the procedure.
- Personalized Care: Private hospitals often offer a higher level of personalized care. Patients can expect more attention from their surgeons and medical staff, who can address their specific concerns and needs in detail.
- Comfortable Environment: Private hospitals usually provide a more comfortable and luxurious environment for patients. This can include private rooms, better amenities, and a more relaxing atmosphere during the recovery period.
Drawbacks of Choosing a Private Hospital
- Higher Costs: Private hospitals generally charge more for breast augmentation surgeries. The cost may include not only the surgical fees but also additional expenses such as accommodation and personalized services.
- Variable Quality of Care: While many private hospitals offer excellent care, the quality can vary. It is important to thoroughly research and choose a reputable private hospital to ensure a safe and successful procedure.
Top Surgeons in Albany for Breast Augmentation with Allergan Prostheses
According to Healthgrades, there are 155 doctors who perform breast augmentation in Albany. Some of the highly - rated surgeons include:
| Surgeon's Name | Rating | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.60 out of 5 stars | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
| Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 out of 5 stars | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211 |
These surgeons have a proven track record of performing successful breast augmentation surgeries. It is advisable to schedule a consultation with them to discuss your specific goals and concerns.
Breast Augmentation Procedure with Allergan Prostheses
Pre - operative Considerations
Before undergoing breast augmentation with Allergan prostheses, patients need to have a detailed consultation with their surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will assess the patient's medical history, including any pre - existing medical conditions, allergies, and previous surgeries. They will also discuss the patient's expectations, goals, and preferences regarding the size, shape, and type of implants.
Patients may need to undergo some pre - operative tests, such as blood tests, mammograms, and breast ultrasounds. These tests help the surgeon evaluate the patient's overall health and the condition of the breasts.
Implant Placement
There are two main methods of implant placement: submuscular and subglandular.
- Submuscular Placement: The surgeon places the implant under the chest muscle (pectoralis). This technique can reduce the risk of capsular contracture and makes breast tissue easier to see in mammograms. However, surgery and recovery are usually longer and may be more painful. Reoperation may also be more difficult.
- Subglandular Placement: The implant is placed on top of the muscle and under the breast glands. This method has a greater likelihood of capsular contracture and makes it more difficult to see breast tissue in mammograms. However, the surgery and recovery may be shorter and less painful, and it is easier to perform revision surgery on these implants.
Incision Location
There are three common incision sites for Allergan silicone implants:
- Periareolar: The incision is made around the nipple. This incision is more concealed but has a higher likelihood of breastfeeding problems, a higher risk of change in sensation in the nipple, and a higher risk of infection.
- Inframammary: The incision is made in the breast fold. It offers fewer breastfeeding difficulties, the best access and control of the implant pocket, and is the most commonly used by surgeons. However, it is less concealed.
- Axillary or Transaxillary: The incision is made under the arm. It has fewer breastfeeding problems but is less concealed, more difficult to perform, and may increase the risk of damage to and unexpected location of the implant.
Recovery
After breast augmentation surgery, patients generally feel tired and sore for several days. The skin may experience discomfort and tightness as it adjusts to the implants. Swelling can also decrease the feeling in the nipple and breast. In most cases, patients can return to work a few days after the surgery, but they should avoid strenuous activities. Recovery may involve using a special bra or other support to help speed up healing, and some patients may need pain medication infusion devices.
Cost of Breast Augmentation in Albany
The cost of breast augmentation in Albany can vary depending on several factors. According to Rockmore Plastic Surgery, breast augmentation typically costs between $8,600 and $8,800 at their Albany County practice in Latham, NY. This cost includes anesthesia fees, facility fees, all office and surgeon fees, and post - op care. However, the cost can differ from practice to practice based on the following factors:
- Surgeon's Experience and Expertise: More experienced board - certified plastic surgeons may charge higher fees.
- Geographic Location: The cost may be higher in areas with a higher demand for the procedure.
- Surgical Facility: Private surgical suites and outpatient surgery centers may charge less than hospital operating rooms.
- Type of Implants: Silicone breast implants tend to cost more than saline implants.
- Complexity of the Procedure: More complex surgeries require more surgery time, increasing the facility and surgeon's fees.
- Additional Procedures: Adding a breast lift or tummy tuck to the breast augmentation can increase the overall cost.
Complications and Safety Precautions
Like any surgery, breast augmentation with Allergan prostheses has its risks. The FDA classified breast implants as class III, high - risk devices. Some of the key complications include:
- Reoperation: Patients may need to undergo additional surgeries due to various reasons, such as implant malposition, capsular contracture, or implant rupture.
- Implant Rupture or Deflation: Silicone - filled implants can rupture, while saline - filled implants can deflate. Rupture of a silicone - filled implant is often silent and may require an MRI or ultrasound for detection.
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when scar tissue squeezes the implant, causing pain, hard, and misshapen breasts. It can increase the risk of implant rupture.
- Asymmetry: There may be a difference in the size, shape, or position of the breasts after surgery.
- Changes in Nipple and Breast Sensation: Some patients may experience a decrease or change in nipple and breast sensation.
- Infection: Infection can occur at the incision site or around the implant.
- Breast Implant - Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA - ALCL): Although rare, textured Allergan implants were linked to this type of cancer, which led to the recall of these products.
To reduce the risk of complications, patients should follow their surgeon's pre - and post - operative instructions carefully. This may include taking antibiotics, avoiding certain medications, and attending follow - up appointments regularly. Allergan also requires surgeons and patients to sign an "acceptance of risk and consent to surgery" form before breast implant surgery.
Conclusion
Choosing a hospital for breast augmentation with Allergan prostheses in Albany is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Both public and private hospitals have their own advantages and disadvantages. Public hospitals offer lower costs and high - quality medical staff but may have long wait times and less personalized care. Private hospitals, on the other hand, provide short wait times, personalized care, and a comfortable environment but at a higher cost. It is essential to research and choose a hospital and surgeon that meet your specific needs and expectations.
Before making a decision, schedule consultations with several surgeons to discuss your goals, concerns, and the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. By making an informed choice, you can increase the chances of a successful breast augmentation surgery and achieve the desired results.
If you are considering breast augmentation in Albany, take the next step by reaching out to the surgeons mentioned in this article. You can also explore patient testimonials to get an idea of the experiences of others. Share this article with friends or family who may be interested in this topic and encourage them to do their own research. The journey to a more confident you starts with a well - informed decision.
