Introduction
Breast augmentation has become a popular cosmetic surgery option for many women in Albany. Whether it's to enhance natural beauty, restore volume after pregnancy or weight loss, or simply boost self - confidence, the desire for a well - performed breast augmentation is high. In this article, we'll explore the top hospitals and surgeons in Albany for seamless breast augmentation, as well as the details of the procedure, costs, risks, and more.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as breast enlargement or augmentation mammoplasty, is a procedure designed to enhance the shape and size of the breasts. This can be achieved using breast implants or fat transfers. At many practices in Albany, like the Williams Center, breast augmentation may be performed to enlarge small breasts, even out unevenly sized breasts, restore breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss, or reconstruct the breast following a mastectomy.
Candidates for Breast Augmentation
Candidates for breast augmentation should be physically healthy and have realistic expectations for the operation. Some of the reasons a woman might consider breast augmentation include:
- Making naturally small breasts larger
- Balancing breasts that are uneven in size
- Restoring breasts to their pre - pregnancy, breastfeeding, aging, or weight - loss size and shape
- Augmenting the appearance of cleavage
- Improving confidence and appearance in various types of clothing
Breast Implant Options
There are several types of breast implants available, each with its own advantages. Understanding these options is crucial for making an informed decision during your consultation with a surgeon.
Silicone Gel Implants
Silicone gel implants are a popular choice among many patients. They offer a more natural look and feel, and there is a reduced likelihood of rippling compared to some other options. At the Williams Center, Dr. Lloreda notes that many patients prefer silicone gel implants for these reasons.
Saline Implants
Saline implants are relatively safer in the event of a leak. If a saline implant ruptures, the saline solution (sterile salt water) is naturally absorbed and expelled from the body. They are also easier to replace compared to some other implant types.
Fat Transfer
Fat transfer breast augmentation involves using liposuction to remove fat from selected portions of a patient's body, such as the thighs or abdomen, and injecting it into the breasts. This is a good option for women looking for a small increase in breast size. Fat deposits that are synthesized and transferred to the breasts have a very low chance of rejection and can be used for a modest increase in size or as an addition to a silicone or saline implant.
Implant Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|
Silicone Gel Implants | Natural look and feel, reduced rippling | More difficult to detect a rupture |
Saline Implants | Safer in case of leak, easier to replace | May have a less natural feel, higher chance of rippling |
Fat Transfer | Uses own body tissue, low chance of rejection | Limited increase in size, some fat may be reabsorbed |
Incision Options
During breast augmentation, the surgeon will make an incision in one of several possible areas. The choice of incision depends on various factors, including the patient's physical characteristics and aesthetic goals.
Periareolar Incision
This incision is made around the areola. It has the advantage of being relatively hidden, as the scar blends with the natural color and texture of the areola. However, there may be a slightly higher risk of nipple sensation changes.
Transaxillary Incision
The transaxillary incision is made in the armpit. This option results in no visible scar on the breast itself. But it can be more technically challenging for the surgeon, and there may be some limitations in terms of implant placement and sizing.
Inframammary Incision
An inframammary incision is made underneath the breast in its crease. It provides good access for the surgeon to place the implant and is a common choice. The scar is usually well - hidden in the breast fold. Recent studies suggest that the inframammary fold incision has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture.
Top Hospitals and Surgeons in Albany for Breast Augmentation
Williams Center
The Williams Center in Albany, New York, offers breast augmentation procedures. Dr. Alfredo Lloreda, an experienced surgeon, has performed many breast - related procedures. He prefers to place the implants under the muscle, as it gives the augmented breast a more natural appearance and feel and makes them less likely to interfere with mammograms. The center offers patient financing solutions through PatientFi to help patients achieve their cosmetic goals.
The Plastic Surgery Group
Conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, and Troy, this group has experienced surgeons. They typically perform breast augmentation surgery at a nearby outpatient surgical center using general anesthesia administered by a board - certified anesthesiologist. The cost for breast augmentation here is typically $6,000 to $7,000, depending on factors such as implant choice and procedure complexity.
Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore at Rockmore Plastic Surgery in Latham, serving Albany and other areas, performs breast augmentation using breast implants to add volume and create natural - looking results. He uses a 3 - dimensional approach for consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts and offers a personalized approach to implant selection.
K Plastic Surgery
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha at K Plastic Surgery is a board - certified plastic surgeon. He has advanced training and experience in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery. The center offers a range of breast procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction. The cost of breast augmentation here ranges from $6,400 - $7,500.
GJK Plastic Surgery
Dr. Gabriel J. Kaufman at GJK Plastic Surgery takes an innovative and meticulous approach to breast augmentation. He offers enhancement using implants as well as non - implant - based augmentation with fat grafting or volume - enhancing fillers. His practice focuses on providing personalized care and natural - looking results.
Capek Plastic Surgery
Dr. Lucie Capek at Capek Plastic Surgery is an expert in breast augmentation. She uses breast implant sizers to help patients visualize their desired breast size. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure in their accredited office - based operating suite or a hospital operating room.
Albany Aesthetics & Enhancement Center
Led by Dr. Emily Carter, a board - certified plastic surgeon with over 15 years of experience. They offer a comprehensive range of breast augmentation services, including silicone and saline implants, breast lifts, and breast reconstruction, and are known for their individualized approach.
Capital City Cosmetic Surgery
Dr. Michael Reynolds heads this practice and specializes in advanced breast augmentation techniques, including endoscopic breast augmentation and fat transfer. They are committed to delivering natural - looking results tailored to each patient's unique anatomy.
Hudson Valley Plastic Surgery
With Dr. Sophia Lee at the helm, this is a trusted destination for breast augmentation in Albany. They provide a full spectrum of breast enhancement options, including breast augmentation with implant placement, breast lift, and breast reduction.
Empire State Aesthetic Center
Dr. Alexander Johnson, a board - certified plastic surgeon, leads this center. They offer cutting - edge breast augmentation procedures, utilizing the latest advancements in surgical techniques and implant technology.
Cost of Breast Augmentation
The cost of breast augmentation can vary significantly based on several factors, including location, surgeon's experience, implant type, and whether other procedures are combined.
Factors Affecting Cost
- Implant Type: Silicone gel implants may be more expensive than saline implants. Fat transfer procedures may also have different cost structures depending on the amount of fat to be harvested and transferred.
- Surgeon's Experience: Highly experienced and well - regarded surgeons may charge more for their services.
- Complexity of the Procedure: If a breast lift is combined with breast augmentation or if there are other complexities, the cost will be higher.
- Facility Fees: The cost of using an operating room in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center can also contribute to the overall cost.
On RealSelf, patients report an average cost of $7,455 for breast augmentation. However, in New York, the cost can be different from less populated areas. At the Williams Center, breast implants alone have an average cost of $4,875. If you combine a breast lift with implants, you can expect to pay between $10,000 and $12,000. A mommy makeover, which includes breast augmentation along with other procedures like a tummy tuck, can start around $20,000.
Combining Breast Augmentation with Other Procedures
Many women choose to combine breast augmentation with other procedures for a more comprehensive transformation, especially moms looking to restore their pre - baby bodies.
Breast Lift
Pairing breast implants with a lift enhances volume while correcting sagging and improving shape. This is perfect for moms who have noticed significant changes after pregnancy and breastfeeding. The extra weight from the implants can sometimes exacerbate sagging, so a lift can help achieve a more youthful appearance.
Tummy Tuck
For a full - body makeover, breast augmentation can be combined with a tummy tuck. This "mommy makeover" tightens loose skin and sculpts the figure for a more youthful look. Combining these procedures can save recovery time as the patient only has to go through one round of surgery and recovery.
Fat Transfer
Combining breast implants with fat grafting allows you to enhance your curves naturally by transferring fat from areas like the thighs or abdomen to your hips or buttocks. This can help create an hourglass shape.
Liposuction
Liposuction can be added to refine your shape, removing excess fat and creating a more sculpted silhouette. It can be used in conjunction with breast augmentation to achieve a more balanced and proportionate look.
Risks and Potential Complications
As with any medical operation, breast augmentation carries certain risks. It is very important to select a board - certified, experienced plastic surgeon to perform the procedure.
Immediate Risks
- Adverse Anesthesia Reactions: There is a small risk of an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used during the surgery. This can include allergic reactions, breathing problems, or changes in blood pressure.
- Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal during surgery, but excessive bleeding can be a complication. The surgeon will take steps to control bleeding during the procedure, but in rare cases, additional treatment may be required.
- Infection: There is a small chance that an infection may occur around the area of the implant. In these rare cases, the implant might have to be taken out for a few months, and a new implant will be placed once the infection is gone.
Long - Term Risks
- Capsular Contracture: This condition involves the tightening of the scar or capsule around the implant, which makes the breast feel hard. Removing the scar tissue and, in some cases, replacing the implant are ways to treat capsular contracture.
- Changes in Nipple or Breast Sensation: In some cases of breast augmentation surgery, women can experience sensations of hypersensitive nipples or a loss of sensitivity or slight numbness around the area where the incisions were made. In most cases, these symptoms disappear over time.
- Implant Deflation or Rupture: In the event of a breast implant breaking or leaking, saline implants will lose their contents over a short period of time, usually a couple of hours, and the body will naturally absorb the saltwater. In the case of gel - filled implants, there may not be any noticeable change if the scar capsule surrounding the implant does not break. In most cases, these situations will be corrected through another breast augmentation operation to replace the implants.
- Mammography Interference: Implants can sometimes interfere with mammograms, making it more difficult to detect breast abnormalities. However, experienced technicians can take additional x - rays and, in some cases, perform ultrasound exams to ensure a thorough detection.
Recovery Process
The recovery process after breast augmentation varies from person to person, but there are some general guidelines.
Immediate Post - Surgery
After the surgery, you will spend an additional one to two hours in a post - surgery recovery room. You may feel tired and sore, and the surgeon will prescribe a pain medication to help control discomfort. This may include a slight burning feeling in the nipples, which will subside as the bruising lessens and healing continues.
First Few Days
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). If you are comfortable and no longer taking prescription medication, you should be able to resume driving within 72 hours of the procedure.
7 to 10 Days
If you have gauze dressings, they will be removed in several days and replaced by a surgical bra. You should follow the guidelines given by your plastic surgeon for wearing this. Your stitches will be taken out.
3 to 5 Weeks
Your breasts will be sensitive to physical contact during this time. Strenuous activities should still be avoided.
Next Several Months
Your scars will gradually fade, thin, and soften. Generally, this process takes a period of several months. Your breasts will also continue to settle into their final positions, and you should gradually be able to return to your normal activities, including working out.
Considerations for Different Body Types
When contemplating breast augmentation, it's important to understand how the procedure interacts with various body types.
Petite Physiques
Individuals with petite frames may benefit from smaller implant sizes to maintain proportionality and avoid an overly augmented appearance. The surgeon will need to carefully consider the width of the implant to match the width of the chest and breasts.
Athletic Builds
Women with athletic builds often have lower body fat percentages, which may influence implant placement options and the visibility of implants. Submuscular placement may be a better choice as the chest muscle can help cover the implant and provide a more natural look.
Curvy Silhouettes
For those with curvier figures, implant selection and placement can enhance existing curves while ensuring a balanced aesthetic. The surgeon will need to take into account the overall shape and proportions of the body when planning the procedure.
Psychological Impact and Emotional Preparation
Breast augmentation surgery goes beyond physical transformation; it can deeply impact one's emotional well - being.
Managing Expectations
Understanding the motivations behind breast augmentation and setting realistic expectations are crucial for emotional preparation. Patients should recognize that while the procedure can enhance physical appearance, it may not solve underlying emotional issues.
Body Image Concerns
Many individuals considering breast augmentation may grapple with body image insecurities. Addressing these concerns during pre - operative consultations allows patients to voice their anxieties and work with their surgeons to develop a plan that aligns with their desired outcomes.
Pre - operative Anxiety
It's normal for patients to experience pre - operative anxiety before undergoing surgery. Techniques such as deep breathing