Introduction

Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery option for women looking to enhance their appearance, boost self - confidence, and achieve a more balanced figure. In Albany, there are numerous hospitals and clinics where skilled surgeons offer this procedure. This article aims to explore the top - notch healthcare providers in Albany that are known for delivering excellent breast augmentation results. We will also delve into the details of the procedure, what to expect, and how to choose the right place for your breast augmentation journey.

Overview of Breast Augmentation

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size, improve the shape, and enhance the contour and symmetry of the breasts. There are two primary methods for breast augmentation: using breast implants and fat transfer. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation with implants has been the top cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States since 2006. In 2014, silicone gel implants were used in 77% of all breast augmentations, while saline implants accounted for 23%.

Benefits of Breast Augmentation

• Increased Breast Size and Improved Shape: It allows women to have the breast size and shape they desire, which can enhance their overall appearance.
• Enhanced Body Proportions and Silhouette: Achieves a more balanced and attractive figure by improving the ratio between the breasts and the rest of the body.
• Restored Volume after Pregnancy or Weight Loss: Helps to bring back the fullness and projection of the breasts that may have been lost due to these life events.
• Improved Fit in Clothing and Swimwear: Gives women more options when it comes to clothing and makes them feel more confident while wearing certain styles.
• Boosted Self - Confidence and Body Image: Women often experience an improvement in their self - esteem and body satisfaction after the procedure.

Candidates for Breast Augmentation

Women who may be suitable candidates for breast augmentation include those who want to increase the size of their breasts, fix asymmetrical breasts, or restore lost volume due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. They should have fully developed breasts, be in good physical health, and have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery.

Hospitals and Surgeons in Albany with Good Breast Augmentation Results

Doctors from Healthgrades

Healthgrades lists several doctors in Albany who perform breast augmentation. Here are some of the highly - rated ones:

Doctors from RealSelf

RealSelf also provides information about breast augmentation doctors in Albany. Here are some of them:

Highlighted Surgeons

Dr. Gabriel J. Kaufman

Dr. Kaufman is a double - board - certified reconstructive and plastic surgeon. He offers a comprehensive range of options for breast augmentation, including breast implant - based augmentation and fat transfer techniques. He uses 5th - generation silicone implants made in the United States, which have improved shape - maintaining ability and a soft, natural feel. Dr. Kaufman is proficient in both implant - based and fat - transfer methods, allowing patients to choose the option that best suits their needs and aesthetic goals.

Dr. Lucie Capek

Dr. Capek is a board - certified plastic surgeon trusted by patients in the capital district areas of Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga, as well as those from New York City, Vermont, Massachusetts, and beyond. She is an expert in guiding patients through the decision - making process regarding implant type, size, and shape. Dr. Capek uses the Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients visualize their desired breast size. Her surgical approach includes using a harmonic scalpel to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during surgery, and she typically does not use drains in first - time breast augmentation patients.

Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore

Dr. Rockmore has experience performing over 4,000 breast procedures. He takes a 3 - dimensional approach to achieve consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts. He uses 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. He also offers breast augmentation with fat transfer, although he notes that for a larger increase in breast size, implants may be a better option.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure

Pre - operative Consultation

The first step in the breast augmentation process is the consultation with the surgeon. During this appointment, the surgeon will listen to the patient's goals, conduct a physical examination, and review the patient's medical history. They will discuss the various options available, such as implant type, size, shape, and placement, as well as the incision location. The surgeon may also show before - and - after photos of previous patients to give the patient an idea of what to expect. Patients should come prepared with questions about the procedure, recovery, and potential risks.

Types of Breast Implants

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. They tend to feel more natural and have a better ability to maintain their shape. Silicone implants are approved for women over 22 years old. Dr. Kaufman uses 5th - generation silicone implants that provide a soft - to - touch, natural quality and allow patients to move with confidence.

Saline Implants

Saline implants are made of silicone shells filled with sterile salt water. They typically require smaller incisions than silicone implants. If a saline implant ruptures, the saltwater is absorbed by the body, and there is a rapid loss of volume. Saline implants are approved for women over 18 years old. However, they may feel harder compared to silicone implants in some cases.

Implant Placement

Subglandular Placement

Implants are placed directly behind the breast tissue. Advantages include more natural movement of the breasts as the patient uses chest muscles and the potential to correct slight breast sagging. However, it may have a higher risk of capsular contracture and can interfere more with mammograms compared to submuscular placement.

Submuscular Placement

The implants are placed beneath the pectoralis muscle. This placement reduces the risk of capsular contracture and has less interference with mammograms. But it may cause more initial discomfort, may require drainage tubes, and has a longer recovery period.

Biplanar Placement

A combination of subglandular and submuscular placement. It can provide a natural slope of the breast and additional coverage of the implant. For patients with slight breast sagging, it may avoid the need for a breast lift.

Incision Types

Inframammary Incision

A thin line that traces the fold beneath the breast. It allows the surgeon good access to place the implant and is a common choice. The scar is usually well - hidden in the breast fold. Recent studies suggest that this incision has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture.

Periareolar Incision

Made along the lower border of the areola, where the dark skin meets the lighter skin. The advantage is that the scar may blend in well with the areola color. However, it may be more likely to affect nipple sensation.

Transaxillary Incision

Hidden in the armpit. This incision leaves no visible scar on the breast itself. But it may be more challenging for the surgeon to achieve precise implant placement.

Breast Augmentation with Fat Transfer

Breast augmentation with fat transfer uses liposuction to harvest excess fat from other parts of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks. The harvested fat is then purified and injected into the breasts. This method is suitable for women who do not want a dramatic increase in breast size and desire a more natural - looking and feeling result. However, there is a limitation to how much volume can be added, and there may be some fat resorption over time. In some cases, touch - up injections may be necessary.

Recovery and Aftercare

Immediate Post - operative Period

After breast augmentation surgery, patients can expect to feel some discomfort and grogginess. They will usually wear a surgical bra to support the breasts and minimize swelling. Drainage tubes may be inserted, especially in submuscular implant placements. Most patients can go home the same day or after a short period of observation at the hospital. They will need someone to drive them home and care for them for the first 24 hours.

Recovery Timeline

• Day 1: Most patients can shower carefully, being cautious not to get the incision site too wet. Sponge baths may be recommended in some cases.
• Days 2 - 3: If comfortable and no longer taking prescription medication, patients may be able to resume driving within 72 hours of the procedure.
• Days 3 - 5: Swelling, tightness, and soreness tend to peak during this period. Discomfort can usually be managed with over - the - counter medicine.
• Day 7: Most patients feel well enough to return to work, school, and other light activities. They will have their first postoperative appointment to check the healing progress.
• Weeks 2 - 4: Patients can gradually resume most strenuous activities. Restrictions on lifting objects and moving arms above shoulder height may be eased.
• Additional Follow - up: Follow - up visits are usually scheduled at 8 weeks and 6 months after the procedure to monitor the long - term results.

Long - term Aftercare

Patients should continue to follow their surgeon's instructions regarding wearing supportive bras, keeping the incision area clean, and avoiding certain activities for an extended period. They should also maintain a stable weight to help preserve the results. For those with silicone implants, periodic MRIs are recommended to screen for silent implant rupture. Regular mammograms and breast exams should also be continued as part of normal breast health care.

Risks and Complications

General Surgical Risks

Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries general risks such as bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. These risks can be minimized by choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon and following pre - and post - operative instructions carefully.

Implant - specific Risks

• Caps