Introduction to Silicone Breast Augmentation Surgery in Albany
Albany is a city where women have access to a variety of high - quality options for silicone breast augmentation surgery. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the procedure, from understanding who is a suitable candidate to exploring different aspects of the surgery and post - operative care.
Popularity of Breast Augmentation
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation with implants has been consistently one of the top 5 cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States since 2006. In 2022, nearly 300,000 breast augmentations were performed in the USA. The procedure continues to be popular due to its ability to enhance the figure and improve self - confidence for many women.
Who is a Good Candidate for Silicone Breast Augmentation?
There are several factors that determine if a woman is a good candidate for silicone breast augmentation surgery. These include:
- Underdeveloped natural breast tissue: Women with minimal breast development may find that breast augmentation can help them achieve a more proportionate figure.
- Disproportionately small breasts compared to the lower body: This can lead to an unbalanced appearance, and augmentation can correct it.
- Asymmetrical or oddly - shaped breasts: Silicone implants can help create a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing look.
- Deflation and lost volume due to weight loss or after pregnancy and breastfeeding: Many women experience a decrease in breast volume after these life events, and augmentation can restore fullness.
- Loss of firmness, loose skin, and sagging breasts (often paired with a breast lift): While augmentation alone may not fully address sagging, it can be combined with a breast lift for optimal results.
Types of Silicone Breast Implants
All FDA - approved breast implants have a solid silicone rubber shell. When it comes to silicone breast implants, they are filled with elastic silicone gel, which more closely mimics the feel of natural tissue. Different types of silicone implants are available based on the “thickness” of the gel within the implant:
Implant Type | Description |
---|---|
Classic Style | The upper part of the implant may empty out when staining, leaving the upper part of the breast looking less full. |
Xtra Style | Has a thicker fill, which gives more perkiness or rounding to the upper part of the breast. |
Boost Style | The gel is very thick and helps produce a very perky, round breast shape, depending on the starting breast condition. |
The choice of silicone type is based on the patient's goals regarding the upper breast shape.
Before the Procedure
Consultation
A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is a crucial step before the surgery. For example, at some practices, the surgeon will use breast implant sizers to help patients visualize their desired breast size and how it will look on their body type. Dr. Lucie Capek is one such expert in Albany. During the consultation, she explains the various procedure options and wants patients to be informed participants in the planning process. It's important for patients to ask questions and discuss their expectations to ensure they are comfortable and satisfied with the planned results.
Health Preparation
Patients should be in optimum health when considering elective surgery. This includes following a healthy lifestyle, which involves a balanced diet and regular exercise. Smoking should be avoided as it decreases the body's ability to heal normally. If a patient has chronic conditions like high blood pressure, they should follow their primary care physician's advice to manage these conditions.
The Procedure
Anesthesia and Location
The breast augmentation procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia. It can be done as an outpatient procedure in an accredited office - based operating suite, like Capek Surgical Arts, or in a hospital operating room.
Incision
There are different incision options, and the choice depends on multiple factors including surgeon preference, patient preference, patient anatomy, and the type of implant. The two common incisions are:
- Inframammary fold incision (under the breast): Recent studies suggest that this incision has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture and is the most commonly recommended approach.
- Periareolar incision (around the areola): This is another option that some surgeons may choose based on the patient's situation.
Implant Placement
The surgeon creates a pocket for the implants using an instrument like the harmonic scalpel, which helps to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during the surgery. Implants can be placed in either a sub - muscular (below the pectoralis muscle) or sub - glandular position. The choice depends on the patient's particular shape, natural anatomy, and lifestyle. Surgeons like Dr. Capek do not typically use drains in first - time breast augmentation patients and close the incisions with dissolvable sutures and glue. The entire surgery generally takes 1 - 2 hours to complete.
After the Procedure
Immediate Recovery
After the surgery, patients can expect to experience some discomfort. They can shower within 48 hours and are usually advised to wear a sports bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks. Most patients should plan to rest quietly for 24 to 48 hours. Those with sedentary jobs may return to work within a week, while strenuous or high - impact activities like running may be restricted for 6 - 8 weeks.
Long - Term Follow - Up
It is important to follow the surgeon's aftercare instructions to avoid any complications. Recovery times vary from patient to patient depending on their health and the extent of the procedure. Follow - up appointments will be scheduled to oversee the recovery process. Over the long term, patients should continue with their regular mammograms and breast exams with their primary care physician. If they have silicone implants, periodic ultrasounds are recommended to screen for silent implant rupture.
Risks of Silicone Breast Augmentation
Even with the care of professionally trained surgeons, every surgical procedure carries some risk. Some of the risks associated with silicone breast augmentation include:
Early Risks
- Bleeding or hematoma: Although uncommon, there is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, which can lead to the formation of a hematoma.
- Anesthesia side effects: Nausea is a common side effect of anesthesia, but more serious side effects can also occur in rare cases.
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in the sensation of their nipples or breasts.
Long - Term Risks
- Capsular contracture: This is the most common long - term issue, where abnormal scar tissue forms around the implant, causing increasing firmness and possible shape change of the breast. It is the number one reason for a second surgery within the first 10 years after implantation.
- Implant malposition: The implant may shift into an undesirable position, such as dropping too low.
- Implant rupture: A silicone implant rupture may be silent (have no associated symptoms), which is why the FDA recommends that women with silicone implants have periodic ultrasounds to check their integrity.
Cost of Silicone Breast Augmentation in Albany
The cost of silicone breast augmentation in Albany can vary depending on several factors:
- Surgeon's experience and expertise: More experienced board - certified plastic surgeons may charge higher fees.
- Geographic location of the practice: The cost may be higher in areas with higher demand or a higher cost of living.
- Surgical facility: Private surgical suites and outpatient surgery centers may charge differently than hospital operating rooms.
- Type of implants used: Silicone breast implants tend to cost more than saline implants.
- Complexity of the procedure: More complex surgeries require more time and may increase the overall cost.
- Additional procedures: Combining breast augmentation with a breast lift or other procedures will increase the cost.
At some practices in Albany County, breast augmentation typically costs between $8,600 and $8,800, which may include anesthesia fees, facility fees, all office and surgeon fees, and post - op care. However, it's important to get a detailed breakdown of prices when comparing different providers.
Choosing a Surgeon for Silicone Breast Augmentation in Albany
There are many qualified surgeons in Albany who perform silicone breast augmentation. Some highly rated surgeons include:
Surgeon | 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. Meera Menon, MD | 4.40 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
When choosing a surgeon, it's important to consider their experience, credentials, patient reviews, and the rapport you have with them during the consultation.
Combining Breast Augmentation with Other Procedures
Some patients may choose to combine breast augmentation with other procedures for a more comprehensive transformation. Two common combinations are:
Breast Augmentation with Breast Lift
If a patient has sagging breasts in addition to wanting an increase in size, a breast lift can be combined with breast augmentation. This surgery removes excess skin and repositions existing breast tissue before placing a silicone or saline implant in the breast, creating fuller and more lifted breasts without adding extra recovery time.
Mommy Makeover
Some patients may opt for a mommy makeover, which can include breast augmentation along with a tummy tuck and liposuction. This combination addresses multiple concerns that often arise after pregnancy and childbirth.
Conclusion
Silicone breast augmentation surgery in Albany offers women the opportunity to enhance their appearance and boost their self - confidence. It is important to understand all aspects of the procedure, from candidacy to potential risks and recovery. By choosing a qualified surgeon, following pre - and post - operative instructions, and being aware of the long - term considerations, patients can achieve the results they desire. If you are considering silicone breast augmentation in Albany, take the time to research your options and schedule a consultation with a reputable surgeon.
Don't hesitate to explore further. Reach out to a qualified plastic surgeon in Albany to discuss your specific goals and get personalized advice. Share this article with friends who might be interested in learning more about silicone breast augmentation surgery in Albany!