1. Introduction to Breast Augmentation with Implants
Breast augmentation with implants is one of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States. Since 2006, it has consistently been in the top 5 cosmetic surgeries. In 2022, nearly 300,000 breast augmentations were performed in the USA. Many women choose this procedure for various reasons, including adding volume to naturally small breasts, balancing asymmetrical breasts, and enhancing self - confidence.
Who is a Good Candidate?
- Those with underdeveloped natural breast tissue.
- Women with disproportionately small breasts compared to their lower body.
- Individuals with asymmetrical or oddly - shaped breasts.
- Women who have experienced deflation and lost volume due to weight loss or after pregnancy and breast - feeding.
- Those with loss of firmness, loose skin, and sagging breasts (often paired with a breast lift).
Types of Breast Implants
All FDA - approved breast implants have a solid silicone rubber shell. They are either filled with saline solution (sterile salt water) or elastic silicone gel (which more closely mimics the feel of tissue). Both types have been regularly researched and tested for safety and carry warranties from the manufacturer.
Implant Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|
Saline Implants | Typically require smaller incisions, and if they break, the saltwater solution is naturally absorbed and expelled from the body. | May not feel as natural as silicone implants in some cases. |
Silicone Implants | Look and feel more natural as they mimic the feel of real breast tissue. Cohesive silicone gel (“gummy bear” implants) stick together and do not leave the breast pocket if a rupture occurs. | A silicone implant rupture may be silent, and regular ultrasounds or MRIs are recommended for monitoring. |
2. Top Five Hospitals/Clinics in Albany for Breast Augmentation with Implants
2.1 Capek Plastic Surgery
Board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lucie Capek at Capek Plastic Surgery is highly 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.
Procedure Details
- Consultation: Dr. Capek uses the Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients visualize their desired breast size and how it will look on their body type. She also wants patients to be informed participants in the planning process.
- Procedure: The breast augmentation is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. A small incision is made either under the breast or around the areola, with the inframammary fold incision (under the breast) being the most commonly recommended due to a lower risk of capsular contracture. The harmonic scalpel is used to create the implant pocket, minimizing bleeding and muscle twitching. Implants are placed in either a sub - muscular or sub - glandular position. First - time patients typically do not have drains, and incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures and glue. The surgery generally takes 1 - 2 hours.
- Aftercare: Patients can shower within 48 hours, wear a sports bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks. Rest for 24 - 48 hours is recommended. Those with sedentary jobs may return to work within a week, while strenuous activities are restricted for 6 - 8 weeks. Long - term, regular mammograms and breast exams are necessary, and if silicone implants are used, periodic MRIs are recommended to screen for silent implant rupture.
2.2 Deluca Plastic Surgery
Doctors William Deluca, David Tauber, and Alan Yan at Deluca Plastic Surgery offer breast augmentation services in Albany.
Procedure Details
- Consultation: The consultation begins with a discussion of the patient's goals and an analysis of their current breast shape and position. Using the scientifically - designed Mentor breast implant sizing system, patients can “try on” different implants. They also utilize 3 - D computer simulations based on breast photos and advanced AI algorithms to simulate the new breast size and shape, helping patients decide on the right implant.
- Procedure: Breast enlargement is an outpatient procedure lasting 1 - 2 hours on average. Incisions are made on each breast, typically in the breast fold or at the border of the nipple, carefully placed to minimize visible scarring. A pocket is developed for the implant, usually partially behind the muscle. The implant is inserted using a minimal - touch technique, and the skin is closed with absorbable sutures. A post - operative bra is provided to support the breasts.
- Aftercare: Following the surgeon's post - op care and activity restrictions is crucial for quick healing. A post - operative bra and possibly a superior strap are provided to support the implants during healing. Follow - up visits are scheduled to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. Physical activity should be avoided for a few weeks.
2.3 Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore at Rockmore Plastic Surgery in Latham serves Albany, Utica, Saratoga, and Troy. He has over 4,000 breast procedure experiences.
Procedure Details
- Consultation: Dr. Rockmore discusses the patient's motivations for surgery extensively. He also performs a physical examination and reviews the patient's health history to ensure breast augmentation is the best choice. He offers a 3 - dimensional approach for consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts and helps patients choose the right implant size, shape, material, and profile based on their chest and breast width and desired results.
- Procedure: Incision locations include inframammary, periareolar, and transaxillary. Dr. Rockmore creates a pocket for the implant, with options of subglandular, submuscular, or biplanar placement. The most common is submuscular for a natural slope and better implant coverage. In some cases, fat grafts can be used in conjunction with implants or alone, but implants are more predictable for larger size increases.
- Aftercare: Patients will feel discomfort and grogginess immediately after surgery. They can shower the day after if careful, resume driving within 72 hours if no longer on prescription medication, and return to work and light activities by day 7. Strenuous activities can be resumed in weeks 2 - 4. A compression surgical bra is provided for the first couple of weeks, and follow - up visits are scheduled at 8 weeks and 6 months.
2.4 K Plastic Surgery
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, a board - certified plastic surgeon at K Plastic Surgery, has advanced training in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery.
Procedure Details
- Consultation: During the consultation, Dr. Kayastha listens to the patient's goal results, creates a unique surgical plan, and determines if the procedure is the best option. He examines the treatment area and reviews the patient's health history, including medications and pre - existing conditions.
- Procedure: For breast augmentation, it aims to enhance breast size, shape, and symmetry. The cost is between $6,400 - $7,500, and full results are seen in 1 - 2 weeks and 6 months.
- Aftercare: The recovery period is 1 - 2 weeks, and patients should follow Dr. Kayastha's aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
2.5 The Top Plastic Surgeons from General Listings
There are many top plastic surgeons in Albany, and while not all associated with a specific well - known single - named hospital, they still offer excellent breast augmentation services. For example, according to Healthgrades, some of the top surgeons are:
Surgeon Name | Rating | Location |
---|---|---|
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 |
Dr. Eugene Hoffert, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 250 Delaware Ave Ste 207, Delmar, NY 12054 |
Dr. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Francis Cullen, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 5 Palisades Dr Ste 110, Albany, NY 12205 |
3. Risks Associated with Breast Augmentation with Implants
Even with the care of professional surgeons, breast augmentation with implants carries some risks.
Early Risks
- Bleeding or hematoma.
- Anesthesia side effects such as nausea.
- Changes in the sensation of the nipple or breast.
- Infection.
Long - Term Risks
- Capsular contracture: Abnormal scar tissue forms around the implant, increasing firmness and possibly changing the breast shape. It is the most common reason for a second surgery within the first 10 years after implantation.
- Implant malposition: The implant shifts into an undesirable position, such as dropping too low.
- Implant rupture: If a saline implant breaks, the saltwater solution is naturally absorbed. However, a silicone implant rupture may be silent, and the FDA recommends periodic ultrasounds or MRIs for monitoring.
4. Cost Considerations
The cost of breast augmentation varies depending on several factors:
- Choice of implants: Silicone implants may be more expensive than saline implants.
- Specifics of the surgery: Such as the complexity of the procedure, whether it is combined with other surgeries like a breast lift.
- Individual patient factors: This includes the patient's health condition, the amount of work required, and the surgeon's experience.
For example, at K Plastic Surgery, breast augmentation costs between $6,400 - $7,500, while other clinics may provide personalized quotes during the consultation.
5. Recovery Process
The recovery process after breast augmentation varies from patient to patient. However, some general guidelines apply:
- Immediately after surgery: Patients will feel some discomfort and grogginess. They may be able to go home after a short observation period.
- First few days: Most patients can shower carefully the day after surgery. Rest is essential, and pain can usually be managed with over - the - counter medicine. Some may be able to resume driving within 72 hours if not on prescription painkillers.
- First week: Swelling, tightness, and soreness may peak, but by day 7, most patients can return to work or light activities. The first post - operative appointment is usually scheduled at this time.
- Weeks 2 - 4: Most strenuous activities can be gradually resumed, and restrictions on lifting objects and arm movement above shoulder height may be eased.
- Long - term: Over several months, the breasts will soften and settle into their final positions, and scars will fade.
6. Conclusion
Breast augmentation with implants is a popular and effective cosmetic procedure that can enhance a woman's self - confidence and physical appearance. In Albany, there are several top - notch hospitals and clinics, such as Capek Plastic Surgery, Deluca Plastic Surgery, Rockmore Plastic Surgery, K Plastic Surgery, and the practices of well - rated individual surgeons. Each has its own unique approach to the procedure, from consultation to aftercare. However, it's important to be aware of the risks associated with the surgery and the costs involved. Recovery also requires patience and following the surgeon's instructions carefully.
If you're considering breast augmentation with implants in Albany, we encourage you to do thorough research, schedule consultations with multiple surgeons, and ask as many questions as you need. Share this article with friends or family who may be interested in this topic, and continue exploring more about breast augmentation procedures and the best surgeons in your area.