Introduction
Breast plastic reconstruction is a life - changing procedure for many women, especially those who have undergone mastectomy due to breast cancer or have congenital breast deformities. In Albany, there are several hospitals and clinics that offer high - quality breast plastic reconstruction services. This article aims to provide a comprehensive inventory of the popularity of breast plastic reconstruction hospitals in Albany, including information about the top doctors, procedures, costs, and patient experiences.
Popular Doctors for Breast Reconstruction in Albany
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha is a board - certified plastic surgeon with 19 years of experience. He practices at K Plastic Surgery, located at 711 Troy Schenectady Rd., Ste. 206, Latham, New York. With 144 reviews, he has a strong reputation among patients. One patient shared, “I have been a patient at K Plastic Surgery since 2010 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Dr. Kayastha has done all of my reconstruction after my mastectomy.” His advanced training in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery allows him to offer a wide range of breast procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reconstruction.
Dr. Douglas Hargrave
Based at 455 Patroon Creek Blvd., #101, Albany, New York, Dr. Douglas Hargrave is a board - certified plastic surgeon with 38 years of experience. He has 36 reviews from patients. A patient who had a bilateral mastectomy said, “Dr. Hargrave creates breasts that are exactly like my previous breasts only better.” His long - standing experience in the field makes him a trusted choice for breast reconstruction in Albany.
Dr. Gabriel Kaufman
Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, a double - board - certified plastic surgeon, is located at 317 S. Manning Blvd., C364, Albany, New York. He has 10 reviews and 8 years of experience. A patient stated, “Dr. Kaufman helped give me my life back by providing me with the highest quality breast cancer surgery. From the beginning, his communication was very clear.” Dr. Kaufman specializes in both plastic and reconstructive surgery and breast cancer, offering a unique perspective in breast reconstruction procedures.
Dr. Jerome D. Chao
Dr. Jerome D. Chao practices at 13 Century Hill Dr., Latham, New York. He is a board - certified plastic surgeon with 20 years of experience and has 19 reviews. Virtual consultations are accepted at his clinic. One patient who was diagnosed with cancer said, “When I was diagnosed with cancer, I was filled with a lot of fear. Dr. Chao made me feel at ease during the treatment process.” His experience in breast reconstruction is highly valued by the local community.
Dr. Jeffrey Ridha
Dr. Jeffrey Ridha is located at 72 Railroad Pl., Saratoga Springs, New York. He is a board - certified plastic surgeon with 15 years of experience and 49 reviews. Virtual consultations are available. A patient who had a bilateral mastectomy followed by reconstruction with Dr. Ridha said, “He is the kindest, most caring doctor. He completed my reconstruction to perfection.” His skills in breast reconstruction have earned him a good reputation.
Top Hospitals and Clinics for Breast Reconstruction in Albany
The Plastic Surgery Group - Albany
Conveniently located at 455 Patroon Creek Blvd., #101, Albany, New York, The Plastic Surgery Group has become a trusted name for breast surgery in the region. Their plastic surgeons understand the emotional and physical aspects of breast reconstruction. They offer a wide range of breast plastic surgery options, including breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reconstruction. The doctors at this clinic work closely with patients to create personalized treatment plans. They also offer paramedical tattooing, which can create the appearance of a nipple and areola post - mastectomy. For example, they use 3D breast tattooing techniques to enhance the natural look of the reconstructed breast.
K Plastic Surgery
K Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, is another popular choice for breast procedures in Albany. Dr. Kayastha's advanced training and experience allow him to provide high - quality breast reconstruction services. Patients can review before - and - after photos of previous patients to get an idea of the potential results. The clinic offers various breast procedures such as breast augmentation, breast lift, and male breast reduction, along with breast reconstruction. The recovery times and costs for different procedures are clearly outlined on their website. For instance, breast augmentation has a recovery time of 1 - 2 weeks for initial recovery and 6 months for full results, with a cost ranging from $6,400 - $7,500.
Albany Med Health System
The Albany Med Health System offers a broad range of cosmetic and reconstructive options. Their plastic and reconstructive surgery team consists of physicians who have trained at prestigious centers around the world. In breast reconstruction, they offer different techniques such as tissue expander reconstruction, free flap reconstruction, and combination approaches. They also provide nipple and areola reconstruction and tattooing services. The system is known for its comprehensive care, treating both adults and children and offering long - term solutions for various conditions related to breast reconstruction. For example, their fellowship - trained microsurgeons are able to perform advanced procedures like DIEP flap reconstruction.
GJK Plastic Surgery
Gabriel J. Kaufman MD FACS leads GJK Plastic Surgery. The clinic focuses on restoring not just the form but also the emotional well - being of breast reconstruction patients. Dr. Kaufman's dual training in reconstructive surgery and breast surgical oncology allows for simultaneous planning of breast cancer treatment and immediate restorative processes. They offer implant - based reconstruction and oncoplastic surgery techniques. For instance, in implant - based reconstruction, they can perform 2 - stage procedures with tissue expanders or direct - to - implant methods. Patients at GJK Plastic Surgery have reported high satisfaction levels, with many testimonials praising Dr. Kaufman's expertise and bedside manner.
Types of Breast Reconstruction Procedures
Tissue Expansion with an Implant
This is a common breast reconstruction method. It involves placing an expander under the skin and chest muscle. Over a period of weeks or months, the expander is injected with a saline solution to stretch the skin. Once the skin is stretched and a pocket is created, the expander is removed and replaced with a breast implant. For example, at The Plastic Surgery Group, this procedure is performed as a brief outpatient procedure with minimal recovery time. In some cases where the patient's tissue does not need to be expanded, an implant can be placed directly without the use of an expander.
Flap Reconstruction
Flap reconstruction uses tissue from the back, abdomen, or buttocks to form the new breast. There are two main approaches: either the tissue and attached blood vessels are moved through the body to the breast area, or the tissue is removed and then relocated. The advantage of flap reconstruction is that the reconstructed breast is made of the patient's own living tissue, which feels very natural and usually lasts a lifetime. However, the recovery time is longer compared to implant - based reconstruction because there are two surgical sites (the reconstructed breast and the donor site), and the surgeon needs to reattach the living tissue and ensure a viable blood supply.
Oncoplastic Surgery
Oncoplastic surgery is a combination of plastic surgery techniques with surgical oncology. Dr. Gabriel Kaufman at GJK Plastic Surgery uses this approach for maximal breast preservation. It is particularly useful for patients who have undergone partial mastectomy (lumpectomy). The goal is to maintain the natural shape of the breast while successfully removing the area of concern without causing deformity. For example, the doctor may design a pattern to optimize the shape of the breast after lumpectomy and shape the tissue to form a new breast with preservation of the nipple and areola.
Cost of Breast Reconstruction in Albany
The cost of breast reconstruction in Albany can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of procedure, whether it is a single - stage or multi - stage procedure, and additional services like paramedical tattooing. In general, federal law requires medical insurance to cover breast reconstruction in most cases, but it is important to check with the insurance provider and the hospital's staff to determine the exact coverage.
At K Plastic Surgery, the cost of different breast procedures is as follows:
Procedure | Cost Range |
---|---|
Breast Augmentation | $6,400 - $7,500 |
Breast Lift | $7,000 - $7,500 |
Breast Augmentation and Lift | $8,000 - $10,500 |
Male Breast Reduction | $6,000 - $8,000 |
Breast Implant Removal | $5500 - $6500 |
Nipple Surgery | Varies by procedure |
Breast Reduction | $8,000 - $9,500 |
Breast Implant Revision | Varies by procedure |
Breast Reconstruction | Varies by procedure |
Recovery and After - Care
The recovery process after breast reconstruction depends on the type of procedure. Generally, patients can expect the following:
First Few Days
In most cases, patients stay overnight in the hospital and return home the following day. A drainage tube is often used to eliminate excess fluids from the operative area immediately after the surgery. Pain and discomfort can be managed with medication prescribed by the doctor.
1 to 2 Weeks
It is normal to feel tired and sore during this period. Stitches are usually removed within a week. Patients should wear a surgical support bra as directed by the doctor and gradually return to normal activities. Light exercise can be resumed in 1 to 2 weeks, but strenuous exercise should be avoided.
6 Weeks
Most women feel back to normal about 6 weeks after breast reconstruction surgery. However, it is important to be gentle with oneself during this recuperative period. Lifting heavy objects, participating in sports, and having sex should be avoided for up to 6 weeks. Also, it will take some time for scars to begin to fade, and the doctor will make efforts to minimize scarring during the surgery.
After - care also includes follow - up visits with the doctor to monitor the progress of the reconstruction, adjust the treatment plan if necessary, and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
Patient Testimonials and Satisfaction
Patient testimonials play a crucial role in assessing the popularity and quality of breast reconstruction hospitals in Albany. Many patients have shared their positive experiences on various platforms. For example, at GJK Plastic Surgery, patients have praised Dr. Gabriel Kaufman for his excellent communication, bedside manner, and surgical skills. One patient said, “From the first moment I stepped into his office, I was extremely impressed. He had his assistant with him, and she took notes on everything he said so I could concentrate on what he was saying. He is a wonderful, knowledgeable doctor and was always available to talk to me if I needed him.”
At The Plastic Surgery Group, patients have expressed satisfaction with the comprehensive care they received, from the initial consultation to the post - operative follow - up. The doctors' ability to understand the emotional and physical needs of the patients and provide personalized treatment plans has been highly appreciated.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Albany has a number of top - notch hospitals and clinics offering breast plastic reconstruction services. The popularity of these facilities can be attributed to the expertise of their doctors, the variety of procedures available, and the high level of patient satisfaction. Whether it is tissue expansion with an implant, flap reconstruction, or oncoplastic surgery, patients in Albany have access to advanced and personalized breast reconstruction options. The cost of the procedures can be covered by insurance in most cases, and the recovery process is well - managed with proper after - care.
If you are considering breast plastic reconstruction in Albany, we encourage you to do thorough research, read patient testimonials, and schedule consultations with multiple doctors to find the best fit for your needs. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast reconstruction in Albany, and explore related topics on breast health and plastic surgery for a more informed decision - making process.