Introduction
Breast augmentation with prosthesis is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure, and Albany has several well - known hospitals and clinics offering this service. The allure of a more proportioned figure and increased self - confidence drives many women to consider this surgery. In this article, we will take a deep - dive into the top breast augmentation facilities in Albany, focusing on the possibility that most of the top three might be public institutions. We'll explore the process of breast augmentation, its safety, the types of implants available, and the leading medical providers in the area.
What is Breast Augmentation with Prosthesis?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at enhancing the size, shape, and symmetry of a woman's breasts. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, it has consistently been one of the top cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States since 2006, with nearly 300,000 breast augmentations performed in the USA in 2022.
Types of Breast Implants
There are mainly two types of FDA - approved breast implants: saline and silicone gel. Both have a solid silicone rubber shell.
| Implant Type | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saline Implants | Filled with sterile salt water. Can be adjusted in volume after insertion. Recommended for patients at least 18 years old. | Less expensive, no restrictions on incision placement, and if they rupture, the saline can be naturally absorbed by the body. | May feel less natural compared to silicone implants. |
| Silicone Implants | Filled with elastic silicone gel. Pre - filled before insertion. Ideal for patients at least 22 years old. | More closely mimic the feel of natural breast tissue, often considered to look and feel more natural. | More expensive, and a rupture may be silent, requiring periodic ultrasounds or MRIs for monitoring. |
| Form - Stable Silicone ("Gummy Bear") | FDA - approved with a more solid consistency than traditional silicone implants. They retain their shape. | Highly safe as the silicone does not leak from the shell when a rupture occurs. | Relatively more expensive and limited options in shape and size in some cases. |
Is Breast Augmentation Right for You?
Not every woman is a suitable candidate for breast augmentation. You may be a good candidate if you experience any of the following:
- Underdeveloped natural breast tissue
- Disproportionately small breasts compared to your lower body
- Asymmetrical or oddly - shaped breasts
- Deflation and lost volume due to weight loss, or after pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Loss of firmness, loose skin, and sagging breasts (often paired with a breast lift)
Top Hospitals and Clinics for Breast Augmentation in Albany
Albany Med Health System
This is a public institution and a prominent player in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery in Albany. Their plastic and reconstructive surgery team offers a broad range of cosmetic and reconstructive options. For breast augmentation, they have well - trained physicians who bring a wealth of experience from some of the most prestigious centers in the world.
The system offers breast enlargement procedures, along with a variety of other breast - related surgeries such as breast reconstruction, which can be done using implants or tissue from another part of the body. The fellowship - trained microsurgeons at Albany Medical Center, part of the Albany Med Health System, are the only ones in the region and offer advanced reconstructive options.
Dr. Lucie Capek's Practice
Although not a public hospital but a well - known private practice, Dr. Lucie Capek is highly regarded for breast augmentation procedures. Many patients throughout the capital district areas of Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga trust her. She offers a variety of breast implant sizes, shapes, and materials, and even the option of using the patient's own fat.
Dr. Capek uses breast implant sizers to help patients visualize their desired breast size and how it will look on their body type. Her surgical approach is aimed at minimizing risks and ensuring patient satisfaction. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure in her quada - accredited office - based operating suite or a hospital operating room.
Other Notable Providers
There are also several private clinics and individual doctors who perform breast augmentation in Albany. Healthgrades lists 155 doctors who perform breast augmentation in the area. Some highly - rated doctors include Dr. Susan Gannon, Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, and Dr. Todd Beyer. Each of these doctors has years of experience and a high patient satisfaction rate.
The Process of Breast Augmentation
Pre - procedure
Before the surgery, a consultation with the surgeon is necessary. The surgeon will discuss the various procedure options, including the type of implants, incision location, and implant placement. For example, Dr. Capek uses the Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients visualize their desired breast size.
Patients are also advised to be in optimum health. This means following a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, and refraining from smoking as it can impede the body's natural healing process. If a patient has chronic conditions like high blood pressure, they should follow their primary care physician's advice for treatment.
The Procedure
Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision, which can be either under the breast (inframammary fold), around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). Recent studies suggest that the inframammary fold incision has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture.
The surgeon then creates a pocket for the implant either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or under the chest muscle (submuscular). The choice of placement depends on factors such as implant type and body type. The entire surgery generally takes 1 - 2 hours to complete.
Post - procedure
After the surgery, patients can expect to experience some pain, swelling, and discomfort. They can shower within 48 hours and are advised to wear a sports bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks. Rest is crucial, and patients 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.
Following the surgeon's aftercare instructions is vital to avoid complications. Over the long term, patients should continue with regular mammograms and breast exams. If they have silicone implants, periodic ultrasounds or MRIs are recommended to screen for silent implant rupture.
Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation with prosthesis carries some risks.
Short - term Risks
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Anesthesia side effects like nausea
- Changes in the sensation of the nipple or breast
- Infection
Long - term Risks
- Capsular contracture: This occurs when abnormal scar tissue forms around the implant, leading to 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: If a saline implant breaks, the saltwater solution is naturally absorbed and expelled from the body. However, a silicone implant rupture may be silent, so regular monitoring is necessary.
Cost of Breast Augmentation
The cost of breast augmentation varies widely depending on several factors. These include the type of implant (saline, silicone, or form - stable silicone), the surgeon's experience and reputation, the geographical location of the clinic, and any additional procedures performed in conjunction with breast augmentation, such as a breast lift.
For example, at K Plastic Surgery in Albany, the cost of breast augmentation ranges from $6,400 - $7,500, while breast augmentation and lift can cost between $8,000 - $10,500. Surgeons usually provide an estimated cost during the consultation.
Psychological and Emotional Considerations
Breast augmentation is not just a physical transformation but also has a significant psychological impact.
- Managing expectations: Patients need to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. While it can enhance physical appearance, it may not solve underlying emotional issues.
- Body image concerns: Many women considering breast augmentation may have insecurities about their body. Addressing these concerns during pre - operative consultations is important to ensure that the patient's desired outcomes align with what is realistically achievable.
- Pre - operative anxiety: It is normal for patients to feel anxious before surgery. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and visualization can help alleviate this anxiety.
- Post - surgery emotional adjustment: The post - surgery period can be emotionally challenging as patients adjust to their new appearance. Having a strong support system, including friends, family, or support groups, can be very helpful.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation with prosthesis is a popular and effective way for many women to enhance their appearance and boost their self - confidence. While there are several top - notch private clinics and individual doctors in Albany offering this service, public institutions like the Albany Med Health System also play a crucial role, providing a wide range of options and high - quality care.
Before making a decision, it is essential to thoroughly research the available options, understand the risks and complications, and choose a qualified and experienced surgeon. Whether you opt for a public or private provider, the key is to have clear communication with your surgeon, manage your expectations, and follow the pre - and post - operative instructions carefully.
If you're considering breast augmentation in Albany, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a reputable surgeon. Take the time to ask questions, learn about the different procedures and implants, and make an informed decision that is right for you. Share this article with others who might be interested in breast augmentation, and explore more resources on our website for additional information.
