Introduction

Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that many women in Albany, NY, consider to enhance their physical appearance and boost their self - confidence. Whether it's to add volume to naturally small breasts, restore fullness after pregnancy or weight loss, or balance asymmetrical breasts, this surgery offers a solution. In this article, we will explore the ranking of breast augmentation surgeons in Albany and provide a detailed price list. We will also discuss various aspects related to breast augmentation, such as the procedure itself, factors affecting the cost, and recovery.

Ranking of Breast Augmentation Surgeons in Albany

Finding a qualified and experienced surgeon is crucial for a successful breast augmentation. Healthgrades has compiled a list of some of the best breast augmentation doctors in Albany. Here are some of the top - rated surgeons:

These surgeons have received high ratings from their patients, which is an indication of their skills, expertise, and the quality of care they provide. When choosing a surgeon, it's also important to consider their experience with breast augmentation procedures, the types of implants they use, and their patient - centered approach.

Price List of Breast Augmentation in Albany

The cost of breast augmentation in Albany can vary depending on several factors. Different practices offer different price ranges, and it's essential to understand what is included in the cost. Here is a general overview of the price ranges from various sources:

Rockmore Plastic Surgery

At Rockmore Plastic Surgery in Latham, NY, which serves Albany and surrounding areas, breast augmentation typically costs between $8,600 and $8,800. This cost includes anesthesia fees, facility fees, all office and surgeon fees, and post - op care. However, this may differ from other practices, so it's important to ask for a detailed breakdown of prices.

Dr. Kayastha at K Plastic Surgery

Dr. Kayastha in Latham, NY, offers breast augmentation with silicone implants at a cost of $9,500. There is also a $500 scheduling fee when booking the surgery, which is non - refundable and will be deducted from the surgical cost estimate. The balance of the payment is due at the pre - operative appointment or 3 weeks before surgery. Other incidental fees may include those for a physician assistant, garments, and lab work.

The Plastic Surgery Group

The Plastic Surgery Group in Albany quotes the cost for breast augmentation to be typically between $6,000 and $7,000. The actual amount depends on many factors, including the choice of implants, the complexity of the procedure, and whether it will be combined with other procedures. They also offer patient financing to help patients afford the procedure.

Here is a summary of the price ranges in a table:

Factors Affecting the Cost of Breast Augmentation

The price of breast augmentation is not fixed and can be influenced by several factors. Understanding these factors can help patients make informed decisions when considering the procedure.

Surgeon's Experience and Expertise

More experienced board - certified plastic surgeons may charge higher fees than less credentialed surgeons. Surgeons with a long - standing reputation for successful breast augmentation procedures, a large number of satisfied patients, and extensive training are likely to command a higher price. Their expertise can contribute to better results and a lower risk of complications.

Geographic Location of the Practice

The cost of the procedure is often higher in large cities where the demand for the procedure is greater and the cost of living is generally higher. In Albany, while it may not be as large as some major metropolitan areas, it still has a significant demand for cosmetic procedures, which can affect the price. However, compared to larger cities like New York City, the cost may be relatively lower.

Surgical Facility

Private surgical suites and outpatient surgery centers often charge less than hospital operating rooms. The type of facility also affects the overall comfort and safety of the patient during the procedure. For example, a state - of - the - art outpatient center with the latest equipment and a well - trained staff may charge more but can provide a high - quality experience.

Type of Implants Used

There are different types of breast implants available, such as saline and silicone. Silicone breast implants tend to cost more than saline implants. However, many women find the extra expense worth it for the more natural look and feel of silicone. Cohesive gel or “gummy bear” implants, which are a type of silicone implant, also have a different cost due to their special properties.

Complexity of the Procedure

More complex surgeries require more surgery time, increasing the facility and surgeon's fees. For example, if a patient has a unique breast anatomy, has had previous breast surgery, or requires additional procedures in conjunction with breast augmentation, the cost will be higher. A breast augmentation combined with a breast lift or a more complicated implant placement may take longer and require more skill, thus increasing the overall cost.

Additional Procedures Performed Simultaneously

Adding a breast lift, tummy tuck, or liposuction to the breast augmentation can increase the surgical time and overall costs. A mommy makeover, which combines multiple procedures, is likely to be more expensive than a single breast augmentation procedure. However, combining procedures can also save on some costs, such as anesthesia and facility fees.

Types of Breast Implants

There are several types of breast implants available for breast augmentation, each with its own characteristics.

Saline Implants

Saline implants have silicone shells filled with a salt - water (saline) solution directly from a sterile IV bag. They are filled after they are inserted into the breast pocket, which allows for a smaller incision, resulting in less visible scarring. If a rupture occurs, the salt water can be safely and easily absorbed by the body until the implant is removed and replaced. Saline implants are FDA - approved for patients 18 years and older and can be used to balance asymmetry or correct congenital breast shape or size problems.

Silicone Gel Implants

Silicone gel - filled implants have cohesive silicone shells and are filled with a softer silicone gel material that has the consistency of honey. They tend to provide a very natural - looking appearance and have a more natural breast feel compared to salt - water - filled implants. There is a lower risk of rippling, making them a popular choice for thinner women. Silicone implants are FDA - approved for women over age 21 and may also be used for younger women in certain circumstances.

Cohesive Gel or “Gummy Bear” Implants

“Gummy bear” implants are also known as “form - stable” implants because they are firmer and maintain their shape better. The silicone within these implants is a thicker consistency. If the shell of the implant breaks, it maintains its shape and does not leak gel into the body. Dr. Steven Yarinsky in the Albany area has extensive experience with Sientra® “gummy bear” gel implants. These implants are covered by a Platinum20™ product replacement and limited warranty program, which offers benefits such as free lifetime replacement if an implant ruptures and 20 - year replacement for capsular contracture complications.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure

Here is an overview of what happens during a breast augmentation procedure:

Consultation

The first step is a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will discuss the patient's goals, examine the patient's breasts, and recommend the most suitable type of implants, incision location, and implant placement. The surgeon will also explain the procedure, risks, and recovery process.

Anesthesia

For safety, convenience, and comfort, breast augmentation is usually done under general anesthesia or IV sedation. The patient will sleep through the procedure and feel nothing.

Incision

There are several options for incision placement:

• Inframammary Incision: A thin line that traces the fold beneath the breast. This incision allows for good access to the breast pocket and can be well - hidden.
• Periareolar Incision: Along the lower border of the areola, where the dark skin meets the lighter skin. This incision can result in less visible scarring as the areola has a natural texture and color contrast.
• Transaxillary Incision: Hidden in the armpit. This incision provides a way to insert the implant without making a scar on the breast, but it may limit the surgeon's ability to precisely position the implant in some cases.

Implant Placement

Once the incision is made, the surgeon creates a pocket where the implant will be placed. There are three main types of pocket placement:

• Subglandular Placement: Above the muscle. This placement may result in a more immediate fullness but may also increase the risk of visible rippling and capsular contracture.
• Submuscular Placement: Behind the pectoralis muscle. This placement can provide a more natural slope of the breast and additional coverage of the implant, reducing the risk of visible implants and capsular contracture. It is often recommended for women with little natural breast tissue.
• Biplanar Placement: A combination of subglandular and submuscular placement. This approach can offer the benefits of both placements and is tailored to the patient's specific needs.

Closure

After the implant is placed, the surgeon closes the incision with sutures, surgical tape, or glue. The patient will then be moved to a recovery area.

Recovery from Breast Augmentation

The recovery process after breast augmentation is an important part of the overall experience. Here is a general timeline of what to expect:

First Few Days

Most patients can shower the day after surgery if they are careful not to get the incision site too wet. They may experience tiredness, soreness, and a slight burning feeling in the nipples. The surgeon will prescribe pain medication to manage the discomfort.

Days 2 - 3

If the patient is comfortable and no longer taking prescription medication, they should be able to resume driving within 72 hours of the procedure.

Days 3 - 5

Swelling, tightness, and soreness tend to peak during this period, but any discomfort is usually easily remedied with over - the - counter medicine.

Day 7

By this point, most patients feel well enough to return to work, school, and other light activities. They will have their first postoperative appointment a week after the surgery to ensure that healing is progressing as planned.

Weeks 2 - 4

Patients should be able to resume most strenuous activities during this time. Restrictions on lifting objects and moving their arms above shoulder height may also be eased.

Next Several Months

The breasts will gradually soften and settle into their final positions. Scars will fade, thin, and soften over a period of several months.

Benefits of Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation offers several benefits for women:

• Enhanced Appearance: It can add volume and fullness to the breasts, giving them a more youthful and shapely appearance. This can improve the proportion of the body and make clothes fit better.
• Boosted Self - Confidence: Many women report feeling more confident and positive about their bodies after breast augmentation. They may feel more comfortable in swimwear, intimate situations, and everyday life.
• Correction of Asymmetry: For women with one breast significantly smaller than the other, breast augmentation can help balance the breasts and create a more even appearance.
• Restoration of Volume: Women who have lost breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss can regain their pre - pregnancy shape and fullness through breast augmentation.

Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation

While breast augmentation is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, there are some risks and potential complications:

• Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue around the implant tightens, making the breast feel hard. It can be treated by removing the scar tissue and, in some cases, replacing the implant.
• Infection: There is a small chance of infection around the area of the implant. In rare cases, the implant may have to be removed for a