Introduction

For women in Albany with flat chests, breast augmentation surgery can be a life - changing option. It can boost self - confidence and provide a more proportionate body shape. In this article, we will explore the ranking list of plastic hospitals or surgeons who are well - known for their excellent breast augmentation procedures in Albany. We'll also cover important aspects such as what to look for in a surgeon, types of breast implants, the procedure itself, and recovery.

Understanding Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. This is typically achieved by inserting breast implants. It can be a great solution for women with underdeveloped natural breast tissue, disproportionately small breasts compared to their lower body, asymmetrical or oddly - shaped breasts, or those who have experienced deflation and lost volume due to weight loss or after pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Types of Breast Implants

All FDA - approved breast implants have a solid silicone rubber shell. There are two main types of fillings:

• Saline implants: Filled with a sterile saltwater solution. If they break, the solution is naturally absorbed and expelled from the body.
• Silicone implants: Filled with an elastic silicone gel that more closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. A silicone implant rupture may be silent, so the FDA recommends that women with silicone implants have periodic MRIs or ultrasounds to check their integrity.

Ranking of Plastic Surgeons in Albany for Breast Augmentation

Based on Healthgrades and other relevant sources, here are some of the top plastic surgeons in Albany known for breast augmentation:

What to Look for in a Plastic Surgeon

Choosing the right plastic surgeon is crucial for a successful breast augmentation. Here are some factors to consider:

• Board certification: Ensure the surgeon is board - certified in plastic surgery. This indicates that they have successfully passed rigorous exams in the field, demonstrating a deep level of practical knowledge.
• Experience: Look for a surgeon with a significant amount of experience in breast augmentation surgeries. Surgeons with a long - standing practice are more likely to have encountered a variety of cases and can handle potential complications.
• Before - and - after photos: Ask to see before - and - after photos of the surgeon's previous breast augmentation patients. This will give you an idea of the type of results they can achieve.
• Patient reviews: Read online reviews from previous patients. These can provide insights into the surgeon's bedside manner, communication skills, and the overall patient experience.
• Communication: During your consultation, the surgeon should listen to your concerns and goals. They should be able to explain the procedure, potential risks, and expected results in a clear and understandable way.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure

Here's a general overview of what to expect during a breast augmentation procedure:

Consultation

The first step is to schedule a consultation with your chosen surgeon. During this appointment, the surgeon will listen to your goals, examine your breasts, and review your medical history. They will discuss the different types of implants, incision options, and implant placement. Some surgeons, like Dr. Lucie Capek, use tools such as the Mentor® volume sizing system or breast implant sizers to help you visualize your desired breast size.

Pre - surgery preparation

Before the surgery, you'll need to follow certain instructions from your surgeon. This may include avoiding certain medications, such as aspirin, which can increase bleeding, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It's also important to quit smoking if you're a smoker, as smoking can interfere with the healing process.

The surgery

Breast augmentation is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. The surgeon will make a small incision, either under the breast (inframammary fold incision), around the areola (periareolar incision), or in the underarm (transaxillary incision). The inframammary fold incision is the most commonly recommended approach as it has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture. The surgeon will then create a pocket for the implant, either beneath the chest muscle (submuscular placement) or directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement). The entire surgery generally takes 1 - 2 hours to complete.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from breast augmentation varies from patient to patient, but here is a general timeline:

• First few days: You may experience tiredness and soreness, which is normal. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help control the discomfort. You may also feel a slight burning feeling in your nipples, which will subside as the bruising lessens and healing continues.
• 7 to 10 days: If you have gauze dressings, they will be removed and replaced by a surgical bra. Your stitches will be taken out.
• 3 to 5 weeks: Your breasts will be sensitive to physical contact during this time.
• Next several months: Your scars will gradually fade, thin, and soften.

It's important to follow your surgeon's aftercare instructions carefully. This may include wearing a sports bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks, resting quietly for 24 to 48 hours after surgery, and avoiding strenuous or high - impact activities like running for 6 - 8 weeks. You should also continue with your regular mammograms and breast exams, and if you have silicone implants, follow the recommended schedule for MRIs or ultrasounds to check for silent implant rupture.

Potential Risks and Complications

While breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure, there are some risks involved:

• Capsular contracture: This is a condition where the scar tissue around the implant tightens, making the breast feel hard. It may require removal of the scar tissue and, in some cases, replacement of the implant.
• Infection: There is a small chance of infection around the implant area. In rare cases, the implant may have to be removed for a few months and replaced once the infection is gone.
• Impact to nipple sensation: Some women may experience hypersensitive nipples or a loss of sensitivity or slight numbness around the incision area. In most cases, these symptoms disappear over time.
• Implant leak/rupture: Saline implants will lose their contents over a short period if they break, and the body will absorb the saltwater. Silicone implant rupture may be silent, and it may require another surgery to replace the implants.

Cost of Breast Augmentation

The cost of breast augmentation typically ranges from $6,000 to $7,000. However, the actual amount depends on many factors, including your choice of implants, the complexity of the procedure, and whether it will be combined with other procedures. Some plastic surgery practices offer patient financing to help patients afford the procedure.

Breast Augmentation Revision

Sometimes, patients may require breast augmentation revision. This could be due to aesthetic concerns, such as implants that are too wide, too close together, or have “bottomed out.” Complications like implant rupture or the formation of excess scar tissue can also lead to the need for revision. Physical or lifestyle changes, such as skin stretching, weight gain or loss, may also prompt a patient to revise or remove their implants.

Board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore is a trusted choice for breast augmentation revision in the Albany area. There are different types of breast augmentation revision procedures, including breast implant removal (explant), breast implant exchange, and breast implant revision.

Conclusion

Breast augmentation can be a rewarding procedure for women in Albany with flat chests, offering an opportunity to enhance their appearance and boost self - confidence. When considering breast augmentation, it's essential to do thorough research, choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, and understand the procedure, recovery, and potential risks. By making an informed decision, you can increase the likelihood of a successful and satisfying outcome.

If you're interested in learning more about breast augmentation in Albany or scheduling a consultation with one of the top - rated plastic surgeons, we encourage you to take the next step. Reach out to a surgeon's office, ask your questions, and start your journey towards achieving the breast size and shape you desire. Don't forget to share this article with others who may be interested in breast augmentation, and explore related topics such as breast lift procedures or the latest advancements in breast implant technology.