Unveiling the Best: Ranking List of Plastic Hospitals for Silicone Prosthetic Breast Augmentation in Albany
Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure that has gained popularity over the years, especially with the use of silicone prosthetics. In Albany, there are several plastic hospitals that offer this service, but not all are created equal. This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive ranking list of plastic hospitals in Albany that excel in silicone prosthetic breast augmentation, along with in - depth information to help you make an informed decision.
Why Silicone Prosthetic Breast Augmentation?
Silicone breast implants have been a top choice for many women considering breast augmentation. According to a report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2014, silicone gel implants were used in 77% of all breast augmentations. This high usage rate can be attributed to their natural - looking and feeling characteristics. Silicone implants closely mimic the texture and movement of natural breast tissue, providing a more realistic outcome compared to other types of implants.
Moreover, modern silicone implants, such as form - stable silicone or “gummy bear” implants, are very safe. They have a more solid consistency than traditional silicone implants and retain their shape. In the event of a rupture, the silicone does not leak from the shell, reducing potential health risks.
Top Factors to Consider in a Plastic Hospital for Breast Augmentation
- Surgeon Experience: The skill and experience of the plastic surgeon performing the procedure are crucial. Surgeons with a long - standing practice and a high number of successful breast augmentation surgeries are more likely to provide better results. For example, at the Williams Center, Dr. Edwin Williams has over 30 years of experience and has performed 10,000 + facial plastic surgeries, while Dr. Kei Mun Slaughter has 15 years of experience and 10,000 + procedures under his belt. Although these are mainly for facial procedures, it shows a track record of surgical expertise.
- Patient Reviews: Real - life experiences of previous patients can give you an idea of what to expect from the hospital and the surgeon. Positive reviews regarding the surgical outcome, post - operative care, and the overall patient experience are good indicators of a reliable plastic hospital.
- Range of Services: A plastic hospital that offers a wide range of breast augmentation options, such as different types of silicone implants (textured or smooth, different profiles), various incision methods, and the ability to combine the procedure with a breast lift, shows flexibility and expertise in meeting different patient needs.
- Safety and Quality Standards: Ensure that the hospital follows strict safety protocols, uses FDA - approved implants, and has a well - equipped operating facility. This helps minimize the risk of complications during and after the surgery.
Ranking List of Plastic Hospitals in Albany for Silicone Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
1. Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore at Rockmore Plastic Surgery is well - known for his expertise in breast augmentation. With experience in performing more than 4,000 breast procedures, he has developed a 3 - dimensional approach that consistently achieves beautiful and natural - looking breasts.
Services Offered:
- Customized breast augmentation using a wide range of silicone implants, including “gummy bear” implants.
- Ability to combine breast augmentation with a breast lift or include it in a comprehensive mommy makeover.
- Detailed consultation to understand the patient's goals and recommend the best implant size, shape, material, and profile based on the patient's body type.
Patient Reviews: Many patients have reported being very satisfied with their results. They appreciate the personalized attention and the natural look and feel of their augmented breasts. For example, patients like the 45 - year - old woman who lost significant breast volume after having kids and achieved her desired cup size with a 330 cc silicone implant, as well as the young woman who went from an “A” cup to a “C” cup and was thrilled with the natural appearance of her new breasts.
2. Dr. Lucie Capek, MD
Dr. Lucie Capek is a board - certified plastic surgeon trusted by patients throughout the capital district areas of Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga, as well as those traveling from further afield like New York City, Vermont, and Massachusetts.
Services Offered:
- Expert advice on choosing the right silicone implants based on the patient's unique breast shape, tissue characteristics, body type, and desired results.
- Use of a harmonic scalpel during surgery to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching, and placement of implants in either a sub - muscular or sub - glandular position depending on the patient's situation.
- Comprehensive pre - and post - operative care, including using a Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients visualize their desired breast size before the procedure and providing detailed aftercare instructions.
Patient Reviews: Patients have praised the surgery process, highlighting excellent care, minimal pain and bruising, and a fast recovery. For instance, one patient said, “The surgery itself was as good a process as something like that can be. Excellent care, very little pain and bruising with a fast recovery. Definitely worth it.”
3. The Plastic Surgery Group
The Plastic Surgery Group is conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, and Troy. Their plastic surgeons have a reputation for helping patients achieve their ideal breast aesthetic through breast augmentation with silicone implants.
Services Offered:
- An extensive selection of breast implants, including saline, silicone, and form - stable silicone (gummy bear) implants.
- Detailed consultations using the Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients choose the best implants in terms of type, size, shape, profile, and texture.
- Tailored surgical plans considering the patient's anatomy and aesthetic goals, with different incision locations (inframammary, periareolar, transaxillary) and implant placement options (subglandular or submuscular).
Patient Reviews: Patients appreciate the personalized attention during the consultation process and the overall professionalism of the surgical team. The hospital also provides clear information about the cost of implants based on their characteristics, which is helpful for patients in their decision - making process.
4. K Plastic Surgery
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha at K Plastic Surgery is a board - certified plastic surgeon with advanced training in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery. He offers a variety of breast procedures, including silicone prosthetic breast augmentation.
Services Offered:
- Breast augmentation to enhance breast size, shape, and symmetry, with clear pricing ranging from $6,400 - $7,500 and a recovery period of 1 - 2 weeks for initial results and 6 months for full results.
- The ability to handle complications from previous breast procedures, such as implant leaks or capsular contracture, with a focus on achieving goal results.
- A detailed consultation process where Dr. Kayastha listens to the patient's goals, examines the treatment area, and reviews the patient's health history to ensure the safety of the procedure.
Patient Reviews: Before - and - after photos of previous patients are available for review, which helps potential patients get an idea of the possible outcomes. Patients also appreciate the finesse and professionalism with which Dr. Kayastha approaches plastic surgery.
5. Williams Center
The Williams Center is a destination practice attracting patients from near and far. While they are well - known for facial plastic surgery, they also have a breast and body specialist, Dr. Alfredo Lloreda, who is experienced in breast procedures, including silicone prosthetic breast augmentation.
Services Offered:
- Personalized breast augmentation procedures tailored to the patient's body type and aesthetic goals.
- A team of experienced plastic surgeons with a commitment to providing excellent patient care, from consultation to post - operative follow - up.
- Convenient locations and options for virtual consultations, which is beneficial for patients who are unable to visit in person.
Patient Reviews: Patients have left positive reviews about the staff's receptiveness and the overall patient experience. They mention feeling comfortable and welcome at the facility, and the improvement in their confidence and self - esteem after the surgery.
Understanding the Breast Augmentation Procedure
Pre - operative Phase
Before undergoing silicone prosthetic breast augmentation, a comprehensive consultation with the plastic surgeon is essential. During this consultation, the surgeon will:
- Assess the patient's medical history, including any pre - existing conditions, allergies, or previous surgeries.
- Discuss the patient's goals, such as the desired breast size, shape, and overall aesthetic outcome.
- Conduct a physical examination of the breasts to determine the appropriate implant type, size, and placement.
- Provide information about the surgical procedure, potential risks, and recovery process.
- Use tools like the Mentor® volume sizing system to help the patient visualize the potential results.
Patients are also advised to adopt a healthy lifestyle before the surgery. This includes following a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking, as smoking can impede the body's natural healing process.
Operative Phase
Breast augmentation with silicone prosthetics is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgical steps may include:
- Incision: The surgeon will make an incision in one of three common locations - under the breast (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). The choice of incision depends on factors such as the patient's anatomy and the type of implant being used.
- Pocket Creation: A pocket is created either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or under the chest muscle (submuscular). The placement of the pocket can affect the appearance and feel of the augmented breasts.
- Implant Placement: The pre - selected silicone implant is inserted into the pocket and carefully positioned to achieve the desired shape and symmetry.
- Incision Closure: The incision is closed using sutures, and in some cases, dissolvable sutures and glue are used for a more seamless healing process.
The entire surgery usually takes 1 - 2 hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the case.
Post - operative Phase
After the surgery, patients can expect the following:
- Immediate Aftermath: Patients may experience some pain, swelling, and discomfort. They will need someone to drive them home and assist with daily activities. Pain medication will be prescribed to manage the discomfort.
- Recovery Timeline:
- Within 48 hours, patients can usually shower (with caution to keep the incision site dry).
- For the first 2 - 3 weeks, wearing a sports bra around the clock is recommended to support the healing breasts and minimize swelling.
- Patients with sedentary jobs may return to work within a week, while strenuous activities like running may be restricted for 6 - 8 weeks.
- Follow - up Appointments: Regular follow - up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the healing process, check for any complications, and ensure the implants are settling properly. If silicone implants are used, periodic ultrasounds or MRIs may be recommended to screen for silent implant rupture.
It is crucial for patients to follow the surgeon's aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome.
Risks and Complications of Silicone Prosthetic Breast Augmentation
Although breast augmentation with silicone prosthetics is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, there are still some risks and potential complications:
- Early Risks:
- Bleeding or Hematoma: Excessive bleeding during or after the surgery can lead to the formation of a hematoma, which may require additional treatment.
- Anesthesia Side Effects: Common side effects of anesthesia include nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness. In rare cases, more serious complications can occur.
- Changes in Nipple or Breast Sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensation, which can affect sexual function and breastfeeding.
- Long - term Risks:
- Capsular Contracture: This is the most common long - term complication, where abnormal scar tissue forms around the implant, causing the breast to become firm and potentially change shape. In severe cases, a second surgery may be required.
- Implant Malposition: The implant may shift into an undesirable position, such as dropping too low or moving to the side, which may also require corrective surgery.
- Implant Rupture: Although silicone implants are designed to be durable, rupture can still occur. In the case of silicone implants, rupture may be silent, which is why regular screening is recommended.
It's important to note that with the expertise of a skilled plastic surgeon and proper pre - and post - operative care, the risk of these complications can be minimized.
Cost Considerations
The cost of silicone prosthetic breast augmentation in Albany can vary depending on several factors, such as:
- Surgeon's Fee: Experienced and well - known surgeons may charge higher fees.
- Implant Cost: Different types of silicone implants (standard, “gummy bear”, etc.) have different price ranges.
- Anesthesia Fees: The type and duration of anesthesia used during the surgery can affect the cost.
- Facility Fees: The cost of using the operating facility, including the equipment and staff.
- Post - operative Care: Follow - up appointments, medications, and compression garments all contribute to the overall cost.
For example, at K Plastic Surgery, the cost of breast augmentation ranges from $6,400 - $7,500, while other hospitals may have different pricing structures. It's important for patients to discuss the cost in detail during the consultation and ask about any potential hidden fees.
Conclusion
Silicone prosthetic breast augmentation is a popular and effective way for women to enhance their breast size and shape. In Albany, there are several plastic hospitals that offer high - quality services in this area. By considering factors such as surgeon experience, patient reviews, range of services, and safety standards, patients can make an informed decision about which hospital is the best fit for them.
Before undergoing the procedure, it's essential to have a detailed consultation with the plastic surgeon to understand the process, potential risks, and expected outcomes. Patients should also carefully follow the pre - and post - operative instructions to ensure a successful recovery and the best possible results.
If you're considering silicone prosthetic breast augmentation in Albany, take the time to research the hospitals on this ranking list, read patient reviews, and schedule consultations with the surgeons. This will help you find the right plastic hospital and surgeon to achieve your aesthetic goals.