Introduction

Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that many women in Albany consider to enhance their appearance and confidence. Allergan is a well - known manufacturer of breast implants, and when it comes to choosing a hospital for Allergan breast augmentation in Albany, several factors need to be considered. This article will not only explore the ranking of Allergan breast augmentation hospitals in Albany but also provide in - depth information about Allergan breast implants, the procedure itself, and what to expect during and after surgery.

Overview of Allergan Breast Implants

Allergan's Place in the Market

Allergan Inc. is one of the largest breast implant manufacturers in the world. It started selling breast implants in 2006, and in 2020, Abbvie acquired Allergan and its aesthetics portfolio. Its flagship breast implant brand is Natrelle, and it also previously sold implants under its subsidiaries Inamed and Mcghan. The company claims to have the No. 1 plastic surgery portfolio, with its products being popular among surgeons. However, in July 2019, the company issued a worldwide recall of its textured implants after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) linked the devices to a rare cancer called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma.

Types of Allergan Breast Implants

• Biocell Textured Implants: These were saline and silicone - filled implants and tissue expanders. However, due to the cancer risk, they were recalled in 2019.
• Natrelle Inspira Smooth Round Gel Implants: Provide a smooth surface and a round shape, with a gel - filled interior for a natural feel.
• Natrelle Inspira Textured Round Gel Implants: Similar to the smooth version but with a textured surface to help keep the implant in place. These also had to be recalled due to safety concerns.
• Natrelle 410 Anatomical Gel Implants: Designed to mimic the curve of a natural breast, with an anatomical or tear - drop shape.
• Natrelle Saline - Filled Smooth Round Implants: Made of a silicone shell filled with sterile saline solution.
• Natrelle 133 and 133 Plus Tissue Expanders: Used in reconstruction surgery, these are made of a silicone shell and a textured surface to prevent movement.

Finding the Right Hospital for Allergan Breast Augmentation in Albany

Top Doctors in Albany for Breast Augmentation

According to Healthgrades, there are several top - rated doctors in Albany who perform breast augmentation procedures. These doctors can be associated with different hospitals or clinics, and their high ratings can give patients an idea of the quality of care they may receive. Here are some of the best doctors:

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Hospital

• Doctor's Experience: A surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation, especially with Allergan implants, is more likely to achieve optimal results. Look for doctors who have performed a large number of procedures and have a good track record.
• Hospital Reputation: Research the hospital's reputation for patient safety, quality of care, and post - operative support. Online reviews and patient testimonials can be valuable sources of information.
• Technology and Facilities: Modern hospitals with advanced surgical technology and well - equipped facilities can enhance the safety and success of the procedure. This includes things like state - of - the - art imaging equipment for pre - operative planning and comfortable recovery areas.
• Cost: While cost should not be the only factor, it is still an important consideration. Different hospitals may have different pricing structures for Allergan breast augmentation. Make sure to get a detailed breakdown of all the costs involved, including the cost of the implants, surgical fees, and post - operative care.
• Post - operative Care: Good post - operative care is crucial for a successful recovery. Find out what kind of follow - up appointments, support, and rehabilitation services the hospital offers.

The Allergan Breast Augmentation Procedure

Pre - operative Consultation

Before the surgery, patients will have a consultation with their surgeon. During this appointment, the surgeon will discuss the patient's goals from the surgery, analyze the current shape and position of the breasts, and recommend a range of implant sizes and profiles based on measurements and the patient's post - operative goals. For example, patients may have the opportunity to “try on” different implants using the scientifically - designed Mentor breast implant sizing system to get a feel for how they look and feel. Some practices also utilize 3 - D computer simulations based on breast photos and advanced AI algorithms to simulate the new breast size and shape.

Surgery Process

Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure that uses general anesthesia. The operation may take anywhere from one hour to several hours depending on the patient and the implant.

Implant Placement

There are two main ways a doctor may place the Natrelle implant:

• Submuscular: The surgeon places the implant under the chest muscle (pectoralis). This technique can reduce the risk of capsular contracture, where scar tissue squeezes the implant. It also makes breast tissue easier to see in mammograms and is preferred in women with weakened or thin breast tissue. However, surgery and recovery are longer and may be more painful, and reoperation may be more difficult.
• Subglandular: The implant is placed on top of the muscle and under the breast glands. This method has a greater likelihood of capsular contracture and makes it more difficult to see breast tissue in mammograms. Women with thin or weakened breast tissue might not do well with this surgery, but in general, the surgery and recovery may be shorter and less painful, and it is easier to perform revision surgery on these implants.

Incision Location

There are three common incision sites for Allergan silicone implants:

• Periareolar: Located around the nipple. It has the advantage of being more concealed, but it has a higher likelihood of breastfeeding problems, a higher risk of change in sensation in the nipple, and a higher risk of infection.
• Inframammary: Made in the breast fold. It has fewer breastfeeding difficulties, provides the best access and control of the implant pocket, and is the most commonly used by surgeons. However, it is less concealed.
• Transaxillary: Hidden under the arm. It has fewer breastfeeding problems but is less concealed, more difficult, and may increase the risk of damage to and unexpected location of the implant.

Recovery and Potential Complications

Recovery Process

After the surgery, women generally feel tired and sore for several days. As the skin adjusts to the implant, there may be discomfort and tightness, and swelling can decrease feeling in the nipple and breast. In most cases, women can return to work a few days after breast augmentation, but they should avoid strenuous activities. Recovery may involve using a special bra or other support to help speed up healing, and some women may need pain medication infusion devices. The recovery timeline may vary, but here is a general overview:

• Day 1: Most patients can shower carefully the day after surgery (sponge baths may be recommended in some cases).
• Days 2 - 3: If comfortable and no longer taking prescription medication, patients 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 discomfort is usually easily remedied with over - the - counter medicine.
• Day 7: Most patients feel well enough to return to work, school, and other light activities. They will have their first postoperative appointment a week after surgery to ensure healing is progressing as planned.
• Weeks 2 - 4: Patients should be able to resume most strenuous activities, and restrictions on lifting objects and moving arms above shoulder height may be eased.

Potential Complications

Like any surgery, breast augmentation has its risks. The FDA classifies breast implants as class III, high - risk devices. Key complications may include:

• Reoperation: May be required due to various reasons such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, or asymmetry.
• Implant Rupture or Deflation: Silicone - filled implants can rupture, and saline - filled implants can deflate. Rupture of a silicone - filled breast implant is often silent, so regular monitoring with MRI is recommended.
• Capsular Contracture: Occurs when scar tissue squeezes the implant, causing pain and hard, misshapen breasts.
• Asymmetry: The breasts may not look symmetrical after the surgery.
• Nipple, Breast, or Skin Sensation Changes: There may be a loss or change in sensation in the nipple, breast, or skin.
• Scarring: While efforts are made to minimize scarring, it is still a potential outcome.
• Wrinkling / Rippling: Folds of the implant may be visible through the skin.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing a hospital for Allergan breast augmentation in Albany is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Patients should research the available doctors, the hospitals they are associated with, and understand the Allergan breast implant options, the surgery process, and the potential risks and recovery process. By making an informed decision, patients can increase the likelihood of a successful breast augmentation procedure that meets their aesthetic goals.

If you are considering Allergan breast augmentation in Albany, we encourage you to reach out to the top - rated doctors mentioned in this article for a consultation. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in Albany, and explore related topics such as post - operative care tips and the latest advancements in Allergan breast implant technology.