Introduction
Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after plastic surgery procedure in Albany. Whether it's to enhance natural beauty, regain volume after pregnancy or weight loss, or correct asymmetries, women in Albany are increasingly looking for top - notch plastic surgery hospitals and surgeons. This article aims to provide a comprehensive ranking of breast augmentation plastic surgery hospitals in Albany along with price and fee references, as well as in - depth information about the procedure.
Overview of Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that increases the size and improves the shape of the breasts. It can use silicone or saline breast implants or, in some cases, a patient's own fat. This procedure is popular for various reasons. For example, many women want to add volume to naturally small breasts or breasts that have lost mass after pregnancy. It can also help balance asymmetrical breasts and boost a woman's confidence.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries in the United States. In Albany, its popularity is on the rise as more women are aware of the benefits and are looking for qualified surgeons to perform the procedure.
Ranking of Surgeons Performing Breast Augmentation in Albany
There are numerous surgeons in Albany who perform breast augmentation. Healthgrades has identified 155 doctors who offer this service in the area. Here are some of the highly - rated surgeons:
Surgeon's Name | Rating (out of 5) | Address |
---|---|---|
Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD | 4.90 | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO | 4.90 | 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211 |
Dr. Eugene Hoffert, MD | 4.90 | 250 Delaware Ave Ste 207, Delmar, NY 12054 |
Dr. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Francis Cullen, MD | 4.80 | 5 Palisades Dr Ste 110, Albany, NY 12205 |
Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.60 | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
Dr. Edward Lee, MD | 4.50 | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Meera Menon, MD | 4.40 | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Jerome Chao, MD | 4.30 | 13 Century Hill Dr, Latham, NY 12110 |
Analysis of High - Rated Surgeons
Surgeons with high ratings often have extensive experience and a proven track record of successful breast augmentation surgeries. For example, Dr. Jonathan Canete and Dr. Matthew McDonald, both with a 4.9 - star rating, likely have satisfied a large number of patients with their skills and patient - centered approach. Patients should consider not only the ratings but also the surgeon's area of specialization, years of experience, and the specific techniques they use.
It's also important to note that patient reviews can provide valuable insights. For instance, on RealSelf, many patients share their real - life experiences with surgeons in Albany. Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore has numerous positive reviews from patients who were extremely happy with their breast augmentation results, including comments about the natural look and the personalized care they received.
Breast Augmentation Hospitals and Clinics in Albany
There are several well - known hospitals and clinics in Albany that offer breast augmentation services. Each has its own unique features and advantages.
- Rockmore Plastic Surgery: Located in Latham, serving Albany and surrounding areas. Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore is a board - certified plastic surgeon who has performed more than 4,000 breast procedures. He uses a 3 - dimensional approach to achieve natural - looking results. The clinic offers before - and - after photos on its website, which can give patients an idea of the potential outcomes. They also provide consultations to discuss individual needs and provide personalized price quotes.
- The Plastic Surgery Group: Conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, and Troy. Their surgeons are well - qualified and perform breast augmentation surgeries at a nearby outpatient surgical center. They offer patient financing to help patients afford the procedure. The clinic also provides detailed information about the procedure, including incision options, implant placement, and recovery time.
- K Plastic Surgery: Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, a board - certified plastic surgeon, serves Albany and the entire capital region. He has advanced training in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery. The clinic offers a range of breast procedures, including augmentation, lift, reduction, and reconstruction. They also provide consultations to create a unique plan for each patient.
- GJK Plastic Surgery: Dr. Gabriel J. Kaufman delivers personalized care for breast procedures in Albany. He offers services such as breast augmentation, lift, revisional breast augmentation, and breast reconstructive surgery. The clinic emphasizes patient satisfaction and wellness.
Factors Affecting Breast Augmentation Cost in Albany
The cost of breast augmentation in Albany can vary significantly depending on several factors.
Surgeon's Experience and Expertise
More experienced board - certified plastic surgeons may charge higher fees than less credentialed surgeons. For example, a surgeon who has been performing breast augmentations for 20 or more years and has a high success rate is likely to charge more for their services. Their expertise can lead to better results and lower risks of complications.
Geographic Location of the Practice
The cost of the procedure is often higher in large cities where demand for the procedure is greater. Albany, being a significant urban area in New York, may have relatively higher costs compared to smaller towns. However, it also offers access to more experienced surgeons and advanced facilities.
Surgical Facility
Private surgical suites and outpatient surgery centers often charge less than hospital operating rooms. For example, some clinics in Albany may perform breast augmentation in their in - house surgical suites, which can reduce the overall cost. However, hospital operating rooms may offer more comprehensive emergency services in case of unforeseen complications.
Type of Implants Used
Silicone breast implants tend to cost more than saline implants. Silicone implants have a more natural look and feel, which is why many women are willing to pay the extra cost. However, saline implants are a more affordable option and are also FDA - approved for women over 18.
Complexity of the Procedure
More complex surgeries require more surgery time, increasing your facility and surgeon's fees. For example, if a patient has a complex breast anatomy or requires additional procedures such as a breast lift along with the augmentation, the cost will be higher.
Additional Procedures Performed Simultaneously
Adding a breast lift or tummy tuck to your breast augmentation can make a lot of sense, but it will increase surgical time and overall costs. A comprehensive mommy makeover, which combines breast augmentation with other body - contouring procedures, can be more expensive due to the increased complexity and time involved.
Price and Fee Reference in Albany
The price of breast augmentation in Albany can vary widely. Here are some general price ranges based on different sources:
- Rockmore Plastic Surgery in Latham typically charges between $8,600 and $8,800. This cost includes anesthesia fees, facility fees, all office and surgeon fees, and post - op care.
- The Plastic Surgery Group states that the cost for breast augmentation is typically $6,000 to $7,000. However, the actual amount depends on many factors, such as the choice of implants and the complexity of the procedure.
- K Plastic Surgery offers breast augmentation at a cost ranging from $6,400 - $7,500.
It's important to note that these are just estimates, and patients should get a personalized price quote during their consultation with the surgeon. Additionally, fat transfer breast augmentation usually requires more surgical time and generally costs more than using implants. It may also require a follow - up procedure to achieve the fullness the patient desires.
Choosing the Right Surgeon and Hospital
Choosing the right surgeon and hospital for breast augmentation is a crucial decision. Here are some tips to help you make an informed choice:
Board Certification
Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified in plastic surgery. Board certification indicates that the doctor has successfully passed rigorous exams in that field, demonstrating a deep level of practical knowledge. For example, Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore, Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, and Dr. Gabriel Kaufman are all board - certified plastic surgeons.
Experience
Look for a surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation. Ask about the number of procedures they have performed and their success rate. Surgeons like Dr. Rockmore, who has performed more than 4,000 breast procedures, are likely to have a higher level of skill and expertise.
Before - and - After Photos
Review the surgeon's before - and - after photos to get an idea of the type of results they can achieve. This can help you determine if their aesthetic style matches your expectations. Many clinics in Albany, such as Rockmore Plastic Surgery and The Plastic Surgery Group, provide before - and - after photos on their websites.
Patient Reviews
Read patient reviews and testimonials to understand the experiences of previous patients. Websites like RealSelf and Healthgrades have patient reviews that can provide valuable insights into the surgeon's bedside manner, the quality of care, and the overall results of the procedures.
Comfort and Communication
During your consultation, you should feel comfortable and unrushed. The surgeon should address all of your questions and concerns completely, and their staff should be friendly, professional, knowledgeable, and organized. Good communication is essential to ensure that you are on the same page with the surgeon regarding your goals and expectations.
Procedure Details
Incisions
There are several options for breast augmentation incisions:
- Inframammary Incision: A thin line that traces the fold beneath the breast. This incision allows the surgeon good access to the breast pocket and is a popular choice. The scar is usually well - hidden in the breast fold.
- Transaxillary Incision: Hidden in the armpit. This incision can result in a scar that is not visible on the breast itself. However, it may be more challenging for the surgeon to place the implant precisely.
- Periareolar Incision: Along the lower border of the areola, where the dark skin meets the lighter skin. The scar can be less noticeable due to the natural color contrast in this area. However, there is a slightly higher risk of affecting nipple sensation.
Implant Placement
There are two main types of implant placement:
- Submuscular Placement: Beneath the muscle of the chest wall. This placement is usually a good choice for women who have little of their own breast tissue because the chest muscle helps cover the implant. It also reduces the possibility of capsular contracture and interferes less with mammograms compared to subglandular placement.
- Subglandular Placement: Directly behind the tissue of the breast. This placement can result in a more immediate fullness of the breasts, but there may be a slightly higher risk of visible rippling and a more noticeable appearance of the implant edge.
Procedure Duration and Anesthesia
Most breast augmentation surgeries take approximately 1 hour to perform. The procedure is typically done under general anesthesia administered by a board - certified anesthesiologist. Patients are usually able to go home the same day of the surgery but will need an adult to drive them and care for them for the first 24 hours.
Recovery Process
The recovery process after breast augmentation varies from person to person, but here is a general timeline:
First Few Days
As with any surgery, patients may be tired and sore after breast augmentation. This is normal and will generally not last more than a day or 2. The plastic surgeon will prescribe a pain medication to help control the majority of the discomfort, which may include a slight burning feeling in the nipples. This will subside as the bruising lessens and healing continues. Most patients can shower the day after surgery if they are careful not to get the incision site too wet (sponge baths may be recommended in some cases).
7 to 10 Days
If there are gauze dressings, they will be removed in several days and replaced by a surgical bra. Follow the guidelines the plastic surgeon gives for wearing this. The stitches will be taken out. If patients are comfortable and no longer taking prescription medication, they should be able to resume driving within 72 hours of the procedure.
3 to 5 Weeks
The breasts will be sensitive to physical contact during this time. Swelling, tightness, and soreness tend to peak during this period, but any discomfort is usually easily remedied with over - the - counter medicine. By this point, most patients feel well enough to return to work, school, and other light activities.
Next Several Months
The scars will gradually fade, thin, and soften. Generally, this process takes a period of several months. Patients can gradually return to more strenuous activities, including working out, over the next several weeks. The augmented breasts will soften and settle into their final positions.
Potential Complications
While breast augmentation is a relatively safe procedure, there are some potential complications:
Capsular Contracture
This condition involves tightening of the scar or capsule around the implant, which makes the breast feel hard. Removing the scar tissue and, in some cases, replacing the implant, are two of the ways capsular contracture can be treated.
Infection
There is a small chance that an infection may occur around the area of the implant. In these rare cases, the implant might have to be taken out for a few months. A new implant will be placed once the infection is gone.
Impact to Nipple Sensation
In some cases of breast augmentation surgery, women can experience sensations of hypersensitive nipples or a loss of sensitivity or slight numbness of their nipples around the area where the incisions were made. In most cases, these symptoms disappear over time.
Implant Leak / Rupture
In the event of a breast implant breaking or leaking, saline implants will lose their contents over a short period of time, usually a couple of hours, and the body will naturally absorb the saltwater. In the case of gel - filled implants, there may not be any noticeable change if the scar capsule surrounding the implant does not break. In most cases, these situations