Introduction
Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure in Albany, New York. Women often opt for breast augmentation with prostheses or liposuction breast augmentation to enhance their breast size, shape, and overall body proportion. In this article, we will delve into the details of these procedures, the ranking of hospitals and doctors in Albany, and everything you need to know before making a decision.
What is Breast Augmentation?
General Definition
Breast augmentation, also known as breast enlargement or enhancement, is a plastic surgery operation that has been performed in the United States for over 50 years. It is designed to increase the size of the breasts and improve their shape. The most common methods are using silicone or saline breast implants, and liposuction breast augmentation, which uses the patient's own fat.
Types of Breast Augmentation
- Breast Augmentation with Prostheses:
This involves inserting breast implants into the breast tissue. There are two main types of implants: saline and silicone. Silicone implants are more commonly chosen as scientific studies have shown them to be safe and to provide a more natural - feeling result. Saline implants, filled with sterile salt water, are an alternative. They typically require smaller incisions than silicone implants and are generally less expensive.
There are also form - stable silicone (“gummy bear”) implants. These have a more solid consistency than traditional silicone breast implants, are firmer, and retain their shape. In case of a rupture, the silicone does not leak from the shell.
- Liposuction Breast Augmentation:
Also known as breast augmentation with fat transfer, this method uses liposuction to harvest excess fat from other parts of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, or hips. The harvested fat cells are then purified and injected into the breasts. It is suitable for women who are not looking for a dramatic increase in breast size and want breasts that look and feel as natural as possible. However, the results are less predictable compared to using implants, and there may be some resorption of the fat over time.
Factors to Consider in Choosing a Hospital or Doctor for Breast Augmentation
Doctor's Experience and Reputation
The experience of the plastic surgeon is crucial. A surgeon who has performed a large number of breast augmentation procedures is more likely to have the skills and expertise to handle various situations. Look for surgeons with high patient ratings. For example, in Albany, doctors like Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD, and Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO, both have a 4.9 - star rating out of 5 on Healthgrades, indicating high patient satisfaction.
Hospital Facilities and Technology
The quality of the hospital facilities and the technology they use can greatly impact the outcome of the surgery. Hospitals with state - of - the - art equipment and a clean, well - maintained environment are more likely to provide a safe and comfortable surgical experience.
Cost
The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on the type of procedure, the type of implants used (if applicable), and the doctor's fees. At K Plastic Surgery in Albany, breast augmentation costs between $6,400 - $7,500. It is important to get a detailed price quote during the consultation and to understand what is included in the cost.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an idea of the real - life experiences of other women who have undergone breast augmentation at a particular hospital or with a specific doctor. Positive reviews about the doctor's bedside manner, the quality of the results, and the post - operative care are all good signs.
Ranking of Doctors in Albany for Breast Augmentation
Healthgrades has identified several top doctors in Albany who perform breast augmentation. The following is a list of some of these doctors along with their ratings and addresses:
Doctor's Name | Rating (out of 5) | Address |
---|---|---|
Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.60 | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Meera Menon, MD | 4.40 | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD | 4.90 | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Francis Cullen, MD | 4.80 | 5 Palisades Dr Ste 110, Albany, NY 12205 |
Dr. Jerome Chao, MD | 4.30 | 13 Century Hill Dr, Latham, NY 12110 |
Dr. Edward Lee, MD | 4.50 | 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 |
Top Hospitals and Clinics in Albany for Breast Augmentation
Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore at Rockmore Plastic Surgery in Latham, serving Albany and surrounding areas, has extensive experience in breast augmentation. He performs breast augmentation using breast implants to add volume and create natural - looking results. He has a 3 - dimensional approach for consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts and offers a wide range of implant options. The clinic also provides detailed before - and - after photos, which can give patients a better idea of the potential results.
Malcolm Z. Roth, MD, FACS
Dr. Malcolm Roth is well - known for breast augmentation procedures. He offers both silicone and saline implants and is experienced in implant placement, whether it's over or under the muscle. He has received positive patient reviews, with one patient stating, “Not only is he a great surgeon, but he has great compassion, empathy, and an outstanding bedside manner. He is the only surgeon who actually came out and spoke to my family. He went above and beyond! Highly recommend him.”
K Plastic Surgery
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha at K Plastic Surgery is a board - certified plastic surgeon. He has advanced training and experience in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery. The clinic offers a variety of breast procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast implant removal. Before the first appointment, patients can review before - and - after photos of Dr. Kayastha’s previous patients.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Pre - operative Consultation
The first step in the breast augmentation process is a consultation with the doctor. During this consultation, the doctor will discuss your goals for the surgery, perform a physical examination, and review your medical history. They will also discuss the different types of implants or fat transfer options available and help you choose the best one for your body type and aesthetic goals. At Rockmore Plastic Surgery, they use the Mentor® volume sizing system during consultations to help patients experience different breast sizes and identify their ideal breast size.
Surgery
Breast augmentation surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision, and the location of the incision can vary. Common incision locations include inframammary (a thin line that traces the fold beneath the breast), periareolar (along the lower border of the areola), and transaxillary (hidden in the armpit). The surgeon will then create a pocket either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or under the chest muscle (submuscular) and insert the implant. In the case of liposuction breast augmentation, the surgeon will first perform liposuction to harvest fat and then inject it into the breasts.
Post - operative Care and Recovery
After the surgery, you will need to wear a surgical bra to support the breasts and minimize swelling. You may experience some pain, swelling, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication. Most patients can shower the day after surgery (with caution to keep the incision site dry), and many can resume driving within 72 hours if they are no longer taking prescription medication. Swelling, tightness, and soreness usually peak in the first few days and then gradually subside. Most patients can return to work and light activities within a week, but strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks. It may take 3 to 6 months for the breasts to fully settle into their final shape.
Potential Risks and Complications
Breast Augmentation with Prostheses
- Capsular Contracture: This is the hardening of the tissue around the implant. With state - of - the - art breast implants, hard capsules occur very infrequently, but it is still a potential risk.
- Implant Leaks and Ruptures: If a saline implant ruptures, the saltwater is absorbed by the body, and there is a rapid loss of volume. If a silicone implant leaks, the silicone may stay in the general vicinity, but there is a risk of inflammation or enlarged lymph nodes.
- Implant Deflation or Shifting: The implant may deflate or shift from its original position, which may require additional surgery to correct.
- Change in Nipple/Breast Sensation: There may be a temporary or permanent change in nipple or breast sensation.
- Irregularities in Breast Contour/Shape: The breasts may not have the desired contour or shape after surgery.
- Asymmetry: There may be some asymmetry between the two breasts.
- Partial or Total Loss of Nipple/Areola: Although rare, this is a potential complication.
Liposuction Breast Augmentation
- Calcification: Calcium deposits may form in the breasts.
- Fat Embolism: A rare but serious complication where fat enters the bloodstream and can cause blockages.
- Fat Necrosis: The death of fat cells, which may cause lumps or changes in the breast tissue.
- Oil Cysts: Fluid - filled cysts may form in the breasts.
- Loss of Volume: Some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body, resulting in a loss of volume.
- Firmness of the Breasts: The breasts may feel firmer than normal.
FAQs about Breast Augmentation in Albany
What will my scars look like?
The appearance of scars depends on the incision used. Surgeons are mindful of scarring and make incisions meticulously. In most cases, incisions are made in inconspicuous places, such as under the arm, in the fold beneath the breast, or around the areola. Following the doctor's incision - care instructions after surgery can help the scars heal well and fade over time.
Is breastfeeding possible after breast augmentation?
Yes, the techniques used by many plastic surgeons in Albany, such as Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore, ensure a high likelihood of successful breastfeeding. The presence of implants generally does not hinder milk production. However, it is important to let your doctor know if you plan to breastfeed in the future.
If my breasts sag, is it really necessary to have a lift along with my augmentation?
It depends on the degree of sagging. Slight sagging can sometimes be reduced with breast augmentation alone, but more significant sagging may get worse once implants are introduced. The extra weight from the implants can make the breasts sag prematurely. During the consultation, the doctor will help you understand if a combined breast augmentation and lift is in your best interest.
I’ve heard that implants need time to “drop.” What does that mean?
“Dropping” or “drop and fluff” refers to the process where the muscles and tissues surrounding the implants soften and relax, allowing the breasts to take on a more natural appearance. Immediately after surgery, implants may appear high and tight on the chest. Over time, the body acclimates to the implants, and the skin and muscle stretch to accommodate them. As this happens, the implants assume a slightly lower and more natural - looking position, and the shape of the breasts improves as swelling subsides. This process can take several months to complete.
Is breast augmentation surgery safe?
When performed by a board - certified plastic surgeon, breast augmentation is a relatively low - risk procedure. However, like any surgery, there are potential risks, such as infection, implant rupture, and capsular contracture. Surgeons take every precaution to keep the risk of complication very low.
Will I eventually have to replace my breast implants?
It is likely that you will need to replace your implants at some point in the future, typically after about 15 years. Breast augmentation revision gives you the opportunity to ensure that your results remain aligned with your body shape and goals over the years.
Is breast surgery painful?
Breast augmentation surgery is generally well - tolerated. Most women describe a feeling of tightness and soreness following the procedure, but the pain is usually mild and easily manageable with pain medication.
Will my results look natural?
Skilled plastic surgeons in Albany, such as Dr. Rockmore, take great care to produce beautiful results. Your preferences for the implants’ size, shape, material, and projection will influence how “natural” your breasts will look. The surgeon will work closely with you to create the most flattering results based on your aesthetic goals.
What if I decide that I want to remove my breast implants later?
Breast augmentation revision surgery gives you the flexibility to update your breast augmentation results at any time. You can swap your implants for a different size or material, exchange them for a newer pair, or simply remove them altogether.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation with prostheses and liposuction breast augmentation are popular procedures in Albany. When considering these procedures, it is essential to choose a qualified doctor and a reputable hospital or clinic. Factors such as the doctor's experience, hospital facilities, cost, and patient reviews should all be taken into account. By understanding the procedure, potential risks, and recovery process, you can make an informed decision. The doctors and clinics in Albany mentioned in this article offer high - quality services and can help you achieve your desired aesthetic goals.
If you are interested in breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top doctors in Albany. Take the time to discuss your goals, ask questions, and review before - and - after photos. Don't hesitate to share your concerns and expectations with the doctor, as this will help them create a personalized plan for you. Share this article with your friends and family who may also be interested in breast augmentation, and continue exploring our website for more information