Introduction
Drop - shaped implant breast augmentation is a popular plastic surgery procedure that many women in Albany consider to enhance their appearance and self - confidence. In this article, we will explore the ranking of plastic surgery departments of public hospitals in Albany for this specific procedure. We will also provide in - depth information about breast augmentation, including implant types, surgical techniques, and recovery processes.
Understanding Drop - shaped Implant Breast Augmentation
What are Drop - shaped Implants?
Drop - shaped implants, also known as teardrop - shaped implants, are designed to mimic the natural shape of the breast. They have more projection towards the bottom and more tapering or flattening at the top. This shape gives a more natural appearance compared to round implants, especially for women who want a subtle and realistic enhancement. All shaped implants usually have a textured surface to help prevent movement within the pocket where they are placed. However, it's important to note that textured implants from allergan named biocell® have been recalled per FDA recommendation on 7/24/2019 due to an association with the rare condition called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). Textured implants from Sientra® and Mentor® are still available and have an exceedingly rare association with BIA - ALCL, if any.
Benefits of Drop - shaped Implant Breast Augmentation
- Natural Look: As mentioned earlier, the teardrop shape closely resembles the natural contour of a woman's breast, providing a more realistic appearance.
- Less Upper Pole Fullness: This type of implant can create a more balanced look, especially for women with smaller chests or those who prefer a more understated enhancement. It doesn't give the overly rounded and “implanted” look that some round implants may create.
Key Factors in Evaluating Plastic Surgery Departments
Surgeon Experience
The experience of the plastic surgeons in a department is crucial. Surgeons who have performed a large number of drop - shaped implant breast augmentation procedures are more likely to have the skills and expertise to handle various complications and achieve optimal results. For example, Dr. Steven Yarinsky in Albany has been helping women enhance their figures with breast augmentation since 1989 and has more experience than any other plastic surgeon in the Albany and upstate New York area since 2012 doing breast augmentations with the Sientra® “gummy bear” gel implants.
Quality of Implants
The type and quality of the drop - shaped implants used can significantly impact the outcome of the surgery. There are different materials available, such as saline, silicone, and cohesive gel (gummy bear) implants. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and are typically less expensive than silicone implants. They are recommended for patients who are at least 18 years old. Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel and are often thought to have a more natural feel. Cohesive gel implants are firmer and retain their shape better, and are often preferred for their safety and natural look. A good plastic surgery department should offer a variety of high - quality implants and provide patients with detailed information to help them make an informed decision.
Patient Reviews and Satisfaction
Reading patient reviews can give you an insight into the overall patient experience in a plastic surgery department. Reviews can cover aspects such as pre - operative consultations, surgical results, post - operative care, and the attitude of the medical staff. High patient satisfaction is a strong indicator of a well - run department. For instance, many patients of Dr. Steven Yarinsky have expressed their satisfaction with his services, praising his expertise and the care provided by his staff throughout the entire process.
Hospital Accreditation and Safety Standards
Public hospitals should have proper accreditation and adhere to strict safety standards. This ensures that the surgical environment is clean, the equipment is up - to - date, and the medical staff is well - trained. Hospitals like the Albany Med Health System are a good example, as they offer a broad range of cosmetic and reconstructive options and their physicians have trained at prestigious centers around the world.
Ranking of Plastic Surgery Departments of Public Hospitals in Albany
While there isn't a definitive public ranking for plastic surgery departments of public hospitals in Albany specifically for drop - shaped implant breast augmentation, we can evaluate based on available information. Healthgrades lists several doctors who perform breast augmentation in Albany. Let's take a look at some top doctors in the area:
| Doctor Name | Rating (out of 5) | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
Doctors with high ratings like these are likely to be associated with well - regarded plastic surgery departments. However, it's important to note that a single doctor's rating may not fully represent the quality of an entire department. Additionally, Healthgrades also lists other highly - rated cosmetic, plastic & reconstructive surgery specialists in Albany, such as Dr. Vladimir Kalas, MD with a 5.00 rating, and Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, MD also with a 5.00 rating.
The Breast Augmentation Process
Consultation
The first step in the breast augmentation process is a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will discuss your goals, examine your breasts, and take your medical history. They will also explain the different types of implants available, the surgical techniques, and the potential risks and complications. For example, Dr. Steven Yarinsky uses the Mentor® volume sizing system during consultations to help patients experience different breast sizes and identify their ideal breast size. The consultation is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and address any concerns you may have.
Surgery
Breast augmentation surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision, usually in one of three locations: under the breast (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). The choice of incision location depends on the patient's anatomy and the type of implant being used. Then, a pocket is created either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or under the chest muscle (submuscular), and the implant is inserted. For most women, a submuscular pocket is recommended as it provides a natural slope of the breast and additional coverage of the implant.
Recovery
Recovery after breast augmentation varies from person to person. Immediately after surgery, you can expect to feel some discomfort and grogginess. You will be given a surgical bra to wear for support and to minimize swelling. The initial recovery timeline typically includes the following milestones:
- Day 1: 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.
- Days 2 & 3: If you're comfortable and no longer taking prescription medication, you should be able to resume driving within 72 hours of your procedure.
- Days 3 - 5: Swelling, tightness, and soreness tend to peak during this period, but any discomfort is usually easily remedied with over - the - counter medicine.
- Day 7: By this point, most patients feel well enough to return to work, school, and other light activities. You will have your first postoperative appointment a week after your surgery to ensure that your healing is progressing as planned.
- Weeks 2 - 4: You should be able to resume most strenuous activities during this time. Restrictions on lifting objects and moving your arms above shoulder height may also be eased.
Additional follow - up visits are scheduled for 8 weeks and 6 months after your procedure.
Risks and Complications
While breast augmentation is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, there are some risks and complications to be aware of. These include:
- Infection: Although rare, an infection can occur at the incision site or around the implant. Symptoms may include fever, pain, and redness.
- Implant Rupture: Over time, the implant shell may rupture. Saline implants will deflate quickly, and the saline will be absorbed by the body. Silicone implants may not show obvious signs of rupture, and additional imaging may be required to detect it.
- Capsular Contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the implant tightens and compresses the implant. It can cause the breast to feel hard and may change the shape of the breast.
- Loss of Nipple Sensation: Some women may experience a temporary or permanent loss of nipple sensation after breast augmentation.
- Fluid Accumulation: A collection of fluid (seroma) may occur around the implant, which may require drainage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, drop - shaped implant breast augmentation is a popular and effective way to enhance the appearance of the breasts. When considering this procedure in Albany, it's essential to carefully evaluate the plastic surgery departments of public hospitals. Look for experienced surgeons, high - quality implants, positive patient reviews, and a hospital that adheres to strict safety standards. While there isn't a clear - cut ranking of these departments, the information provided by platforms like Healthgrades can give you a starting point. Remember, breast augmentation is a personal decision, and it's important to have realistic expectations and a thorough understanding of the process, risks, and recovery.
If you're interested in drop - shaped implant breast augmentation in Albany, we encourage you to schedule consultations with multiple plastic surgeons. This will allow you to ask questions, learn more about the procedure, and choose the doctor and hospital that are the best fit for you. Share this article with others who may be considering breast augmentation to help them make an informed decision.
