Introduction
Breast augmentation using Allergan breast implants has become a popular choice for many women seeking to enhance their appearance. In Albany, there are several hospitals and doctors offering this procedure. Understanding the strength of each facility and the factors involved is crucial for making an informed decision. This article will explore Allergan breast implants, compare the strength of hospitals in Albany for this specific breast augmentation, and provide essential information for those considering the procedure.
Allergan Breast Implants: An Overview
Company Background
Allergan Inc. is one of the largest breast implant manufacturers globally. It started selling breast implants in 2006, and in 2020, AbbVie acquired Allergan and its aesthetics portfolio. The company's biggest markets are the United States, Canada, and Latin America. Its flagship breast implant brand is Natrelle, and it also previously sold implants under its subsidiaries Inamed and McGhan.
Types of Allergan Breast Implants
Allergan offers a variety of breast implant brands and models, including:
- Biocell textured saline and silicone - filled implants and tissue expanders
- Natrelle Inspira smooth round gel implants
- Natrelle Inspira textured round gel implants
- Natrelle 410 anatomical gel implants
- Natrelle saline - filled smooth round implants
- Natrelle saline - filled textured implants
- Natrelle 133 tissue expanders
- Natrelle 133 plus tissue expanders
- Various McGhan breast implants and tissue expanders
- Various Inamed breast implants and tissue expanders
Implant Composition
Allergan breast implants have an outer shell of silicone elastomer, a type of silicone with elastic properties similar to rubber. These shells can be filled with silicone gel or sterile saline, a saltwater solution. The choice between saline - and silicone - filled implants can influence clinical outcomes and is often a decision based on the preferences of both the surgeon and the patient.
Differences Between Smooth and Textured Implants
Implant shells can be either smooth or textured. Smooth shells allow the implant to move under the skin or muscle, mimicking the movement of natural breast tissue. Most implants are smooth. Textured shells, on the other hand, allow tissue to grow into the surface of the implant and keep it in place. However, in 2019, the FDA requested Allergan to voluntarily recall its textured breast implants after data linked the devices to hundreds of cancer cases and a dozen deaths. Since then, Allergan (now Allergan Aesthetics) no longer sells textured implants.
Allergan Breast Augmentation Procedure
Primary Augmentation
Primary augmentation refers to the first surgery someone undergoes to increase breast size. It is an outpatient procedure that uses general anesthesia. The operation time can range from one hour to several hours, depending on the patient and the implant. If a patient has a lot of excess skin, the surgeon may also perform a breast lift at the same time as placing the implant.
Implant Placement
There are two main ways a doctor may place the Natrelle implant: submuscular and subglandular. Submuscular implant placement involves placing the implant under the chest muscle (pectoralis). This technique can reduce the risk of capsular contracture, make breast tissue easier to see in mammograms, and provide a more natural look and feel. However, surgery and recovery are longer and may be more painful. Subglandular implant placement means the surgeon places the implant 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, but the surgery and recovery may be shorter and less painful.
Incision Location
There are three common incision sites for Allergan silicone implants:
Incision Site | Location | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Periareolar | Around the nipple | More concealed | Higher likelihood of breastfeeding problems, higher risk of change in sensation in nipple, higher risk of infection |
Inframammary | In the breast fold | Fewer breastfeeding difficulties, best access and control of implant pocket, most commonly used by surgeons | Less concealed |
Transaxillary | Under the arm | Fewer breastfeeding problems | Less concealed, more difficult, may increase risk of damage to and unexpected location of implant |
Recovery
After the operation, 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.
Strength Comparison of Hospitals in Albany for Allergan Breast Implants Breast Augmentation
Albany Medical Center Hospital
Albany Medical Center Hospital provides breast enlargement using prosthetic implants. The reported prices vary depending on whether the patient is paying in cash or is part of an insurance plan with a pre - negotiated rate. The care quality of the hospital has both positive and negative aspects. While it has an above - average safety of care, it has a relatively low patient experience score. The effectiveness of care is below the national average, and the timeliness of care also falls short of the national average.
Doctors in Albany Specializing in Breast Augmentation
Healthgrades lists 155 doctors who perform breast augmentation in Albany. Some of the top - rated doctors include:
Doctor | Rating | Address |
---|---|---|
Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.60 out of 5 stars | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 out of 5 stars | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Meera Menon, MD | 4.40 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
The high ratings of these doctors suggest their proficiency and experience in performing breast augmentation procedures, which can be an important factor when choosing a provider for Allergan breast implant breast augmentation.
The Plastic Surgery Group
The Plastic Surgery Group is conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, and Troy. Their plastic surgeons work with patients to find the ideal breast implants for their body type and aesthetic goals. They offer a variety of implant types, including saline, silicone, and form - stable silicone (gummy bear) implants. During the consultation, they use the Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients experience different breast sizes and identify their ideal size. The center provides detailed information about the procedure, recovery, and associated risks, which is beneficial for patients making informed decisions.
Capek Plastic Surgery
At Capek Plastic Surgery, Dr. Lucie Capek is an expert in breast augmentation. She uses breast implant sizers to help patients visualize their desired breast size and how it will look on their body type. The breast augmentation procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure in their accredited office - based operating suite or a hospital operating room. Dr. Capek creates the implant pocket using a harmonic scalpel to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during the surgery. She also provides comprehensive aftercare instructions and long - term care to help patients navigate any questions or complications that may arise.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital or Doctor for Allergan Breast Implants Breast Augmentation
Doctor's Experience and Reputation
It is essential to choose a doctor with extensive experience in performing breast augmentation with Allergan implants. Look for doctors with high ratings from past patients and those who are board - certified. Their experience can ensure a more successful procedure and better outcomes.
Hospital Facilities and Quality of Care
Consider the facilities available at the hospital, such as the operating rooms, recovery areas, and the quality of post - operative care. Hospitals with high safety ratings and positive patient experiences are generally better choices.
Cost
The cost of the procedure can vary depending on the hospital, the type of implant, and other associated factors. It is important to get a clear understanding of all the costs involved, including the implant cost, surgical fees, anesthesia fees, and post - operative care costs. However, cost should not be the only determining factor, as the quality of the procedure and the doctor's expertise are also crucial.
Complication Rates
Allergan's studies have shown that breast implant surgery has certain risks and complications, such as reoperation, implant rupture, capsular contracture, and changes in nipple or breast sensation. Inquire about the doctor's complication rates and how they manage potential complications.
Patient - Doctor Communication
Good communication between the patient and the doctor is essential. The doctor should be able to answer all of the patient's questions, understand their goals and concerns, and provide personalized recommendations.
Conclusion
In Albany, there are several hospitals and doctors offering Allergan breast implants breast augmentation. Each facility has its own strengths, whether it's the experience of the doctors, the quality of care, or the range of services provided. Allergan breast implants offer a variety of options in terms of type, shape, and size, but they also come with certain risks and considerations. When choosing a hospital or doctor for this procedure, it is important to consider factors such as the doctor's experience, the hospital's facilities and quality of care, the cost, complication rates, and patient - doctor communication.
If you are considering Allergan breast implants breast augmentation in Albany, we encourage you to schedule consultations with multiple doctors to discuss your goals and learn more about the procedure. This will help you make an informed decision and increase your chances of a successful and satisfying outcome. Share this article with others who may be interested in this topic, and explore our other resources for more information on breast augmentation and aesthetic procedures.