Introduction
Breast augmentation surgery is a popular cosmetic procedure, and Allergan's teardrop - shaped silicone gel breast implants have been a well - known choice in the market. In Albany, understanding the institutional ranking and real - life cases associated with this type of breast augmentation is crucial for patients considering the procedure. Allergan, a major player in the breast implant industry, has a long - standing history of manufacturing implants, and its teardrop - shaped silicone gel implants aim to provide a more natural look and feel to the breasts.
Allergan: A Brief Overview
Allergan Inc. is one of the largest breast implant manufacturers in the world. It started selling breast implants in 2006. In May 2020, AbbVie acquired Allergan and its aesthetics portfolio. Its biggest markets are the United States, Canada, and Latin America. Allergan's flagship breast implant brand is Natrelle, but it previously sold implants under its subsidiaries Inamed and McGhan. Allergan claims to have the no. 1 plastic surgery portfolio.
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.
Allergan Teardrop - Shaped Silicone Gel Breast Implants
Composition
Allergan breast implants have an outer shell of silicone elastomer, a type of silicone with elastic properties similar to rubber. The teardrop - shaped implants can be filled with silicone gel. “In addition to cost differences, saline - and silicone - filled implants may lead to different clinical outcomes. Ultimately, the choice of implant for breast augmentation or reconstruction is also influenced by the preferences of both the surgeon and the patient,” according to Samuel Sarmiento, M.D., MPH, MBA, a physician and public health professional.
The teardrop shape is designed to mimic the curve of a natural breast, providing a more realistic appearance compared to round implants.
Benefits
- Natural Appearance: The teardrop shape follows the natural contour of the breast, giving a more authentic look. This is especially beneficial for patients who desire a subtle and natural - looking enhancement.
- Stability: The shape allows the implants to sit more stably in the breast pocket, reducing the likelihood of rotation or shifting, which can occur with round implants in some cases.
Types of Allergan Teardrop - Shaped Implants
One of the well - known models is the Natrelle 410 highly cohesive anatomically shaped silicone - filled breast implants. These implants come in different profiles and sizes, allowing surgeons to customize the augmentation based on the patient's body type and desired outcome.
Institutional Ranking in Albany
Factors Influencing Ranking
Surgeon Expertise
The skill and experience of the surgeons at a particular institution play a significant role in its ranking. Surgeons who are board - certified and have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation surgeries using Allergan teardrop - shaped implants are highly sought after. Their ability to accurately place the implants, ensure symmetry, and minimize complications is crucial. For example, a surgeon who has performed hundreds of similar surgeries will be more proficient in handling different anatomical variations and achieving optimal results.
Patient Satisfaction
Patient reviews and satisfaction rates are important metrics for ranking. Institutions that consistently receive positive feedback from patients regarding their breast augmentation experience, including the results, post - operative care, and overall experience, are likely to rank higher. Factors such as pain management during recovery, communication with the medical staff, and the long - term appearance of the breasts all contribute to patient satisfaction.
Technological Advancements
Institutions that invest in the latest surgical technologies and techniques are more likely to offer better outcomes. This includes the use of advanced imaging technologies for pre - operative planning, such as 3D imaging, which allows patients to visualize the expected results more accurately. Additionally, newer surgical techniques that minimize scarring and reduce the recovery time can enhance the institution's reputation.
Potential Sources for Ranking Information
Online Reviews
Websites like RealSelf, Healthgrades, and Google Reviews can provide valuable insights into patient experiences at different institutions in Albany. Patients often share their personal stories, including the quality of care, the skill of the surgeon, and the final results of their breast augmentation surgery.
Professional Organizations
Membership in professional organizations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) can be an indicator of an institution's quality. ASPS - member surgeons are required to adhere to strict ethical and professional standards, which can give patients more confidence in the institution's services.
Case Studies in Albany
Case 1: A 31 - Year - Old Female
A 31 - year - old female underwent inframammary (below the breast) placement of style 410 FF (right: 375 cc, left: 290 cc) anatomic silicone gel - filled Allergan implants under the muscle. Her cup size increased from B to C. The patient chose teardrop - shaped implants for a more natural look. Post - operatively, she reported being satisfied with the results, noting that the breasts looked and felt natural. The surgeon was able to achieve good symmetry, and the patient's recovery was relatively smooth, with only mild discomfort during the initial days. However, it's important to note that this is just one case, and individual results may vary.
Case 2: Another Patient's Experience
Another patient, a 28 - year - old woman, also opted for Allergan teardrop - shaped silicone gel breast implants. She had concerns about the size and shape of her breasts and desired a more proportionate appearance. After a thorough consultation with her surgeon, she decided on a particular size and profile of the implants. The surgery was performed successfully, but she experienced some swelling and bruising during the recovery period. With proper post - operative care and instructions, the swelling gradually subsided, and she was pleased with the final outcome after a few months. However, she did note some minor changes in nipple sensation, which is a potential complication associated with breast augmentation surgery.
Breast Augmentation Surgery Process
Pre - operative Considerations
Consultation
The first step in breast augmentation surgery is a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will assess the patient's medical history, including any pre - existing conditions, allergies, or previous surgeries. They will also discuss the patient's goals and expectations for the surgery, such as the desired cup size, shape, and overall look. The surgeon will perform a physical examination of the breasts to determine the patient's anatomy, including the breast tissue quality, nipple position, and chest wall characteristics.
Implant Selection
Based on the patient's goals and anatomy, the surgeon will help the patient select the appropriate Allergan teardrop - shaped silicone gel implant. Factors such as the implant size, profile (low, moderate, high), and projection will be considered. The surgeon may also use 3D imaging technology to show the patient what the expected results may look like.
Medical Tests
Before the surgery, the patient will be required to undergo certain medical tests, such as blood tests, mammograms, and electrocardiograms (ECGs), depending on their age and medical history. These tests are to ensure that the patient is in good health and able to undergo the surgery safely.
Surgical Procedure
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure that usually uses general anesthesia. The anesthesiologist will administer the anesthesia to ensure that the patient is comfortable and pain - free during the surgery.
Incision Location
There are three common incision sites for Allergan silicone implants: periareolar, inframammary, and axillary or transaxillary.
- Periareolar: The incision is made around the nipple. This option offers a more concealed scar, but it has a higher likelihood of breastfeeding problems, a higher risk of change in nipple sensation, and a higher risk of infection.
- Inframammary: The incision is made in the breast fold. It is the most commonly used site by surgeons as it provides better access and control of the implant pocket, and there are fewer breastfeeding difficulties. However, the scar may be less concealed.
- Transaxillary: The incision is made under the arm. It has fewer breastfeeding problems but is less concealed, more difficult to perform, and may increase the risk of damage to the implant and unexpected implant location.
Implant Placement
There are two ways a doctor may place the Natrelle implant: submuscular and subglandular.
- Submuscular Placement: The surgeon places the implant under the chest muscle (pectoralis). This technique can reduce the risk of capsular contracture, which occurs when 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 also be more difficult.
- Subglandular Placement: 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. 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.
Post - operative Recovery
Initial Days
Women generally feel tired and sore for several days following the operation. As the skin adjusts to the implant, there may be discomfort and tightness. Swelling can decrease feeling in the nipple and breast after surgery. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage the pain.
Return to Normal Activities
In most cases, women can return to work a few days after breast augmentation. However, they should avoid strenuous activities for several weeks. Recovery may involve using a special bra or other support to help speed up healing. Some women may need pain medication infusion devices.
Follow - up Appointments
Patients will need to attend regular follow - up appointments with their surgeon. These appointments are to monitor the healing process, check for any complications, and ensure that the implants are in good condition. The surgeon may also provide further instructions on post - operative care, such as massage techniques to prevent capsular contracture.
Complications and Safety Precautions
Potential Complications
BIA - ALCL
Although Allergan has recalled its textured implants due to the risk of BIA - ALCL, it's important for patients with any Allergan implants to be aware of this risk. BIA - ALCL is a type of non - Hodgkin lymphoma that can develop around breast implants. It most commonly presents as a fluid accumulation called a “malignant effusion” in the scar tissue around the implant. In a minority of patients, it can also present as a tumor. In more advanced cases, the disease may spread to the lymph nodes in the chest wall and armpits on the same side. As of June 2023, the FDA received 63 reports in which a patient had died, and 37 of those patients had an Allergan breast implant at the time of their BIA - ALCL diagnosis.
Other Complications
Key complications identified in Allergan's studies included reoperation, implant removal with or without replacement, implant rupture with silicone - filled implants, implant deflation with saline - filled implants, severe capsular contracture (scar tissue squeezes implant), asymmetry, nipple, breast, skin sensation changes, scarring, wrinkling/rippling (folds of implant are visible through skin), implant malposition, nipple complications, abnormal scarring, breast pain, swelling, fluid accumulation, hematoma, and delayed wound healing.
Safety Precautions
FDA Monitoring
The FDA classifies breast implants as class III, high - risk devices. Women with breast implants will require monitoring and care for the rest of their lives to detect possible implant ruptures. This requires an MRI every two years the implant remains in the body.
Patient Consent
Because of the risks associated with breast implant surgery, Allergan requires surgeons and patients to sign Allergan's “Acceptance of Risk and Consent to Surgery” form before the surgery. The company also recommends women wait one or two weeks and think about whether breast augmentation is something they truly wish to do.
Lawsuits and Legal Considerations
Allergan Breast Implant Lawsuits
Allergan breast implant lawsuits claim that Allergan and its subsidiaries did not properly warn women that their textured breast implants carried a risk of BIA - ALCL. As of February 2025, there were 1,261 pending lawsuits in multidistrict litigation (MDL) 2921 before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti in New Jersey.
Impact on Patients and Institutions
These lawsuits have raised awareness about the potential risks associated with Allergan breast implants. For patients in Albany considering breast augmentation with Allergan teardrop - shaped implants, it's important to be fully informed about the legal situation and the risks involved. Institutions also need to be more cautious and transparent in their communication with patients about the potential risks of the implants.
Conclusion
Allergan teardrop - shaped silicone gel breast implants offer a natural - looking option for breast augmentation. In Albany, the institutional ranking is influenced by factors such as surgeon expertise, patient satisfaction, and technological advancements. Real - life case studies provide insights into the actual experiences of patients. However, it's crucial to be aware of the potential complications, including BIA - ALCL, and the legal implications associated with these implants. By understanding all these aspects, patients can make more informed decisions about their breast augmentation surgery.
If you are considering breast augmentation with Allergan teardrop - shaped silicone gel implants in Albany, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a board - certified plastic surgeon. Discuss your goals, concerns, and the potential risks and benefits in detail. You can also seek more information from professional organizations and online resources. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation with Allergan implants.
