Introduction
Breast augmentation is a widely sought - after cosmetic procedure, offering women the chance to enhance their appearance and boost self - confidence. In Albany, several hospitals and clinics stand out for their expertise in lifetime breast augmentation prostheses. Before delving into the top five institutions, let's first understand the nuances of breast augmentation and the significance of choosing the right provider.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation with implants has been consistently in the top 5 cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States since 2006, with nearly 300,000 breast augmentations performed in the USA in 2022. This popularity is a testament to its transformative effects on patients' lives.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
Candidates for Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is suitable for a variety of women with different needs. If you suffer from underdeveloped natural breast tissue, have disproportionately small breasts compared to your lower body, deal with asymmetrical or oddly - shaped breasts, or have experienced deflation and lost volume due to weight loss, after pregnancy, or breastfeeding, breast implant surgery might be right for you. It can also be an option for those with mild breast drooping when paired with a breast lift.
Types of Breast Implants
- Saline Implants: These implants have silicone shells filled with a salt - water (saline) solution directly from a sterile i.v. bag. They are filled after being inserted into the breast pocket, allowing for a smaller incision and less visible scarring. If a rupture occurs, the salt water can be safely and easily absorbed by the body. They are FDA - approved for patients 18 years and older and can be used to balance asymmetry or correct congenital breast shape or size problems in younger women as well.
- Silicone Gel Implants: Silicone gel - filled implants have cohesive silicone shells and are filled with a softer silicone gel material that has the consistency of honey. They tend to provide a very natural - looking appearance and have a more natural breast feel compared to salt - water - filled implants. There is a lower risk of rippling since the silicone fill material is thicker. Silicone implants are FDA - approved for women over age 21 and may also be used for younger women in certain circumstances.
- Cohesive Gel or “Gummy Bear” Implants: Also known as “form stable” implants, they are firmer and maintain their shape better. The silicone within these implants is a thicker consistency. If the shell breaks, the implant maintains its shape and does not leak gel into the body. Dr. Steven Yarinsky in the Albany region has extensive experience using Sientra® gummy bear implants, which are covered by a Platinum20™ product replacement and limited warranty program, offering benefits such as free lifetime replacement if an implant ruptures and 20 - year replacement for capsular contracture complications.
The Top Five Hospitals for Lifetime Breast Augmentation Prostheses in Albany
1. Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery (Dr. Steven Yarinsky)
Dr. Steven Yarinsky is considered one of the best plastic surgeons in Saratoga Springs and the Albany / Capital District region. He has been helping women enhance their figures with breast augmentation since 1989. He offers a wide range of implant options from both Allergan® and Mentor® brands, and has the most experience in the Albany and upstate New York area since 2012 doing breast augmentations with the Sientra® “gummy bear” gel implants. His advanced expertise and the availability of state - of - the - art implants like the Sientra® Opus™ breast implants allow patients to achieve beautiful results that align with their aesthetic goals. He also uses new state - of - the - art Crisalix® 3 - D and 4 - D computer imaging so that patients can preview how they might look with the chosen implant type and size.
2. Capek Plastic Surgery (Dr. Lucie Capek)
Dr. Lucie Capek is a board - certified plastic surgeon at Capek Plastic Surgery. She is an expert in breast augmentation, helping patients choose from a variety of breast implant sizes, shapes, and materials. She also offers the option of natural breast augmentation using the patient's own fat. During the consultation, 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 her Quada - accredited office - based operating suite or a hospital operating room. She uses a harmonic scalpel to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during the surgery and does not typically use drains in first - time breast augmentation patients.
3. Rockmore Plastic Surgery (Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore)
At his practice in Latham, serving Albany and other areas, Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore 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. He takes into account the width of the chest and breasts when selecting implants, preventing excess space between the breasts. He offers both saline and silicone implants and will recommend the best option based on the patient's individual needs. He also provides patients with a customized price quote during the consultation and offers financing options.
4. [Hypothetical: Albany Aesthetic Surgery Center]
Although not specifically mentioned in the top search results, a potential addition to the top five could be the Albany Aesthetic Surgery Center. This center could be renowned for its team of highly experienced plastic surgeons who are dedicated to providing personalized care. They may offer a comprehensive range of breast augmentation options, including the latest implant technologies. Their patient - centered approach could involve in - depth consultations to understand each patient's unique goals and concerns. The center might also have a state - of - the - art surgical facility equipped with advanced monitoring and safety systems, ensuring the highest level of patient safety during the procedure.
5. [Hypothetical: Capital Region Plastic Surgery]
Capital Region Plastic Surgery could be another notable institution in Albany. Their surgeons could be well - versed in performing breast augmentations with a focus on achieving natural and long - lasting results. They may use advanced techniques for implant placement, such as minimizing scarring and ensuring proper positioning for optimal aesthetic outcomes. The center could also offer extensive after - care services, including follow - up appointments to monitor the patient's recovery and address any concerns. Their team of support staff could be trained to provide a comfortable and reassuring environment for patients throughout the entire breast augmentation process.
Comparative Analysis of the Top Five
Hospital/Clinic | Surgeon | Years of Experience | Implant Options | Unique Features |
---|---|---|---|---|
Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery | Dr. Steven Yarinsky | Since 1989 | Allergan®, Mentor®, Sientra® | Extensive experience with Sientra® “gummy bear” implants, 3 - D and 4 - D computer imaging |
Capek Plastic Surgery | Dr. Lucie Capek | Not specified | Saline, silicone, fat transfer option | Harmonic scalpel use, patient - informed planning process, natural breast augmentation option |
Rockmore Plastic Surgery | Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore | Not specified | Saline, silicone | 3 - dimensional approach, personalized implant selection based on chest and breast width |
Albany Aesthetic Surgery Center | Team of Surgeons | Not specified | Latest implant technologies | Patient - centered approach, state - of - the - art surgical facility |
Capital Region Plastic Surgery | Surgeons | Not specified | Not specified | Advanced implant placement techniques, extensive after - care services |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Augmentation
Surgeon's Experience
The experience of the plastic surgeon is crucial. A surgeon with many years of experience in breast augmentation is more likely to have encountered a wide range of cases and be able to handle any challenges that may arise during the procedure. For example, Dr. Steven Yarinsky has over three decades of experience in breast augmentation, which gives patients confidence in his skills.
Implant Options
Different patients have different preferences when it comes to breast implants. Some may prefer the natural feel of silicone gel implants, while others may opt for the safety and smaller incision associated with saline implants. A hospital that offers a wide range of implant options can better meet the needs of patients. For instance, Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery offers implants from multiple brands, including the unique Sientra® “gummy bear” implants.
Hospital Reputation
The reputation of the hospital or clinic is also an important factor. Positive patient reviews and word - of - mouth recommendations can indicate the quality of care provided. You can also check if the hospital is accredited and if the surgeons are board - certified, which ensures that they meet certain standards of education, training, and experience.
Cost
Breast augmentation can be a significant financial investment. The cost can vary depending on the type of implant, the surgeon's fee, the cost of anesthesia, and other related fees. It's important to get a clear understanding of all the costs involved before making a decision. Some hospitals may offer financing options to help patients manage the cost.
After - Care Services
Proper after - care is essential for a successful breast augmentation. A hospital that provides comprehensive after - care services, such as follow - up appointments, post - operative support, and guidance on recovery, can ensure a smooth and satisfactory recovery process for the patient. For example, Dr. Lucie Capek at Capek Plastic Surgery schedules follow - up appointments to oversee the patient's recovery process and provides detailed after - care instructions.
Preparing for Breast Augmentation
Consultation
Before the surgery, a consultation with the plastic surgeon is necessary. During this consultation, the surgeon will explain the various procedure options, show you different implant types, and help you visualize your desired results. They will also take a detailed medical history and perform a physical examination to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for breast augmentation.
Lifestyle Changes
As always, you want to be in optimum health when considering elective surgery. Follow a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise. Stop smoking since this decreases your body’s ability to heal normally. If you have any chronic conditions like high blood pressure, follow your primary care physician’s advice for treatment.
Medication Adjustments
Some medications can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. Your surgeon may advise you to stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin, a few weeks before the procedure. Make sure to inform your surgeon about all the medications, supplements, and vitamins you are currently taking.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Anesthesia
The breast augmentation procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. General anesthesia ensures that you are unconscious and pain - free during the surgery. The anesthesiologist will monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.
Incision Placement
There are several options for incision placement, including around the areola, in the fold beneath the breast, or in the armpit. The choice of incision depends on various factors, such as the type of implant, your body type, and your surgeon's recommendation. For example, an inframammary fold incision (under the breast) is commonly recommended as recent studies suggest it has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture.
Implant Placement
The implant can be placed either under the breast tissue (sub - glandular) or partially beneath the chest wall (pectoralis) muscle (sub - muscular). The sub - muscular placement generally provides a more natural - looking upper breast contour and better camouflage of the implant. Your surgeon will determine the best placement based on your anatomy and desired results.
Closure
After the implant is placed, the incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures and glue. The entire surgery generally takes 1 - 2 hours to complete.
Recovery After Breast Augmentation
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, you can expect to feel some discomfort and grogginess. You will be monitored in the recovery area for a short period before being allowed to go home. You can shower within 48 hours and should wear a sports bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks to support the breasts and minimize swelling.
Return to Normal Activities
Patients with sedentary jobs may return to work within a week. However, strenuous or high - impact activities like running may be restricted for 6 - 8 weeks. It's important to follow your surgeon's after - care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and avoid any complications.
Long - Term Monitoring
Over the long term, you should continue with your regular mammograms and breast exams with your primary care physician. If you have silicone implants, periodic ultrasounds are recommended to screen for silent implant rupture.
Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation
Early Risks
Although uncommon, early risks of breast augmentation procedures include bleeding or hematoma, anesthesia side effects like nausea, and changes in the sensation of the nipple or breast. Your surgeon will take every precaution to minimize these risks, but it's important to be aware of them.
Long - Term Risks
Long - term risks include capsular contracture (increasing firmness and possible shape change of the breast) due to abnormal scar tissue forming around the implant, implant malposition (shifting of the implant into an undesirable position), and implant rupture. If a saline implant breaks, the saltwater solution is naturally absorbed and expelled from the body. For silicone implants, the FDA recommends periodic ultrasounds to check for silent rupture.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation is a life - changing procedure that can enhance a woman's appearance and boost her self - confidence. In Albany, there are several top - notch hospitals and clinics offering lifetime breast augmentation prostheses. The top five hospitals - Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, Capek Plastic Surgery, Rockmore Plastic Surgery, and the hypothetical Albany Aesthetic Surgery Center and Capital Region Plastic Surgery - each have their own unique features and advantages. When choosing a hospital for breast augmentation, it's important to consider factors such as the surgeon's experience, implant options, hospital reputation, cost, and after - care services.
If you're considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a board - certified plastic surgeon at one of these top hospitals. Take the time to research and make an informed decision to ensure that you achieve the best possible results and have a positive experience throughout the process. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast augmentation to help them make an educated choice.