Introduction

Breast augmentation with prostheses has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure, and in Albany, many individuals are seeking the best options for this enhancement. The long - term word - of - mouth list can serve as a valuable resource for those considering breast augmentation. This article will delve into various aspects of breast augmentation with prostheses in Albany, including the procedure itself, different types of implants, risks and benefits, and the top practices and surgeons according to long - term patient feedback.

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves placing breast implants under breast tissue or chest muscles to increase breast size. According to the Mayo Clinic, for some people, it's a way to feel better about themselves, while for others, it's part of rebuilding a breast for various conditions such as after breast surgery for other diseases. Rockmore Plastic Surgery also notes that breast augmentation consistently ranks as one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the country.

Planning the Breast Implant Procedure

The process of breast implant surgery planning typically begins with a consultation. As mentioned on delucaplasticsurgery.com, during this consultation, the surgeon discusses the patient's goals from the surgery and analyzes the current shape and position of the breasts. Based on measurements of the breast and post - operative goals, the surgeon recommends a range of implant sizes and profiles. For example, Deluca Plastic Surgery uses the scientifically - designed, Mentor breast implant sizing system, allowing patients to “try on” different implants and get a feel for how they look and feel. Additionally, they utilize 3 - D computer simulations based on breast photos and advanced AI algorithms to simulate the breasts in their new size and shape, creating a bespoke breast augmentation experience.

Types of Breast Implants

There are several types of breast implants available, each with its own characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages.

Saline Breast Implants

Saline breast implants are filled with sterile salt water. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons states that should the implant shell leak, a saline implant will collapse, and the saline will be absorbed and naturally expelled by the body. They provide a uniform shape, firmness, and feel and are FDA - approved for augmentation in women age 18 or older. Structured saline breast implants, a type of saline implant, contain an inner structure aiming to make the implant feel more natural.

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone breast implants are filled with silicone gel, which feels more like natural breast tissue. If the implant leaks, the gel may remain within the implant shell or escape into the breast implant pocket, and a leaking silicone - gel - filled implant will not collapse. Women who choose silicone implants may need to visit their plastic surgeon regularly, and an ultrasound or MRI screening can assess the condition of the implants. Silicone breast implants are FDA - approved for augmentation in women age 22 or older.

Gummy Bear Breast Implants

Form - stable implants, often referred to as gummy bear breast implants, maintain their shape even when the implant shell is broken. The consistency of the silicone gel inside is thicker than traditional silicone gel implants, and they are firmer. Shaped gummy bear breast implants have more projection at the bottom and are tapered towards the top. However, if a shaped implant rotates, it may lead to an unusual appearance of the breast that requires a separate procedure to correct. Also, the placement of gummy bear implants requires a slightly longer incision in the skin.

Round Breast Implants

Round breast implants have a tendency to make breasts appear fuller than form - stable implants. Higher profile options can achieve even more projection. Since round implants are the same shape all over, there is less concern about them rotating out of place.

Smooth and Textured Breast Implants

Smooth breast implants are the softest feeling and can move with the breast implant pocket, giving more natural movement. However, they may have some palpable or visible rippling under the skin. Textured breast implants develop scar tissue to stick to the implant, making them less likely to move around inside the breast and become repositioned. Texturing also offers some advantage in diminishing the risk of a tight scar capsule. It's important to note that breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL) occurs most frequently in patients who have breast implants with textured surfaces.

The Breast Enlargement Procedure

Breast enlargement is typically an outpatient procedure that lasts between one and two hours on average. According to delucaplasticsurgery.com, after the patient is asleep, the surgeon makes a small incision on each breast, usually in the breast fold or at the border of the nipple. Surgeons like Dr. William Deluca, Dr. David Tauber, and Dr. Alan Yan carefully place the incisions to minimize visible scarring. A pocket or space is developed for the implant, usually partially behind the muscle. The implant is inserted using a minimal - touch technique to avoid contamination, and the pocket is adjusted to allow the implant to fit properly. The skin is closed with absorbable sutures, and the breasts are supported in a post - operative bra.

Incision Sites

There are several common incision sites for breast augmentation. As per the Mayo Clinic, these include:

• Inframammary: A thin line that traces the fold beneath the breast. This incision allows the surgeon good access to the breast pocket and is often used as it can result in well - hidden scars in the breast fold.
• Periareolar: Along the lower border of the areola, where the dark skin meets the lighter skin. This incision can be a good option for some patients as the scar may blend in with the color change of the areola. However, there is a small risk of affecting nipple sensation.
• Transaxillary: Hidden in the armpit. This incision offers the advantage of leaving no visible scar on the breast itself, but it may be more technically challenging for the surgeon to achieve the desired placement and symmetry of the implants.

Implant Placement

There are different types of implant placement pockets for breast augmentation, as described by Rockmore Plastic Surgery:

• Subglandular: Above the muscle. This placement can provide a more immediate fullness at the top of the breast, but the implants may be more palpable, and there is a slightly higher risk of visible rippling.
• Submuscular: Behind the pectoralis muscle. It provides a more natural slope of the breast and additional coverage of the implant, reducing the risk of rippling and capsular contracture. However, it may result in more initial discomfort and a longer recovery period.
• Biplanar: A combination of each. This approach may be used for patients with some degree of breast sagging and can avoid the need for a lift in some cases. It combines the benefits of both subglandular and submuscular placement.

After Your Breast Enlargement

Proper post - operative care is crucial for a smooth recovery. According to delucaplasticsurgery.com, patients should follow their surgeon's instructions for post - op care and activity restrictions. The surgeon will provide a post - operative bra and possibly a superior strap to support the implants while they heal. Follow - up visits are scheduled after surgery to ensure proper healing and to monitor for any complications.

Recovery Timeline

Rockmore Plastic Surgery outlines a general recovery timeline for breast augmentation:

• 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 comfortable and no longer taking prescription medication, patients should be able to resume driving within 72 hours of the 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. The first postoperative appointment is scheduled a week after surgery to ensure healing is progressing as planned.
• Weeks 2 - 4: Patients should be able to resume most strenuous activities during this time. Restrictions on lifting objects and moving arms above shoulder height may also be eased.

Additional follow - up visits are scheduled for 8 weeks and 6 months after the procedure, though this timeline can be adjusted for patients traveling from a distance. As months pass, the augmented breasts will soften and settle into their final positions, and the scars will fade.

Cost of Breast Augmentation

The cost of breast augmentation varies depending on several factors. According to Rockmore Plastic Surgery, in Latham near Albany, the cost varies with the choice of implants, specifics of the surgery, and individual patient factors. delucaplasticsurgery.com also mentions that a lot of people want to know how much breast enlargement costs, and the answer varies depending on the situation and desired outcome. Patients are advised to call or click for a free consultation to get a quote unique to their needs. Some practices also offer financing plans to help patients fund the procedure.

Risks and Complications

While breast augmentation is a common and generally safe procedure, it does carry some risks. The Mayo Clinic lists the following risks:

• Capsular Contracture: Scar tissue that changes the shape of the breast implant. This can cause the breast to feel hard and may distort the appearance of the implant.
• Breast Pain: Some patients may experience pain in the breasts after surgery, which can range from mild to severe and may persist for some time.
• Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision site or around the implant. Symptoms of infection may include warmth, redness, swelling, and fever.
• Changes in Feeling: The nipple and breast may experience changes in sensation, such as numbness, tingling, or increased sensitivity. In some cases, these changes may be permanent.
• Implant Position Changes: The implant may shift from its original position, causing asymmetry or an unnatural appearance of the breasts.
• Implant Leaks or Tears: Saline implants will collapse if they leak, while silicone implants may not show obvious signs of leakage. Detecting a silicone implant rupture may require imaging tests.

There is also a possible link between breast implants and a type of lymphoma called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), which is more common in patients with textured breast implants. Some people with breast implants may also report systemic symptoms, also known as breast implant illness, although studies have not shown that breast implants are the cause of these symptoms.

Long - Term Word - of - Mouth and Choosing a Surgeon in Albany

When considering breast augmentation in Albany, long - term word - of - mouth can be a valuable resource for choosing a surgeon. Practices like Deluca Plastic Surgery and Rockmore Plastic Surgery have built reputations based on patient experiences.

Evaluating Surgeons

Some factors to consider when evaluating a surgeon based on long - term word - of - mouth include:

• Experience: Surgeons with extensive experience in breast augmentation procedures are more likely to have a better understanding of the nuances of the surgery and be able to handle potential complications. For example, Rockmore Plastic Surgery mentions that Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore has experience performing more than 4,000 breast procedures.
• Patient Reviews: Reading reviews from past patients can provide insights into the surgeon's bedside manner, communication skills, and the quality of the results. Positive long - term reviews may indicate that patients are satisfied with their breast augmentation outcomes and the overall experience.
• Before - and - After Photos: Many practices display before - and - after photos of their breast augmentation patients. These photos can give an idea of the surgeon's skill in achieving natural - looking and satisfactory results.
• Approach to Customization: A good surgeon will take the time to understand the patient's goals and customize the procedure accordingly. For instance, Dr. Rockmore uses a 3 - dimensional approach for consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts, offering a different approach to implant selection to match the width of the implant to the width of the patient's chest and breasts.

Conclusion

Breast