Introduction
Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery that can enhance a woman's confidence and body image. In Albany, there are several hospitals and surgeons with a good reputation for performing breast augmentation procedures. This article will provide you with a comprehensive list of these hospitals, along with information about the surgeons, the procedures, and other relevant details.
Best Breast Augmentation Doctors in Albany
Healthgrades has identified several doctors in Albany who perform breast augmentation with high ratings from past patients. Here are some of them:
| Doctor Name | 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 |
| Dr. Francis Cullen, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 5 Palisades Dr Ste 110, Albany, NY 12205 |
| Dr. Jerome Chao, MD | 4.30 out of 5 stars | 13 Century Hill Dr, Latham, NY 12110 |
| Dr. Edward Lee, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211 |
| Dr. Eugene Hoffert, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 250 Delaware Ave Ste 207, Delmar, NY 12054 |
Understanding Breast Augmentation
Reasons for Breast Augmentation
Women may choose to undergo breast augmentation for various reasons. Some may have always wished for larger, fuller breasts to look better in clothing and swimwear. Others may have experienced a loss of breast fullness over the years due to pregnancy, the natural aging process, or weight loss. Breast augmentation can also help balance asymmetrical breasts.
Candidate Selection
The first step towards breast augmentation is to consult with a plastic surgeon. The surgeon will evaluate your overall health, breast tissue, and discuss your expectations. Ideal candidates for breast augmentation are in good overall health, have realistic expectations about the results, and enjoy working in a supportive team environment for optimization of care and outcome. Prior surgery or a history of breast disease and treatment does not necessarily exclude patients from the procedure, but it will be carefully considered by the surgeon.
Types of Breast Implants
There are two main types of breast implants: saline and silicone. All FDA - approved breast implants have a solid silicone rubber shell. Saline implants are filled with a sterile salt - water solution, while silicone implants are filled with an elastic silicone gel that more closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. Research shows that silicone implants tend to look and feel the most natural compared to saline implants.
Breast implants also come in different shapes (rounded), textures (smooth or textured - although textured implants have been associated with rare adverse outcomes), and profiles (low, moderate, moderate plus, high, and extra - high). The choice of implant depends on your body type, breast shape, and desired outcome.
Incisions and Implant Placement
There are several options for incision placement in breast augmentation:
- Inframammary incision: Along the breast fold. This is a common choice as it can provide good access for implant placement and the scar can be well - hidden under the breast.
- Transaxillary incision: In the underarm. This option results in a scar that is less visible on the breast itself.
- Periareolar incision: Around the areola. The scar can blend in with the natural pigmentation of the areola.
Implant placement can be either submuscular (beneath the muscle of the chest wall) or subglandular (directly behind the tissue of the breast). Submuscular placement is usually a good choice for women with little breast tissue as the chest muscle helps cover the implant, reduces the risk of capsular contracture, and interferes less with mammograms.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Consultation
During the consultation, the surgeon will discuss your goals, take a complete medical and surgical history, perform an examination with medical photography and measurements. They will then review your current breast shape and volume and provide a personalized recommendation. Some surgeons, like Dr. Lucie Capek, use tools such as the Mentor® volume sizing system to help you visualize your desired breast size.
Surgery
Breast augmentation surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. It usually takes about 1 - 2 hours. The surgeon will make the chosen incision and create a pocket for the implant. In some cases, a harmonic scalpel may be used to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching. The implant is then inserted and positioned. For fat transfer breast augmentation, liposuction is first performed to harvest fat from other areas of the body, which is then processed and injected into the breasts.
Recovery
The recovery process after breast augmentation varies from person to person. Here is a general timeline:
- First few days: You may be tired and sore, and the surgeon may prescribe pain medication. There may be a slight burning feeling in the nipples, which will subside as the bruising lessens.
- 7 - 10 days: Gauze dressings may be removed and replaced with a surgical bra. Stitches will be taken out.
- 3 - 5 weeks: Your breasts will be sensitive to physical contact.
- Next several months: Scars will gradually fade, thin, and soften.
Most patients with sedentary jobs can return to work within a week, while strenuous or high - impact activities like running may be restricted for 6 - 8 weeks.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of breast augmentation typically ranges from $6,000 to $7,000, but the actual amount depends on many factors such as your choice of implants, the complexity of the procedure, and whether it is combined with other procedures. Most insurance companies consider breast augmentation an elective surgery and do not cover the cost. However, some plastic surgery practices offer patient financing to help patients afford the procedure.
Potential Risks and Complications
While breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure, there are potential risks and complications:
- Capsular contracture: The scar tissue around the implant tightens, making the breast feel hard. Treatment may involve removing the scar tissue and, in some cases, replacing the implant.
- Infection: There is a small chance of infection around the implant. In rare cases, the implant may need to be removed for a few months and replaced once the infection is gone.
- Impact on nipple sensation: Women may experience hypersensitive nipples, a loss of sensitivity, or slight numbness around the incision area. These symptoms usually disappear over time.
- Implant leak/rupture: Saline implants will lose their contents quickly if they rupture, and the body will absorb the saltwater. Silicone implants may have a silent rupture, and the FDA recommends periodic MRIs for women with silicone implants.
Specialists for Breast Augmentation Revision
Board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore is a well - known choice for breast augmentation revision and explant surgery in Latham, Troy, Saratoga, Utica, and throughout Albany County. Women may choose to have their breast augmentation revised for various reasons:
- Aesthetic concerns: Such as implants that are too wide, too close together, or have “bottomed out.”
- Complications: Implants may rupture, break down, or cause excess scar tissue formation.
- Physical or lifestyle changes: Skin stretching, weight gain or loss, or changes in exercise habits.
Dr. Rockmore offers different types of revision procedures, including breast implant removal (explant), breast implant exchange, and breast implant revision. Many women also choose to combine their revision surgery with other procedures like a breast lift, liposuction, tummy tuck, or mommy makeover.
Breast Care Centers in Albany
The Breast Care Center at Albany Medical Center's South Clinical Campus is a notable facility. It offers breast care, cancer & tumor care, and has a team of providers. The center is located at 25 Hackett Blvd., Floor 4, Albany, NY 12208. The hours of operation are Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. For referrals, the fax number is 518 - 262 - 1112. Contact information for different services include:
- Breast surgery: Call 518 - 262 - 2592 / Fax 518 - 262 - 1112
- Radiology/mammograms: Call 518 - 264 - 9729 / Fax 518 - 262 - 1112
- Plastic & reconstructive surgery: Call 518 - 262 - 2229
Conclusion
In Albany, there are numerous options for women considering breast augmentation. From highly rated surgeons to specialized breast care centers, patients have access to quality care and a range of choices for their procedure. When choosing a surgeon, it is important to look for board - certification, review before - and - after photos, and ensure that you feel comfortable during the consultation. It is also crucial to have realistic expectations about the results and be aware of the potential risks and complications. Whether you are looking for a primary breast augmentation or a revision, Albany has the resources to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.
If you are considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the reputable surgeons listed in this article. Take the time to research and ask questions to make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in Albany.
