Introduction
Breast augmentation has become a popular cosmetic procedure, offering women the opportunity to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. In Albany, there are several reputable clinics and surgeons who specialize in breast augmentation. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of breast augmentation treatment in Albany, including information on procedures, surgeons, and what to expect. The word - of - mouth list we're about to delve into is based on patient experiences, professional reputations, and the quality of services provided.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as breast enlargement or augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the shape and size of the breasts using a breast implant. It is often performed to replace volume lost from weight loss, breastfeeding, or age, or to increase the size of the breast for aesthetic reasons. According to Deluca Plastic Surgery, this procedure is most appropriate for patients with breasts that don’t sag (normal ptosis). In cases where the breasts sag, the need for a lift is determined by the current nipple position and the quality of the tissue.
Types of Breast Augmentation
- Implant - based Breast Augmentation:
There are two main types of implants – saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with saline in the operating room. They are less commonly used because the feel of the implants is not as natural as a silicone implant, and there is less control over the shape of the breast. Silicone implants are filled with silicone at the factory and come in several types based on the “thickness” of the gel within the implant, such as “classic,” “xtra,” and “boost” styles. The choice of silicone type is based on the patient's goals regarding the upper breast shape. For example, the “boost” style with a really thick gel can help produce a very perky, round breast shape.
- Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation:
Also known as Brazilian breast augmentation, this procedure uses fat harvested from other parts of the body using liposuction. The results from a fat augmentation are less predictable and work best for slightly overweight patients looking for a modest augmentation. It may also require a follow - up procedure to achieve the fullness desired. However, some women see this natural breast augmentation as cost - effective because it doesn’t require regular implant monitoring or potential implant replacement down the road.
Factors to Consider in Choosing a Breast Augmentation Provider
Surgeon's Experience and Expertise
More experienced board - certified plastic surgeons may charge higher fees, but their expertise can greatly influence the success of the procedure. For instance, at the Williams Center, Dr. Alfredo Lloreda, a distinguished and board - certified plastic surgeon, specializes in breast and body procedures with a commitment to excellence. Surgeons with a long - standing reputation and a high number of successful procedures are often more reliable. Dr. Edwin Williams at the Williams Center has over 30 years of experience and has performed more than 10,000 facial plastic surgeries, demonstrating his surgical proficiency in the field of plastic surgery in general, which can translate to high - quality breast augmentation work as well.
Geographic Location of the Practice
The cost of the procedure is often higher in large cities where demand for the procedure is greater. In Albany, clinics located in more central or high - demand areas may have slightly different pricing structures compared to those in less populated or outlying areas. However, the accessibility and convenience of the location should also be considered, especially for post - operative follow - up appointments.
Surgical Facility
Private surgical suites and outpatient surgery centers often charge less than hospital operating rooms. The quality and safety of the surgical facility are crucial. A well - equipped and properly maintained facility with modern technology and experienced staff can minimize the risk of complications during and after the surgery. For example, at DeLuca Plastic Surgery, they use 3 - D computer simulations based on breast photos and advanced AI algorithms to simulate the new size and shape of the breasts, providing a more informed decision - making process for the patient.
Patient Reviews and Word - of - Mouth
One of the most reliable ways to gauge the quality of a breast augmentation provider is through patient reviews and word - of - mouth. Patients who have had positive experiences are likely to recommend the surgeon or clinic to others. Online reviews, testimonials on the clinic's website, and referrals from friends or family can all provide valuable insights into the level of service, the surgeon's bedside manner, and the overall outcome of the procedure.
Top Providers in the Word - of - Mouth List for Breast Augmentation in Albany
Deluca Plastic Surgery
Deluca Plastic Surgery offers a comprehensive breast augmentation experience. Their process begins with a detailed consultation where the surgeon discusses the patient's goals and analyzes the current shape and position of the breasts. They use the scientifically - designed Mentor breast implant sizing system, allowing patients to “try on” different implants to get a feel for how they look and feel. Additionally, they utilize 3 - D computer simulations and advanced AI algorithms to help patients visualize their results. The surgeons at Deluca Plastic Surgery, such as Dr. William DeLuca, Dr. David Tauber, and Dr. Alan Yan, carefully place the incisions to minimize visible scarring. The breast enlargement procedure is an outpatient procedure that typically lasts between one and two hours.
After the surgery, patients are provided with detailed post - operative care instructions, including the use of a post - operative bra and possible superior strap to support the implants during the healing process. The clinic also offers follow - up visits to ensure proper healing and monitor for any complications. In terms of cost, they emphasize that it varies depending on the individual's situation and desired outcome, and they offer free consultations and financing plans for those who need help funding the procedure.
Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore at Rockmore Plastic Surgery has extensive experience in breast augmentation, having performed more than 4,000 breast procedures. He uses a 3 - dimensional approach to achieve consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts. The clinic offers a wide range of implant options, and Dr. Rockmore takes a personalized approach to implant selection, matching the width of the implant to the width of the patient's chest and breasts for a more natural look. They also provide before - and - after photos of previous patients, allowing potential patients to see the results they can expect.
The cost of breast augmentation at Rockmore Plastic Surgery in Latham, near Albany, typically ranges between $8,600 and $8,800, which includes anesthesia fees, facility fees, all office and surgeon fees, and post - op care. Dr. Rockmore also discusses the patient's motivations for surgery in detail during the consultation and performs a physical examination and reviews the patient's health history to ensure the procedure is safe and effective. The recovery timeline is clearly outlined, and patients are provided with a comfortable surgical bra to wear after the surgery to support the healing process.
Capek Plastic Surgery
Dr. Lucie Capek at Capek Plastic Surgery offers various breast - related procedures, including breast augmentation. During the consultation, she explains the different implant options and helps patients choose the right type, size, and shape based on their body and goals. The clinic also offers natural breast augmentation using the patient's own tissues, which can yield subtle, natural - looking results or make a breast implant augmentation look more natural. They perform a gentle form of liposuction to remove stubborn fat cells from other areas of the body, concentrate them, and inject them into the breasts.
In addition to breast augmentation, Capek Plastic Surgery also offers breast implant removal (explant), breast lift, breast reduction, gynecomastia (male breast reduction), and mommy makeovers. Dr. Capek provides personalized recommendations and treatment plans based on the patient's specific needs to achieve an optimal cosmetic result.
K Plastic Surgery
K Plastic Surgery specializes in breast augmentation and lift procedures in Albany. Their breast augmentation with lift combines implants with a breast lift to enhance the size, shape, contour, and position of the breasts. Ideal candidates are those who want to increase breast size and re - position their breasts at the same time and are in good health, done breastfeeding, and finished having children.
The procedure is customizable, allowing patients to choose the type of breast implant (saline or silicone), the implant size, shape, and texture, the incision pattern, and the implant placement. Dr. Kayastha and the surgical team provide detailed pre - operative instructions, including ceasing blood - thinning medications, arranging for transportation and care, setting up a recovery area, and purchasing materials such as a surgical bra. After the surgery, patients are monitored closely, and they provide clear guidelines for post - operative care, including wearing the surgical bra, managing pain, and following up for appointments.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Pre - operative Planning
Before the surgery, a consultation with the surgeon is essential. During this consultation, the patient discusses their goals, the surgeon examines the breasts, and measurements are taken. The surgeon then recommends a range of implant sizes and profiles based on the patient's breast anatomy and post - operative goals. At Deluca Plastic Surgery, patients have the opportunity to “try on” different implants using the Mentor breast implant sizing system and can also view 3 - D computer simulations of their potential results. This helps patients make an informed decision about the type of implant and the expected outcome.
The Surgery
Breast augmentation is typically an outpatient procedure. The surgery usually lasts between one and two hours, although breast augmentation combined with a breast lift may take 2 - 3 hours. The surgeon makes a small incision, usually in the breast fold, at the border of the nipple, in the armpit, or around the areola, depending on the patient's anatomy and preferences. A pocket is then created for the implant, either above the muscle (sub - glandular), behind the pectoralis muscle (sub - muscular), or a combination of both (biplanar). The implant is inserted using a minimal - touch technique to avoid contamination, and the pocket is adjusted to ensure a proper fit. The skin is closed with absorbable sutures, and the breasts are supported in a post - operative bra.
Post - operative Care
Following the surgery, it is crucial to follow the surgeon's post - operative care instructions. Patients are typically given a post - operative bra to wear continuously for the first couple of weeks to support the breasts and minimize swelling. It is normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, tightness, and soreness, which can be managed with over - the - counter or prescription pain medications. Most patients can shower the day after surgery, being careful not to get the incision site too wet. They should avoid physical activity for a few weeks and gradually resume normal activities as they heal. Follow - up visits are scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure no complications develop.
Cost of Breast Augmentation in Albany
The cost of breast augmentation in Albany can vary depending on several factors. According to Rockmore Plastic Surgery, the typical cost ranges between $8,600 and $8,800, which includes anesthesia fees, facility fees, all office and surgeon fees, and post - op care. However, this can differ from practice to practice. Factors that affect the cost include:
Factor | Explanation |
---|---|
Surgeon's Experience and Expertise | More experienced surgeons may charge higher fees. |
Geographic Location | Cost may be higher in more populated or high - demand areas. |
Surgical Facility | Private suites and outpatient centers may be less expensive than hospital operating rooms. |
Type of Implants | Silicone implants tend to cost more than saline implants. |
Complexity of the Procedure | More complex surgeries require more time and may cost more. |
Additional Procedures | Adding a breast lift or other procedures will increase the overall cost. |
Some clinics, like Deluca Plastic Surgery, offer financing plans to help patients cover the cost of the procedure. It is important to get a detailed breakdown of the costs from the chosen provider before making a decision.
Recovery and Results
Recovery Timeline
The recovery process after breast augmentation varies from patient to patient, but there are general milestones. Immediately after the surgery, patients may feel groggy and experience some discomfort. Most patients can shower the day after surgery if they are careful with the incision site. Within 72 hours, if they are comfortable and no longer taking prescription medication, they may be able to resume driving. Swelling, tightness, and soreness tend to peak between days 3 - 5 and can be managed with over - the - counter medicine. By day 7, many patients feel well enough to return to work or light activities. In the following 2 - 4 weeks, most strenuous activities can be gradually resumed, and restrictions on lifting and arm movement may be eased. Additional follow - up visits are scheduled at 8 weeks and 6 months after the procedure.
Results
It takes time for the breasts to settle into their final position. The “drop and fluff” process occurs as the muscles and tissues surrounding the implants soften and relax, allowing the breasts to take on a more natural appearance. This can take several months to complete. Initially, the implants may appear high and tight on the chest, but over time, they assume a lower and more natural - looking position as the swelling subsides. The shape of the breasts also improves, and most patients note that their breasts begin to feel and look natural at around 6 weeks after the surgery. The final results are typically visible after 3 - 6 months.
FAQs about Breast Augmentation in Albany
What will my scars look like?
The appearance of scars depends on the incision used during the procedure. Surgeons like Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore at Rockmore Plastic Surgery are mindful of scarring concerns. Incisions can be made under the arm, in the fold beneath the breast, or around the areola. The surgeons make these incisions meticulously to ensure they heal well. Patients can also encourage healthy healing by following the incision - care instructions after surgery, such as keeping the incisions clean and avoiding activities that may cause excessive stress on the healing area.
Is breastfeeding possible after breast augmentation?
Yes, it is possible. Surgeons like Dr. Kayastha at K Plastic Surgery use techniques that ensure a high likelihood of successful breastfeeding. The presence of implants generally does not hinder milk production. However, certain incision patterns may impact nipple sensitivity, which can cause difficulties. If a patient plans to breastfeed in the future, it is important to discuss these concerns with the plastic surgeon during the consultation.
If my breasts sag, is it really necessary to have a lift along with my augmentation?
It depends on the degree of sagging. Slight sagging can sometimes be reduced with breast augmentation alone. However, more significant sagging may actually get worse once implants are introduced because the extra weight can cause the breasts to sag prematurely and lead to aesthetic complications. During the consultation, the surgeon will help the patient understand if a combined breast augmentation and lift is in their best interest.
I’ve heard that implants need time to “drop.” What does that mean?
“Dropping” or “drop and fluff” refers to the process where the muscles and tissues surrounding the implants soften and relax, allowing the breasts to take on a more natural appearance. Immediately after surgery, the implants may appear high and tight on the chest. Over time, the body adjusts to the implants, and the skin and muscle stretch to accommodate them. As this happens, the implants assume a slightly lower and more natural - looking position, and the shape of the breasts improves as swelling subsides. This is a gradual process that can take several months to complete.
Is breast augmentation surgery safe?
When performed by a board - certified plastic surgeon, breast augmentation is a relatively low - risk procedure. However, potential complications, although rare, include infection, implant rupture, and capsular contracture. Surgeons and their surgical teams take every precaution to minimize the risk of complications, such as using sterile techniques during the surgery and providing proper post - operative care instructions.
Will I eventually have to replace my breast implants?
It is likely that implants will need to be replaced at some point in the future, typically after about 15 years. Breast augmentation revision allows patients to ensure that their results remain in line with their body shape and goals over the years. As the body changes over time, the implants may also need to be adjusted or replaced to maintain the desired aesthetic outcome.
Is breast surgery painful?
Breast augmentation surgery is generally well - tolerated. Most women describe a feeling of tightness and soreness following the procedure,