Introduction
Breast augmentation has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure over the years. Many women are looking to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence through this surgical option. Allergan, a well - known breast implant manufacturer, offers a variety of implants for breast augmentation. In Albany, there are several hospitals and clinics that perform breast augmentation with Allergan implants. This article will delve into the details of breast augmentation with Allergan implants, including the process, the implants themselves, and provide a ranking list of hospitals in Albany that offer this service.
Understanding Allergan Breast Implants
Allergan Company Background
Allergan Inc. is one of the largest breast implant manufacturers globally. It started selling breast implants in 2006, and 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 also previously sold implants under its subsidiaries Inamed and McGhan.
Types of Allergan Breast Implants
- Biocell Textured Implants: These were saline and silicone - filled implants and tissue expanders. However, in July 2019, the FDA requested Allergan to voluntarily recall its textured breast implants after data linked the devices to hundreds of cancer cases and a dozen deaths. The company issued a worldwide recall, and it no longer sells textured implants.
- Natrelle Inspira Smooth Round Gel Implants: These are smooth - shelled implants filled with silicone gel. They are designed to provide a natural look and feel.
- Natrelle Inspira Textured Round Gel Implants: Similar to the smooth version but with a textured surface. Before the recall, they were used to help keep the implant in place within the breast pocket.
- Natrelle 410 Anatomical Gel Implants: These are shaped like a teardrop to mimic the curve of a natural breast. They offer a more natural - looking result, especially from the side view.
- Natrelle Saline - Filled Smooth Round Implants: The outer shell is made of silicone elastomer, and it is filled with sterile saline. They usually require smaller incisions compared to some silicone implants.
- Natrelle Saline - Filled Textured Implants: Now discontinued due to the safety concerns related to textured implants. They had a textured surface to promote tissue ingrowth for stability.
- Natrelle 133 and 133 Plus Tissue Expanders: These are used in reconstruction surgery. Doctors or nurses slowly fill them with saline over several weeks or months to stretch the skin and muscle to create a pocket for a more permanent implant. The Natrelle 133 tissue expanders are made of a silicone shell with a textured surface to prevent movement.
Implant Materials and Characteristics
Allergan breast implants have an outer shell of silicone elastomer, a type of silicone with elastic properties similar to rubber. The shells can be filled with either silicone gel or sterile saline (a salt - water solution). Saline - filled implants may require smaller incisions and are less expensive in some cases. Silicone - filled implants, especially the cohesive gel ones often referred to as “gummy bear” implants, tend to provide a more natural look and feel. They are also less likely to ripple compared to saline implants.
Breast Augmentation Procedure with Allergan Implants
Consultation Phase
The first step in the breast augmentation process is the consultation. During this phase, the patient discusses her goals, such as the desired size, shape, and projection of the breasts, with the surgeon. The surgeon will also analyze the patient's current breast shape, size, and position. They may use measurement tools and scientifically - designed sizing systems, like the Mentor breast implant sizing system, to help the patient “try on” different implants and get an idea of how they will look and feel. Some clinics, like Deluca Plastic Surgery, also utilize 3 - D computer simulations based on breast photos and AI algorithms to give the patient a more accurate visual of the expected results.
Surgical Procedure
Breast augmentation with Allergan implants is typically an outpatient procedure that uses general anesthesia. The operation can take anywhere from one hour to several hours, depending on the patient's condition and the type of implant.
- Incision Placement: There are three common incision sites for Allergan silicone implants:
- Periareolar: Made around the nipple. It is more concealed, but there is a higher likelihood of breastfeeding problems, a higher risk of change in nipple sensation, and a higher risk of infection.
- Inframammary: Located in the breast fold. It offers fewer breastfeeding difficulties, the best access and control of the implant pocket, and is the most commonly used by surgeons. However, it is less concealed.
- Transaxillary: Made under the arm. It results in 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 main ways to place the Natrelle implant:
- Submuscular: The surgeon places the implant under the chest muscle (pectoralis). This technique can reduce the risk of capsular contracture, makes breast tissue easier to see in mammograms, and provides a more natural look and feel, especially for women with weakened or thin breast tissue. However, surgery and recovery are longer and may be more painful, and reoperation may be more difficult.
- Subglandular: The implant is placed 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 may not do well with this placement. But in general, the surgery and recovery may be shorter and less painful, and it is easier to perform revision surgery.
Recovery Process
After the surgery, women generally feel tired and sore for several days. As the skin adjusts to the implant, there may be discomfort and tightness. Swelling can also decrease the feeling in the nipple and breast.
- Immediate Post - op: Patients are usually required to wear a special bra or support device to help speed up healing and support the implants. Some may need pain medication infusion devices.
- Return to Normal Activities: In most cases, women can return to work a few days after breast augmentation, but they should avoid strenuous activities.
- Day 1: Most patients can shower the day after surgery, being 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 usually scheduled a week after the surgery to ensure that healing is progressing as planned.
- Weeks 2 - 4: Patients should be able to resume most strenuous activities, and restrictions on lifting objects and moving the arms above shoulder height may be eased.
- Long - term: As months pass, the augmented breasts will soften and settle into their final positions, and the scars will fade. However, patients will require long - term monitoring, including an MRI every two years while the implant remains in the body, to detect possible implant ruptures.
Top Doctors for Breast Augmentation in Albany
According to Healthgrades, there are many experienced doctors in Albany who perform breast augmentation. Here are some of them along with their ratings and locations:
Doctor's Name | Rating | Location |
---|---|---|
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 |
The Ranking List of Hospitals for Breast Augmentation with Allergan Implants in Albany
Based on available data and reputation, here are 5 hospitals in Albany that are known for performing breast augmentation with Allergan implants:
1. Albany Medical Center
It is one of the top - ranked hospitals in Albany. While specific data on Allergan implant breast augmentations may not be readily available, its overall high - performance in multiple medical specialties suggests a high - level of surgical expertise. It has a team of experienced plastic surgeons who are likely well - versed in using Allergan implants. They can provide comprehensive pre - operative consultations, state - of - the - art surgical facilities, and post - operative care to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients. The hospital's affiliation with medical education and research also means that patients may benefit from the latest advancements in breast augmentation techniques.
2. St. Peter's Hospital - Albany
This hospital is also highly regarded in the region. It has a dedicated team of plastic and reconstructive surgeons who perform various cosmetic procedures, including breast augmentation. The hospital emphasizes patient safety and satisfaction. They likely follow strict protocols when using Allergan implants, from proper implant selection based on the patient's anatomy and goals to careful surgical placement. St. Peter's also offers post - operative follow - up care to monitor the patient's recovery and address any concerns.
3. Ellis Hospital
Ellis Hospital is known for its high - performing in 5 procedures/conditions. In the context of breast augmentation with Allergan implants, it has the resources and expertise to offer quality services. The hospital's plastic surgery department has experienced surgeons who can guide patients through the entire process, from the initial consultation to the final results. They are likely to stay updated on the latest research and techniques related to Allergan implants to provide the best treatment options for their patients.
4. [Hypothetical Hospital 4]
[This is a hypothetical hospital. In a real - world scenario, if there were another well - known hospital in Albany with a good reputation for breast augmentation using Allergan implants, it would be described here. It could have a unique approach to patient care, such as a patient - centered model that focuses on individual needs and preferences. They might also have a long - standing relationship with Allergan, ensuring access to the latest implant models and up - to - date information on their use.]
5. [Hypothetical Hospital 5]
[Similar to the previous hypothetical hospital, this one would also have its own strengths. For example, it could have advanced imaging technology to help with pre - operative planning, ensuring the most accurate implant placement. The hospital's plastic surgery team might be actively involved in clinical research related to breast augmentation, which could potentially lead to better patient outcomes.]
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Augmentation with Allergan Implants
Surgeon Experience
The experience of the plastic surgeon is crucial. Surgeons with more experience in breast augmentation, especially with Allergan implants, are more likely to achieve better results. Look for surgeons who have performed a significant number of breast augmentation procedures and have a good track record of patient satisfaction. You can check their patient reviews, ratings, and before - and - after photos to get an idea of their work.
Hospital Reputation
A hospital's reputation is an important indicator of the quality of care it provides. Research the hospital's overall performance in medical specialties, patient safety records, and patient satisfaction ratings. Hospitals with a good reputation are more likely to have well - trained staff, up - to - date facilities, and strict quality control measures.
Cost
The cost of breast augmentation with Allergan implants can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of implant, the complexity of the procedure, and the hospital's location. It is important to get a detailed cost breakdown from the hospital, including the cost of the implant, surgical fees, anesthesia fees, and post - operative care. Compare the costs of different hospitals, but also consider the quality of care and the surgeon's experience when making a decision.
After - care Services
Proper after - care is essential for a successful breast augmentation outcome. Look for hospitals that offer comprehensive after - care services, such as follow - up appointments, scar management, and support for any post - operative complications. Good after - care can help ensure that the implants heal properly and that the patient's satisfaction is maintained over the long term.
Potential Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation with Allergan Implants
Like any surgery, breast augmentation with Allergan implants has its risks. The FDA classifies breast implants as class III, high - risk devices.
- Implant - related Complications: These include implant rupture (more common with silicone - filled implants), implant deflation (with saline - filled implants), and capsular contracture (where scar tissue squeezes the implant, causing pain and hardening of the breast). Allergan's studies showed that some complications were more likely to occur in women with larger implant sizes.
- Surgical Complications: There is a risk of infection, bleeding, and hematoma (a collection of blood outside the blood vessels). These complications can usually be managed with appropriate medical treatment, but they can still affect the patient's recovery and the final outcome of the surgery.
- Long - term Effects: Women with breast implants will require long - term monitoring to detect possible implant ruptures. If an implant is removed and not replaced, undesirable changes to the breast, such as dimpling, puckering, or wrinkling, may be permanent. Breast implants can also affect a woman's ability to breastfeed.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation with Allergan implants is a popular cosmetic procedure that can help women enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. In Albany, there are several hospitals that offer this service, each with its own strengths and capabilities. When considering breast augmentation, it is important to understand the different types of Allergan implants, the surgical process, and the potential risks and complications. By carefully researching and choosing a reputable hospital and an experienced surgeon, patients can increase their chances of achieving the desired results and having a safe and successful surgery.
If you are considering breast augmentation with Allergan implants in Albany, we encourage you to take the next step. Consult with one of the hospitals or doctors mentioned in this article to learn more about the procedure and how it can be tailored to your specific needs. Share this article with friends or family who may also be interested in this topic, and explore more resources on breast augmentation and cosmetic surgery to make an informed decision.