Prosthetic Breast Augmentation in Albany: An In - depth Guide

Prosthetic breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic and reconstructive surgery procedure that has gained significant attention in Albany. With a range of skilled doctors and advanced medical facilities, Albany offers women various options to enhance their appearance and regain confidence. This article will delve into the rankings, key aspects of the procedure, and what to expect when considering prosthetic breast augmentation in Albany.

Best Doctors for Prosthetic Breast Augmentation in Albany

Selecting the right doctor is crucial for a successful prosthetic breast augmentation. Healthgrades provides information on some of the top doctors in Albany who perform this procedure:

These doctors have a significant number of past patient ratings, indicating their experience and proficiency in prosthetic breast augmentation. Patients can feel more confident in choosing a doctor from this list as they have been well - reviewed by previous patients.

Understanding Prosthetic Breast Augmentation

What is Prosthetic Breast Augmentation?

Prosthetic breast augmentation, also known as breast enlargement, is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing the size of the breasts. Breast implants are inserted into the breast tissue to achieve a fuller and more shapely appearance. It is commonly sought by women who are not satisfied with the size or shape of their breasts, those with uneven breasts, or those who have experienced a loss of breast volume due to pregnancy, aging, or surgery.

Reasons for Choosing Breast Augmentation

• Aesthetic Enhancement: Many women desire larger breasts to improve their overall appearance, feel more feminine, and fit better into certain types of clothing and swimwear.
• Correcting Asymmetry: Some women have naturally uneven breasts, and breast augmentation can help create a more balanced and symmetrical look.
• Restoring Volume: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss can lead to a decrease in breast volume. Augmentation can restore the lost fullness.

The Procedure

The breast augmentation procedure typically takes around 1 to 2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with an oral sedative. The surgeon makes an incision, usually under the breast or around the nipple, separates the breast tissue from the underlying connective tissue and muscles to create a pocket, and then inserts the breast implant into the pocket. Finally, the incision is closed with sutures.

Post - Procedure Expectations

• Pain Management: Patients may experience pain and discomfort after the surgery, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications.
• Stitch Removal: The surgeon will usually remove the stitches within a week.
• Activity Restrictions: Strenuous activities such as weight - lifting should be avoided for at least 4 weeks to allow the breasts to heal properly.
• Scarring: The scars will fade over time but may not completely disappear. Some patients may notice abnormal redness, warmth, or swelling, which should be reported to the surgeon immediately.

Types of Breast Implants

Silicone Gel Implants

Silicone gel implants have come a long way in their development. There are several generations of silicone gel implants:

• First Generation: Introduced in the 1960s, they had a thick elastomeric silicone outer shell and a thick, firm gel. However, capsular contractures were a common complication.
• Second Generation: Developed to create softer, natural - feeling breasts, they had thinner shells and less cohesive gels. But they suffered from silicone “bleed” and shell failures.
• Third Generation: Designed to improve shell strength and permeability, multi - lumen implants like the Becker implant were introduced. Public concerns still led to the classification of silicone gel implants as class III devices by the US FDA in the 1980s.
• Fourth and Fifth Generation: Referred to as “cohesive implants,” they have a more viscous, higher cross - linked gel. Fourth - generation round silicone gel implants were approved by the FDA in 2006. Fifth - generation implants are generally cohesive form - stable devices that retain their anatomic shape. Brands like Allergan's Natrelle 410, Mentor's MemoryShape, and Sientra's high - strength cohesive (HSC) implants are examples.

Saline Implants

Inflatable saline implants have also evolved. They were widely used during the silicone gel moratorium from 1992 - 2006. Although overall patient satisfaction is high after breast reconstruction with both silicone and saline implants, some studies have found that patients are more satisfied with silicone implants.

Surface Structure

The surface of breast implants can be either smooth or textured. Textured implants were developed to reduce the risk of capsular contracture. Different manufacturers have proprietary texturing methods, such as Allergan's Biocell surface texture, Mentor's Siltex surface texture, and Sientra's True texture. While textured implants have lower capsular contracture rates, they may be associated with higher rates of visible rippling and wrinkling and saline implant deflation.

Choosing the Right Hospital and Doctor

Hospital Considerations

Albany has several hospitals and medical centers that offer prosthetic breast augmentation services. For example, the Albany Med Health System is a leading choice. It has a team of plastic and reconstructive surgeons who have trained at prestigious centers worldwide. The system offers a broad range of cosmetic and reconstructive options, including breast augmentation and reconstruction.

Doctor Selection Criteria

• Board Certification: Choose a doctor who is board - certified in plastic surgery. This indicates that the doctor has passed rigorous exams and has a deep level of practical knowledge.
• Experience: Look for doctors with a significant amount of experience in performing breast augmentation surgeries. Past patient ratings and reviews can provide insights into the doctor's skills and patient satisfaction.
• Before - and - After Photos: Request to see before - and - after photos of the doctor's previous breast augmentation patients to get an idea of the type of results they can achieve.
• Comfort and Communication: During the consultation, you should feel comfortable asking questions and discussing your concerns. The doctor and their staff should be friendly, professional, and knowledgeable.

Cost of Prosthetic Breast Augmentation in Albany

The cost of prosthetic breast augmentation in Albany can vary depending on several factors. These include the type of implants used, the complexity of the procedure, and whether it is combined with other procedures. On average, the cost for breast augmentation is typically between $6,000 to $7,000. However, it's important to note that insurance usually does not cover the cost of breast augmentation as it is considered an elective surgery. Some clinics in Albany offer patient financing options to help patients afford the procedure.

Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, prosthetic breast augmentation carries some risks and potential complications:

• Capsular Contracture: This is a tightening of the scar or capsule around the implant, which can make the breast feel hard. Treatment may involve removing the scar tissue and, in some cases, replacing the implant.
• Infection: There is a small risk of infection around the implant area. In rare cases, the implant may need to be removed temporarily until the infection clears, and a new implant can be placed later.
• Impact on Nipple Sensation: Some women may experience changes in nipple sensation, such as hypersensitivity, loss of sensitivity, or numbness. These symptoms usually improve over time.
• Implant Leak/Rupture: Saline implants will lose their contents relatively quickly if they leak, and the body will absorb the saltwater. Gel - filled implants may not show obvious signs of leakage if the surrounding scar capsule remains intact. In most cases, a replacement surgery will be required.

Long - Term Outlook

After breast augmentation, the results are usually long - lasting, but the breast shape may change over time due to factors such as aging, weight changes, or pregnancy. Regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are important to monitor the condition of the implants and overall breast health. If any issues arise, the surgeon can recommend appropriate treatments or revisions.

Conclusion

Prosthetic breast augmentation in Albany offers women a way to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. With a diverse range of skilled doctors, advanced implant options, and high - quality medical facilities, patients have access to excellent care. However, it's crucial to thoroughly research the procedure, choose the right doctor and hospital, and be aware of the potential risks and complications. By making informed decisions, women can achieve the results they desire.

If you're considering prosthetic breast augmentation in Albany, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a board - certified plastic surgeon. Take the time to discuss your goals, ask questions, and review the doctor's portfolio. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast augmentation in Albany, and explore our other related resources for further information.