Introduction
Breast augmentation with silicone has long been a sought - after cosmetic procedure in the United States, consistently ranking among the top surgical enhancements year after year. In Albany, there are several high - quality hospitals and medical practices that offer top - notch breast augmentation services. For individuals considering this procedure, it's crucial to understand the various aspects, including the surgeons, the types of implants, the procedures, and the after - care.
This article will explore the top 3 and top 5 hospitals and medical practices for breast augmentation with silicone in Albany, and provide comprehensive information to help you make an informed decision.
What is Breast Augmentation with Silicone?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. Silicone breast implants, which are filled with a cohesive silicone gel, are a popular choice because they tend to look and feel more natural compared to other types of implants. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, silicone gel implants were used in 77% of all breast augmentations in 2014.
Silicone implants have a solid silicone rubber shell that contains the gel, providing a more organic texture and appearance. They are available in various shapes, sizes, and profiles to suit different body types and aesthetic goals.
Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation with Silicone?
Several factors can make a person a suitable candidate for breast augmentation with silicone. If you experience any of the following concerns, this procedure may be right for you:
- Underdeveloped natural breast tissue: Women with naturally small or underdeveloped breasts may opt for augmentation to achieve a more proportionate figure.
- Disproportionately small breasts compared to the lower body: This can lead to an unbalanced appearance, and augmentation can help create a more harmonious silhouette.
- Asymmetrical or oddly - shaped breasts: Breast augmentation can help correct breast asymmetry and improve the overall shape of the breasts.
- Deflation and lost volume due to weight loss or after pregnancy and breastfeeding: Pregnancy and weight fluctuations can cause the breasts to lose their volume and firmness. Silicone implants can restore the lost volume.
- Loss of firmness, loose skin, and sagging breasts (often paired with a breast lift): In some cases, a breast lift may be combined with augmentation to achieve the desired results.
The Top 3 Hospitals and Medical Practices for Breast Augmentation with Silicone in Albany
1. Capek Plastic Surgery
Dr. Lucie Capek at Capek Plastic Surgery is a board - certified plastic surgeon trusted by patients throughout the capital district areas of Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga. Many patients also travel from New York City, Vermont, Massachusetts, and beyond to receive her skilled and compassionate care.
Expertise and Services
- Dr. Capek offers a wide range of options for breast augmentation, including different breast implant sizes, shapes, and materials. She also provides the possibility of using your own fat for augmentation.
- Patients have the option to combine their cosmetic breast augmentation with a breast lift.
- Dr. Capek uses the latest techniques, such as the harmonic scalpel to create the implant pocket, which helps minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during surgery.
Patient Experience
Patient reviews highlight that the surgery process is smooth, with excellent care, very little pain and bruising, and a fast recovery. Many patients find that their self - confidence improves significantly after the procedure.
2. GJK Plastic Surgery - Dr. Gabriel J. Kaufman
Dr. Gabriel J. Kaufman is a double - board - certified reconstructive and plastic surgeon. He brings a wealth of experience and an artistic vision to every breast augmentation procedure, while adhering to the highest patient care and safety standards.
Expertise and Services
- Dr. Kaufman offers two primary methods for breast augmentation: breast implant augmentation surgery and fat transfer breast augmentation. He exclusively uses implants made in the United States, specifically 5th - generation silicone implants with improved shape - maintaining ability and a natural feel.
- He provides a variety of implant options in terms of shapes (rounded), textures (smooth), and profiles (low, moderate, moderate plus, high, and extra high) to meet different patient needs and aesthetic goals.
- Dr. Kaufman advocates for a personalized approach, working closely with patients to design an augmentation procedure that aligns with their needs and vision.
Patient Experience
Patients choosing Dr. Kaufman are investing in a surgeon who prioritizes their safety, comfort, and aesthetic goals. The surgical experience is tailored to each patient, with detailed pre - operative planning and comprehensive post - operative care.
3. Rockmore Plastic Surgery - Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore performs breast augmentation using breast implants to add volume and create natural - looking results at his practice in Latham, serving Albany, Utica, Saratoga, and Troy.
Expertise and Services
- Dr. Rockmore uses a 3 - dimensional approach for consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts, offering a wide range of implant sizes, shapes, and materials. He has extensive experience performing over 4,000 breast procedures.
- He provides detailed guidance on implant selection, taking into account factors such as chest width, body type, and desired results. Dr. Rockmore also offers breast augmentation with fat transfer, which can be done in conjunction with a breast lift or implants or alone.
- The practice offers personalized consultations to understand each patient's motivations and goals, ensuring a satisfying outcome.
Patient Experience
Before - and - after photos on the practice's website showcase successful breast augmentation cases. Patients appreciate the personalized approach and the doctor's attention to detail during the procedure and recovery process.
The Top 5 Hospitals and Medical Practices for Breast Augmentation with Silicone in Albany
4. Albany Aesthetics & Enhancement Center
Led by Dr. Emily Carter, a board - certified plastic surgeon with over 15 years of experience, this center offers a comprehensive range of breast augmentation services.
Expertise and Services
- The center provides services including silicone and saline implants, breast lifts, and breast reconstruction. They are well - known for their individualized approach and superb medical attention.
- Dr. Carter and her team take the time to understand each patient's unique needs and goals, and develop customized treatment plans accordingly.
5. Capital City Cosmetic Surgery
Headed by Dr. Michael Reynolds, a renowned plastic surgeon, Capital City Cosmetic Surgery specializes in advanced breast augmentation techniques.
Expertise and Services
- The practice offers endoscopic breast augmentation and fat transfer techniques, aiming to deliver natural - looking results tailored to each patient's unique anatomy.
- Dr. Reynolds and his team are committed to using the latest advancements in surgical techniques and implant technology to ensure the best possible outcomes for their patients.
Pre - operative Considerations
Consultation
Before undergoing breast augmentation with silicone, a consultation with your chosen surgeon is essential. During this consultation:
- The surgeon will assess your suitability for the surgery, taking into account your medical history, current health, and breast anatomy.
- You will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and desired aesthetic outcome. Surgeons may use tools like the Mentor® volume sizing system or 3 - D computer simulations to help you visualize your desired breast size and how it will look on your body type.
- The surgeon will explain the different types of implants, incisions, and implant placement options available, and guide you through the decision - making process.
Health and Lifestyle
It is important to be in optimum health when considering elective surgery. You should follow a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise. Smoking should be avoided, as it decreases the body's ability to heal normally. If you have chronic conditions like high blood pressure, you should follow your primary care physician's advice for treatment.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Anesthesia
The breast augmentation procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be unconscious during the surgery. This ensures your comfort and safety throughout the process.
Incision
The surgeon will make a small incision, with common locations including:
- Inframammary: A thin line that traces the fold beneath the breast. Recent studies suggest that this incision has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture.
- Periareolar: Along the lower border of the areola, where the dark skin meets the lighter skin.
- Transaxillary: Hidden in the armpit.
Implant Placement
Once the incision is made, the surgeon will create a pocket for the implant. There are three main types of implant placement:
- Subglandular: Above the muscle.
- Submuscular: Behind the pectoralis muscle.
- Biplanar: A combination of both subglandular and submuscular placement.
Closure
After the implant is inserted and positioned correctly, the surgeon will close the incisions with dissolvable sutures and glue. The entire surgery generally takes 1 - 2 hours to complete.
Post - operative Care and Recovery
Immediate Aftercare
- You can expect to stay in the hospital or surgical center for a brief period of observation after the surgery. Once you are stable, you will be allowed to go home.
- You can shower within 48 hours, but you should be careful not to get the incision site too wet. In some cases, sponge baths may be recommended.
- You will need to wear a sports bra or a surgical bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks to support the breasts and minimize swelling.
Recovery Timeline
- Day 1: Most patients can shower carefully, as long as they avoid getting the incisions wet.
- Days 2 - 3: If you are comfortable and no longer taking prescription medication, you 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. Any discomfort can usually be managed with over - the - counter medicine.
- Day 7: By this point, most patients feel well enough to return to work, school, and other light activities. You will have your first postoperative appointment to ensure that your healing is progressing as planned.
- Weeks 2 - 4: You should be able to resume most strenuous activities during this time. However, restrictions on lifting objects and moving your arms above shoulder height may still apply.
Long - term Care
- You should continue with your regular mammograms and breast exams with your primary care physician. If you have silicone implants, periodic MRIs or ultrasounds are recommended to screen for silent implant rupture.
- It is important to follow your surgeon's aftercare instructions to avoid any complications. Breast augmentation recovery times vary from patient to patient depending on your health and the extent of the procedure.
Risks and Complications
Short - term Risks
- Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, which may require additional treatment.
- Infection: Although rare, an infection can occur at the incision site or around the implant. This can usually be treated with antibiotics.
- Anesthesia risks: General anesthesia carries some risks, such as allergic reactions, breathing problems, or nausea.
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in the sensation of the nipple or breast.
Long - term Risks
- Capsular contracture: This occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens and distorts the shape of the breast, causing discomfort and pain. It may require revisional surgeries and/or removal of the implant.
- Implant malposition: The implant may shift into an undesirable position, such as dropping too low or becoming misaligned.
- Implant rupture: While silicone implants are designed to be durable, they can rupture over time. A silicone implant rupture may be silent (have no associated symptoms), so the FDA recommends periodic MRIs or ultrasounds for women with silicone implants.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation with silicone can be a life - changing procedure for many women, enhancing their self - confidence and body image. In Albany, there are several top - quality hospitals and medical practices that offer this service, including Capek Plastic Surgery, GJK Plastic Surgery, Rockmore Plastic Surgery, Albany Aesthetics & Enhancement Center, and Capital City Cosmetic Surgery. Each of these providers has experienced surgeons, a range of services, and a commitment to patient safety and satisfaction.
Before undergoing breast augmentation, it is important to do thorough research, have a detailed consultation with your chosen surgeon, and understand the pre - operative, operative, and post - operative aspects of the procedure. By making an informed decision and following the advice of your medical team, you can achieve the desired results and enjoy a positive experience.
If you are considering breast augmentation with silicone in Albany, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top providers mentioned in this article. Take the first step towards enhancing your beauty and confidence today!
