Introduction
Breast augmentation has become a popular cosmetic procedure for many women in Albany who wish to enhance their appearance, gain more confidence, or address specific physical concerns. Among the various techniques, breast augmentation surgery with areola incisions is favored by some patients for its relatively discreet scarring. In this article, we will explore the top five hospitals in Albany for this type of surgery, while also delving into key aspects of breast augmentation.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that aims to increase the size, change the shape, or improve the symmetry of the breasts. It can enhance the volume and fullness of the breasts, giving them a more youthful and sensual appearance that better complements the body frame. Many women may feel that their breasts are too small, lack enough volume or a youthful contour, have insufficient upper pole fullness, or are too droopy, and breast augmentation can address these concerns.
Candidates for Breast Augmentation
- Women who desire larger breasts to create a more balanced figure or to fill out their clothing and bathing suits.
- Those with one breast noticeably smaller than the other.
- Individuals with mild breast drooping who desire an uplift and enlargement.
- Women who would like to have more upper pole breast fullness and increased cleavage.
Benefits of Breast Augmentation
- Obtain larger and more shapely breasts.
- Achieve a more balanced figure.
- Boost self - esteem and develop a more positive self - image.
Breast Implant Options
Implant Shapes
There are two main types of breast implant shapes:
- Round breast implants: They can provide more upper breast fullness or “cleavage” compared to teardrop - shaped gummy bear implants. There is minimal concern for rotation as they are the same shape all the way around, and any rotation after placement would not change their appearance.
- Teardrop - shaped breast implants: They mimic the appearance of a natural breast and have less fullness in the cleavage area. However, if a shaped implant rotates, it can create an unusual appearance, so careful positioning by a board - certified plastic surgeon is crucial.
Implant Surfaces
Breast implants come with different surfaces:
- Smooth breast implants: Considered the softest, they can create a more mobile breast appearance. But there is a risk of complications such as rippling and capsular contracture. Surgeons at many major breast augmentation centers believe using smooth implants increases the risk of hard breast or capsular contracture formation.
- Textured breast implants: Less likely to move or become repositioned, they can reduce the risk of thick capsule formation and tight capsular contracture. However, some textured implants like those from Allergan named Biocell® have been recalled due to an association with a rare condition called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). Textured implants from Sientra® and Mentor® are still available and have an exceedingly rare association with BIA - ALCL.
Implant Types
| Implant Type | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages | FDA Approval |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saline implants | Have silicone shells filled with a salt water (saline) solution directly from a sterile IV bag. Filled after insertion into the breast pocket. | Allow for a smaller incision, resulting in less visible scarring. If a rupture occurs, the salt water can be safely and easily absorbed by the body. | May feel less natural compared to silicone gel implants. | Approved for patients 18 years and older. |
| Silicone gel implants | Have cohesive silicone shells filled with a softer silicone gel material with the consistency of honey. | Tend to provide a very natural - looking appearance and a more natural breast feel. Lower risk of rippling compared to saline implants. | Require longer incisions as they are pre - filled. If a rupture occurs, it may be silent. | Approved for women over age 21, with certain exceptions for younger women. |
| Cohesive gel or “gummy bear” implants | Firmer and maintain their shape better. The silicone within these implants is a thicker consistency. | If the shell breaks, the implant maintains its shape and does not leak gel into the body. Sientra® opus™ implants have a platinum 20™ product replacement and limited warranty program. | More expensive in some cases. | Approved for women over age 21, with certain exceptions for younger women. |
The Top Five Hospitals for Breast Augmentation Surgery with Areola Incisions in Albany
1. Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery (Led by Dr. Steven Yarinsky)
Dr. Steven Yarinsky is considered one of the best plastic surgeons in Saratoga Springs and the Albany / Capital District region. He has been helping women enhance their figures with breast augmentation since 1989. In addition to offering implants from Allergan® and Mentor®, he has extensive experience with Sientra® “gummy bear” gel implants. His wide range of implant options and advanced expertise allow patients to achieve beautiful results that align with their aesthetic goals. He uses meticulous surgical techniques and provides comprehensive pre - and post - operative care. His high patient satisfaction rates are a testament to his skills. Patient testimonials often praise his kindness, professionalism, and the excellent outcome of the procedures.
2. Capek Plastic Surgery (Led by Dr. Lucie Capek)
Dr. Lucie Capek is a board - certified plastic surgeon whom patients throughout the capital district areas of Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga trust for breast augmentation surgery. She offers a variety of breast implant sizes, shapes, and materials and can help patients choose the best option based on their unique breast shape, tissue characteristics, body type, and desired results. She uses the Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients visualize their desired breast size. The hospital has a high - tech surgical environment, and Dr. Capek takes great care in minimizing risks and ensuring a smooth recovery for patients. Many patients travel from far - off places like New York City, Vermont, and Massachusetts to receive her skilled and compassionate care.
3. Rockmore Plastic Surgery (Led by Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore)
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore performs breast augmentation at his practice in Latham, serving Albany, Utica, Saratoga, and Troy. He has over 4,000 breast procedure experiences. He uses a 3 - dimensional approach to achieve consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts. He offers various implant options and provides customized breast augmentation to meet each patient's unique needs. He carefully considers factors such as breast implant size, shape, material, profile, and placement to ensure the best results. Dr. Rockmore is also known for his patient - centered approach, answering all patients' questions and addressing their concerns throughout the process.
4. Malcolm Z. Roth, MD, FACS
Dr. Malcolm Roth offers breast augmentation with a variety of implant options, including silicone and saline implants. He has extensive knowledge of implant placement, whether over the muscle on the chest wall or under the muscle. His patients appreciate his great compassion, empathy, and outstanding bedside manner. He thoroughly discusses the procedure, risks, and recovery with patients to ensure they have realistic expectations. He also offers breast augmentation with fat transfer for those who prefer a more natural - looking enhancement. His years of experience and positive patient feedback make him a top choice in Albany.
5. Albany Aesthetics & Enhancement Center (Led by Dr. Emily Carter)
Dr. Emily Carter, a board - certified plastic surgeon with over 15 years of experience, leads this center. It offers a comprehensive range of breast augmentation services, including silicone and saline implants, breast lifts, and breast reconstruction. The center is well - known for its individualized approach and superb medical attention. Dr. Carter takes the time to understand each patient's goals and tailors the treatment plan accordingly. The hospital's state - of - the - art facilities and friendly staff contribute to a comfortable and reassuring environment for patients.
Considerations for Choosing a Hospital
Surgeon's Qualifications and Experience
It is crucial to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation surgery with areola incisions. Surgeons with a long - standing practice and a high number of successful procedures are more likely to have the skills and expertise to handle various situations during the surgery.
Patient Testimonials and Reviews
Reading patient testimonials and reviews can give you an idea of the hospital's reputation, the quality of care provided, and the satisfaction level of previous patients. Positive reviews often indicate a hospital that values patient experience and delivers good results.
Range of Implant Options
A hospital that offers a wide range of implant options, including different shapes, surfaces, and types, allows you to choose the implant that best suits your needs and preferences. This increases the likelihood of achieving the desired aesthetic outcome.
Post - operative Care
Good post - operative care is essential for a smooth recovery and long - term success of the breast augmentation. The hospital should provide clear instructions on wound care, pain management, and follow - up appointments. Supportive staff who are available to answer your questions during the recovery period are also important.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Pre - operative Preparation
Before the surgery, you will have a consultation with your surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will assess your suitability for the surgery, discuss your expectations and desired aesthetic outcome, and recommend the most appropriate implant option and surgical technique. You may need to undergo some pre - operative tests, such as blood tests and mammograms. You will also be given instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, including avoiding certain medications, smoking, and alcohol in the weeks leading up to the procedure.
The Surgery
The breast augmentation surgery with areola incisions is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. A small incision is made around the areola, and the implant is inserted under the breast tissue and usually placed partially beneath the chest wall (pectoralis) muscle. The surgeon will take great care to ensure proper placement of the implant to achieve the desired shape and symmetry. The entire surgery generally takes one to two hours.
Recovery
After the surgery, you will be provided with a support bra to wear continuously except when showering for several weeks until swelling and bruising have disappeared. You should avoid tub bathing, swimming, and hot tub use for six to eight weeks. Any discomfort can be managed with oral medication. Sutures are usually removed within two weeks (up to three weeks if you have a breast lift done on the same day). Light activities can be resumed as tolerated, and aerobic activities can be started in about three to four weeks.
Risks and Complications
Although breast augmentation is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, there are some risks and complications associated with it:
- Infection: This can occur at the incision site or around the implant. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to prevent and treat infections.
- Loss of nipple sensation: Some patients may experience a temporary or permanent change in nipple or breast sensation.
- Capsular contracture: This is the formation of firmer breasts due to abnormal scar tissue forming around the implant.
- Fluid accumulation around the implant: This may require drainage.
- Implant rupture or leakage: Saline implants may deflate if they rupture, while silicone implants may require additional monitoring with MRI for silent ruptures.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation surgery with areola incisions can be a life - changing procedure for many women in Albany. The top five hospitals mentioned in this article - Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, Capek Plastic Surgery, Rockmore Plastic Surgery, Malcolm Z. Roth, MD, FACS, and Albany Aesthetics & Enhancement Center - offer high - quality services, experienced surgeons, and a wide range of implant options. When considering breast augmentation, it is important to choose a hospital that meets your specific needs and to have realistic expectations about the procedure. Make sure to discuss all aspects of the surgery, including risks, recovery, and expected outcomes, with your surgeon. If you are interested in breast augmentation, take the first step by scheduling a consultation with one of these top hospitals in Albany and start your journey towards enhancing your appearance and boosting your confidence.
