Introduction
Breast augmentation is a widely sought - after cosmetic procedure, especially in a vibrant city like Albany. Women who wish to enhance their breast size, shape, or symmetry often look for the best doctors to perform this delicate surgery. With a plethora of options available, choosing the right doctor is crucial to ensure a safe and successful outcome. In this article, we will unveil the top 5 selected doctors for self - breast augmentation in Albany, along with a detailed look at breast augmentation in general, the doctor selection criteria, and other relevant information.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that helps to increase breast size and improve the shape and contours of the breasts. It can address various concerns such as underdeveloped natural breast tissue, disproportionately small breasts compared to the lower body, asymmetrical or oddly - shaped breasts, deflation and lost volume due to weight loss or after pregnancy and breast - feeding, and loss of firmness, loose skin, and sagging breasts (often paired with a breast lift).
Types of Breast Implants
All FDA - approved breast implants have a solid silicone rubber shell that is either filled with saline solution (sterile salt water) or elastic silicone gel (more closely mimics the feel of tissue). Silicone gel implants were used in 77%, and saline implants in 23%, of all breast augmentations in 2014.
| Implant Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Saline Implants | - Less expensive - If they rupture, the saline is naturally absorbed and expelled from the body |
- May feel less natural - Can sometimes cause rippling under the skin |
| Silicone Implants | - Tend to look and feel more natural - Aesthetically more pleasing in many cases |
- More expensive - A rupture may be silent, requiring periodic MRIs for monitoring |
The Procedure
The breast augmentation procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. The surgeon makes a small incision either under the breast or around the areola to place the implant. The inframammary fold incision (under the breast) has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture and is the most commonly recommended approach. The surgeon then creates a pocket for the implants using an instrument like the harmonic scalpel to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching. The implants are inserted and positioned in either a sub - muscular (below the pectoralis muscle) or sub - glandular position, depending on the patient's shape, natural anatomy, and lifestyle.
Recovery
Recovery times vary from patient to patient. After the surgery, patients can shower within 48 hours and should wear a sports bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks. Most surgeons rarely use drains for breast enhancement. Patients with sedentary jobs may return to work within a week, while strenuous or high - impact activities like running may be restricted for 6 - 8 weeks. Long - term, patients should continue with regular mammograms and breast exams, and those with silicone implants need periodic MRIs to screen for silent implant rupture.
Doctor Selection Criteria
Board Certification
Board - certified plastic surgeons have met specific educational, training, and examination requirements set by recognized boards. This certification ensures that the doctor has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform breast augmentation surgeries safely and effectively. For example, in the United States, the American Board of Plastic Surgery is a well - respected certification body.
Years of Experience
Doctors with more years of experience in breast augmentation are likely to have encountered a wider range of cases and complications. They are more familiar with different surgical techniques and can better handle unexpected situations during the procedure. For instance, a doctor with 20 years of experience may have a more refined approach compared to someone who is new to the field.
Patient Reviews
Reading patient reviews can provide valuable insights into a doctor's bedside manner, the quality of the surgery results, and the overall patient experience. Positive reviews from previous patients are a good indication that the doctor is reliable and provides satisfactory care. For example, if a doctor has many reviews praising their professionalism, communication, and the natural - looking results of their surgeries, it is a positive sign.
Before - and - After Photos
Reviewing before - and - after photos of the doctor's previous patients can give you an idea of the type and quality of results they can achieve. You can assess the symmetry, shape, and overall aesthetic of the breasts after the surgery and see if it aligns with your expectations.
Specialization in Breast Augmentation
Some doctors may have a particular focus on breast augmentation within the field of plastic surgery. These specialists are more likely to be up - to - date with the latest techniques and research in breast augmentation, which can lead to better outcomes for patients.
The Top 5 Selected Doctors for Self - Breast Augmentation in Albany
1. Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD
Dr. Jonathan Canete is rated 4.90 out of 5 stars, which is an excellent rating, indicating high patient satisfaction. He is located at 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208. His high rating suggests that he provides excellent care, both in terms of surgical skills and patient interaction. Patients may expect a high - quality breast augmentation procedure with natural - looking results from Dr. Canete.
2. Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO
Also with a rating of 4.90 out of 5 stars, Dr. Matthew McDonald is based at 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211. Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) take a holistic approach to patient care, which can be beneficial for patients undergoing breast augmentation. His high rating shows that he is highly regarded by his patients and likely has a good track record in performing breast augmentation surgeries.
3. Dr. Eugene Hoffert, MD
Dr. Eugene Hoffert, with a 4.90 out of 5 - star rating, practices at 250 Delaware Ave Ste 207, Delmar, NY 12054. His consistent high rating implies that he is a reliable choice for breast augmentation. He likely has extensive experience and a good understanding of patient needs, providing personalized care and achieving great results.
4. Dr. Todd Beyer, MD
Dr. Todd Beyer has a rating of 4.80 out of 5 stars and is located at 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208. His high rating and well - established practice suggest that he is a skillful surgeon. He may be particularly good at addressing patient concerns and achieving satisfactory aesthetic and functional outcomes for breast augmentation.
5. Dr. Francis Cullen, MD
Dr. Francis Cullen, rated 4.80 out of 5 stars, has his practice at 5 Palisades Dr Ste 110, Albany, NY 12205. His rating indicates that he has a positive reputation among patients. He may offer a combination of surgical expertise and a caring attitude, which is important for a successful breast augmentation experience.
Other Notable Breast Augmentation Doctors in Albany
There are several other doctors in Albany who perform breast augmentation and have made their mark in the field.
Dr. Susan Gannon, MD
Dr. Susan Gannon is rated 4.60 out of 5 stars and is located at 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206. She has 19 years of experience as a board - certified plastic surgeon. Patient reviews mention that she was kind and attentive during the breast augmentation process for a 38 - year - old mom of 3.
Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD
With a 4.70 out of 5 - star rating, Dr. Gabriel Kaufman practices at 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208. He has 8 years of experience and is board - certified with 2 board certifications. A patient had an excellent experience with him for breast cancer treatment, which reflects his professionalism and caring attitude.
Dr. Meera Menon, MD
Dr. Meera Menon, rated 4.40 out of 5 stars, is based at 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208. Although not in the top 5, she still has a good reputation and may be a suitable choice for patients seeking breast augmentation, especially those who value a doctor with a relatively high patient - satisfaction score.
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore, MD
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore is a board - certified plastic surgeon with 25 years of experience. He is located at 15 Old Loudon Rd, Latham, New York. He has 159 patient reviews, and patients have reported having an amazing experience with him for breast augmentation, including his help in picking the right size for the body type.
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, MD
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha is a board - certified plastic surgeon with 20 years of experience. He is located at 711 Troy Schenectady Rd, Ste. 206, Latham, New York. He offers virtual consultations and has 154 patient reviews. A patient had a great experience with him for a mommy - makeover procedure that included breast augmentation.
Cost of Breast Augmentation in Albany
The cost of breast augmentation in Albany can vary depending on several factors.
Factors Affecting Cost
- Surgeon's Fee: Experienced and highly - rated surgeons may charge more for their services. For example, a doctor with a long - standing reputation and a high patient - satisfaction rate may have a higher fee compared to a less - experienced surgeon.
- Type of Implants: Silicone implants are generally more expensive than saline implants. The brand and quality of the implants can also impact the cost.
- Facility Fees: The cost of using the surgical facility, including the operating room, equipment, and staff, is factored into the overall cost. High - end facilities with advanced technology may charge more.
- Anesthesia Fees: The type of anesthesia used (usually general anesthesia for breast augmentation) and the anesthesiologist's fee contribute to the cost.
- Geographical Location: In a relatively developed city like Albany, the cost may be higher compared to less - populated or less - affluent areas.
On average, breast augmentation in Albany can cost between $6,400 - $10,500, depending on the combination of the above factors. For example, a breast augmentation and lift may cost between $8,000 - $10,500, while a simple breast augmentation may be in the range of $6,400 - $7,500.
Benefits and Risks of Breast Augmentation
Benefits
- Improved Self - Confidence: Many women report a significant boost in self - confidence after breast augmentation. They feel more comfortable in their own skin and more confident in social and professional situations.
- Better Body Proportion: It can help achieve a more balanced and proportionate body shape, especially for women with disproportionately small breasts.
- Restoration after Pregnancy or Weight Loss: Breast augmentation can restore lost volume and firmness in the breasts after pregnancy and breast - feeding or significant weight loss.
Risks
- Early Risks: These include bleeding, infection, problems with anesthesia, and changes in the sensation of the nipple or breast. However, with proper pre - and post - operative care from a skilled doctor, these risks can be minimized.
- Long - Term Risks: These include capsular contracture (abnormal scar tissue forming around the implant, leading to increasing firmness and possible shape change of the breast), implant malposition (shifting of the implant into an undesirable position), and implant rupture. Women with silicone implants need to have periodic MRIs to screen for silent rupture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breast augmentation is a popular and effective procedure for women in Albany who wish to enhance their breast appearance. The top 5 selected doctors - Dr. Jonathan Canete, Dr. Matthew McDonald, Dr. Eugene Hoffert, Dr. Todd Beyer, and Dr. Francis Cullen - stand out due to their high ratings and likely excellent surgical skills. However, there are also other notable doctors in the area, each with their own unique strengths. When considering breast augmentation, it is crucial to carefully evaluate the doctors based on the selection criteria, understand the cost and the associated benefits and risks, and have a thorough consultation with the chosen doctor. By making an informed decision, patients can achieve their desired results and enjoy the benefits of a successful breast augmentation.
If you are considering breast augmentation in Albany, we encourage you to reach out to one of the top - rated doctors mentioned in this article. Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals, ask questions, and learn more about the procedure. Share this article with friends or family who may also be interested in breast augmentation, and continue exploring related topics to stay informed about the latest advancements in cosmetic surgery.
