Introduction
Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure that can enhance a woman's body image and self - confidence. In Albany, there are several well - known and formal hospitals and clinics that offer top - notch breast augmentation services. This article will explore five of these notable institutions, highlighting their key features, the expertise of their surgeons, and the range of services they provide.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at enhancing the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. The procedure typically involves the placement of breast implants, which can be filled with saline or silicone gel. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation with implants has been the top cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States since 2006. In 2014, silicone gel implants were used in 77% of all breast augmentations, while saline implants accounted for 23%.
Reasons for Breast Augmentation
There are various reasons why women choose to undergo breast augmentation. Some common motivations include:
- Enhancing body proportion: Some women may feel that their breasts are disproportionately small compared to the rest of their body and wish to achieve a more balanced silhouette.
- Restoring lost volume: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or the natural aging process can cause the breasts to lose volume and firmness. Breast augmentation can help restore the lost fullness.
- Correcting asymmetry: Many women have some degree of breast asymmetry, and breast augmentation can help correct this issue for a more symmetrical appearance.
- Boosting self - confidence: Having larger, more shapely breasts can often lead to increased self - confidence and a more positive body image.
Types of Breast Implants
There are two main types of breast implants used in breast augmentation: saline and silicone. Each type has its own characteristics:
Implant Type | Composition | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|---|
Saline | Silicone shell filled with sterile salt water | Smaller incisions may be required, leaks are easily detectable as the saline is absorbed by the body | May feel less natural than silicone implants, can cause rippling under the skin |
Silicone | Silicone shell filled with cohesive silicone gel | Tend to look and feel more natural, less likely to cause rippling | Silent ruptures can occur, and regular MRIs may be required for monitoring |
Top 5 Formal and Well - Known Hospitals for Breast Augmentation in Albany
1. The Plastic Surgery Group
Conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, and Troy, The Plastic Surgery Group is a well - regarded institution for breast augmentation. Their team of experienced plastic surgeons is dedicated to providing personalized care to each patient.
Surgeon Expertise
The surgeons at The Plastic Surgery Group are board - certified and have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures. They stay updated with the latest surgical techniques and technologies to ensure the best possible results for their patients.
Range of Services
- Breast Implant Options: They offer a variety of breast implant options, including saline and silicone implants, allowing patients to choose the type that best suits their needs and preferences.
- Incision Placement: The surgeons at The Plastic Surgery Group discuss the best incision placement options with patients, which may include the inframammary incision (along the breast fold), transaxillary incision (in the underarm), or periareolar incision (around the areola), to minimize scarring and achieve a natural - looking result.
- Combined Procedures: In addition to breast augmentation, they can also perform breast lifts or combine breast augmentation with other procedures in a comprehensive mommy makeover.
Patient Experience
The Plastic Surgery Group focuses on providing a comfortable and supportive environment for their patients. They offer patient financing options to help make the procedure more affordable. Patients also receive detailed pre - operative instructions and follow - up care to ensure a smooth recovery process.
2. Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore at Rockmore Plastic Surgery in Latham serves patients from Albany, Utica, Saratoga, and Troy. He is known for his expertise in breast augmentation and his individualized approach to each patient.
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. Rockmore has over 4,000 breast procedures under his belt, which gives him a high level of proficiency in performing breast augmentation. He uses a 3 - dimensional approach to create beautiful and natural - looking results.
Range of Services
- Customized Implant Selection: Dr. Rockmore offers a different approach to implant selection. He focuses on matching the width of the implant to the width of the patient's chest and breasts, ensuring full and natural - looking results.
- Implant Placement Options: He provides three types of implant placement options: subglandular (above the muscle), submuscular (behind the pectoralis muscle), and biplanar (a combination of both). He will recommend the option that best fits the patient's individual needs.
- Breast Augmentation with Fat Transfer: In addition to traditional breast implants, Dr. Rockmore also offers breast augmentation with fat transfer, which can be done alone or in conjunction with a breast lift or implants.
Patient Experience
Patients at Rockmore Plastic Surgery appreciate Dr. Rockmore's personalized care and attention to detail. He takes the time to understand each patient's goals and desires and creates a customized treatment plan accordingly. The recovery process is also well - managed, with clear instructions and follow - up appointments to ensure a successful outcome.
3. Capek Plastic Surgery
Board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lucie Capek at Capek Plastic Surgery is 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 care.
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. Capek is an expert in breast augmentation and is familiar with a wide range of breast implant sizes, shapes, and materials. She uses the Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients visualize their desired breast size and how it will look on their body type.
Range of Services
- Implant Options: Dr. Capek offers both saline and silicone implants and will recommend the best option based on the patient's unique breast shape, tissue characteristics, body type, and desired results.
- Combined Procedures: Patients have the option to combine their breast augmentation with a breast lift to achieve a more youthful and firm appearance.
- Surgical Technique: She uses a harmonic scalpel to create the implant pocket, which helps to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during the surgery. She typically closes the incisions with dissolvable sutures and glue.
Patient Experience
Dr. Capek provides comprehensive pre - operative and post - operative care. Patients appreciate her compassionate approach and the fact that she takes the time to answer all their questions. Her office staff is also known for being friendly and helpful.
4. Deluca Plastic Surgery
Deluca Plastic Surgery offers breast augmentation procedures with a focus on personalized planning and advanced techniques. Their team of surgeons, including Dr. William Deluca, Dr. David Tauber, and Dr. Alan Yan, is dedicated to achieving the best possible results for their patients.
Surgeon Expertise
The surgeons at Deluca Plastic Surgery are experienced in breast augmentation and are skilled in minimizing visible scarring. They stay updated with the latest advancements in the field to provide the highest quality of care.
Range of Services
- Advanced Planning Tools: They utilize the scientifically - designed Mentor breast implant sizing system and 3 - D computer simulations based on breast photos and advanced AI algorithms to help patients visualize their results and choose the right implant.
- Minimal - Touch Technique: During the breast enlargement procedure, the surgeons use a minimal - touch technique to insert the implant, which helps to avoid contamination and ensure a smooth recovery.
- Post - Operative Care: They provide a post - operative bra and possibly a superior strap to support the implants during the healing process. Follow - up visits are scheduled to monitor the patient's progress and address any concerns.
Patient Experience
Patients at Deluca Plastic Surgery are impressed with the personalized attention they receive. The staff is helpful in answering questions and assisting with the financing options if needed. The overall patient experience is focused on comfort and achieving the desired aesthetic results.
5. Williams Center
The Williams Center is a destination practice in Albany that exclusively specializes in facial plastic surgery, breast surgery, body surgery, non - surgical procedures, and hair restoration. Their breast and body specialist, Dr. Alfredo Lloreda, is a distinguished and board - certified plastic surgeon.
Surgeon Expertise
Dr. Lloreda has a wealth of experience in breast and body procedures. He is committed to excellence and uses the latest surgical techniques to enhance and rejuvenate the appearance of his patients.
Range of Services
- Comprehensive Breast Surgery: In addition to breast augmentation, the Williams Center offers a range of breast - related services, including breast lifts, breast reductions, and breast reconstructions.
- State - of - the - Art Facilities: The center is equipped with modern operating rooms and a private plastic surgery center, ensuring a safe and comfortable surgical environment for patients.
- Patient Support: They offer consultations to discuss the patient's goals and expectations, and provide post - operative care and support to ensure a successful recovery.
Patient Experience
Patients who choose the Williams Center for breast augmentation appreciate the expertise of the surgeons and the high - quality care they receive. The center's convenient location near the Albany International Airport also makes it accessible for patients traveling from out of town.
Choosing the Right Hospital for Breast Augmentation
Surgeon Qualifications
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a hospital for breast augmentation is the qualifications of the surgeon. Look for a board - certified plastic surgeon who has extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures. You can check their ratings and reviews from past patients on websites like Healthgrades. For example, in Albany, there are many surgeons with high ratings such as Dr. Jonathan Canete (4.9 out of 5 stars), Dr. Matthew McDonald (4.9 out of 5 stars), and Dr. Eugene Hoffert (4.9 out of 5 stars) according to Healthgrades.
Range of Services
Consider the range of services offered by the hospital. A good hospital should offer a variety of breast implant options, different incision placement choices, and the possibility of combining breast augmentation with other procedures. This allows you to customize your treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals.
Patient Experience
Read patient testimonials and reviews to get an idea of the patient experience at the hospital. A positive patient experience includes factors such as personalized care, a comfortable and supportive environment, clear communication, and proper post - operative care. You can also ask for before - and - after photos of previous patients to see the results achieved by the hospital.
Cost and Financing
The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of implants, the complexity of the procedure, and whether it is combined with other procedures. It is important to get a clear understanding of the cost and ask about financing options. Many hospitals offer patient financing to help make the procedure more affordable.
Preparing for Breast Augmentation Surgery
Consultation
The first step in preparing for breast augmentation surgery is to schedule a consultation with your chosen surgeon. During the consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your goals, expectations, and any concerns you may have. The surgeon will also perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and recommend the best approach for your breast augmentation.
Pre - Operative Instructions
Your surgeon will provide you with detailed pre - operative instructions. These may include avoiding certain medications, such as aspirin and non - steroidal anti - inflammatory drugs, for a period of time before the surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding. You may also be asked to stop smoking, as smoking can delay the healing process. Additionally, you will be instructed on what to eat and drink before the surgery.
Emotional Preparation
Breast augmentation is not only a physical procedure but also an emotional one. It is normal to feel anxious or excited before the surgery. It is important to set realistic expectations and understand that the recovery process takes time. You can talk to your surgeon, friends, or family members about your feelings to help you cope with the emotional aspects of the procedure.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep during the procedure. A board - certified anesthesiologist will administer the anesthesia and monitor your vital signs throughout the surgery to ensure your safety.
Incision and Implant Placement
The surgeon will make an incision in a carefully chosen location, which may be along the breast fold, in the underarm, or around the areola. The implant will then be placed in a pocket either behind the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle. The choice of incision and implant placement depends on various factors, such as your breast anatomy, implant type, and personal preference.
Closing the Incision
After the implant is placed, the surgeon will close the incision using sutures or glue. The type of closure used may also depend on the location of the incision and the surgeon's preference.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post - Operative Period
After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area until the anesthesia wears off. You may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising, which are normal side effects of the surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage the discomfort.
Initial Recovery Timeline
- First few days: You may feel tired and sore, and a pain medication will be prescribed to control the discomfort. You will need to have someone drive you home and take care of you for the first 24 hours.
- 7 to 10 days: Gauze dressings may be removed and replaced with a surgical bra. Stitches will be taken out.
- 3 to 5 weeks: Your breasts will be sensitive to physical contact during this time.
- Next several months: Your scars will gradually fade, thin, and soften. The breasts will also continue to settle into their final position.
Follow - Up Appointments
It is important to attend all follow - up appointments with your surgeon. These appointments allow the surgeon to monitor your healing progress, check for any complications, and answer any questions you may have. The frequency of follow - up appointments may vary depending on your individual situation.
Long - Term Considerations
After breast augmentation, you will need to continue with regular breast examinations, including mammograms. If you have silicone implants, periodic MRIs may be recommended to screen for silent implant rupture. You should also be aware that breast implants are not lifetime devices, and you may need to have them replaced at some point in