Introduction
Breast augmentation is a highly sought - after plastic surgery procedure that aims to enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of a woman's breasts. Among the various types of breast implants, teardrop - shaped prostheses have gained popularity for their natural - looking results, mimicking the shape of a natural breast. In Albany, there are several institutions that stand out for their excellence in breast augmentation using teardrop - shaped prostheses. This article will explore three such institutions, providing detailed information on their services, expertise, and patient experiences.
Understanding Teardrop - Shaped Breast Implants
Before delving into the institutions, it's important to understand what teardrop - shaped breast implants are and why they are preferred by many patients.
Appearance and Characteristics
Teardrop - shaped implants are designed to replicate the natural shape of a breast. They have more projection towards the bottom and a tapering or flattening at the top, giving a more realistic appearance compared to round implants. All shaped implants have a textured surface, which helps prevent movement within the pocket where they are placed. Textured implants are currently available only from Sientra and Mentor.
Benefits
- Natural Look: As mentioned, they closely resemble the natural shape of a breast, resulting in a more authentic appearance, especially for women with little existing breast tissue or those looking for a subtle enhancement.
- Reduced Risk of Rotation Visibility: Although there is a risk of rotation, if it occurs, the impact on the appearance is often less noticeable compared to a round implant rotation. However, proper positioning by a skilled surgeon is crucial to minimize this risk.
Limitations
- Rotation Risk: Despite their design, teardrop - shaped implants can rotate within the breast pocket, which may require corrective surgery to re - position them correctly.
- Less Cleavage: Due to their shape, they may not provide as much cleavage as round implants, which can be a drawback for some patients.
Institution 1: Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery (Dr. Steven Yarinsky)
Overview
Dr. Steven Yarinsky at Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery is highly regarded in the Albany area for his expertise in breast augmentation. He is considered one of the best plastic surgeons in Saratoga Springs and the Albany/Capital District region by locals and has been recognized as a “top doctor” by Castle Connolly.
Experience with Teardrop - Shaped Implants
Dr. Yarinsky has extensive experience with breast augmentation using teardrop - shaped “gummy bear” gel implants, particularly from Sientra. Since 2012, he has used Sientra® implants more than any other plastic surgeon in the Albany and upstate New York area. He has used these implants for over eight years, offering the latest Opus™ breast implants by Sientra®, which are designed to look and feel extremely natural without sacrificing shape retention.
Implant Options
Dr. Yarinsky offers a wide range of implant options, including different sizes, shapes, and types. In addition to Sientra® implants, he also offers implants from Allergan® and Mentor®. The Sientra® Opus™ implants are available in textured and smooth surface options, round or shaped, and multiple projection levels (including high, moderate plus, moderate, and low). These state - of - the - art gummy bear implants are exclusively available to board - certified plastic surgeons, ensuring that only the most skilled surgeons can utilize them.
Patient - Centered Approach
He takes a personalized approach to each patient, helping them determine the best implant option based on their aesthetic goals, natural breast tissue, chest measurements, skin quality, and pre - operative cup size. Dr. Yarinsky uses state - of - the - art Crisalix® 3 - D and 4 - D computer imaging, allowing patients to preview how they might look with the chosen implant type and size. This technology helps patients make more informed decisions about their breast augmentation procedure.
Patient Experiences
Many patients have reported positive experiences with Dr. Yarinsky. One patient said, “I can’t stress enough that the treatment I received before, during and after my procedure was far beyond my expectations. I have never meet nursing and office staff that were as wonderful as yours. Thank you so much for making me feel comfortable, confident and happy throughout my entire process.”
Institution 2: The Plastic Surgery Group
Overview
The Plastic Surgery Group is conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, & Troy. Their plastic surgeons are dedicated to helping patients achieve their ideal breast aesthetic through breast augmentation using a variety of breast implants, including teardrop - shaped ones.
Implant Selection Process
During the consultation, the surgeons at The Plastic Surgery Group work closely with patients to discuss their goals and identify the best breast implants. They consider factors such as the type, size, shape, profile, and texture of the implants. For patients interested in teardrop - shaped implants, they take into account the unique characteristics of these implants and how they will fit the patient's body type and aesthetic preferences. They use the Mentor® volume sizing system during consultations to help patients experience different breast sizes and identify their ideal breast size.
Procedural Expertise
Breast implant surgery at The Plastic Surgery Group is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision, usually in one of three locations: under the breast (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). The choice of incision location depends on the patient's anatomy and the type of implant being used. The surgeons then create a pocket either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or under the chest muscle (submuscular) and insert the teardrop - shaped implants carefully.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery period after breast implant surgery at The Plastic Surgery Group depends on the patient's body's natural healing ability. Patients are advised to have someone drive them home and assist with daily activities. They are likely to experience some pain, swelling, and discomfort, but pain medication is prescribed to manage it. A surgical bra is recommended for support throughout the healing process and to lessen swelling. Most patients can resume light activities and work within a week or two, while heavy lifting and intense exercise should be avoided for at least six weeks.
Institution 3: K Plastic Surgery (Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha)
Overview
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha at K Plastic Surgery offers safe and high - quality breast augmentation procedures for patients in Albany. He is a board - certified plastic surgeon with advanced training and experience in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery.
Customizable Teardrop - Shaped Augmentation
Dr. Kayastha understands that every patient has unique aesthetic goals. When it comes to breast augmentation with teardrop - shaped implants, he takes into account various factors to customize the procedure. He offers different filler materials for implants, including saline, silicone gel, and “gummy bear” implants. For teardrop - shaped options, the “gummy bear” implants are often a popular choice due to their shape - retaining properties.
Patient Consultation and Education
Before the surgery, Dr. Kayastha has a thorough consultation with the patient. He listens to their concerns and goals carefully and clearly explains what can be achieved with breast augmentation. He helps patients understand the different types of implants, their benefits, and limitations. In the case of teardrop - shaped implants, he educates patients about the potential risks of rotation and how to minimize them.
Procedure and Recovery
Breast augmentation at K Plastic Surgery is performed at the hospital under general anesthesia. After the surgery, patients are required to wear a supportive surgical bra. Swelling, tenderness, and bruising are normal, and pain medication is prescribed to manage discomfort. Most patients can perform light activities, such as gently walking through their home, immediately after the procedure. Dr. Kayastha also provides detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Comparison of the Three Institutions
| Institution | Expertise in Teardrop - Shaped Implants | Implant Options | Patient - Centered Approach | Cost | Recovery Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery (Dr. Steven Yarinsky) | Extensive experience with Sientra® teardrop - shaped “gummy bear” implants since 2012 | Allergan®, Mentor®, and Sientra® Opus™ implants in various sizes, shapes, textures, and projections | Uses 3 - D and 4 - D computer imaging for patient visualization; personalized implant selection | Average cost of breast augmentation ranges from $7,900 to $11,900 | Detailed post - operative instructions; regular follow - up appointments |
| The Plastic Surgery Group | Skilled in using teardrop - shaped implants from various manufacturers | Saline, silicone, and form - stable silicone (gummy bear) implants | Uses Mentor® volume sizing system for patient sizing; individualized implant choice | Cost depends on implant characteristics | Guidance on pain management, activity restrictions, and surgical bra use |
| K Plastic Surgery (Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha) | Customizable procedures with teardrop - shaped implants; informed patient about risks | Saline, silicone gel, and “gummy bear” implants | Thorough consultation to understand patient goals and educate on implant options | Breast augmentation cost varies from $7,500 to $9,500 | Prescription of pain medication; light activity recommendation post - surgery |
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Institution for Teardrop - Shaped Breast Augmentation
Surgeon's Experience and Expertise
Look for a surgeon who has extensive experience in performing breast augmentation with teardrop - shaped implants. Check their credentials, board certifications, and the number of similar procedures they have performed. Surgeons with more experience are likely to have better results and be more prepared to handle any complications that may arise.
Implant Options
Consider the range of implant options available at the institution. A good institution should offer a variety of teardrop - shaped implants from different manufacturers, with different sizes, textures, and projection levels. This allows you to choose the implant that best suits your body type and aesthetic goals.
Patient - Centered Care
The institution should have a patient - centered approach. This includes a thorough consultation process where the surgeon listens to your concerns and goals, educates you about the procedure and implant options, and uses tools like 3 - D imaging to help you visualize the results. After the surgery, they should provide comprehensive aftercare instructions and support during the recovery period.
Cost
Cost is an important factor, but it should not be the only consideration. Compare the costs of breast augmentation at different institutions, taking into account the surgeon's fee, the cost of implants, anesthesia, and other related fees. Keep in mind that high - quality care and experienced surgeons may come with a higher price tag, but it can be worth it for a better outcome.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the experiences of other patients at the institution. Positive reviews can give you confidence in the quality of care and the results achieved by the surgeon. However, be wary of overly positive or negative reviews that may not be genuine.
Potential Risks and Complications of Teardrop - Shaped Breast Augmentation
While breast augmentation with teardrop - shaped prostheses can provide excellent results, it is not without risks. Some of the potential risks and complications include:
Rotation
As mentioned earlier, teardrop - shaped implants can rotate within the breast pocket. This can cause an unusual appearance of the breast and may require corrective surgery to re - position the implant correctly.
Capsular Contracture
This occurs when the scar tissue that forms around the implant tightens and hardens. It can cause the breast to feel firm, look misshapen, and may be associated with discomfort. Capsular contracture can occur at any time after surgery and may require surgical intervention to correct.
Implant Rupture or Leakage
Although rare, implants can rupture or leak. Saline implants will deflate if they rupture, and the saline solution will be absorbed by the body. Silicone implants may have a silent rupture, meaning there are no obvious symptoms, which is why regular monitoring, such as ultrasounds for silicone implants, is recommended.
Infection
Infection can occur at the surgical site. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. In most cases, infections can be treated with antibiotics, but in severe cases, the implant may need to be removed temporarily until the infection clears.
Changes in Nipple Sensation
Some patients may experience changes in nipple sensation after breast augmentation. This can range from increased sensitivity to decreased sensitivity or even numbness. In most cases, these changes are temporary, but in some instances, they may be permanent.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation with teardrop - shaped prostheses can be a great way to enhance the appearance and confidence of women. In Albany, Saratoga Springs Plastic Surgery, The Plastic Surgery Group, and K Plastic Surgery are three institutions that are outstanding in this field. Each institution offers unique services, expertise, and patient - centered approaches. When considering breast augmentation, it's crucial to weigh the factors such as surgeon experience, implant options, cost, and potential risks. Always consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to make an informed decision.
If you're interested in learning more about breast augmentation with teardrop - shaped prostheses in Albany, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of these institutions. Share your goals and concerns with the surgeon, and take the time to understand the procedure thoroughly. By doing so, you can increase your chances of achieving the desired results and having a positive experience.
