Introduction
Breast augmentation using prostheses is a popular cosmetic procedure that can enhance the appearance of the breasts and boost self - confidence. In Albany, there are several hospitals that offer this service. This article will introduce three selected hospitals in the list of breast augmentation hospitals using prostheses in Albany, including details about their services, costs, and the overall breast augmentation process.
Understanding Breast Augmentation with Prostheses
What is Breast Augmentation with Prostheses?
Breast augmentation, also known as breast enlargement, is a procedure used to increase the size of the breasts. It involves adding breast implants to the breast tissue. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation with implants has been one of the top cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States since 2006, with nearly 300,000 procedures performed in 2022. This procedure is often sought by women who are not confident about their breast appearance, have uneven breasts, or have lost breast volume due to factors such as weight loss or pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The Procedure
The surgery usually takes around 1 to 2 hours and is done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with an oral sedative. The surgeon makes a single cut in the breast, either under the breast or around the nipple. The breast tissue is then separated from the underlying connective tissue and muscles to create a space. The implant is inserted into this space, and the incision is closed with sutures.
After - Procedure Care
Patients are usually given a prescription to control pain if needed. The surgeon may remove the stitches in a week. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities like weight - lifting for at least 4 weeks as the breasts are sensitive during the healing process. Some pain and swelling are normal for the first few weeks. Scars may dissolve with time but may not completely disappear. Patients should contact their surgeon if they notice abnormal redness, warmth in the breast, or if they have a fever.
Three Selected Hospitals in Albany
Albany Medical Center Hospital
Albany Medical Center Hospital, located at 43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY, 12208, is a well - known medical institution in the area. It offers breast augmentation using prostheses.
Cost
The price for breast enlargement using prosthetic implants at Albany Medical Center Hospital varies depending on whether you are paying in cash or are part of an insurance plan with a pre - negotiated rate. The hospital has reported prices for this procedure, and patients can choose to view cash prices or insurance prices to get more information.
Care Quality
The hospital has been evaluated on several metrics. It has a 2 - star care quality rating. In terms of performance, its effectiveness of care is below the national average, while its efficient use of medical imaging is the same as the national average. Mortality rates are on par with the national average, and the patient experience, readmission rates, and timeliness of care are below the national average. However, the safety of care is above the national average, and it has an average performance in terms of value of care for hip/knee replacement, heart attack measures, pneumonia measures, and heart failure measures, with some cases having different payment scenarios compared to the national average. It also has a 5 - star rating for price transparency.
Capek Surgical Arts (Affiliated with Dr. Lucie Capek)
Dr. Lucie Capek is an expert in breast augmentation procedures. Her practice, although located 13 miles from Albany and 9 miles from Schenectady, New York, is a popular choice for patients in the Albany area.
Procedure Process
Before the procedure, a consultation with Dr. Capek is necessary. She uses breast implant sizers to help patients visualize their desired breast size and how it will look on their body type. The breast augmentation procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure in her Quada - accredited office - based operating suite, Capek Surgical Arts, or a hospital operating room. The surgeon makes a small incision either under the breast or around the areola to place the implant. Recent studies suggest that the inframammary fold incision (under the breast) has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture and is the most commonly recommended approach. She creates the pocket for the implants using a harmonic scalpel to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during the surgery. Implants can be placed in a sub - muscular (below the pectoralis muscle) or sub - glandular position depending on the patient's shape, natural anatomy, and lifestyle. She does not typically use drains in first - time breast augmentation patients and closes the incisions with dissolvable sutures and glue.
After - Care and Risks
Patients can shower within 48 hours after surgery and should wear a sports bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks. They should rest quietly for 24 to 48 hours. 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. It is important to follow Dr. Capek's aftercare instructions to avoid complications. Risks of breast augmentation include early risks such as bleeding or hematoma, anesthesia side - effects like nausea, and changes in nipple or breast sensation. Long - term risks include capsular contracture, implant malposition, and implant rupture. Women with silicone implants are recommended to have periodic ultrasounds to screen for silent implant rupture.
Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore performs breast augmentation using breast implants at his practice in Latham, serving Albany, Utica, Saratoga, and Troy, New York.
Customization of the Procedure
Dr. Rockmore uses a 3 - dimensional approach for consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts. Each breast augmentation is completely individualized. When it comes to implant selection, he takes into account the width of the implant to match the width of the patient's chest and breasts, preventing excess space between the breasts. Breast implants come in various sizes, shapes, materials, and profiles. Saline implants are made of silicone shells filled with sterile salt water and typically require smaller incisions. Silicone implants have durable silicone shells filled with a gel of various degrees of cohesiveness, with the most cohesive ones known as “gummy bear” breast implants. The choice of implant profile (degree of projection from the chest) is determined by the patient's existing anatomy and desired results.
Procedure and Recovery
The breast augmentation procedure is an outpatient one. Dr. Rockmore makes an incision in a location depending on the patient's needs, such as the inframammary fold, periareolar area, or axillary area. He then creates a pocket for the implant in a subglandular, submuscular, or biplanar position. The initial recovery timeline has specific milestones. Most patients can shower the day after surgery, resume driving within 72 hours if comfortable, and swelling and soreness peak around days 3 - 5. By day 7, most patients can return to work and light activities. Strenuous activities can be gradually resumed between weeks 2 - 4. Dr. Rockmore provides a surgical bra to wear continuously after surgery for the first couple of weeks to support the breasts and minimize swelling.
Comparing the Three Hospitals
| Hospital | Cost | Procedure Features | After - Care | Care Quality Metrics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albany Medical Center Hospital | Varies based on cash or insurance payment | Standard breast augmentation procedure with different anesthesia options | Prescription for pain, stitch removal in a week, avoid strenuous activities for 4 weeks | Mixed performance on various metrics; above - average safety of care and 5 - star price transparency |
| Capek Surgical Arts (Dr. Lucie Capek) | Not specified | Uses harmonic scalpel, individualized implant placement, and commonly recommended inframammary fold incision | Specific instructions on showering, sports bra use, and activity restrictions | Expert surgeon with attention to patient needs; detailed risk management |
| Rockmore Plastic Surgery (Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore) | Varies with implant choice and surgery specifics; personalized quote | 3 - dimensional approach, individualized implant selection, different incision and implant placement options | Specific recovery timeline and surgical bra support | High - experience surgeon with a focus on natural - looking results |
Choosing the Right Hospital for Breast Augmentation in Albany
When choosing a hospital for breast augmentation in Albany, several factors should be considered.
Cost
Cost is an important consideration. Patients should get a clear understanding of the total cost, including the cost of implants, surgical fees, anesthesia fees, and post - operative care. Some hospitals may offer financing options, which can be helpful for those who need to manage the cost over time.
Surgeon's Experience and Expertise
The experience and expertise of the surgeon play a crucial role in the success of the procedure. Surgeons with a high number of breast augmentation procedures under their belt are more likely to have the skills and knowledge to handle any complications that may arise. It is also important to check the surgeon's board certifications and any reviews or testimonials from previous patients.
Hospital or Clinic Facilities
The quality of the facilities can impact the overall patient experience and the safety of the procedure. Accredited operating rooms and a comfortable recovery environment are important. Hospitals with advanced technology, such as 3 - dimensional imaging for implant selection, can also provide a more customized and accurate procedure.
Patient Reviews and Reputation
Reading patient reviews can give you an idea of the hospital's or surgeon's reputation. Look for reviews that mention the quality of care, the results of the procedure, and the overall patient experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breast augmentation using prostheses is a popular and effective cosmetic procedure, and Albany has several hospitals that offer this service. Albany Medical Center Hospital provides a well - known institutional option with a range of pricing and mixed performance on care quality metrics. Capek Surgical Arts, under the expertise of Dr. Lucie Capek, offers a personalized approach with attention to detail in the procedure and after - care. Rockmore Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore, uses advanced techniques for a more natural - looking result and a customized experience.
If you are considering breast augmentation in Albany, it is essential to do thorough research, consult with multiple hospitals or surgeons, and make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences. Don't hesitate to reach out to these hospitals for consultations and more information. Take the first step towards achieving the breast appearance you desire and boost your self - confidence today!
