Introduction
Breast augmentation with prosthesis is a popular cosmetic surgical procedure that aims to enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. In Albany, there are several hospitals and medical facilities that offer this service. However, when it comes to choosing the right one, patients often look for top - notch institutions with experienced surgeons, high - quality care, and positive patient reviews. In this article, we will explore the top 3 hospitals for breast augmentation with prosthesis in Albany, while also providing a comprehensive overview of breast augmentation in general.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves placing breast implants or using fat transfer to increase the size of the breasts and improve their shape and symmetry. 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. In 2022, nearly 300,000 breast augmentations were performed in the USA.
Reasons for Breast Augmentation
- Underdeveloped natural breast tissue: Some women are born with naturally small breasts and may desire a more proportionate figure.
- Volume loss: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight loss can cause a loss of breast volume and firmness, leading women to seek breast augmentation to restore their pre - pregnancy appearance.
- Asymmetry: Some women have uneven breasts, and breast augmentation can help correct this issue to achieve a more balanced look.
- Improving self - confidence: Many women feel that larger, more shapely breasts can enhance their self - esteem and body image, allowing them to feel more confident in their clothing and social interactions.
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 (which more closely mimics the feel of natural tissue).
Type of Implant | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|
Saline Implants | They require smaller incisions as they are filled with saline after being placed in the breast pocket. If they rupture, the saline is naturally absorbed and expelled from the body. | Some patients may find that they do not feel as natural as silicone implants, especially in thinner patients. |
Silicone Implants | They tend to look and feel more natural as compared to saline implants. The most cohesive silicone implants, often referred to as “gummy bear” implants, hold their shape better and are less likely to leak if ruptured. | If they rupture, the rupture may be silent (no associated symptoms), and the FDA recommends that women with silicone implants have periodic ultrasounds or MRIs to check their integrity. |
Pre - operative Considerations
Choosing the Right Surgeon
Selecting a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon is crucial for a successful breast augmentation. Look for surgeons who are board - certified in plastic surgery, as this indicates that they have passed rigorous exams in the field and have the necessary skills and knowledge. You can also review their before - and - after photos to get an idea of the type of results they can achieve. Additionally, reading patient testimonials and reviews can provide insights into the surgeon's bedside manner and the quality of care provided.
Consultation
Before the surgery, a consultation with the surgeon is necessary. During this appointment, the surgeon will assess your suitability for the procedure, discuss your goals and expectations, and explain the different options available, including implant type, size, shape, and placement. The surgeon may also use sizing systems or 3D imaging to help you visualize your desired breast size and how it will look on your body type.
Medical Evaluation
You will need to have a comprehensive medical evaluation to ensure that you are in good health for the surgery. This may include a physical examination, blood tests, and possibly an EKG or other diagnostic tests, depending on your age and medical history. It is important to disclose all medications, supplements, and medical conditions you have to your surgeon.
Pre - operative Instructions
Your surgeon will provide you with detailed pre - operative instructions, which may include:
- Quitting smoking at least several weeks before the surgery, as smoking can interfere with the healing process.
- Avoiding certain medications and supplements that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and herbal supplements.
- Arranging for someone to drive you home after the surgery and stay with you for the first 24 hours.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation is usually performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep during the procedure. Some surgeons may also offer the option of local anesthesia with an oral sedative, but this is less common.
Incision Placement
There are several options for incision placement, and the choice depends on factors such as your anatomy, implant choice, and the surgeon's preference:
- Inframammary incision: This is a thin line that traces the fold beneath the breast. It is the most commonly used incision as it provides good access to the breast pocket and has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture.
- Periareolar incision: This incision is made along the lower border of the areola, where the dark skin meets the lighter skin. It may result in less visible scarring, but it may also increase the risk of nipple sensation changes.
- Transaxillary incision: The incision is hidden in the armpit. This option can result in less visible scarring on the breast, but it may be more difficult to accurately place the implant.
Implant Placement
There are three main types of implant placement:
- Subglandular placement: The implant is placed above the pectoralis muscle, directly behind the breast tissue. This placement may be suitable for women with sufficient breast tissue and can result in a more natural - looking cleavage, but it may also increase the risk of capsular contracture.
- Submuscular placement: The implant is placed beneath the pectoralis muscle. This placement provides additional coverage of the implant, making it less likely to be seen or felt. It also reduces the risk of capsular contracture and interferes less with mammograms compared to subglandular placement.
- Biplanar placement: This is a combination of subglandular and submuscular placement. It can provide the benefits of both techniques and may be a good option for women with some breast sagging.
Duration of the Procedure
The breast augmentation procedure generally takes 1 - 2 hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the case.
Post - operative Care and Recovery
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area until you are awake and stable. You may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising, which is normal. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage the discomfort. You will be given a surgical bra or a sports bra to wear, which helps support the breasts and reduces swelling.
Recovery Timeline
- First few days: You will likely feel tired and sore. It is important to rest and avoid strenuous activities. You may be able to shower within 48 hours, but you need to be careful not to get the incision site wet.
- 7 - 10 days: If you have gauze dressings, they will be removed, and you may start wearing a regular sports bra. Your stitches will be taken out during this time.
- 3 - 5 weeks: Your breasts will still be sensitive to physical contact. You may be able to resume light activities, but you should avoid lifting heavy objects or doing strenuous exercise.
- Next several months: Your scars will gradually fade, thin, and soften. Your breasts will continue to settle into their final shape, and the swelling will subside completely.
Long - term Follow - up
You will need to have regular follow - up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress and ensure that there are no complications. You should also continue with your regular mammograms and breast exams with your primary care physician. If you have silicone implants, periodic ultrasounds or MRIs are recommended to screen for silent implant rupture.
Risks and Complications
While breast augmentation is generally considered a safe procedure, like any surgery, it carries some risks:
- Bleeding or hematoma: There is a small risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, which may require additional treatment.
- Infection: An infection can occur around the area of the implant, and in some cases, the implant may have to be removed temporarily until the infection clears up.
- Capsular contracture: This is a condition where the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to feel hard and possibly change shape. It may require additional surgery to treat.
- Implant malposition: The implant may shift into an undesirable position, such as dropping too low or becoming too high.
- Implant rupture: Saline implants will lose their contents if they rupture, and the body will naturally absorb the saltwater. Silicone implants may have a silent rupture, which requires monitoring with imaging studies.
- Changes in nipple sensation: Some women may experience hypersensitivity, loss of sensitivity, or numbness of the nipples after the surgery, which may be temporary or permanent.
Top 3 Hospitals for Breast Augmentation with Prosthesis in Albany
Albany Medical Center Hospital
Albany Medical Center Hospital is a well - known medical facility in Albany. It offers breast augmentation with prosthesis services. Although it has a 2 - star care quality rating, it has some positive aspects. For example, it has a 5 - star rating for price transparency. The hospital reported prices for breast enlargement using prosthetic implant vary depending on whether you are paying in cash or are part of an insurance plan with a pre - negotiated rate.
The breast augmentation procedure at Albany Medical Center Hospital takes around 1 to 2 hours and is done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with an oral sedative. After the procedure, patients are given a prescription to control pain if needed, and the surgeon may remove the stitches in a week. Patients are also given instructions about returning to regular activities, such as avoiding strenuous activities like weight lifting for at least 4 weeks.
The address of Albany Medical Center Hospital is 43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY, 12208, and the contact number is (518) 262 - 2400.
Facilities and Surgeons Associated with Albany Medical Center for Breast Augmentation
The hospital has a team of plastic surgeons who are experienced in performing breast augmentation procedures. These surgeons are board - certified and stay updated with the latest techniques and technologies in the field of plastic surgery. The hospital also has state - of - the - art operating rooms and post - operative care facilities to ensure the safety and comfort of patients.
Patient Reviews and Success Rates
Some patients have reported positive experiences at Albany Medical Center Hospital for breast augmentation. They have praised the professionalism of the medical staff and the quality of care provided. However, it is important to note that individual experiences may vary. In terms of success rates, while specific data is not readily available, the hospital's long - standing reputation in the medical community and the experience of its surgeons suggest that it is capable of achieving good results.
Dr. Lucie Capek's Practice
Dr. Lucie Capek is a board - certified plastic surgeon who is highly regarded in the Albany area for breast augmentation. Her practice serves patients throughout the capital district areas of Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga, and many patients also travel from New York City, Vermont, Massachusetts, and beyond to receive her care.
Dr. Capek offers a variety of breast augmentation options, including different implant sizes, shapes, and materials, and the possibility of using your own fat. She uses a Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients visualize their desired breast size. During the procedure, she makes a small incision either under the breast or around the areola, and she uses a harmonic scalpel to create the implant pocket, which helps minimize bleeding and muscle twitching.
After the surgery, Dr. Capek provides detailed aftercare instructions. Patients can shower within 48 hours, wear a sports bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks, and those with sedentary jobs may return to work within a week. Strenuous activities are restricted for 6 - 8 weeks. Her office is located just 13 miles from Albany and 9 miles from Schenectady, New York.
Patient Testimonials and Expertise
Patient testimonials for Dr. Capek's practice are generally very positive. Many patients have reported excellent care, very little pain and bruising, and a fast recovery. Dr. Capek's extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures, her personalized approach to each patient, and her commitment to achieving natural - looking results contribute to her high level of expertise in the field.
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore's Practice
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore performs breast augmentation at his practice in Latham, serving Albany, Utica, Saratoga, and Troy, New York. He has experience performing more than 4,000 breast procedures and uses a 3 - dimensional approach to achieve consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts.
Dr. Rockmore offers a wide range of breast implant options in terms of size, shape, material, and profile. He helps patients choose the most suitable implant based on their body type, existing anatomy, and desired results. He makes the incision in a location that is most appropriate for the patient, such as inframammary, periareolar, or transaxillary, and places the implant in either a subglandular, submuscular, or biplanar position.
After the surgery, Dr. Rockmore provides a comfortable surgical bra for patients to wear for the first couple of weeks. He also schedules follow - up appointments at regular intervals to monitor the healing process and address any concerns. Patients can request a consultation using the online form or by calling the office at (518) 328 - 3330.
Patient Outcomes and Reputation
Dr. Rockmore has a good reputation in the Albany area for his breast augmentation procedures. Many patients have been satisfied with the results, stating that their breasts look and feel natural. His personalized approach, attention to detail, and ability to achieve the desired aesthetic outcomes have contributed to his positive patient outcomes and strong reputation.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation with prosthesis is a popular and effective way to enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. In Albany, there are several excellent options for patients considering this procedure, with Albany Medical Center Hospital, Dr. Lucie Capek's practice, and Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore's practice standing out as top choices. These facilities and surgeons offer a range of services, experienced medical staff, and a commitment to patient satisfaction. However, it is important for patients to do their own research, have a consultation with the surgeon, and carefully consider all aspects before making a decision. By choosing the right hospital and surgeon, patients can increase their chances of achieving their desired results and having a positive experience.
If you are considering breast augmentation with prosthesis in Albany, we encourage you to reach out to these top providers for a consultation. Learn more about the procedure, ask questions, and make an informed decision that is right for you. You can also explore more information on breast augmentation and related topics to further educate yourself on this important decision.