Introduction
Breast reduction surgery is a life - changing procedure for many individuals, especially those who suffer from the physical and emotional discomfort of overly large breasts. In Albany, there are several hospitals and clinics where you can find experienced surgeons to perform this surgery. This article will guide you through the top 5 hospitals for breast reduction surgery in Albany, along with detailed information about the procedure, candidacy, and recovery.
Why Consider Breast Reduction Surgery?
Large breasts can cause a variety of problems. Physically, they can lead to chronic pain in the back, neck, and shoulders, as well as skin irritation under the breasts. Emotionally, individuals may feel self - conscious about their appearance, which can impact their confidence and quality of life.
According to some research, approximately 40 - 60% of men can experience gynecomastia (overdevelopment of male breasts), while many women also struggle with the issues related to macromastia (excessive breast tissue). Breast reduction surgery can alleviate these problems by removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin to create smaller, more proportionate breasts.
Breast Reduction Procedure Overview
Anesthesia
Breast reduction surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. This ensures that the patient is unconscious and does not feel any pain during the procedure.
Incisions
There are several common incision patterns:
- Circular (around the areola): This creates a ‘donut scar’ and is often used when less skin needs to be removed.
- Keyhole (vertical or ‘lollipop’): A circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision from the areola to the inframammary fold. It is suitable for moderate reductions with some sagging.
- Inverted - t (anchor): Similar to the vertical incision but with an additional horizontal incision along the inframammary fold. This is used for more significant reductions and when there is a lot of sagging.
Tissue Removal
The surgeon removes excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin through the incisions. Liposuction may also be used, especially when the excess is mainly fatty tissue. Liposuction has the advantage of leaving less scarring but is not suitable for cases with a lot of glandular tissue.
Nipple Repositioning
In many cases, the nipple and areola complex are repositioned to a higher, more natural position on the new, smaller breast.
Top 5 Hospitals for Breast Reduction Surgery in Albany
1. The Plastic Surgery Group
This group is conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, & Troy. Their plastic surgeons are experienced in performing breast reduction surgery.
Surgeons
The team of plastic surgeons at The Plastic Surgery Group are well - trained. They usually perform the surgery using an anchor - shaped incision, which helps in reducing extra tissue, fat, and skin. They also reposition the nipple and areola and shape the breasts for a new, firmer contour. Sometimes, liposuction is used to target extra fatty tissue under the arms.
Recovery
For the first day or two after surgery, a drainage tube may be inserted. Most patients experience discomfort and pain for about 3 to 7 days, which can be controlled with prescription medication. Stitches are usually removed within 3 weeks. Patients need to wear a surgical bra for several weeks until the swelling and bruising subside. They should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities during the recovery period.
Cost
The cost of breast reduction surgery ranges from $7,500 to $8,000, and they offer financing options to fit different financial situations.
2. K Plastic Surgery
At K Plastic Surgery, board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha has the skill and experience to perform breast reduction surgery.
Techniques
Dr. Kayastha offers different breast reduction techniques. Liposuction can be used for minimal size changes caused by fat, with no scarring on the front of the breast. A vertical (lollipop) incision is utilized for moderate reductions with significant sagging, and an inverted t (anchor) incision is for the most dramatic breast reduction and reshaping.
Recovery
After surgery, patients wear a surgical support bra. Discomfort peaks in the first 48 hours and can be managed with oral pain medication. Patients generally need 4 to 6 weeks to return to their active routines. Most swelling is better by 6 weeks, and the final result becomes fully visible around six months post - operation.
Cost
The cost of breast reduction at K Plastic Surgery is between $13,000 - $14,500, and they offer financing options as well.
3. Capek Plastic Surgery
Dr. Lucie Capek is a trusted plastic surgeon in 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.
Procedure
Dr. Capek usually performs breast reduction under general anesthesia at an outpatient surgery center, often combined with a breast lift. She commonly uses an anchor incision for most cases and may use a lollipop incision for smaller reductions. She removes excess skin and breast tissue with a harmonic® scalpel and repositions the nipple - areola complex.
Recovery
After the procedure, patients are wrapped in a padded dressing for 24 hours followed by a surgical bra. They can expect some discomfort for a few days, which can be relieved with Tylenol or prescription pain medication. Drains are removed the day after surgery, and patients can shower on the second day. They should sleep on their back with the torso elevated and avoid strenuous physical activity.
Cost
The cost information is usually provided during the consultation, as it depends on individual factors.
4. Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Dr. Rockmore at Rockmore Plastic Surgery has helped many women from Albany County, including those from Troy, Utica, Saratoga, and throughout the state, with breast reduction surgery.
Techniques
Dr. Rockmore performs the procedure at a fully accredited surgical center. He offers vertical or “lollipop” and inverted t or “anchor” incisions. He removes excess breast tissue, reshapes the areola if necessary, and tightens the skin to create a more youthful breast shape.
Recovery
After surgery, patients are placed in a comfortable, supportive bra and can shower the next day. Most women can return to work after a week and full activities within 2 weeks. Follow - up outpatient visits may be scheduled, and scars will continue to fade for up to a year.
Cost
The cost varies with the specifics of the surgery and individual patient factors. Patients receive a personalized price quote during their consultation.
5. DeLuca Plastic Surgery
DeLuca Plastic Surgery offers breast reduction surgery, which is often combined with a breast lift or mastopexy and liposuction.
Surgeons
Dr. Tauber or Dr. Yan are available to perform the procedure. They offer a variety of incision options, including circular, keyhole, and inverted - t incisions. The choice of incision depends on how much skin needs to be removed.
Insurance Coverage
One of the important aspects they handle is insurance coverage. They help patients determine if their insurance will cover the surgery by assessing the medical need and calculating the amount of tissue to be removed. If the conditions are met, the insurance carrier is likely to cover the procedure.
Recovery
The recovery time is generally around two weeks, and in many cases, scarring is minimal and fades to invisibility within one year. Dr. Tauber provides 24/7 support during the recovery period and offers free post - operative appointments.
Cost
Cost details are discussed during the consultation, considering individual factors and possible insurance coverage.
Patient Candidacy for Breast Reduction Surgery
To be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery, individuals should meet certain criteria:
- Physical Health: They should be in good overall health, with the ability to withstand surgery and the recovery process. Women should have fully developed breasts, typically beyond 18 years of age, although earlier surgery may be considered if there are serious physical and social problems.
- Weight Stability: It is important to maintain a stable weight before and after the surgery to ensure long - lasting results. Obesity (BMI higher than 32) may increase the risk of complications, so pre - surgical weight loss may be necessary in some cases.
- Smoking: Patients should quit smoking at least 6 weeks before and 6 weeks after surgery, as smoking can decrease the body's ability to heal and lead to serious complications.
- Realistic Expectations: Candidates should have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery. They should understand that there will be some scarring and that the breasts will still be subject to the effects of aging and gravity.
Recovery Process and Aftercare
Immediate Post - Surgery
After breast reduction surgery, patients can expect to experience soreness, swelling, and bruising. They will usually be wrapped in a dressing or wear a surgical bra. Drains may be inserted to remove excess fluid, and these are typically removed within a few days.
First Few Weeks
Physical activity should be limited during the first 1 to 2 weeks. Patients may experience discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication. They should sleep on their back with the torso elevated to reduce swelling and pressure on the breasts. Stitches are usually removed after 2 to 3 weeks.
Long - Term Recovery
Exercise and strenuous activity should be avoided for at least 4 weeks. It may take several months for the swelling to completely subside, and the final results of the surgery will become fully apparent around six months post - operation. Patients should follow their surgeon's instructions regarding post - operative care, including wearing the appropriate support garments and attending follow - up appointments.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, breast reduction surgery carries some risks:
- Anesthesia Reactions: Although rare, some patients may have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia used during the surgery.
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision sites, which can usually be treated with antibiotics.
- Bleeding: Some bleeding may occur during or after the surgery, which may require additional treatment.
- Loss of Sensation: Patients may experience temporary or permanent loss of sensation in the breasts or nipples.
- Scarring: Scarring is inevitable, but surgeons will try to minimize and conceal the incisions. The scars will fade over time but may not disappear completely.
- Asymmetry: There may be some degree of asymmetry in the breasts after surgery, which may require additional correction.
- Inability to Breast - feed: The surgery may affect the ability to breast - feed, as it involves removing breast tissue and may damage the milk ducts.
Conclusion
Breast reduction surgery can be a life - changing procedure for those suffering from the problems associated with overly large breasts. In Albany, the top 5 hospitals - The Plastic Surgery Group, K Plastic Surgery, Capek Plastic Surgery, Rockmore Plastic Surgery, and DeLuca Plastic Surgery - offer experienced surgeons, a variety of techniques, and comprehensive aftercare. Each hospital has its own unique features, such as different incision options, insurance support, and pricing structures.
Before making a decision, it is crucial to consult with a qualified surgeon to discuss your individual needs, expectations, and the potential risks and benefits of the surgery. If you are considering breast reduction surgery, take the next step and schedule a consultation with one of these top hospitals in Albany. This could be the first step towards a more comfortable and confident you.
