Introduction
Breast augmentation has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure for women looking to enhance their appearance and boost their self - confidence. In Albany, a number of hospitals have stepped up to offer Allergan breast augmentation services, providing women with a range of options to achieve their desired results. Allergan, a well - known brand in the field of breast implants, offers a variety of implant types and models, but it's important to understand the associated risks and benefits. In this article, we'll explore the top 5 new hospitals in Albany for Allergan breast augmentation and delve into related information about the procedure, implants, and aftercare.
Understanding Allergan Breast Implants
Brands and Models
Allergan's breast implant portfolio includes several well - known brands and models. The flagship brand is Natrelle, which has various product lines. For example, there are Natrelle Inspira smooth round gel implants and Natrelle Inspira textured round gel implants. The Natrelle 410 anatomical gel implants are designed to mimic the curve of a natural breast. Additionally, there are Natrelle saline - filled smooth round implants, Natrelle saline - filled textured implants, and Natrelle tissue expanders like the 133 and 133 plus models. Previously, Allergan also sold implants under its subsidiaries Inamed and McGhan.
Implant Composition
Allergan breast implants have an outer shell made of silicone elastomer, a type of silicone with elastic properties similar to rubber. These shells can be filled with either silicone gel or sterile saline (a saltwater solution). Each type of filler has its own characteristics. Silicone gel implants tend to provide a more natural look and feel, while saline implants can be adjusted in volume during the procedure and if they rupture, the saline is safely absorbed by the body.
Smooth vs. Textured Implants
Allergan manufactured both smooth and textured implants. Smooth shells allow the implant to move under the skin or muscle, mimicking the movement of natural breast tissue. Textured shells, on the other hand, allow tissue to grow into the surface of the implant, keeping it in place. However, in July 2019, the FDA requested Allergan to voluntarily recall its textured breast implants after data linked the devices to hundreds of cases of a rare type of cancer called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). Now, Allergan no longer sells textured implants.
Top 5 New Hospitals for Allergan Breast Augmentation in Albany
Hospital 1: [Name of Hospital 1]
[Name of Hospital 1] has gained a reputation for its high - quality cosmetic surgery services, including Allergan breast augmentation. The hospital has a team of experienced plastic surgeons who are well - versed in the latest techniques and procedures related to breast augmentation. They offer a comprehensive consultation process, where patients can discuss their goals, expectations, and concerns. The surgeons at this hospital use advanced technology to simulate the results of the breast augmentation, helping patients make more informed decisions. For example, they may use 3D imaging to show patients how they will look after the procedure. The hospital also provides top - notch aftercare services, ensuring a smooth recovery process for patients.
Hospital 2: [Name of Hospital 2]
[Name of Hospital 2] is known for its patient - centered approach. The medical staff here takes the time to understand each patient's unique needs and desires. They offer a wide range of Allergan breast implant options, including different sizes, shapes, and types of fillers. The hospital has state - of - the - art operating rooms equipped with the latest surgical equipment, which helps ensure the safety and success of the breast augmentation procedure. After the surgery, patients at this hospital receive personalized follow - up care, including regular check - ups, pain management advice, and guidance on post - operative activities.
Hospital 3: [Name of Hospital 3]
At [Name of Hospital 3], the plastic surgeons have a long - standing experience in performing breast augmentation surgeries. They are members of professional plastic surgery organizations and stay updated with the latest research and trends in the field. The hospital has a strict screening process for patients to ensure that they are suitable candidates for Allergan breast augmentation. This includes evaluating their overall health, medical history, and aesthetic goals. The hospital also offers financing options to make the procedure more accessible to patients. Their aftercare program focuses on preventing complications and promoting optimal healing.
Hospital 4: [Name of Hospital 4]
[Name of Hospital 4] prides itself on its excellent patient reviews. Patients appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable staff, as well as the high - quality surgical results. The hospital uses the latest Allergan implant models and follows strict safety protocols during the breast augmentation procedure. They also offer pre - operative counseling to help patients understand the risks and benefits of the surgery, as well as post - operative support groups where patients can share their experiences and get advice from others who have undergone the same procedure.
Hospital 5: [Name of Hospital 5]
[Name of Hospital 5] has a dedicated breast augmentation unit that specializes in Allergan products. The plastic surgeons at this hospital have a deep understanding of Allergan implants and can provide expert advice on choosing the right implant for each patient. They perform minimally invasive breast augmentation techniques when possible, which can result in less pain, shorter recovery times, and fewer visible scars. The hospital also offers a range of complementary services, such as post - operative skin care and physical therapy, to help patients achieve the best possible results.
Allergan Breast Augmentation Procedure
Pre - operative Consultation
Before undergoing Allergan breast augmentation, patients will have a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will assess the patient's medical history, including any previous surgeries, allergies, and current medications. They will also evaluate the patient's breast anatomy, including the size, shape, and position of the breasts, as well as the amount of existing breast tissue. The patient will have the opportunity to discuss their goals and expectations for the surgery, and the surgeon will provide information on the different types of Allergan implants available, as well as the recommended implant size, shape, and placement based on the patient's body type and aesthetic goals.
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means the patient will be asleep during the procedure. A board - certified anesthesiologist will administer the anesthesia and monitor the patient's vital signs throughout the surgery to ensure their safety and comfort.
Implant Placement
There are two main ways to place Allergan implants: submuscular and subglandular. Submuscular implant placement involves placing the implant under the chest muscle (pectoralis). This technique can reduce the risk of capsular contracture, a condition where scar tissue squeezes the implant, and it makes breast tissue easier to see in mammograms. It is also preferred in women with weakened or thin breast tissue as it provides more soft tissue coverage. However, surgery and recovery may be longer and more painful. Subglandular implant placement means placing the implant on top of the muscle and under the breast glands. This method has a greater likelihood of capsular contracture and makes it more difficult to see breast tissue in mammograms, but the surgery and recovery may be shorter and less painful, and it is easier to perform revision surgery.
Incision Location
There are three common incision sites for Allergan silicone implants: periareolar (around the nipple), inframammary (in the breast fold), and axillary or transaxillary (under the arm). Each incision site has its own pros and cons. The periareolar incision is more concealed, but it has a higher likelihood of breastfeeding problems, a higher risk of change in sensation in the nipple, and a higher risk of infection. The inframammary incision offers fewer breastfeeding difficulties, the best access and control of the implant pocket, and is the most commonly used by surgeons, but it is less concealed. The transaxillary incision has fewer breastfeeding problems but is less concealed, more difficult to perform, and may increase the risk of damage to and unexpected location of the implant.
Recovery Process
Immediate Post - operative Period
After the Allergan breast augmentation surgery, patients will generally feel tired and sore for several days. There may be discomfort and tightness as the skin adjusts to the implants, and swelling can decrease feeling in the nipple and breast. Most patients can return to work a few days after the surgery, but they should avoid strenuous activities. The hospital will provide patients with a special bra or other support to help speed up healing, and some patients may need pain medication infusion devices.
Long - term Recovery
Over the long term, patients will need to follow their surgeon's aftercare instructions carefully. This includes attending regular follow - up appointments to monitor the healing process and check for any complications. Women with silicone implants will need to have an MRI every two years to detect possible implant ruptures. Scars will gradually fade over time, but it may take several months for them to fully improve. Patients should also continue with their regular mammograms and breast exams with their primary care physician. If they wish to nurse in the future, they should discuss the potential impact of breast implants on breastfeeding with their doctor during the pre - operative consultation.
Risks and Complications
Common Risks
Like any surgical procedure, Allergan breast augmentation carries some risks. These include bleeding, infection, problems with anesthesia, and changes in the sensation of the nipple or breast. Capsular contracture, where scar tissue forms around the implant and can cause pain and hardening of the breast, is also a potential complication. Implant rupture is another concern, especially with silicone - filled implants, which may rupture silently. Allergan conducted a 10 - year core study that found that a significant percentage of patients may experience at least one complication within 10 years of surgery, including reoperation, implant removal, or asymmetry.
Allergan - Specific Risks
Although Allergan no longer sells textured implants, it's important to note the historical risk associated with them. The FDA linked Allergan's textured implants to a rare type of cancer called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL). In 2019, Allergan issued a worldwide recall of its textured implants due to this risk. More recently, the FDA also issued a safety communication warning about reports of other cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and various lymphomas, in the scar tissue that forms around breast implants, which can occur with both smooth and textured implants.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
Hospital Reputation
When choosing a hospital for Allergan breast augmentation in Albany, it's important to consider the hospital's reputation. Look for hospitals with a history of performing successful breast augmentation surgeries and positive patient reviews. Hospitals that are affiliated with well - known medical institutions or have a high - profile plastic surgery department may be a good choice.
Surgeon Qualifications
The qualifications of the plastic surgeon are crucial. Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified in plastic surgery, which indicates that they have met the high standards of education, training, and experience in the field. Surgeons who are members of professional plastic surgery organizations, such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, are more likely to stay updated with the latest research and techniques. It's also a good idea to review the surgeon's before - and - after photos to get an idea of the type of results they can achieve.
Patient - Surgeon Relationship
During the consultation process, pay attention to how well the surgeon communicates with you and whether they take the time to understand your goals and concerns. A good surgeon - patient relationship is essential for a successful breast augmentation experience. The surgeon should be able to provide clear and detailed information about the procedure, implants, risks, and aftercare, and should answer all of your questions to your satisfaction.
Cost of Allergan Breast Augmentation
The cost of Allergan breast augmentation in Albany can vary depending on several factors. These include the type of implant (silicone or saline), the size and shape of the implant, the complexity of the procedure, and the reputation and experience of the surgeon. In general, the cost may range from several thousand dollars to over ten thousand dollars. It's important to note that health insurance typically does not cover the cost of breast augmentation as it is considered an elective cosmetic procedure. However, some hospitals may offer financing options to help patients manage the cost.
Conclusion
Allergan breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that can help women achieve the fuller, more shapely breasts they desire. In Albany, there are several top - notch hospitals that offer Allergan breast augmentation services. However, it's crucial for patients to thoroughly understand the procedure, the types of implants available, the associated risks and complications, and the recovery process before making a decision. By choosing a reputable hospital and a qualified surgeon, patients can increase their chances of having a successful breast augmentation experience and achieving the results they want. If you're considering Allergan breast augmentation in Albany, we encourage you to schedule consultations with the top 5 hospitals mentioned in this article. During these consultations, ask plenty of questions, review the surgeon's credentials and patient testimonials, and take the time to make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast augmentation to help them access valuable information. Also, feel free to explore related topics such as breast lift procedures, breast implant maintenance, and other cosmetic surgeries to expand your knowledge.
