Introduction
Silicone breast augmentation surgery is a popular cosmetic procedure that can enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. In Albany, there are several hospitals and clinics that offer this service. This article will explore the top 5 selected hospitals for silicone breast augmentation surgery in Albany, taking into account factors such as the expertise of the surgeons, the quality of care, patient reviews, and the range of available options.
Importance of Choosing the Right Hospital for Silicone Breast Augmentation
Selecting the right hospital for silicone breast augmentation is crucial for achieving satisfactory results and ensuring patient safety. A reputable hospital with experienced surgeons can minimize the risks associated with the procedure and provide personalized care based on the patient's needs and goals. Additionally, a well - equipped hospital with advanced technology can contribute to a smoother surgery and better post - operative recovery.
Top 5 Selected Hospitals for Silicone Breast Augmentation Surgery in Albany
1. Dr. Lucie Capek's Practice
Dr. Lucie Capek is a board - certified plastic surgeon who is highly trusted by patients 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.
Expertise
- Dr. Capek is an expert in breast augmentation and offers a wide range of options. From different breast implant sizes, shapes, and materials to the possibility of using the patient's own fat for augmentation, she can help patients achieve their desired figure.
- She is knowledgeable about FDA - approved breast implants, which have a solid silicone rubber shell filled with either saline solution or elastic silicone gel.
Procedure
- The breast augmentation procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. Dr. Capek makes a small incision either under the breast or around the areola to place the implant, with the inframammary fold incision being the most commonly recommended due to its lower risk of complications like capsular contracture.
- She uses a harmonic scalpel to create the implant pocket, which helps minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during the surgery. Implants can be placed in a sub - muscular or sub - glandular position.
Patient Experience
Patient reviews indicate that the surgery process is good, with excellent care, very little pain and bruising, and a fast recovery. After the surgery, patients can expect a better - proportioned figure and improved self - confidence.
Post - operative Care
- Patients can shower within 48 hours after surgery and should wear a sports bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks. Rest is recommended for 24 to 48 hours, and patients with sedentary jobs may return to work within a week, while strenuous activities are restricted for 6 - 8 weeks.
- Regular follow - up appointments are scheduled to oversee the recovery process, and patients with silicone implants are recommended to have periodic ultrasounds to screen for silent implant rupture.
2. Dr. Gabriel J. Kaufman's Practice
Dr. Gabriel J. Kaufman is a double - board - certified reconstructive and plastic surgeon who brings a wealth of experience and artistic vision to breast augmentation procedures.
Expertise
- He offers two primary methods for breast augmentation: breast implant augmentation surgery and fat transfer breast augmentation.
- Dr. Kaufman exclusively uses implants made in the United States, such as 5th - generation silicone implants that maintain their shape while having a soft - to - touch, natural quality.
- He is proficient in different breast implant shapes (rounded), textures (smooth), and profiles (low, moderate, high, etc.) and can guide patients in choosing the most suitable option based on their body type and desired outcome.
Procedure
- The breast augmentation procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes 1 to 1.5 hours depending on the complexity of the case.
- If using implants, they are inserted through incisions along the lower breast, and Dr. Kaufman has had excellent results placing implants above the chest muscle, which can avoid animation deformity, maintain upper body strength, and reduce postoperative pain.
- In the case of fat transfer, liposuction is first performed to harvest fat, which is then processed and injected into the breasts.
Patient Experience
Patients choosing Dr. Kaufman for breast augmentation invest in their confidence with a surgeon who prioritizes their safety, comfort, and aesthetic goals. The initial results are visible immediately after surgery, and the final results develop over several months as swelling subsides and implants settle or transferred fat integrates.
Post - operative Care
- For breast augmentation with implants, patients can expect some swelling and mild to moderate discomfort for the first few days. They should wear a supportive surgical bra as directed.
- Patients can gradually return to normal activities within the first few days, light exercise in 1 to 2 weeks, and strenuous exercise in 3 weeks.
- Dr. Kaufman and his team provide detailed guidance and support throughout the recovery process, and follow - up visits are scheduled to monitor progress.
3. Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore performs breast augmentation at his practice in Latham, serving Albany, Utica, Saratoga, and Troy, New York.
Expertise
- He has experience performing more than 4,000 breast procedures and uses a 3 - dimensional approach for consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts.
- Dr. Rockmore offers a variety of breast implant options, including saline and silicone implants, and can customize each procedure based on the patient's needs.
Procedure
- The incision locations for breast augmentation can be inframammary, periareolar, or transaxillary, and Dr. Rockmore will help patients decide the best option based on their body.
- The implant can be placed in a subglandular, submuscular, or biplanar pocket, with the submuscular pocket being recommended for most women as it provides a natural slope and additional implant coverage.
Patient Experience
Before - and - after photos on the website show the successful results of breast augmentation procedures. Patients from various locations in New York travel to have Dr. Rockmore perform their surgeries.
Post - operative Care
- Patients can expect to feel some discomfort and grogginess immediately after surgery. They can shower the day after if careful, and can resume driving within 72 hours if they are no longer taking prescription medication.
- Swelling and soreness peak around days 3 - 5, and most patients can return to work and light activities by day 7. Strenuous activities can be resumed in weeks 2 - 4.
- Dr. Rockmore provides a surgical bra for support, and additional follow - up visits are scheduled at 8 weeks and 6 months after the procedure.
4. The Plastic Surgery Group
This group is conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, and Troy.
Expertise
- The plastic surgeons at the group work with patients to find the ideal breast implants for their body type and aesthetic goals. They are knowledgeable about different types of breast implants, including saline, silicone, and form - stable silicone ("gummy bear") implants.
- They use the Mentor® volume sizing system during consultations to help patients experience different breast sizes and choose the best option.
Procedure
- Breast implant surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision, usually in one of three locations (under the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit), depending on the patient's anatomy and the type of implant.
- The implant is placed in a pocket either behind the breast tissue or under the chest muscle, and the incisions are closed using sutures.
Patient Experience
Patients can consult with the surgeons to discuss their goals and have all their questions answered during the consultation. The practice aims to provide a personalized experience for each patient.
Post - operative Care
- Patients may experience pain, swelling, and discomfort after surgery and will need someone to drive them home and assist with daily activities. They should rest and avoid strenuous activities.
- A surgical bra may be required for support 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.
5. K Plastic Surgery
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha is a board - certified plastic surgeon at K Plastic Surgery in Albany.
Expertise
- Dr. Kayastha has advanced training and experience in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery. He approaches plastic surgery with finesse and professionalism.
- He offers various breast procedures, including breast augmentation, lift, reduction, and implant removal, and can handle complications from previous procedures.
Procedure
Before the breast augmentation surgery, patients need to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kayastha. He will listen to their goals, create a unique plan for the surgery, and determine if the procedure is the best option for them. He will also examine the treatment area and review the patient's health history.
Patient Experience
Patients can review before - and - after photos of Dr. Kayastha's previous patients to get an idea of the possible results. He is dedicated to providing excellent results that improve patients' self - confidence.
Post - operative Care
The recovery time for breast augmentation is about 1 - 2 weeks for initial recovery and 6 months for full results. Dr. Kayastha will provide post - operative instructions, and follow - up appointments will be scheduled to ensure proper recovery.
Comparison of the Top 5 Hospitals
Hospital | Surgeon Expertise | Implant Options | Procedure Techniques | Post - operative Care | Patient Reviews |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dr. Lucie Capek's Practice | Board - certified, wide experience in breast augmentation, knowledge of multiple implant types | Saline, silicone, own - fat option | Inframammary or periareolar incision, harmonic scalpel use | Showering in 48 hours, sports bra for 2 - 3 weeks, follow - up for recovery and ultrasound for silicone implants | Good surgery process, little pain, fast recovery |
Dr. Gabriel J. Kaufman's Practice | Double - board - certified, expertise in implant and fat transfer methods | 5th - generation silicone, rounded, smooth - textured, multiple profiles | Lower breast incision, implant above muscle option, liposuction for fat transfer | Swelling management, activity resumption guidelines, detailed support | Emphasis on safety, comfort, and aesthetic goals |
Rockmore Plastic Surgery | Over 4,000 breast procedures experience, 3 - dimensional approach | Saline, silicone, customization available | Multiple incision and implant placement options | Gradual activity resumption, surgical bra support, long - term follow - up | Positive before - and - after results, patient travel |
The Plastic Surgery Group | Plastic surgeons with implant selection knowledge | Saline, silicone, form - stable silicone | Three common incision locations, subglandular or submuscular pocket | Rest, support bra, activity restrictions, long - term monitoring | Personalized consultation experience |
K Plastic Surgery | Board - certified, multi - disciplinary training | Available for breast augmentation | Customized plan based on consultation | 1 - 2 weeks initial recovery, 6 months full results, follow - up | Review of before - and - after photos, focus on self - confidence |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Silicone Breast Augmentation
Surgeon's Qualifications
Look for board - certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in breast augmentation. Check their training, certifications, and any additional specializations. A surgeon's experience can greatly influence the outcome of the surgery and the management of potential complications.
Implant Options
Consider the types of silicone implants available at the hospital. Different implants have different characteristics, such as shape, texture, and profile. The hospital should be able to offer a variety of options to meet your specific needs and aesthetic goals.
Procedure Techniques
Ask about the surgical techniques used, including the incision locations and implant placement methods. Advanced techniques can result in less scarring, faster recovery, and better - looking results.
Patient Reviews
Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the hospital's reputation and the experiences of previous patients. Positive reviews regarding the surgery process, post - operative care, and the final results are good indicators.
Cost
The cost of silicone breast augmentation can vary depending on the hospital, the type of implants, and the complexity of the procedure. While cost should not be the only factor, it is important to have a clear understanding of the expenses involved and to compare prices among different hospitals.
Post - operative Care
Good post - operative care is essential for a successful recovery. Find out what kind of follow - up appointments, support, and instructions the hospital provides. This can include pain management, scar care, and guidance on resuming normal activities.
Common Concerns and Risks Associated with Silicone Breast Augmentation
Short - term Risks
- Bleeding or hematoma: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, which can lead to the formation of a hematoma (a collection of blood outside the blood vessels).
- Infection: Infections can occur at the incision site or around the implant. Surgeons usually take precautions to prevent infections, such as using antibiotics.
- Anesthesia side effects: General anesthesia used during the surgery can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness.
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensation after the surgery.
Long - term Risks
- Capsular contracture: This is a common long - term complication where the scar tissue around the implant hardens and can cause the breast to feel firm and change shape. It may require additional surgery to correct.
- Implant malposition: The implant may shift from its original position, causing asymmetry or an undesirable appearance.
- Implant rupture: Although silicone implants are designed to be durable, there is a risk of rupture over