Introduction
Breast augmentation with prostheses is a popular cosmetic procedure that many women in Albany consider to enhance their appearance, boost self - confidence, and achieve a more proportionate body. In a city like Albany, known for its rich healthcare and plastic surgery scene, it's essential to have a reliable list of top hospitals that can provide high - quality breast augmentation services. This article aims to compile such a list, along with detailed information about the procedure, considerations for choosing a hospital, and key aspects related to breast augmentation.
Overview of Breast Augmentation with Prostheses
What is Breast Augmentation with Prostheses?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves inserting breast implants to increase the size, improve the shape, and enhance the symmetry of the breasts. There are two main types of breast implants: saline implants, which are filled with sterile salt water, and silicone gel implants, which are filled with a cohesive silicone gel. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation with implants has been the top cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States since 2006, with silicone gel implants used in 77% and saline implants in 23% of all breast augmentations in 2014.
Reasons for Undergoing Breast Augmentation
- Enhanced Appearance: Many women desire larger, fuller breasts to feel more confident in their clothing, especially swimwear. It can help them achieve a more balanced and feminine figure.
- Post - pregnancy Changes: After pregnancy and breastfeeding, breasts may lose volume and firmness. Breast augmentation can restore the pre - pregnancy shape and size.
- Asymmetry Correction: Some women have uneven breasts, and breast augmentation can correct this asymmetry, providing a more harmonious look.
- Underdeveloped Breasts: Women with underdeveloped natural breast tissue may opt for breast augmentation to achieve a more proportionate body.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Augmentation
Surgeon's Expertise
The skill and experience of the plastic surgeon are of utmost importance. Look for surgeons who are board - certified in plastic surgery. Board certification indicates that the doctor has successfully passed rigorous exams in the field, demonstrating a deep level of practical knowledge. It's also beneficial to check the surgeon's before - and - after photos, patient reviews, and the number of breast augmentation procedures they have performed.
Hospital Reputation
Research the hospital's reputation in the community. A hospital with a good reputation is more likely to have high - quality medical facilities, experienced staff, and a history of successful surgeries. You can check online reviews, ratings from health - related websites, and ask for recommendations from friends or family who have had similar procedures.
Available Technology and Facilities
Modern technology and well - equipped facilities are crucial for a successful breast augmentation procedure. Hospitals that invest in the latest surgical equipment, imaging technology, and safety measures can provide better care and more predictable results. For example, some hospitals use harmonic scalpels during surgery, which help minimize bleeding and muscle twitching.
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on factors such as the type of implants, the complexity of the procedure, and whether it is combined with other surgeries. Insurance companies generally consider breast augmentation an elective surgery, so it is usually not covered. However, many hospitals offer patient financing options to help patients afford the procedure.
After - care Services
Good after - care is essential for a smooth recovery and long - term results. The hospital should provide clear instructions on post - operative care, schedule follow - up appointments, and offer support to address any concerns or complications that may arise after the surgery.
Top Ten List of Hospitals for Breast Augmentation with Prostheses in Albany
1. Albany Medical Center Hospital
Located at 43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY 12208, and contactable at (518) 262 - 2400. It offers breast enlargement using prosthetic implants. The surgery takes around 1 to 2 hours and is done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with an oral sedative. The hospital reports different prices depending on whether you pay in cash or are part of an insurance plan. It has a price transparency rating of 5 stars, but its care quality has a 2 - star rating. While it has above - average safety of care, its effectiveness of care, patient experience, and timeliness of care are below the national average.
2. The Plastic Surgery Group - Albany
Conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, & Troy. The plastic surgeons here are experienced in breast augmentation. They offer a variety of options for incision placement (inframammary, transaxillary, periareolar) and implant placement (submuscular and subglandular). The cost for breast augmentation is typically $6,000 to $7,000, and they offer patient financing. The surgery is usually performed at a nearby outpatient surgical center using general anesthesia, and most patients can return to work within a week.
3. K Plastic Surgery
Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, a board - certified plastic surgeon at K Plastic Surgery, has advanced training in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery. He approaches plastic surgery with finesse and professionalism. The breast augmentation procedure here can enhance breast size, shape, and symmetry, with a recovery period of 1 - 2 weeks and full results visible in 6 months. The cost ranges from $6,400 - $7,500. Before the surgery, patients can review before - and - after photos of previous patients and have a consultation to discuss their goals.
4. Practices Associated with Dr. Lucie Capek, MD
Dr. Lucie Capek is a board - certified plastic surgeon whom patients throughout the capital district areas of Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga trust for breast augmentation surgery. She is an expert in guiding patients through the choice of implant type, size, and shape based on their unique breast shape, tissue characteristics, body type, and desired results. The breast augmentation procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, taking 1 - 2 hours. After the surgery, patients can shower within 48 hours and are advised to wear a sports bra for 2 - 3 weeks. Strenuous activities are restricted for 6 - 8 weeks.
5. Facilities with Dr. Susan Gannon, MD
Dr. Susan Gannon, located at 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206, has a high patient rating. She is involved in breast augmentation procedures and has experience treating capsular contracture of breast implants. With a 4.60 rating out of 5 stars from Healthgrades, patients can have confidence in her expertise. Her long - term experience and positive patient reviews make the facilities associated with her a good choice for breast augmentation.
6. Locations with Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD
At 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208, Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, with a 4.70 rating out of 5 stars, is well - regarded for breast augmentation. He is also listed among the best doctors for treating capsular contracture of breast implants. His advanced training and high patient satisfaction rate are indicators of the quality of care provided at his locations.
7. Areas Associated with Dr. Todd Beyer, MD
Dr. Todd Beyer, based at 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, has a rating of 4.80 out of 5 stars. His high rating reflects his skills and the quality of breast augmentation services he offers. Patients can expect professional and personalized care at the facilities where he practices.
8. Practices of Dr. Meera Menon, MD
Located at 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, Dr. Meera Menon, with a 4.40 rating out of 5 stars, provides breast augmentation procedures. Her experience and patient - centered approach contribute to her good standing in the field of plastic surgery.
9. Centers Associated with Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD
At 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, Dr. Jonathan Canete, with a 4.90 rating out of 5 stars, is one of the top - rated doctors for breast augmentation in Albany. His high rating is a testament to his excellent surgical skills and patient satisfaction.
10. Locations of Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO
Based at 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211, Dr. Matthew McDonald, with a 4.90 rating out of 5 stars, offers high - quality breast augmentation services. His expertise and positive patient feedback make his locations a top choice for those seeking breast augmentation in Albany.
Comparison of the Top Ten Hospitals
Hospital/Doctor | Location | Rating | Cost Range | Special Features |
---|---|---|---|---|
Albany Medical Center Hospital | 43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY 12208 | 2 stars (care quality), 5 stars (price transparency) | Varies based on payment type | Available for both cash and insurance - plan patients, offers price transparency |
The Plastic Surgery Group - Albany | Multiple areas serving Albany, Schenectady, Latham, & Troy | Not specified | $6,000 - $7,000 | Variety of incision and implant placement options, patient financing available |
K Plastic Surgery | Not specified | Not specified | $6,400 - $7,500 | Surgeon with advanced training, patient can review before - and - after photos |
Dr. Lucie Capek, MD practices | 13 miles from Albany, 9 miles from Schenectady | Not specified | Estimated during consultation | Expert in guiding implant choices, uses harmonic scalpel |
Dr. Susan Gannon, MD facilities | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 | 4.60 out of 5 stars | Not specified | Experienced in treating capsular contracture |
Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD locations | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 | 4.70 out of 5 stars | Not specified | Listed among best for treating capsular contracture |
Dr. Todd Beyer, MD areas | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 | 4.80 out of 5 stars | Not specified | High - rated surgeon |
Dr. Meera Menon, MD practices | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 | 4.40 out of 5 stars | Not specified | Experienced surgeon |
Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD centers | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 | 4.90 out of 5 stars | Not specified | Highly - rated surgeon |
Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO locations | 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211 | 4.90 out of 5 stars | Not specified | High - quality services |
Breast Augmentation Procedure Details
Consultation
The first step in the breast augmentation process is a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this appointment, the surgeon will listen to the patient's goals, explain the procedure in detail, and review the various options available, such as implant type, size, shape, incision placement, and implant placement. The surgeon will also examine the patient's breasts, review their medical history, and determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for the surgery. It is important for patients to ask questions and have a clear understanding of the procedure, risks, and expected results.
Pre - operative Preparation
Before the surgery, patients may need to follow certain instructions to prepare their bodies for the procedure. This may include stopping the use of certain medications, such as aspirin and blood - thinners, avoiding smoking, and following a healthy diet and exercise routine. Patients may also be asked to have pre - operative tests, such as blood tests and mammograms, to ensure their overall health.
Surgery
Breast augmentation surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. The surgeon will make an incision in the breast, create a pocket for the implant (either beneath the chest muscle or directly behind the breast tissue), insert the implant, and then close the incision with sutures. The surgery typically takes 1 - 2 hours to complete.
Post - operative Recovery
After the surgery, patients can expect some pain, swelling, and bruising in the breast area. They will be given pain medication to manage the discomfort. The surgeon will provide instructions on post - operative care, which may include wearing a surgical bra, avoiding strenuous activities, and keeping the incision clean. Most patients can return to work within a week, but strenuous activities may be restricted for 4 - 6 weeks. Scars will gradually fade over time, and it may take several months to see the final results of the breast augmentation.
Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation
Immediate Risks
- Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding during or after the surgery, which may require additional treatment or a blood transfusion.
- Infection: An infection may occur around the implant site. In rare cases, the implant may need to be removed for a few months until the infection clears up, and then a new implant can be placed.
- Anesthesia Risks: General anesthesia carries some risks, such as allergic reactions, breathing problems, and nausea.
- Changes in Nipple Sensation: Some women may experience hypersensitive nipples, a loss of sensitivity, or slight numbness around the incision area. In most cases, these symptoms disappear over time.
Long - term Risks
- Capsular Contracture: This is a condition where the scar tissue around the implant tightens, making the breast feel hard. Treatment may involve removing the scar tissue and, in some cases, replacing the implant.
- Implant Malposition: The implant may shift into an undesirable position, such as dropping too low, which may require additional surgery to correct.
- Implant Rupture: Saline implants will lose their contents quickly if they rupture, and the body will naturally absorb the saltwater. Silicone implants may have a silent rupture, which is why the FDA recommends periodic MRIs for women with silicone implants to check their integrity. If a rupture occurs