Introduction

Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery option that can enhance a woman's body image and boost self - confidence. In Albany, many women are seeking the best hospitals and doctors to perform this procedure. With numerous options available, it can be challenging to decide which hospital is the most suitable. This article aims to provide comprehensive information about breast augmentation in Albany, including details about top doctors, procedures, costs, and more, to help you make an informed decision.

Overview of Breast Augmentation

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at enhancing the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. It involves the placement of breast implants, which can be made of saline, silicone, or cohesive gel (often called “gummy bear” implants). Some common reasons for choosing breast augmentation include achieving a more proportionate figure, replacing lost breast volume due to aging, pregnancy, or weight loss, and correcting asymmetrical breasts.

Types of Breast Implants

Top Doctors for Breast Augmentation in Albany

Doctors from Healthgrades

Healthgrades lists 155 doctors who perform breast augmentation in Albany. Here are some of the highly - rated ones:

• Dr. Susan Gannon, MD: Rated 4.60 out of 5 stars. Located at 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206.
• Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD: Rated 4.70 out of 5 stars. Located at 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208.
• Dr. Todd Beyer, MD: Rated 4.80 out of 5 stars. Located at 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208.
• Dr. Meera Menon, MD: Rated 4.40 out of 5 stars. Located at 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208.
• Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD: Rated 4.90 out of 5 stars. Located at 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208.
• Dr. Francis Cullen, MD: Rated 4.80 out of 5 stars. Located at 5 Palisades Dr Ste 110, Albany, NY 12205.
• Dr. Jerome Chao, MD: Rated 4.30 out of 5 stars. Located at 13 Century Hill Dr, Latham, NY 12110.
• Dr. Edward Lee, MD: Rated 4.50 out of 5 stars. Located at 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208.
• Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO: Rated 4.90 out of 5 stars. Located at 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211.
• Dr. Eugene Hoffert, MD: Rated 4.90 out of 5 stars. Located at 250 Delaware Ave Ste 207, Delmar, NY 12054.

Doctors from RealSelf

RealSelf lists 23 breast augmentation doctors in Albany. Here are some notable ones:

• Jeffrey Rockmore, MD: A board - certified plastic surgeon with 159 reviews. Has 25 years of experience and 1 board certification. Located at 15 Old Loudon Rd., Latham, New York. Offers gender - affirming care.
• David Tauber, MD: A board - certified plastic surgeon with 88 reviews. Has 17 years of experience and 1 board certification. Located at 5 Ulenski Dr., Albany, New York. Accepts virtual consultations and offers gender - affirming care.
• Sanjiv Kayastha, MD: A board - certified plastic surgeon with 154 reviews. Has 20 years of experience and 1 board certification. Located at 711 Troy Schenectady Rd., Ste. 206, Latham, New York. Accepts virtual consultations.
• Jeffrey Ridha, MD: A board - certified plastic surgeon with 49 reviews. Has 16 years of experience and 2 board certifications. Located at 72 Railroad Pl., Saratoga Springs, New York. Accepts virtual consultations.
• Lucie Capek, MD: A board - certified plastic surgeon with 74 reviews. Has 28 years of experience and 2 board certifications. Located at 1003 Loudon Rd., Ste. 101, Latham, New York. Accepts virtual consultations and offers gender - affirming care.

Doctors from Other Sources

There are also other well - known doctors and clinics in Albany:

• Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha at K Plastic Surgery: A board - certified plastic surgeon who has advanced training in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery. He completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University and medical school at SUNY Buffalo. His clinic offers a variety of breast procedures, including breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift, and more.
• Dr. Lucie Capek: Patients throughout the capital district areas trust her for breast augmentation surgery. She uses an instrument called the harmonic scalpel to create the implant pocket, which helps to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during the surgery. She also uses Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients visualize their desired breast size.

Popular Breast Augmentation Clinics in Albany

The Plastic Surgery Group

Conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, & Troy. They offer comprehensive breast augmentation services. Their surgeons will explain the procedure in detail, including incision placement options (such as inframammary, transaxillary, and periareolar incisions) and implant placement options (submuscular and subglandular placement). The cost of breast augmentation here is typically $6,000 to $7,000, depending on factors like implant choice and procedure complexity. They also offer patient financing.

Albany Aesthetics & Enhancement Center

Led by Dr. Emily Carter, a board - certified plastic surgeon with over 15 years of experience. The center offers a comprehensive range of breast augmentation services, including silicone and saline implants, breast lifts, and breast reconstruction. They are known for their individualized approach and superb medical attention.

Capital City Cosmetic Surgery

Headed by Dr. Michael Reynolds, a renowned plastic surgeon. The clinic specializes in advanced breast augmentation techniques, including endoscopic breast augmentation and fat transfer. They are committed to delivering natural - looking results tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy.

Hudson Valley Plastic Surgery

With Dr. Sophia Lee at the helm, this is a trusted destination for breast augmentation in Albany. They provide a full spectrum of breast enhancement options, including breast augmentation with implant placement, breast lift, and breast reduction. They are known for their attention to detail and commitment to patient satisfaction.

Empire State Aesthetic Center

Led by Dr. Alexander Johnson, a board - certified plastic surgeon. The center offers cutting - edge breast augmentation procedures, utilizing the latest advancements in surgical techniques and implant technology. They are renowned for their compassionate approach and outstanding surgical outcomes.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure

Pre - operative Consultation

Before the surgery, it is crucial to schedule a consultation with your chosen doctor. During this appointment, the doctor will listen to your goals, assess your suitability for the surgery, and review your relevant health history. You can also expect the doctor to explain the procedure in detail, including incision placement, implant options, and possible risks and complications. You may be asked to bring in pictures of the desired breast shape and size to help the doctor understand your expectations better. Some clinics also use sizing systems or 3 - D computer simulations to help you visualize the results.

Incision Placement

There are several options for breast augmentation incision placement:

• Inframammary Incision: Made along the breast fold. It is a commonly used incision as it allows for good access to the implant pocket and often results in less visible scarring. Recent studies suggest that it has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture.
• Transaxillary Incision: Made in the underarm area. This incision can hide the scar well, but it may be more challenging to place the implant accurately compared to other incisions.
• Periareolar Incision: Made around the areola. It can be a good option for some patients as the scar may blend in with the natural pigmentation of the areola. However, it may carry a slightly higher risk of affecting nipple sensation.

Implant Placement

During the surgery, the doctor will create a space for the implant called “the pocket.” There are two main placement options:

• Submuscular Placement: The implant is placed beneath the muscle of the chest wall. This placement is usually a good choice for women with little of their own breast tissue as the chest muscle helps cover the implant. It also reduces the possibility of capsular contracture and interferes less with mammograms compared to subglandular placement.
• Subglandular Placement: The implant is placed directly behind the breast tissue. It may result in a more immediate fullness in the upper part of the breast, but it can be more likely to show rippling or be affected by the body's immune response.

The Surgery Itself

Most breast augmentation surgeries are performed as outpatient procedures under general anesthesia administered by a board - certified anesthesiologist. The procedure usually takes about 1 - 2 hours. The doctor will make the chosen incision, create the implant pocket, insert the implant, and then close the incision with sutures. Some doctors may use dissolvable sutures or glue for a more seamless closure.

Cost of Breast Augmentation in Albany

The cost of breast augmentation in Albany can vary widely depending on several factors:

• Implant Type: Silicone implants are generally more expensive than saline implants, and cohesive gel (gummy bear) implants are usually the most costly.
• Procedure Complexity: If additional procedures, such as a breast lift, are required, the cost will increase.
• Surgeon's Fees: Highly experienced and well - known surgeons may charge more for their services.
• Location of the Clinic: Clinics in more upscale areas may have higher costs.

On average, the cost of breast augmentation in Albany ranges from $5,300 to $10,500. Some clinics offer financing options to help patients afford the procedure.

Recovery and Aftercare

Immediate Post - operative Period

After the surgery, you will be able to go home the same day, but you will need an adult to drive you and care for you for the first 24 hours. You may feel tired and sore, and the doctor will prescribe pain medication to help manage the discomfort. You may also experience a slight burning feeling in your nipples, which will subside as the bruising lessens and healing continues.

First Few Weeks

• If you have gauze dressings, they will be removed in several days and replaced by a surgical bra. You should follow the doctor's guidelines for wearing the bra.
• Your stitches will be taken out after about 7 - 10 days.
• For the first 3 - 5 weeks, your breasts will be sensitive to physical contact.

Long - term Recovery

Over the next several months, your scars will gradually fade, thin, and soften. It is important to follow your doctor's aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding strenuous activities for a certain period, taking vitamins or supplements to aid in healing, and attending follow - up appointments. Women with silicone implants should have periodic MRIs to screen for silent implant rupture.

Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation

While breast augmentation is generally a safe procedure, there are some risks and complications to be aware of:

• Capsular Contracture: This is the tightening of the scar or capsule around the implant, which makes the breast feel hard. Treatment may involve removing the scar tissue and, in some cases, replacing the implant.
• Infection: There is a small chance of infection around the implant area. In rare cases, the implant may have to be removed for a few months and replaced once the infection is gone.
• Impact to Nipple Sensation: Some women may experience hypersensitive nipples, a loss of sensitivity, or slight numbness around the incision area. In most cases, these symptoms will disappear over time.
• Implant Leak / Rupture: Saline implants will lose their contents quickly if they rupture, and the body will naturally absorb the saltwater. Gel - filled implants may not show any noticeable change if the scar capsule surrounding the implant does not break. In most cases, these situations will require another surgery to replace the implants.

Psychological Impact and Emotional Preparation

Breast augmentation is not just a physical procedure; it can have a significant psychological impact. Here are some aspects to consider:

• Managing Expectations: It is important to understand that while the procedure can enhance physical appearance, it may not solve underlying emotional issues. Set realistic expectations about the results.
• Body Image Concerns: Many individuals considering breast augmentation may have body image insecurities. Address these concerns during pre - operative consultations with your doctor.
• Pre - operative Anxiety: It is normal to feel anxious before the surgery. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and visualization can help alleviate anxiety.
• Post - surgery Emotional Rollercoaster: The post - surgery period can be emotionally challenging. Seek support from loved ones, journal, or engage in activities that bring joy to help with emotional resilience.

How to Choose the Right Hospital and Doctor

Choosing the right hospital and doctor for breast augmentation is a crucial decision. Here are some tips:

• Check Credentials: Ensure that the doctor is board - certified in plastic surgery. Board certification indicates that the doctor has passed rigorous exams and has a deep level of practical knowledge.