Which Hospital is Good for Breast Augmentation in Albany?
Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that can enhance a woman's appearance, boost self - confidence, and correct certain breast - related issues. In Albany, there are several hospitals and clinics where you can undergo this procedure. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different aspects of breast augmentation, the best places to have it done in Albany, and important considerations before making your decision.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. The most common way to achieve this is by inserting breast implants. There are different types of breast implants available:
- Saline Implants: These implants are filled with sterile saltwater. If a saline implant ruptures, the saline solution is absorbed by the body, and the implant will deflate quickly. They are often less expensive than silicone implants.
- Silicone Implants: These implants are filled with a silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. Scientific studies have shown them to be safe, and they are a popular choice among many patients. However, if a silicone implant ruptures, it may not be as obvious as a saline implant rupture, which is why periodic MRIs are recommended for women with silicone implants.
- Form - Stable (Gummy Bear) Implants: These are a type of silicone implant that is more cohesive, maintaining its shape better. They are designed to look and feel more natural, and they have a lower risk of leakage and wrinkling compared to some other types of implants.
Reasons for Choosing Breast Augmentation
There are various reasons why a woman might choose to undergo breast augmentation:
- Enhancing Proportions: Some women feel that their breasts are disproportionately small compared to the rest of their body and want to achieve a more balanced figure.
- Restoring Volume: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight loss can cause a loss of breast volume. Breast augmentation can help restore the fullness that has been lost.
- Correcting Asymmetry: Many women have some degree of breast asymmetry, and breast augmentation can help make the breasts more symmetrical.
- Boosting Self - Confidence: Having a more desirable breast appearance can have a positive impact on a woman's self - esteem and body image.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital or Clinic for Breast Augmentation in Albany
Surgeon's Qualifications and Experience
The most important factor in a successful breast augmentation is the surgeon. Look for a board - certified plastic surgeon who has extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures. Board certification indicates that the surgeon has completed the necessary training and passed rigorous exams in the field of plastic surgery. For example, according to the research from Healthgrades, in Albany, there are doctors like Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD, with a rating of 4.90 out of 5 stars, and Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO, also rated 4.90 out of 5 stars, who have the experience and skill required for this procedure.
Hospital or Clinic Reputation
Research the reputation of the hospital or clinic. Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the experiences of previous patients. You can also check online reviews on platforms like RealSelf, where patients share their real - life stories about their breast augmentation procedures with different doctors in Albany. A good reputation is a sign that the facility provides high - quality care and satisfactory results.
Range of Services
Consider whether the hospital or clinic offers a comprehensive range of breast augmentation services. This may include different types of implants, the option to combine breast augmentation with other procedures like a breast lift, and after - care services. For instance, K Plastic Surgery in Albany offers various breast procedures such as breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift, and also addresses complications from previous procedures like breast implant leaks or capsular contracture.
Facility Accreditation
Ensure that the hospital or clinic is accredited by a recognized organization. Accreditation means that the facility meets certain standards of safety, quality, and patient care. This is important as it gives you peace of mind that the environment in which you will undergo the procedure is safe and well - regulated.
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implants, the complexity of the procedure, and the surgeon's fees. It's important to get a clear understanding of the total cost and whether the facility offers financing options. In most cases, insurance does not cover the cost of breast augmentation as it is considered an elective surgery. However, some facilities like The Plastic Surgery Group offer patient financing to help patients afford the procedure.
Top Hospitals and Clinics for Breast Augmentation in Albany
Albany Medical Center Hospital
Albany Medical Center Hospital offers breast enlargement using prosthetic implants. The price reported by the hospital varies depending on whether you are paying in cash or through an insurance plan with a pre - negotiated rate. The procedure is typically done under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with an oral sedative and takes around 1 to 2 hours. After the procedure, patients are given a prescription for pain control, and instructions on returning to regular activities, such as avoiding strenuous activities for at least 4 weeks. However, it has a 2 - star care quality rating in some metrics, with performance below the national average in areas like effectiveness of care and patient experience, although it has an above - average rating in safety of care.
Facilities Associated with Experienced Surgeons
There are several doctors in Albany who perform breast augmentation at their respective clinics. Here are some of them:
Surgeon | Rating | Location | Details |
---|---|---|---|
Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.60 out of 5 stars | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 | A board - certified plastic surgeon with 19 years of experience, according to RealSelf. Has received positive reviews from patients, such as a 38 - year - old mom of 3 who had a great experience with her breast augmentation. |
Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 out of 5 stars | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 | Although not much other detailed information is provided in the given sources, the high rating indicates a good level of patient satisfaction. |
Dr. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 | His high rating shows his competence in performing breast augmentation procedures. |
Dr. Meera Menon, MD | 4.40 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 | With a relatively good rating, she is likely to have a good track record in breast augmentation surgeries. |
Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 | One of the highly rated doctors in the area, indicating a high level of patient satisfaction with his breast augmentation procedures. |
Dr. Francis Cullen, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 5 Palisades Dr Ste 110, Albany, NY 12205 | The high rating suggests that he is a reliable choice for breast augmentation. |
Dr. Jerome Chao, MD | 4.30 out of 5 stars | 13 Century Hill Dr, Latham, NY 12110 | Has 21 years of experience and accepts virtual consultations, according to RealSelf. |
Dr. Edward Lee, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 | Based on his rating, he can be considered a competent surgeon for breast augmentation. |
Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211 | With a top - notch rating, he is likely to provide excellent breast augmentation services. |
Dr. Eugene Hoffert, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 250 Delaware Ave Ste 207, Delmar, NY 12054 | The high rating is a positive sign for patients considering breast augmentation with him. |
Specialty Clinics
There are also specialty clinics in Albany that focus on plastic surgery and breast augmentation:
- K Plastic Surgery: Led by Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, a board - certified plastic surgeon. He has advanced training in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery. The clinic offers a variety of breast procedures including breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift, and also addresses complications from previous procedures. Before the first appointment, patients can review before - and - after photos of Dr. Kayastha's previous patients. The cost of breast augmentation at this clinic ranges from $6,400 - $7,500, and the recovery takes 1 - 2 weeks with full results visible in 6 months.
- 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. It specializes in advanced breast augmentation techniques, including endoscopic breast augmentation and fat transfer. The clinic is committed to delivering natural - looking results tailored to each patient's unique anatomy.
- Hudson Valley Plastic Surgery: With Dr. Sophia Lee at the helm, it provides a full spectrum of breast enhancement options, including breast augmentation with implant placement, breast lift, and breast reduction. The clinic is known for its attention to detail and commitment to patient satisfaction.
- Empire State Aesthetic Center: Led by Dr. Alexander Johnson, a board - certified plastic surgeon. It offers cutting - edge breast augmentation procedures, utilizing the latest advancements in surgical techniques and implant technology. The center is renowned for its compassionate approach and outstanding surgical outcomes.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Consultation
Before the surgery, a consultation with the surgeon is crucial. During this appointment, the surgeon will assess your suitability for the surgery, discuss your expectations and desired aesthetic outcome, and explain the procedure in detail. You will be able to choose from a variety of types of breast implants, and the surgeon will also discuss the options for incision and implant placement. The Plastic Surgery Group in Albany explains that the first step toward realizing your goal of having larger breasts is to meet with your plastic surgeon for a consultation to discuss your feelings and ensure you have realistic expectations.
Incision Placement
There are different options for incision placement during breast augmentation:
- Inframammary Incision: This incision is made along the breast fold. It is a common choice as it allows the surgeon good access to place the implant, and the scar is usually well - hidden in the breast fold. The Plastic Surgery Group recommends this incision based on a patient's unique anatomy, implant choice, and other factors to suit the body and make the scars as discreet as possible.
- Transaxillary Incision: This incision is made in the underarm. It can result in a scar that is less visible on the breast, but it may be more challenging for the surgeon to place the implant accurately.
- Periareolar Incision: This incision is 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, there is a slightly higher risk of affecting nipple sensation with this type of incision.
Implant Placement
During the surgery, the surgeon will create a space (the pocket) for the implant behind the breast tissue. There are two main options for implant placement:
- Submuscular Placement: The implant is placed beneath the muscle of the chest wall. This placement is usually a good choice for women who have little of their own breast tissue because the chest muscle helps cover the implant. It also reduces the possibility of capsular contracture and interferes less with mammograms compared to subglandular placement. However, it may result in more initial discomfort and a longer recovery period.
- Subglandular Placement: The implant is placed directly behind the tissue of the breast. This placement allows the breasts to move more naturally as the patient uses her chest muscles, and it may be a suitable option for some women. However, there is a slightly higher risk of capsular contracture and more visible rippling of the implant in some cases.
The Surgery Itself
Most breast augmentation surgeries are performed at an outpatient surgical center using general anesthesia administered by a board - certified anesthesiologist. The procedure typically takes approximately 1 hour to perform. You will be able to go home the day of your surgery, but you will need to have an adult drive you and care for you for the first 24 hours. For example, at The Plastic Surgery Group, their surgeons follow this standard procedure for breast augmentation surgeries.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post - Surgery
After the surgery, you may be tired and sore. Your plastic surgeon will prescribe a pain medication to help control the discomfort, which may include a slight burning feeling in your nipples. This discomfort is normal and will generally subside as the bruising lessens and healing continues. Most patients can expect to feel some soreness for the first few days after the surgery. For instance, at K Plastic Surgery, patients are informed about the normal post - surgery symptoms and provided with pain medication accordingly.
Short - Term Recovery
- First Week: If you have gauze dressings, they will be removed in several days and replaced by a surgical bra. You should follow the guidelines your plastic surgeon gives you for wearing this bra. Your stitches will be taken out, usually around 7 to 10 days after the surgery. Many patients with sedentary jobs can return to work within a week, but strenuous activities should be avoided.
- 3 to 5 Weeks: Your breasts will be sensitive to physical contact during this time. You should continue to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding activities and after - care.
Long - Term Recovery
Over the next several months, your scars will gradually fade, thin, and soften. It's important to attend all follow - up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your recovery and address any concerns. You should also continue with your regular mammograms and breast exams. If you have silicone implants, periodic MRIs are recommended to screen for silent implant rupture. For example, Dr. Lucie Capek advises her patients to follow these long - term after - care procedures to ensure a successful recovery and continued breast health.
Risks and Complications