Introduction
Breast augmentation with implants is a highly sought - after cosmetic procedure in Albany. In 2022, nearly 300,000 breast augmentations were performed in the USA, and this number is likely to grow. With the high demand, choosing the right hospital and doctor for breast implants is of utmost importance. In this article, we will first introduce what breast implants are and their types. Then, we will discuss the top factors to consider when selecting a hospital for breast implants. Finally, we will present the list of the top 3 hospitals in Albany for breast implants.
Understanding Breast Implants
What are Breast Implants?
A breast implant is a prosthesis used to enhance the size and projection of a patient’s breasts. It allows women with smaller breasts to increase the fullness and volume of their breasts. The implants are placed in the tissues of the chest during breast augmentation surgery. The characteristics of breast implants, such as type, size, shape, profile, and texture, define their results in terms of look and feel.
Types of Breast Implants
There are several types of breast implants available, each with its own unique features. The two main categories of fillers for breast implants are saline and silicone.
| Type of Implant | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages | Recommended Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saline Implants | These implants are filled with sterile salt water. They are FDA - approved and can be adjusted in volume after insertion. | Less expensive than silicone implants. In case of rupture, the saline is naturally absorbed by the body. No restrictions on incision placement. | May feel less natural than silicone implants. | At least 18 years old |
| Silicone Implants | Filled with silicone gel and are pre - filled before insertion. They are often thought to have a more natural feel. | Provide a more natural look and feel compared to saline implants. | If they rupture, it may be silent, so regular check - ups are required. More expensive than saline implants. | At least 22 years old |
| Form - stable Silicone (Gummy Bear) Implants | FDA - approved implants with a more solid consistency than traditional silicone breast implants. They are firmer and retain their shape. | Silicone does not leak from the shell when a rupture occurs, enhancing safety. Better shape retention. | More expensive. Limited options in terms of sizes and shapes. | At least 22 years old |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Breast Implants
Doctor's Reputation and Experience
The doctor's reputation and experience play a crucial role in the success of breast implant surgery. You should look for doctors with high patient ratings. For example, in Albany, there are doctors like Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD, with a 4.90 rating out of 5 stars, and Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO, also with a 4.90 rating. An experienced doctor is more likely to understand the unique needs of each patient, perform the surgery with precision, and handle any potential complications.
Hospital's Accreditation and Facilities
The hospital should have proper accreditation. Accreditation ensures that the hospital meets certain standards of quality and safety. High - tech facilities are also essential. For instance, some hospitals use the Mentor® volume sizing system during consultations to help patients experience different breast sizes and identify their ideal breast size. Others may utilize 3 - D computer simulations based on breast photos and advanced AI algorithms to simulate the breasts in their new size and shape.
Range of Services Offered
A good hospital should offer a comprehensive range of services related to breast implants. This includes pre - operative consultations to help patients understand the procedure, choose the right implants, and address all their concerns. Post - operative care is also vital, including follow - up appointments to monitor the recovery process, manage any pain or complications, and provide advice on aftercare.
Cost and Financing Options
The cost of breast implants can vary depending on factors such as the type of implant, the complexity of the surgery, and the hospital's location. It's important to get a clear and detailed cost estimate during the consultation. Some hospitals offer financing plans to help patients manage the cost of the procedure. This can make the surgery more accessible for those who may not be able to pay the full amount upfront.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you a real - world perspective on the hospital's services. You can learn about other patients' experiences, including the quality of care, the doctor's bedside manner, the recovery process, and the overall satisfaction with the results. Positive reviews can give you confidence in your choice, while negative reviews can alert you to potential issues.
The Top 3 Hospitals for 300 Breast Implants in Albany
1. Capek Plastic Surgery
Doctor Profile
Dr. Lucie Capek is a board - certified plastic surgeon. She has extensive experience in breast augmentation procedures. Patients throughout the capital district areas of Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga trust her to perform their breast augmentation surgery. Many patients also travel from New York City, Vermont, Massachusetts, and beyond to receive her skilled and compassionate care.
Services Offered
- Pre - operative consultation: Dr. Capek uses the Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients visualize their desired breast size and how it will look on their body type. She takes the time to discuss all the options available, including different types of implants, sizes, shapes, and surgical approaches.
- Surgery: 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. She uses a harmonic scalpel to create the pocket for the implants, which helps to minimize bleeding and muscle twitching during the surgery. She inserts and positions the implants in either a sub - muscular or sub - glandular position, depending on the patient's particular shape, natural anatomy, and lifestyle. She typically does not use drains in first - time breast augmentation patients and closes the incisions with dissolvable sutures and glue.
- Post - operative care: After the surgery, patients can shower within 48 hours and wear a sports bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks. Dr. Capek rarely uses drains for breast enhancement. She schedules follow - up appointments to oversee the recovery process and provide advice on aftercare. For patients with silicone implants, she recommends periodic MRIs to screen for silent implant rupture.
Patient Reviews
Many patients have left positive reviews about their experience at Capek Plastic Surgery. One patient said, “The surgery itself was as good a process as something like that can be. Excellent care, very little pain and bruising with a fast recovery. Definitely worth it.”
2. The Plastic Surgery Group
Doctor Profile
The Plastic Surgery Group has a team of skilled plastic surgeons. They are experienced in working with patients to find the ideal breast implants for their body type and aesthetic goals.
Services Offered
- Consultation: During the consultation, the surgeons discuss the patient's goals and identify the best breast implants to use, including the type, size, shape, profile, and texture. They use the Mentor® volume sizing system to help patients experience different breast sizes and find their ideal breast size.
- Surgery: Breast implant surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in one of three locations: under the breast (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). The choice of incision location depends on the patient's anatomy and the type of implant being used. The surgeon creates a pocket either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or under the chest muscle (submuscular) and then inserts the implants into the pockets.
- Recovery: After the surgery, patients may experience some pain, swelling, and discomfort. They are advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities during the recovery period. A surgical bra is recommended for support and to lessen swelling. Most patients are able to resume light activities and work within a week or two, but heavy lifting and intense exercise should be avoided for at least six weeks.
Patient Reviews
Patients appreciate the personalized approach and the comprehensive information provided during the consultation process. The clinic is also praised for its clean and modern facilities.
3. Rockmore Plastic Surgery
Doctor Profile
Dr. Jeffrey Rockmore has over 4,000 breast procedure experiences. He uses a 3 - dimensional approach for consistently beautiful and natural - looking breasts. He tailors each breast augmentation procedure to meet the unique needs of the patient.
Services Offered
- Consultation: Dr. Rockmore discusses the patient's motivations for undergoing surgery extensively. He performs a physical examination and discusses the patient's health history to ensure that breast augmentation is the safest and most effective choice. He also helps patients choose the right breast implants, taking into account factors such as size, shape, material, profile, and incision location.
- Surgery: The surgery begins with an incision, and the location is chosen based on the patient's specific needs and body. Common incision locations include inframammary, periareolar, and transaxillary. Dr. Rockmore creates a pocket for the implant, and there are three types of pockets: subglandular, submuscular, and biplanar. He often uses fat grafts to restore volume to the breast, either in conjunction with a breast lift or implants or alone.
- Recovery: After the surgery, patients can expect to feel some discomfort and grogginess. They can shower the day after surgery if careful. Swelling, tightness, and soreness tend to peak in the first few days. Most patients can return to work within a week. Strenuous activities can be resumed after a few weeks. Dr. Rockmore provides a surgical bra for support and schedules follow - up visits at 8 weeks and 6 months after the procedure.
Patient Reviews
Patients are satisfied with the natural - looking results achieved by Dr. Rockmore. Many also appreciate his attention to detail and the thoroughness of the consultation process.
Conclusion
In summary, breast augmentation with implants is a popular and effective way to enhance the appearance and boost the self - confidence of many women. When choosing a hospital for breast implants in Albany, it is essential to consider factors such as the doctor's reputation and experience, the hospital's accreditation and facilities, the range of services offered, the cost and financing options, and patient reviews. The top 3 hospitals - Capek Plastic Surgery, The Plastic Surgery Group, and Rockmore Plastic Surgery - all offer high - quality services and have experienced doctors to ensure the best possible results for patients.
If you are considering breast implants in Albany, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with the hospitals mentioned above, and make an informed decision. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast augmentation to help them make the right choice for their journey to a more confident self.
