Introduction
Breast implant capsular contracture is a common complication after breast augmentation surgery. It occurs when the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around the breast implant tightens, causing the breast to become firm, distorted, and sometimes painful. In Albany, there are several plastic surgery hospitals and doctors that are well - known for treating this condition. This article aims to provide an authoritative ranking list and in - depth information about these facilities and professionals.
Understanding Breast Implant Capsular Contracture
Before delving into the ranking list, it's crucial to understand the nature of breast implant capsular contracture. When a breast implant is placed in the body, the body's natural response is to form a capsule of scar tissue around it. In some cases, this capsule can thicken and tighten, leading to contracture. The causes of capsular contracture can be multifactorial, including bacterial contamination during surgery, bleeding during the procedure, foreign body reaction to the implant, and smoking.
There are four grades of capsular contracture, as classified by the Baker classification system:
- Baker I: The breast looks and feels normal. The implant is not palpable, and there is no visible distortion.
- Baker II: The breast is slightly firm, and the implant may be faintly palpable. There is little or no visible distortion.
- Baker III: The breast is moderately firm, the implant is easily palpable, and there is noticeable distortion.
- Baker IV: The breast is hard, there is significant distortion, and the breast may be painful.
The Ranking of Plastic Surgery Hospitals and Doctors in Albany for Treating Capsular Contracture
Top Doctors
Healthgrades has identified several doctors in Albany who treat capsular contracture of breast implants. Here is a table of some of the top - rated doctors:
| Doctor's Name | Rating (out of 5) | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Lynn Choi, MD | 5.00 | 25 Hackett Blvd, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Casian Monaco, MD | 5.00 | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Christa Abraham, MD | 4.80 | 43 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.50 | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
| Dr. Malcolm Roth, MD | 4.50 | 43 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Barbara Brazis, DO | 4.40 | 250 Delaware Ave Ste 207, Delmar, NY 12054 |
| Dr. Sarah Pesek, MD | 4.10 | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Kelly Dennin, MD | 3.90 | 250 Delaware Ave Ste 207, Delmar, NY 12054 |
Profile of Dr. Susan Gannon, MD
Dr. Susan Gannon is a cosmetic, plastic & reconstructive surgery specialist in Albany, NY with over 23 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from Albany Medical College in 1999 and is affiliated with Saint Peter's Hospital. Based on treatment records, she treats capsular contracture of breast implant more often than her peers. Her patients rate her highly, with an overall patient satisfaction of 4.5 out of 5. She explains conditions well and is considered trustworthy by her patients.
Plastic Surgery Clinics
K Plastic Surgery
K Plastic Surgery in Albany is known for its comprehensive breast procedures. Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, a board - certified plastic surgeon, has advanced training and experience in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and hand surgery. Patients dealing with complications from previous breast procedures, such as capsular contracture, can turn to him for a safe surgery that meets their goal results. Before the first appointment, patients can review before - and - after photos of Dr. Kayastha’s previous patients to get an idea of the possible results.
The clinic offers various breast procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, breast implant removal, and breast implant revision. For example, breast augmentation has a recovery time of 1 - 2 weeks and 6 months for full results, with a cost ranging from $6,400 - $7,500.
Capek Plastic Surgery
Dr. Lucie Capek at Capek Plastic Surgery is an expert in breast augmentation. She helps patients choose from a variety of breast implant sizes, shapes, and materials, and even offers the possibility of using the patient's own fat. When it comes to breast augmentation, she uses breast implant sizers to help patients visualize their desired breast size and how it will look on their body type.
Regarding capsular contracture, she takes preventive measures during the surgery. For instance, she usually makes an inframammary fold incision (under the breast), which recent studies suggest has a lower risk of associated complications like capsular contracture. If capsular contracture occurs, she is well - equipped to handle the revision surgery.
The Plastic Surgery Group
This group offers breast augmentation services conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, & Troy. Their surgeons are experienced in handling different aspects of breast augmentation, including minimizing the risk of capsular contracture. They recommend the best incision placement and implant placement based on the patient's unique anatomy and implant choice. Submuscular placement is usually preferred for reducing the possibility of capsular contracture.
In case of capsular contracture, their surgeons can perform procedures such as removing the scar tissue and, in some cases, replacing the implant to treat the condition.
Treatment Options for Breast Implant Capsular Contracture
Non - surgical Treatment
In mild cases of capsular contracture (Baker I and II), non - surgical treatments may be attempted first. These can include breast massage. Regular breast massage is believed to help break up the scar tissue and prevent it from tightening further. However, the effectiveness of breast massage is still a matter of debate among medical professionals, and more research is needed to confirm its long - term benefits.
Another non - surgical option is the use of medications. Some studies have investigated the use of drugs such as leukotriene modifiers, antibiotics, and corticosteroids to prevent or treat capsular contracture. However, these medications are not yet widely used, and their efficacy and safety profiles need further evaluation.
Surgical Treatment
For more severe cases of capsular contracture (Baker III and IV), surgical intervention is usually necessary. There are two main surgical approaches:
- Capsulectomy: This involves the complete removal of the scar capsule. It is considered the most definitive treatment for capsular contracture as it removes the source of the problem. However, it is a more invasive procedure and may be associated with longer recovery times and more significant scarring.
- Capsulotomy: In this procedure, the scar capsule is incised or cut to release the tension. It is a less invasive option compared to capsulectomy. However, there is a higher risk of recurrence of capsular contracture with capsulotomy.
During surgery, the surgeon may also choose to replace the implant if it is damaged or if a different type of implant is desired. For example, some surgeons may recommend switching from a smooth implant to a textured implant, as textured implants are thought to have a lower risk of capsular contracture in some cases.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plastic Surgeon or Hospital
Credentials and Experience
It is essential to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon. Board certification indicates that the doctor has met the rigorous standards set by the relevant medical board in plastic surgery. Additionally, look for a surgeon with extensive experience in treating breast implant capsular contracture. You can ask about the number of cases they have treated and their success rates.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an insight into the surgeon's bedside manner, the quality of care provided, and the patient's satisfaction with the results. You can find these reviews on websites such as Healthgrades, RealSelf, and Google.
Before - and - After Photos
Reviewing before - and - after photos of the surgeon's previous patients can help you visualize the possible results of the treatment. Pay attention to the results of patients with similar conditions to yours.
Communication and Comfort
During the consultation, the surgeon should take the time to listen to your concerns, answer all your questions, and explain the treatment options in detail. You should feel comfortable and confident in the surgeon's abilities and decision - making process.
Preventing Breast Implant Capsular Contracture
While it may not be possible to completely prevent breast implant capsular contracture, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk:
- Choose the Right Surgeon: A skilled and experienced surgeon can minimize the risk of complications during surgery, such as bleeding and infection, which are known risk factors for capsular contracture.
- Select the Appropriate Implant: The type of implant can also affect the risk of capsular contracture. Textured implants are generally thought to have a lower risk compared to smooth implants, although more research is needed to confirm this.
- Follow Post - operative Instructions: This includes taking antibiotics as prescribed, performing breast massage (if recommended), and attending all follow - up appointments.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Avoid smoking, as smoking can impair the body's healing ability and increase the risk of complications. Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly to support overall health.
Conclusion
Breast implant capsular contracture is a challenging complication that can affect the appearance and comfort of breast augmentation patients. In Albany, there are several plastic surgery hospitals and doctors with the expertise to treat this condition. By considering factors such as credentials, experience, patient reviews, and treatment options, patients can make an informed decision when choosing a provider. The treatment of capsular contracture may involve non - surgical or surgical approaches, depending on the severity of the condition. Additionally, taking preventive measures can help reduce the risk of developing capsular contracture in the first place.
If you or someone you know is dealing with breast implant capsular contracture, we encourage you to reach out to one of the top - rated plastic surgeons or clinics in Albany mentioned in this article. Do your research, schedule a consultation, and take the first step towards resolving this issue and regaining your confidence and comfort.
