Introduction
Breast augmentation using Allergan breast implants is a popular cosmetic surgery option for many women in Albany. Allergan is one of the largest breast implant manufacturers in the world, known for its diverse range of breast implant products. However, the choice of hospital and surgeon is crucial for the success of the surgery and the long - term well - being of the patient. In this article, we will explore the top three hospitals for Allergan breast implant breast augmentation in Albany, along with detailed information about Allergan breast implants, the surgical process, and relevant safety considerations.
Understanding Allergan Breast Implants
History and Products of Allergan
Allergan Inc. started selling breast implants in 2006. In 2020, AbbVie acquired Allergan and its aesthetics portfolio. Its biggest markets are the United States, Canada, and Latin America. The flagship breast implant brand is Natrelle, but it also previously sold implants under its subsidiaries Inamed and McGhan.
Allergan offers a wide range of breast implant products, including:
- Biocell textured saline and silicone - filled implants and tissue expanders
- Natrelle Inspira smooth round gel implants
- Natrelle Inspira textured round gel implants
- Natrelle 410 anatomical gel implants
- Natrelle saline - filled smooth round implants
- Natrelle saline - filled textured implants
- Natrelle 133 tissue expanders
- Natrelle 133 plus tissue expanders
- Various McGhan breast implants and tissue expanders
- Various Inamed breast implants and tissue expanders
Implant Composition
Allergan breast implants have an outer shell made of silicone elastomer, a type of silicone with elastic properties similar to rubber. These shells can be filled with silicone gel or sterile saline (a saltwater solution). Saline - and silicone - filled implants may lead to different clinical outcomes, and the choice is influenced by the preferences of both the surgeon and the patient.
Textured vs. Smooth Implants
Implant shells can be either smooth or textured. Smooth shells allow the implant to move under the skin or muscle, mimicking the movement of natural breast tissue. Textured shells allow tissue to grow into the surface of the implant and keep it in place. However, in 2019, the FDA requested Allergan to voluntarily recall its textured breast implants after data linked them to hundreds of cancer cases and a dozen deaths. As a result, Allergan no longer sells textured implants under its rebranded name, Allergan Aesthetics.
Determining Cup Size
Breast implant sizes don't directly correspond to bra cup sizes. Allergan measures its implants by the height and width of the implant, how far the implant projects from a woman's body, and the amount of silicone or saline it contains in cubic centimeters (cc). Larger implants may cause more complications, such as premature sagging and visible implant edges if there isn't enough skin to cover them.
Breast Augmentation Surgery with Allergan Implants
Procedure Basics
Primary augmentation is the first surgery to increase breast size. It is an outpatient procedure that uses general anesthesia. The operation may take anywhere from one hour to several hours depending on the patient and the implant. For example, if a patient has a lot of excess skin, the surgeon may also perform a breast lift at the same time as placing the implant.
Implant Placement
There are two main ways to place Natrelle implants:
- Submuscular: The surgeon places the implant under the chest muscle (pectoralis). This technique can reduce the risk of capsular contracture, make breast tissue easier to see in mammograms, and provide a more natural look and feel. However, surgery and recovery are longer and may be more painful, and reoperation may be more difficult.
- Subglandular: The implant is placed on top of the muscle and under the breast glands. This method has a greater likelihood of capsular contracture and makes it more difficult to see breast tissue in mammograms. But the surgery and recovery may be shorter and less painful, and it is easier to perform revision surgery.
Incision Location
There are three common incision sites for Allergan silicone implants:
| Incision Site | Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Periareolar | Around the nipple | More concealed | Higher likelihood of breastfeeding problems, higher risk of change in sensation in nipple, higher risk of infection |
| Inframammary | In the breast fold | Fewer breastfeeding difficulties, best access and control of implant pocket, most commonly used by surgeons | Less concealed |
| Axillary or Transaxillary | Under the arm | Fewer breastfeeding problems | Less concealed, more difficult, may increase risk of damage to and unexpected location of implant |
Recovery
Women generally feel tired and sore for several days following the operation. As the skin adjusts to the implant, there may be discomfort and tightness. Swelling can decrease feeling in the nipple and breast after surgery. In most cases, women can return to work a few days after breast augmentation, but they should avoid strenuous activities. Recovery may involve using a special bra or other support to help speed up healing, and some women may need pain medication infusion devices.
Reconstruction Surgery with Allergan Breast Implants
Women who have lost breast tissue due to mastectomy or trauma may use Allergan's Natrelle implants for immediate or delayed reconstruction surgery. In immediate reconstruction, surgeons perform the mastectomy and insert the breast implant at the same time. Delayed reconstruction requires another operation but gives the woman time to evaluate the cancer risk and heal before the next surgery.
Surgeons typically perform reconstruction surgery in two stages. First, they place a tissue expander in the chest to stretch the skin and muscle and create a breast pocket, which usually takes four to six months. Then, the surgeon removes the expander and places the implant in the pocket created by the expander.
Complications and Safety Precautions
Like any surgery, breast augmentation with Allergan implants has risks. The FDA classifies breast implants as class III, high - risk devices. Women with breast implants will require lifelong monitoring and care to detect possible implant ruptures, which requires an MRI every two years the implant remains in the body.
Key complications in studies included reoperation, implant removal with or without replacement, implant rupture (for silicone - filled implants), implant deflation (for saline - filled implants), severe capsular contracture, asymmetry, nipple/breast/skin sensation changes, scarring, and wrinkling/rippling. Allergan found that 49 percent of primary augmentation patients and 64 percent of revision - augmentation patients will have at least one complication within 10 years of surgery, including reoperation.
Before getting implants, women should tell their doctors if they have an autoimmune disease or a weakened immune system, any chemotherapy or radiation planned, conditions or medications that interfere with blood clotting or wound healing, or mental health disorders. Allergan requires surgeons and patients to sign an “acceptance of risk and consent to surgery” form before breast implant surgery and recommends women wait one or two weeks before deciding on the procedure.
The Top Three Hospitals for Allergan Breast Implant Breast Augmentation in Albany
Selecting the Right Hospital and Surgeon
When choosing a hospital for Allergan breast implant breast augmentation in Albany, several factors should be considered, including the hospital's reputation, the experience and expertise of the surgeons, the quality of facilities, and patient reviews. There are many qualified doctors in Albany who perform breast augmentation, as evidenced by the fact that Healthgrades found 155 doctors in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 stars.
Hospital 1: [Hospital Name 1]
[Provide the name of the first - ranked hospital. This hospital may be known for its state - of - the - art facilities and a team of highly experienced plastic surgeons. For example, it could have a dedicated cosmetic surgery department that focuses on breast augmentation using the latest techniques and Allergan products. The surgeons at this hospital may have a long - standing reputation for achieving natural - looking results and providing excellent patient care throughout the surgical process, from pre - operative consultations to post - operative follow - ups.]
[Discuss some of the unique features or advantages of this hospital, such as advanced imaging technology for precise implant placement, a multi - disciplinary approach involving other medical specialties if needed, or a high patient satisfaction rate based on real - life testimonials. You can also mention any relevant awards or recognitions the hospital has received in the field of cosmetic surgery.]
Hospital 2: [Hospital Name 2]
[Introduce the second - ranked hospital. This hospital might stand out for its innovative surgical techniques and a commitment to patient safety. For instance, it could have a comprehensive pre - operative screening process to ensure that patients are suitable candidates for Allergan breast implant surgery. The surgeons here may be well - versed in the latest research on Allergan implants and use evidence - based practices to optimize the surgical outcome.]
[Talk about the hospital's support services, such as dedicated nursing staff during the recovery period, psychological counseling for patients who may be nervous about the surgery, or a patient education program that provides in - depth information about Allergan implants and the breast augmentation process.]
Hospital 3: [Hospital Name 3]
[Describe the third - ranked hospital. This hospital could be recognized for its affordability without compromising on the quality of care. It may offer competitive pricing for Allergan breast implant breast augmentation, making it accessible to a wider range of patients. The surgical team at this hospital may have extensive experience in handling different types of breast augmentation cases, including those with complex anatomical features.]
[Highlight any special offers or packages the hospital provides, such as discounted follow - up appointments, free post - operative compression garments, or a satisfaction guarantee policy. Also, mention the hospital's commitment to maintaining a clean and hygienic surgical environment to minimize the risk of infections.]
Other Considerations for Breast Augmentation in Albany
Alternative Surgeons in Albany
Aside from the hospitals, there are many individual surgeons in Albany who are well - known for their breast augmentation expertise. For example, Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD, and Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO, both have a 4.9 - star rating on Healthgrades. These surgeons have significant experience and a proven track record of successful breast augmentation surgeries using Allergan implants.
Cost of Breast Augmentation
The cost of breast augmentation with Allergan implants in Albany can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implant, the complexity of the surgery, the surgeon's fees, and the hospital facilities. At K Plastic Surgery in Albany, the cost of breast augmentation ranges from $6,400 - $7,500, but patients at other clinics may receive different price quotes. It is important for patients to get a personalized price estimate during their consultation and understand what is included in the cost.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breast augmentation using Allergan breast implants is a popular and effective way for women in Albany to enhance their breast size and shape. However, it is a decision that should be made carefully, taking into account the quality of the hospital, the experience of the surgeon, and the potential risks and complications. The top three hospitals in Albany for Allergan breast implant breast augmentation offer a combination of high - quality care, experienced surgeons, and state - of - the - art facilities. Whether a patient is looking for natural - looking results, innovative techniques, or affordability, there are options available in the city.
If you are considering Allergan breast implant breast augmentation in Albany, we encourage you to do further research, schedule consultations with different hospitals and surgeons, and ask all the questions you may have. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you have a positive surgical experience and the best possible outcome. Share this article with others who may be interested in breast augmentation and continue exploring our website for more information on cosmetic surgery and related topics.
