Introduction to Bilateral Breast Asymmetry Correction
Bilateral breast asymmetry is a common condition that can affect both adolescents and adults. In teenage females, it is often a normal part of development, but in some cases, the asymmetry can be significant, leading to body - image issues and difficulties in finding well - fitting clothes. For adults, various factors such as congenital conditions, breast masses, or previous surgeries can cause breast asymmetry.
Treating breast asymmetry typically involves a combination of medical evaluation and potential surgical intervention. A specialized team, including plastic surgeons and psychologists, may be involved to ensure the best outcome for the patient. Now, let's take a closer look at the regular hospitals in Albany that are involved in bilateral breast asymmetry correction.
Understanding Breast Asymmetry
Causes of Breast Asymmetry
In most cases, the cause of breast asymmetry is unknown (idiopathic). However, it can also be attributed to certain conditions:
- Tuberous breast deformity: This is a congenital condition where the breasts do not develop normally, resulting in a characteristic shape and often asymmetry.
- Amastia: A rare condition where one or both breasts fail to develop.
- Poland syndrome: A congenital disorder that can involve underdevelopment of the chest muscles and breast tissue on one side of the body.
- Congenital breast hypoplasia: This refers to the underdevelopment of breast tissue from birth.
- Breast mass: The presence of a tumor or other abnormal growth in one breast can cause size and shape differences compared to the other breast.
Symptoms of Breast Asymmetry
The signs and symptoms of breast asymmetry include:
- Asymmetric breasts: Obvious differences in the shape and size of the two breasts.
- Difficulty finding clothes that fit: This can be a source of frustration for many patients.
- Impaired body image: Patients may experience anxiety, self - consciousness, and a negative perception of their physical appearance.
- Scoliosis: In some cases, there may be an associated curvature of the spine.
Diagnosis of Breast Asymmetry
The diagnosis of breast asymmetry usually starts with a detailed history and physical examination. The physician will examine the patient's arms, hands, and chest to look for any associated conditions. In rare cases where a mass is suspected or there is a strong family history of breast tumors, imaging such as mammography, ultrasound, or MRI may be obtained.
The Best Hospitals in Albany for Medical Care
Overall Hospital Rankings in Albany
According to US News Best Hospitals, several hospitals in the Albany, New York metropolitan area are ranked based on their performance in complex care in medical specialties such as cancer and in common procedures and conditions like knee replacement and heart failure.
| Hospital Name | Address | Rank in Albany | High - performing in |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Peter's Hospital - Albany | Albany, NY 12208 - 1789 | #1 in Albany, NY | 2 specialties & 15 procedures/conditions |
| Albany Medical Center | Albany, NY 12208 - 3478 | #2 in Albany, NY | 13 procedures/conditions |
| Ellis Hospital | Schenectady, NY 12308 - 2425 | Not regionally ranked (alphabetical order) | 5 procedures/conditions |
Albany Medical Center's Breast Care Services
The Albany Medical Center is well - known for its comprehensive breast care services. It is part of the Albany Med Health System, which offers a full range of breast care services, including preventive, routine, chronic, and unexpected care.
The hospital provides breast care at all four of its affiliated hospitals. It is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers for services in breast ultrasound, stereotactic breast biopsy, computed tomography, and MRI. The center offers a variety of services such as:
- Mammography: Both traditional and 3D digital mammography (digital breast tomosynthesis) are available.
- Breast biopsy: 3D digital stereotactic breast biopsy, breast biopsy with needle localization, and surgical excisional biopsy are offered.
- Chemotherapy and radiation therapy: For the treatment of breast cancer.
- Breast surgery: Including lumpectomies, mastectomies (simple, modified, or skin - sparing), hidden scar lumpectomy, and hidden scar mastectomy.
- Breast reconstruction: A wide range of breast reconstruction options are available.
These services are relevant for patients with breast asymmetry, especially those who may require surgical correction or treatment for underlying breast conditions.
Top Doctors in Albany for Breast - related Conditions
Best Doctors for Breast Diseases
Healthgrades has identified several top doctors for breast diseases in Albany. These doctors have high patient ratings and can play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of breast asymmetry and related conditions.
| Doctor Name | Rating | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Carl Rosati, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Regina Resta, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 258 Hoosick St Ste 206, Troy, NY 12180 |
| Dr. Sharon Tietgens, MD | 4.90 out of 5 stars | 1365 Washington Ave Ste 300, Albany, NY 12206 |
| Dr. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Christa Abraham, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 43 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Best Doctors for Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia, or enlarged breast tissue in men, can also be a cause of breast asymmetry in male patients. Healthgrades has listed some of the best doctors for gynecomastia in Albany.
| Doctor Name | Rating | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 711 Troy Schenectady Rd Ste 206, Latham, NY 12110 |
| Dr. Casian Monaco, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
| Dr. Malcolm Roth, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 43 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Adrian Przybyla, MD | 4.60 out of 5 stars | 101 Jordan Rd Ste 103, Troy, NY 12180 |
Best Doctors for Breast Surgical Procedures
When it comes to breast asymmetry correction, surgical procedures may be necessary. Healthgrades has identified some of the top doctors for breast surgical procedures in Albany.
| Doctor Name | Rating | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Todd Beyer, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Christa Abraham, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 43 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Donna Pietrocola, MD | 4.80 out of 5 stars | 25 Hackett Blvd, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 out of 5 stars | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Ankesh Nigam, MD | 4.70 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Best Doctors for Breast Reduction
Breast reduction may be part of the treatment plan for breast asymmetry, especially when one breast is significantly larger than the other. Healthgrades has named the top doctors for breast reduction in Albany.
| Doctor Name | Rating | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Kristen Rezak, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave #11, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Casian Monaco, MD | 5.00 out of 5 stars | 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Gabriel Kaufman, MD | 4.70 out of 5 stars | 317 S Manning Blvd Ste C364, Albany, NY 12208 |
| Dr. Susan Gannon, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 455 Patroon Creek Blvd Ste 101, Albany, NY 12206 |
| Dr. Malcolm Roth, MD | 4.50 out of 5 stars | 43 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208 |
Treatment Options for Bilateral Breast Asymmetry
Non - surgical Treatment
If the breast size has changed over the past 12 months, observation is usually recommended to allow the breast size to stabilize. During this period, patients may be advised to wear properly fitting bras or other supportive garments to help with body - image and comfort. Additionally, patients may benefit from psychological counseling to address any body - image issues associated with breast asymmetry.
Surgical Treatment
If the breast size has been stable for over 12 months, surgery may be considered. The type of surgery will depend on the patient's wishes and the surgeon's assessment. The options include:
- Enlarging the small breast: This can be achieved through breast augmentation using implants or fat transfer.
- Reducing the size of the large breast: Breast reduction surgery can be performed to make the two breasts more symmetrical.
- Combination procedures: In some cases, a combination of both enlargement and reduction procedures may be required. Additionally, more than one surgery may be necessary to achieve the desired result.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are in Albany and dealing with bilateral breast asymmetry, there are several top - notch hospitals and highly rated doctors available to help you. Hospitals like St. Peter's Hospital and Albany Medical Center offer high - quality medical services, and a number of experienced doctors can diagnose and treat breast - related conditions effectively. Whether it's through non - surgical observation or surgical intervention, there are treatment options to address your concerns and improve your body image and overall well - being.
If you think you may have breast asymmetry, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with one of the recommended doctors in Albany. Don't let breast asymmetry affect your confidence any longer. Take the first step towards a more symmetrical and comfortable you by reaching out for professional help. Share this article with others who may be dealing with similar issues so that they too can benefit from the valuable information provided.
