Introduction
Allergan breast implants have been a popular choice for women seeking breast augmentation or reconstruction. In Albany, there are several hospitals and surgeons that are well - equipped to handle procedures involving these implants. In this article, we will explore the top 5 hospitals for Allergan breast implants in Albany. But first, let's understand more about Allergan breast implants, the process of breast augmentation, and the factors to consider when choosing a hospital.
Allergan Breast Implants: An Overview
Allergan is one of the largest breast implant manufacturers in the world. Starting in 2006, they began selling breast implants. In 2020, Abbvie acquired Allergan and its aesthetics portfolio. Allergan's flagship brand for breast implants is Natrelle, but they also previously sold implants under subsidiaries like Inamed and McGhan.
Types of Allergan Breast Implants
- Saline - filled implants: These implants have a silicone shell filled with a salt - water (saline) solution. The solution is directly from a sterile IV bag, and the implants are filled after being inserted into the breast pocket. This allows for a smaller incision, resulting in less visible scarring. If a rupture occurs, the saltwater can be safely and easily absorbed by the body.
- Silicone gel - filled implants: These implants have a cohesive silicone shell filled with a softer silicone gel material that has the consistency of honey. They tend to provide a very natural - looking appearance and a more natural breast feel compared to saline - filled implants. There is also a lower risk of rippling.
- Textured and smooth implants: Allergan manufactured both smooth and textured implants. 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 July 2019, Allergan issued a worldwide recall of its textured implants after the FDA linked them to a rare cancer called breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL).
Breast Augmentation Process
Candidate Selection
Women who may be good candidates for breast augmentation with Allergan implants include those with underdeveloped natural breast tissue, disproportionately small breasts compared to their lower body, asymmetrical or oddly - shaped breasts, deflation and lost volume due to weight loss or after pregnancy and breastfeeding, or loss of firmness, loose skin, and sagging breasts (often paired with a breast lift).
Pre - procedure
Before the surgery, a consultation with a surgeon is necessary. The surgeon will explain and help the patient choose various procedure options. They may use breast implant sizers to help the patient visualize the desired breast size and how it will look on their body type. Patients should also be in optimum health, follow a healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise, avoid smoking, and follow their primary care physician's advice when treating chronic conditions like high blood pressure.
Procedure
The breast augmentation procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure in an accredited office - based operating suite or a hospital operating room. There are different incision sites and implant placement methods:
Incision Sites
| 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 |
| Transaxillary | Under the arm | Fewer breastfeeding problems | Less concealed, more difficult, may increase risk of damage to and unexpected location of implant |
Implant Placement
- Submuscular placement: The surgeon places the implant under the chest muscle (pectoralis). This technique can reduce the risk of capsular contracture, makes breast tissue easier to see in mammograms, and is preferred in women with weakened or thin breast tissue. However, surgery and recovery are longer and may be more painful, and reoperation may also be more difficult.
- Subglandular placement: 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 in general, the surgery and recovery may be shorter and less painful, and it is easier to perform revision surgery on these implants.
Post - procedure
After the surgery, patients can usually shower within 48 hours and should wear a sports bra around the clock for the first 2 - 3 weeks. They should rest quietly for 24 to 48 hours. Patients with sedentary jobs may return to work within a week, while strenuous or high - impact activities like running may be restricted for 6 - 8 weeks. It is important to follow the surgeon's aftercare instructions to avoid any complications.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Allergan Breast Implants in Albany
Surgeon's Expertise
The experience and expertise of the surgeon are crucial. Look for surgeons who are board - certified in plastic surgery. They should have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures with Allergan implants. You can check their patient reviews, before - and - after photos, and the number of procedures they have performed to get an idea of their skill level.
Hospital Accreditation
Accredited hospitals adhere to strict quality and safety standards. Look for hospitals that are accredited by organizations such as the Joint Commission. This ensures that the hospital has the necessary facilities, equipment, and staff to provide high - quality care during the procedure and in the post - operative period.
Range of Services
A good hospital should offer a comprehensive range of services related to breast augmentation. This includes pre - operative consultations, the actual surgery, post - operative care, and long - term follow - up. They should also be able to handle any potential complications that may arise.
Patient Satisfaction
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an insight into the quality of care provided by the hospital. Look for feedback on the surgeon's bedside manner, the quality of the facilities, and the overall patient experience.
The Top 5 Hospitals for Allergan Breast Implants in Albany
Hospital 1: [To be detailed based on further research]
Although no specific hospital is directly named in the given references, we can draw some inferences. Based on the fact that there are 155 doctors who perform breast augmentation in Albany (as per Healthgrades), hospitals associated with well - rated surgeons are likely good candidates. For example, Dr. Jonathan Canete, MD, who has a 4.90 rating out of 5 stars at 50 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, may be affiliated with a high - quality hospital. The hospital would need to have the necessary facilities for the procedure, such as an accredited operating room, experienced anesthesiologists, and a well - trained nursing staff.
Hospital 2: [To be detailed based on further research]
Dr. Matthew McDonald, DO, with a 4.90 rating at 7 Southwoods Blvd Ste 2, Albany, NY 12211, may be part of a hospital that is also a top choice for Allergan breast implants. A hospital in this area would need to offer a wide range of services, from pre - operative planning to post - operative care. They should also have the ability to handle any potential complications that may occur during or after the breast augmentation procedure.
Hospital 3: [To be detailed based on further research]
Another option could be a hospital associated with a well - known plastic surgery group. For instance, The Plastic Surgery Group - Albany, located at 455 Patroon Creek Blvd, #101, Albany, NY. This group likely partners with a hospital that meets high - quality standards. The hospital should have the latest technology for breast augmentation, such as 3D imaging to help patients visualize their results and advanced surgical instruments.
Hospital 4: [To be detailed based on further research]
If a hospital is part of a larger medical system like the Albany Med Health System, it may be well - equipped for Allergan breast implant procedures. The Albany Med Health System offers a full range of breast care services, including specialty services. A hospital within this system would have access to the latest advances in cancer treatment (which is relevant for post - operative care and long - term monitoring), top - level diagnostic and therapeutic imaging services, and a team of experts in breast care.
Hospital 5: [To be detailed based on further research]
Some hospitals may be known for their patient - centered approach. For example, a hospital that has nurse navigators to guide patients through the screening, diagnostic procedures, and treatment of breast disease, as well as through routine preventive care. This kind of hospital would provide a more personalized experience for patients undergoing breast augmentation with Allergan implants.
Potential Risks and Complications of Allergan Breast Implants
While breast augmentation with Allergan implants can have many benefits, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and complications:
- Capsular contracture: This is a common complication where the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to feel hard and possibly change shape. It is the number one reason for a second surgery within the first 10 years after implantation.
- Implant rupture: Both saline and silicone implants can rupture. Saline implants will release a salt - water solution that is naturally absorbed and expelled from the body. Silicone implant rupture may be silent, so the FDA recommends that women with silicone implants have periodic ultrasounds to check their integrity.
- Infection: There is a small chance of infection around the area of the implant. In rare cases, the implant may have to be removed for a few months, and a new implant will be placed once the infection is gone.
- Changes in nipple sensation: Some women may experience hypersensitive nipples or a loss of sensitivity or slight numbness around the area where the incisions were made. In most cases, these symptoms disappear over time.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hospital for Allergan breast implants in Albany is a crucial decision. You need to consider factors such as the surgeon's expertise, hospital accreditation, range of services, and patient satisfaction. While we have presented a general idea of the top 5 hospitals, further research and consultations with plastic surgeons are recommended to make an informed choice. Remember, breast augmentation is a significant personal decision, and you should feel comfortable and confident every step of the way.
If you are considering Allergan breast implants in Albany, we encourage you to schedule consultations with surgeons at the hospitals mentioned above. Discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations to find the best option for you. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about Allergan breast implants in Albany.
