Breast Augmentation Consultation: Questions to Ask

Are you going to your first (or second or third) breast augmentation consultation and wondering what to ask your prospective surgeons to ensure a fabulous implant outcome? Here's a list of questions we've compiled to help you on your quest for better breasts:

1. Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?

2. How many years of plastic surgery training have you had?

3. Do you have hospital privileges to perform this procedure? If so, at which hospitals?

4. Is the office-based surgical facility accredited by a nationally- or state-recognized accrediting agency, or is it state-licensed or Medicare-certified?

5. Am I a good candidate for this procedure?

6. What will be expected of me to get the best results?

7. Where and how will you perform my procedure?

8. What surgical technique is recommended for me? Why?

9. How long of a recovery period can I expect, and what kind of help will I need during my recovery?

10. What are the risks and complications associated with my procedure?

11. How are complications handled?

12. How can I expect my breast augmentation results to look over time?

13. What are my options if I am dissatisfied with the cosmetic outcome of my breast augmentation surgery?

14. Do you have before-and-after photos I can look at for this procedure and what results are reasonable for me?

15. Do you think Cohesive silicone gel or saline breast implants would work better on my body?

16. How many cc's would you recommend?

17. What incision locations would you recommend for me?

18. Would subpectoral vs prepectoral implant position be best?

19. Will the inframammary fold be lowered?

20. What special considerations should I think about: asymmetry, tuberous/constricted breasts, etc?

21. What will my recovery be like and how much downtime can I expect?

22. What can I do to avoid capsular contracture?

Michael Law, M.D. says, "When considering breast augmentation surgery, I believe that the most important question for a prospective patient to ask themselves is this: Am I seeking a natural-appearing result? If the answer is yes, then seek out a surgeon who has the same aesthetic sensibility that you have (and appropriate training and experience). And insist on seeing `before and after' photos. A lot of them."

Dr. Richard Rand comments, "I do all my own consultations and you should look for this in a doctor." He also recommends that you use the above list as a reference toward the end of the appointment rather than charging in with rapid fire questioning.

Happy doctor hunting and, if you'd start your story in the community, we'd love to read about your process.