How to find the best breast augmentation surgeon?

Tracy M. Pfeifer, MD answers: How do I find the best breast augmentation surgeon?

considering breast augmentation.  who does the best quality cosmetic surgery?


Tracy M. Pfeifer, MD
16 days ago

It can be hard for patients to figure this out-understandably so.  First of all, the good news is there are many excellent surgeons.  Start with recommendations from friends and doctors; call a breast surgical oncologist (treats breast cancer) and ask them what plastic surgeon they use, ask your ob/gyn, ask everybody you can think of.  After you get some names, you should look for as a baseline:1.  Board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery; 2.  preferably a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (this usually indicates an interest in aesthetic surgery)-they have a website where you can find surgeons in your area; 3.  A surgeon who did a fellowship in plastic surgery of the breast and/or devotes most of his/her time to breast surgery.

Now you have several names and presumably since they are board certified, focus on breast and were recommended, they are technically skilled.  Now you need find out if you "connect" with the surgeon.   Schedule consultations with at least 2.  Notice how you are treated by the office staff.  Ask to look at before and after photos-this will give you some sense of the doctor's aesthetic eye and skill.  Ask to speak to patients upon whom the doctor operated.  Most importantly, make sure the surgeon spends time with you, in order to understand your goals, etc.  You should have a fairly in-depth discussion regarding size.  If you feel rushed or that your questions are not answered, move on to another surgeon.  Be sure you understand the office policies regarding revisions, as this may be necessary.  Ask about complications-if they say they never have any, be wary.  Listen to your instincts-sometimes it takes a few visits to find the right surgeon but it is worth it.

Helpful?

Request info from Dr. Pfeifer

50 words maximum (0 words entered)
Your info is protected by our privacy policy

A: For plastic surgery in general: It is a smart idea to...

Jennifer Walden, MD
27 months ago

For plastic surgery in general:

  • It is a smart idea to consult with several plastic surgeons before making such a big decision as to who to perform your surgery.
  • It is also important to find a surgeon that you feel comfortable with, listens to your desires, and spends time answering all of your questions. They must be board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
  • Go with the surgeon who is board-certified, has staff privileges at a major hospital, and makes you feel comfortable from the moment you enter his or her office for the initial consultation to the moment you leave the office after the surgery is completed.
  • He or she should be open to answering all of your questions, showing you pre- and post-operative photos of his or her work, and letting you speak to a past patient who has had the procedure done.

For breast augmentation:

  • You should discuss size, type of implant, and desired results with your surgeon prior to surgery to ensure that you are both in agreement as to your desires and expectations.
  • When considering breast augmentation, it is important to do your research. Make sure you are obtaining accurate information from a reliable source in your search.

For rhinoplasty:

  • Try to find a surgeon who performs the procedure regularly and is properly trained and credentialed to perform plastic surgery of the nose (American Board of Plastic Surgery or American Board of Otolaryngology).
10 of 13 found this helpful
Helpful?

A: I don't think that there is any one "best doctor" to choose

Steven Wallach, MD
17 months ago

I don't  think that there is any one "best doctor" to choose for most procedures.  If you are choosing a plastic surgeon, I  would check to see if the surgeon you are choosing is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and is affiliated with the American Society of Plastic Surgery and/or the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.  Once you have checked this physician's credentials, I would talk to friends who have used that surgeon and see if they were happy with their results. AS well that they were happy with their treatment by both the doctor and by his/her staff.  All these things are important.  My goal with my patients is to provide them with a great, natural result and to give them the best care and to ensure that their needs are attended to by both me and my staff.

2 of 5 found this helpful
Helpful?
Post your question

Breast implants before & after photos

SPONSORED Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.