Choosing a doctor for breast implants

 What about past issues w/ medical board? Does a full schedule and higher prices mean a surgeon does good work? I have decided to get breast implants. I am deciding between 2 plastic surgeons. The first is about 1.5 hours away. He has very nice before and after photos. The problem is I still haven't met the doctor and the office says I'll meet him on the day of surgery, or I can request a meeting before surgery, but they made it seem like this was unusual. I asked my gynecologist and she agreed that the plastic surgeons in my immediate area didn't do great natural looking implants but she suggested looking on the medical board website. The first doctor has a public record that has caused me concern. The issues were several years ago and he can pratice now but I have a bit of doubt about him. The second doctor is about 2 hours away. His before and after photos are beautiful and he has a good record with the medical board and My OB gyn knows a few people who have traveled to see him for surgery who have been happy. The problem is I want breast implants for a vacation soon and his schedule is full for 2 months. His prices are also quite a bit higher than the other offices I called in my state and the one other I visited. Is there really that much difference between plastic surgeons and their results? If I bring his photos to another doctor do you think they could give me the same result?

Sort: Date | Helpful
15 answers to “Choosing a doctor for breast implants”

A: Do your homework when choosing a breast surgeon

Gregory Turowski, MD, PhD

There are many ways to make sure the plastic surgeon you choose is the best one in your area. Definitely check his credentials; it is important he is a board certified plastic surgeon. Go to his website and do some research. You should be able to find patients testimonials after the procedures. Look at the... more

A: Don't rush your breast augmentation

Kenneth R. Francis, MD

Won't see you until surgery. Strike one. Medical board record. Strike two. Staff that makes you feel awkward about seeing the doctor before surgery. Strike three. Making a hasty decision based on vacation plans. Strike four?  Beachmom, you will have many more vacations on which to enjoy your breast... more

A: Choose the doctor that you feel most comfortable with

David Shafer, MD

NCBeachMom, My advice is to choose the doctor that you feel most comfortable with for your surgery. A doctor that is only going to see you for the first time on the day of surgery is no a good sign. You want a doctor that is going to individualize the surgery for you and communicate with you. Also, do not... more

A: Choice of breast surgeon makes a difference

Armando Soto, MD

Hi there, I would agree with my colleagues. The most important choice to make in order to achieve your goals for breast contour is your choice of surgeon. If you've seen photos of his work that pleased you, your GYN knows happy women who have seen him, and he has a good reputation, you're much more likely to... more

A: Go to the doctor who is busy for two months.

George J. Beraka, MD

Of the choices you have, the answer is obvious. This doctor showed you good results.  Your gynecologist knows he has happy patients.  And the facts that he is busy and can charge more in this bad economy tell you he has a good reputation. There can be a huge difference in results from... more

A: Breast augmentation is a complex surgery

Robin T.W. Yuan, MD

Breast augmentation is so common that most people, and doctors, assume it is a very simple procedure. In some respects, considering what procedures plastic surgeons are trained to do, it is quite easy technically. However, the decision-making process is very involved and you should be sure to spend plenty of... more

A: Do your homework, then go with your gut feeling

James C. Grotting, MD

When deciding upon a surgeon, it is important to make sure that he or she is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. If your surgeon has recenctly completed training, he or she should be board eligible It is essential that you have a "good feeling" about your doctor. You must feel... more

A: Picking your breast surgeon

Bahram Ghaderi, MD

There are some simple questions to ask when you start your search. 1. Are you board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery? 2. Do you have hospital privileges in Plastic Surgery at a local respected hospital? 3. Do you perform the surgery at a fully accredited facility? 4. Who will be... more

A: A good relationship with your doctor is critical

Shain A. Cuber, MD

Patients often travel for plastic surgery because of reputation. If that is the path you choose, you may be in for a little less formal doctor-patient relationship. That is fine for some patients, but you have to decide for yourself what is important. If you want a high chance of great results, and the... more

A: Picking the right surgeon is critical

Shahram Salemy, MD

There is not doubt that plastic surgeons vary in their skill level, experience, judgement, and bedside manner. It's important to spend some time well in advance of your surgery talking with your surgeon, and you should not feel pressure from him in regards to a timeline for your procedure. Before and after... more

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.