5 Key Questions to Ask Your Plastic Surgeon Before Breast Augmentation

Considering breast augmentation is a significant decision that involves careful research and planning. As a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast augmentation, Dr. Amy Bandy understands the importance of selecting the right surgeon for your procedure. To empower you with knowledge and confidence, let’s delve into five key questions you should ask your plastic surgeon before undergoing breast augmentation:

1. What Are Your Qualifications and Certifications?

When entrusting your body to a plastic surgeon, it’s paramount to ensure they possess the necessary qualifications and certifications:

• Board Certification: The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) certification signifies rigorous training and adherence to high standards of safety and ethics in plastic surgery.
• Training and Experience: Inquire about the surgeon’s specialized training in breast augmentation procedures, including any fellowships or additional education.
• Continuing Education: Ask about their commitment to staying updated with the latest advancements in breast augmentation techniques and technologies through ongoing education and training.
• Membership: Membership in prestigious organizations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) demonstrates a dedication to professional excellence and ethical practice.

2. What Breast Augmentation Techniques Do You Offer?

Breast augmentation is not a one-size-fits-all procedure; therefore, it’s essential to discuss the various techniques and options available:

• Implant Types: Explore the differences between saline, silicone, and cohesive silicone gel (often referred to as “gummy bear”) implants, considering factors such as feel, appearance, and durability.
• Incision Options: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different incision placements, including inframammary (under the breast fold), periareolar (around the areola), and transaxillary (in the armpit).
• Implant Placement: Understand the benefits of submuscular (under the chest muscle) and subglandular (over the chest muscle) implant placement in terms of aesthetics, implant visibility, and long-term results.
• Sizing Considerations: Your surgeon should guide you through the process of selecting the appropriate implant size based on your body proportions, desired outcome, and lifestyle.

3. Can I See Before and After Photos of Your Previous Patients?

Examining before and after photos of previous patients allows you to assess the surgeon’s skill, artistry, and ability to achieve natural-looking results:

• Diverse Portfolio: Request to see a diverse range of before and after photos, including different breast shapes, sizes, and surgical techniques, to ensure the surgeon’s versatility and proficiency.
• Consistency: Look for consistency in the quality of results across various patients, indicating the surgeon’s ability to achieve reliable outcomes.
• Patient Satisfaction: Pay attention to patient testimonials and reviews accompanying the photos, providing insights into the overall patient experience and satisfaction with the results.
• Realistic Expectations: Use the photos as a reference point to discuss your aesthetic goals and ensure they align with what is realistically achievable through breast augmentation.

4. What Is Your Approach to Patient Care and Safety?

Beyond surgical skill, your plastic surgeon’s commitment to patient care and safety is paramount to a successful breast augmentation experience:

• Comprehensive Consultation: Emphasize the importance of a thorough preoperative consultation, during which your surgeon should conduct a comprehensive medical evaluation, discuss your goals and expectations, and address any concerns or questions you may have.
• Individualized Treatment Plan: Your surgeon should tailor the treatment plan to your unique anatomical features, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences, ensuring personalized and optimal results.
• Accredited Facility: Inquire about the accreditation and safety protocols of the surgical facility where the procedure will be performed, ensuring adherence to strict standards for cleanliness, equipment, and emergency preparedness.
• Anesthesia Expertise: Discuss the qualifications and experience of the anesthesia provider who will administer anesthesia during the procedure, prioritizing safety and comfort throughout the surgical process.
• Postoperative Care: Understand the surgeon’s postoperative care plan, including follow-up appointments, instructions for incision care and activity restrictions, and availability for addressing any concerns or complications that may arise during the recovery period.

5. What Are the Risks and Complications Associated with Breast Augmentation?

While breast augmentation is generally safe and effective, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks and complications:

• Informed Consent: Your surgeon should provide detailed information about the risks associated with breast augmentation, including infection, bleeding, implant rupture, capsular contracture (scar tissue formation around the implant), changes in nipple sensation, and potential need for revision surgery.
• Risk Assessment: Discuss any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, or lifestyle factors that may increase your risk of complications or affect your candidacy for breast augmentation, allowing for a thorough risk assessment and informed decision-making process.
• Preventive Measures: Your surgeon should outline preventive measures and strategies implemented to minimize the risk of complications, such as antibiotic prophylaxis, meticulous surgical technique, and adherence to postoperative care instructions.
• Emergency Preparedness: Inquire about the surgeon’s protocols for managing unforeseen complications or emergencies during or after the procedure, ensuring prompt and effective intervention if needed.

Call Dr. Amy Bandy Today!

Don’t hesitate to reach out to schedule a consultation with Dr. Amy Bandy, to discuss your breast augmentation goals and address any concerns you may have. Call 949-868-8839 to take the first step towards enhancing your confidence and achieving the look you desire.

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