questions to ask during your breast augmentation consultation

Women interested in breast augmentation often meet with several plastic surgeons before deciding whether the procedure is right for them and which surgeon they want to work with. If you are considering breast augmentation but are unsure what questions to ask during your consultation, here are a few to help you get started.

ARE YOU BOARD CERTIFIED?

Your surgeon should be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Plastic surgeons certified by ABPS have undergone years of hands-on training and passed rigorous oral and written examinations. Board-certified surgeons are also required to take continuing education courses and training sessions to stay up to date on the latest practices and technology in the industry. In addition, board certification means that the surgeon performs surgery at fully accredited surgical facilities.

IS BREAST AUGMENTATION RIGHT FOR MY NEEDS AND GOALS?

Breast augmentation is just one of several cosmetic treatments available for breast enhancement. After a physical evaluation and discussion of your needs and goals, your surgeon will determine whether breast augmentation is right for you. If not, he or she may recommend alternative procedures such as breast lift. Or, he or she may recommend combining procedures to achieve your specific goals. It’s very important that you speak freely about your concerns and goals so your surgeon can create a customized treatment plan.

HOW DO I CHOOSE MY BREAST IMPLANTS?

Your surgeon will work with you to choose the breast implants that are best for you and guide you on important decisions regarding your implants, including size, projection, type (either silicone gel or saline), texture and placement (either in front of or behind the pectoral muscle). We suggest you bring photographs of women with breast results you like. You should also spend some time looking at the surgeon’s before-and-after gallery, paying special attention to women with a body type similar to yours.

WHAT TYPE OF SCARRING SHOULD I EXPECT?

Every surgical procedure leaves some degree of scarring. The length and placement of the scars will depend on several factors, including the technique and skill of the plastic surgeon who performs the procedure. There are three main incision types used for breast augmentation:

• Inframammary incision: made along the bottom of the breast (i.e., breast crease)
• Periareolar incision: made around the areola
• Axillary incision: made on the underarm

Be sure to ask your surgeon which incision technique he or she plans on using, and what steps he or she will take to minimize scarring. You should also ask what you can do to help your scars heal properly after surgery.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING RECOVERY?

Every plastic surgeon will have their own set of instructions for you to follow post-operatively. Generally speaking, most women will need to take one to two weeks off from work and all other normal activities. Some discomfort, soreness, bruising and swelling is normal immediately after surgery. A compression garment will be placed over the breasts to support them as they heal. Your surgeon may also place drains, which will need to be emptied and cleaned regularly for the first few days after surgery. Pain medication may be prescribed to you to minimize discomfort.

It’s very important that you follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully so you can heal as safely and quickly as possible. Ask as many follow-up questions as possible — the success of your breast augmentation surgery depends on it!

To learn more about breast augmentation from one of Northern New Jersey’s top plastic surgeons, Dr. Erwin Bulan, contact his practice by calling (973) 467-9744 or emailing his office today.