Questions to ask before breast augmentation surgery

A good consultation is a two-way conversation, and arriving with the right questions helps you make a confident, informed decision about breast augmentation.

Worth asking: Are you board-certified in plastic surgery, and how often do you perform this procedure? Based on my anatomy and goals, what implant type, size, profile, placement, and incision do you recommend, and why? Can I see before-and-after photos of patients with a similar body and goals? What are the realistic risks for me, including capsular contracture and the need for future surgery? What does recovery look like, and what are the activity restrictions? Is the surgical facility accredited, and who handles emergencies? What is included in the price, and what would a future revision cost? Do I need a lift in addition to or instead of implants?

The surgeon's answers, and their willingness to answer patiently and honestly, including saying when a different approach suits you better, tell you as much as the content. A surgeon who educates rather than sells, sets realistic expectations, and is transparent about credentials and risks is the one to trust. Taking the time to ask these questions, and consulting more than one surgeon if you are unsure, is consistently associated with safer surgery and a result you remain happy with. The decision is significant; the questions are how you make it well.

Related reading: Fat transfer breast augmentation: implants vs. your own fat.