Most women arrive at the decision to undergo breast augmentation after thorough research. Even if they’ve been dreaming of enhancing their figure for years, they conduct careful research to make sure it’s the right choice and find potential plastic surgeons that are most likely to deliver safe, effective, and personalized care that results in a successful outcome.
Research and internet searches only go so far, so now it’s time to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to ask questions and determine if you feel comfortable and confident in their care. What can you expect at your breast augmentation consultation? Here are a few questions and things to have ready for your breast consultation.
Care and Compassion
Many patients feel understandably awkward talking to a stranger about this sensitive issue, which is why you want to look for a doctor and staff that are kind, outgoing, and caring, to put you at ease. You need to feel welcomed by office staff and you want a doctor who listens carefully and suggests treatments based not only on expertise, but on your wants, needs, and preferences. If you feel comfortable and you have confidence in the professionals serving you, you’ll have an overall better experience.
Medical History
Typically, a consultation will start with a thorough medical history that includes gathering information about your current state of health, medications you’re taking, past surgical procedures and/or serious medical issues, lifestyle habits (exercise, smoking, etc.), and so on. For a breast augmentation consultation, particular attention is paid to past mammograms, breast biopsies, and family history of breast-related health concerns, for example.
Discussing Anticipated Results
Patients interested in breast augmentation usually conduct their own research prior to the consultation and may have a lot of ideas about what they want, as well as questions and concerns. The consultation is an opportunity for doctor and patient to collaborate and create a plan.
Once the doctor understands what you know, what you want, and what your concerns are, they can fill in any blank spots concerning what to expect from your surgical procedure and discuss the results you can get from different sizes, shapes, and types of implants, as well as placement options. Viewing before-and-after photos of previous work can provide a visual estimation of what is possible with different options.
Be sure to bring up any questions or concerns you may have during this discussion. This is your chance to fully understand what the procedure entails, what the recovery process is like, and what you can expect following breast augmentation.
Physical Exam
The consultation includes a physical examination. This is necessary for your plastic surgeon to get a clear understanding of your anatomy and what is possible. Every person’s body is different, and a knowledgeable and experienced doctor will consider your medical history, your body proportions, and any potential risk factors that could impact final results when making recommendations about your procedure. Measurements will be taken during the physical examination.
Making a Plan
Your plastic surgeon wants to deliver the best possible results, and while this involves working with you to come up with a plan you’re happy with, it may also include tempering your expectations so you understand what is possible and what is likely to help you look and feel your best at the end of the day. Keep in mind, this is a big decision, and it’s not uncommon for a doctor to ask you to take some time to think over everything that’s been discussed before you commit to breast augmentation.
When you’re ready to enhance your appearance with breast augmentation, contact the qualified and caring team at Beverly Fischer, MD and The Advanced Center for Plastic Surgery at 410-308-4700 or online to schedule a consultation and learn more.
