Scheduling your first breast augmentation consultation is an exciting step toward achieving your aesthetic goals. However, many patients feel uncertain about what to expect during this important appointment. Understanding the consultation process, knowing how to prepare effectively, and learning what questions to ask can help you make the most of this crucial meeting with your plastic surgeon.
A well-prepared consultation sets the foundation for successful breast augmentation results. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every aspect of the consultation process, from initial preparation to post-consultation decision-making, ensuring you feel confident and informed throughout your journey.
How to Prepare for Your Breast Augmentation Consultation
Research Your Surgeon's Credentials
Before your appointment, verify that your surgeon is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Board certification ensures your surgeon has completed rigorous training in plastic surgery and maintains the highest standards of patient care. Review their experience specifically with breast augmentation procedures, patient testimonials, and before-and-after photo galleries.
Take time to explore the surgeon's educational background, hospital affiliations, and any specialized training in breast surgery techniques. This research will help you feel more confident in your choice and prepare more targeted questions for your consultation.
Clarify Your Aesthetic Goals
Spend time reflecting on your specific goals for breast augmentation. Consider what aspects of your current breast appearance you'd like to improve—whether it's size, shape, symmetry, or overall proportion. The "mirror test" can be helpful: stand in front of a mirror and honestly assess what changes would make you feel more confident.
Collect reference photos that represent your desired outcome, but remember that your unique anatomy will influence your final results. Focus on finding images that show similar body types and breast shapes to yours for the most realistic expectations.
Compile Your Medical History
Gather comprehensive information about your medical background, including:
- Previous surgeries or medical procedures
- Current medications and supplements
- Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
- Previous breast imaging results (mammograms, ultrasounds)
- Any history of breast lumps or biopsies
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding history
- Current health conditions or concerns
Having this information readily available will help your surgeon assess your candidacy for the procedure and identify any potential risk factors.
Prepare Your Question List
Create a comprehensive list of questions to ensure you don't forget important topics during your consultation. Consider organizing your questions into categories such as surgeon qualifications, procedure details, recovery expectations, and costs. Writing these down beforehand helps you stay focused during the appointment and ensures all your concerns are addressed.
Plan Your Consultation Outfit
Choose comfortable, easy-to-remove clothing for your consultation. A button-up shirt or zip-up top makes the physical examination process more convenient. Avoid wearing underwire bras, as they can leave temporary marks that might affect your surgeon's assessment. Consider bringing a supportive sports bra to wear after the examination.
What to Expect During Your Breast Augmentation Consultation
Initial Discussion and Goal Setting
Your consultation will typically begin with a detailed conversation about your aesthetic goals and expectations. Your surgeon will ask about your desired breast size, shape preferences, and what aspects of your current appearance you'd like to improve. This discussion usually lasts 15-20 minutes and forms the foundation for your surgical plan.
Be prepared to discuss your lifestyle, activity level, and how you envision your results fitting into your daily life. Your surgeon will also explain the different approaches to achieving your goals and help set realistic expectations for your outcome.
Comprehensive Medical History Review
Your surgeon will conduct a thorough review of your medical history, including any factors that might affect your surgery or recovery. This includes discussing your family history of breast and ovarian cancer, previous pregnancies, breastfeeding plans, and any medications or supplements you're currently taking.
This medical assessment helps your surgeon determine your candidacy for breast augmentation and identify any special considerations for your procedure. Be completely honest during this discussion, as withholding information could impact your safety and results.
Physical Examination Process
The physical examination is a crucial component of your consultation. Your surgeon will assess your current breast anatomy, including:
- Breast size, shape, and symmetry
- Skin quality and elasticity
- Nipple position and size
- Chest wall measurements
- Overall body proportions
During this examination, your surgeon will take detailed measurements. This assessment allows your surgeon to recommend the most appropriate implant size, type, and placement for your unique anatomy.
Implant Options Discussion
Your surgeon will explain the various implant options available, including:
Implant Types:
- Saline implants: Filled with sterile salt water
- Silicone gel implants: Filled with cohesive silicone gel
- Structured saline implants: Contain internal structure for more natural feel
Implant Shapes:
- Round implants: Provide fullness in upper breast area but can also mimic natural breast shape
- Teardrop (anatomical) implants: Mimic natural breast shape
Implant Profiles:
- Low profile: Wider base, less projection
- Moderate profile: Balanced width and projection
- High profile: Narrower base, more projection
- Ultra-high profile: Maximum projection for narrow chest walls
Incision Location Options
Your surgeon will discuss the different incision approaches and recommend the best option for your goals:
- Inframammary incision: Made in the natural fold under the breast
- Periareolar incision: Made around the edge of the areola
- Transaxillary incision: Made in the armpit area
- Transumbilical incision: Made through the belly button (limited to saline implants)
Each approach has specific advantages and considerations that your surgeon will explain based on your anatomy and preferences.
Implant Placement Discussion
Your surgeon will recommend either submuscular (under the chest muscle) or subglandular (over the muscle, under breast tissue) placement based on factors such as:
- Your current breast tissue amount
- Desired implant size
- Activity level and lifestyle
- Risk of complications like capsular contracture
Essential Questions to Ask Your Surgeon
Surgeon Qualifications and Experience
- Are you board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
- How many breast augmentation procedures do you perform annually?
- Can I see before-and-after photos of patients with similar anatomy to mine?
- What is your revision rate for breast augmentation?
- Do you have hospital privileges to perform this procedure?
Procedure-Specific Questions
- What implant size, type, and placement do you recommend for my goals?
- Why do you recommend this specific approach for me?
- What are the potential risks and complications I should be aware of?
- How will you minimize scarring?
- What happens if I'm not satisfied with my results?
Recovery and Results
- What can I expect during the recovery process?
- When can I return to work and normal activities?
- When will I see my final results?
- What are the long-term maintenance requirements for my implants?
- How often will I need follow-up appointments?
Financial Considerations
- What is the total cost of the procedure, including all fees?
- What financing options are available?
- Does the fee include potential revision surgery?
- What costs should I expect for follow-up care?
Understanding the Physical Examination
Measurement and Assessment Process
During the physical examination, your surgeon will take precise measurements of your chest wall, breast width, and existing breast tissue. These measurements are crucial for determining the appropriate implant size and ensuring optimal results that complement your body proportions.
Your surgeon may use specialized tools like calipers to measure breast base width and assess skin elasticity. This technical assessment helps predict how different implant sizes will look and feel on your specific frame.
Implant Sizing Experience
Many surgeons use external sizers or "try-on" implants during the preoperative visit to help you visualize different size options. This hands-on experience can be invaluable in making your final decision, as it allows you to see how different volumes will look with your clothing and body type.
Remember that external sizers may not perfectly represent your final results, as they don't account for your existing breast tissue or the way implants settle after surgery. Your surgeon will explain these differences and help you understand what to expect.
Managing Expectations and Emotional Preparation
Setting Realistic Goals
One of the most important aspects of your consultation is establishing realistic expectations for your results. Your surgeon will explain what breast augmentation can and cannot achieve, helping you understand the limitations based on your starting anatomy.
Factors that influence your final results include your existing breast tissue, skin quality, chest wall shape, and overall body proportions. Understanding these variables helps ensure you're satisfied with your outcome and reduces the likelihood of disappointment.
Addressing Anxiety and Concerns
It's completely normal to feel anxious about your consultation and the prospect of surgery. Many patients worry about pain, scarring, or whether they're making the right decision. Your surgeon should address these concerns with patience and provide detailed information to help ease your anxiety.
Consider bringing a trusted friend or family member to your consultation for emotional support and to help you remember important information discussed during the appointment.
Timeline Considerations
Most reputable plastic surgeons require a waiting period between your consultation and surgery to ensure you've had adequate time to consider your decision. Use this time to:
- Review all information provided during your consultation
- Research your surgeon's credentials further if needed
- Consider seeking a second opinion
- Prepare financially and logistically for your procedure
- Address any remaining questions or concerns
Post-Consultation Decision Making
Evaluating Your Consultation Experience
After your consultation, take time to reflect on your overall experience. Consider whether your surgeon:
- Listened carefully to your goals and concerns
- Provided thorough, honest answers to your questions
- Made you feel comfortable and respected
- Demonstrated extensive knowledge and experience
- Offered realistic expectations rather than promising unrealistic results
A positive consultation experience often indicates you've found the right surgeon for your procedure.
Second Opinion Considerations
Seeking a second opinion is always appropriate, especially for elective cosmetic procedures. This is particularly important if you received conflicting recommendations or felt uncertain about any aspect of your consultation.
When seeking a second opinion, bring your questions list and any materials from your first consultation to ensure you can make meaningful comparisons between surgeons' recommendations.
Making Your Final Decision
Your decision should be based on multiple factors including:
- Your comfort level with the surgeon and staff
- The surgeon's qualifications and experience
- The comprehensiveness of your consultation
- The alignment between your goals and the surgeon's recommendations
- Your financial readiness for the procedure
- Your emotional preparedness for surgery and recovery
Preparing for Your Next Steps
Scheduling Your Procedure
Once you've decided to move forward, you'll work with your surgeon's team to schedule your procedure. Popular surgeons often have waiting lists, so be prepared to plan several weeks or months in advance.
Use this waiting period productively by following any pre-operative instructions, arranging for post-operative care, and preparing your recovery space at home.
Pre-Operative Requirements
Your surgeon may require additional steps before your procedure, such as:
- Updated mammogram or breast imaging
- Medical clearance from your primary care physician
- Laboratory tests or blood work
- Discontinuation of certain medications or supplements
- Smoking cessation if applicable
Financial Planning
Ensure you understand all costs associated with your procedure and have your financing arrangements finalized. Consider potential additional expenses such as special post-operative garments, medications, and time off work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a breast augmentation consultation typically last?
Most comprehensive breast augmentation consultations last 45-60 minutes. This includes time for discussion, physical examination, reviewing options, and answering questions. Some surgeons may schedule longer appointments to ensure all concerns are thoroughly addressed.
Should I bring someone with me to my consultation?
Bringing a trusted friend or family member can be helpful for emotional support and to help you remember important information. However, ensure this person supports your decision and won't interfere with your ability to communicate openly with your surgeon.
How many consultations should I have before deciding on surgery?
While there's no set number, many patients benefit from consulting with 2-3 board-certified plastic surgeons to compare recommendations and ensure they're making an informed decision. This is especially important if you receive conflicting advice or feel uncertain after your first consultation.
What if I change my mind about implant size after my consultation?
It's normal to have second thoughts about size selection. Most surgeons are happy to discuss your concerns and may offer additional sizing sessions or computer imaging to help you feel confident in your choice. Some changes can be accommodated up until your surgery date.
How soon after my consultation can I schedule surgery?
Most reputable surgeons require a waiting period (often 1-2 weeks minimum) between consultation and surgery to ensure you've had adequate time to consider your decision. Popular surgeons may have scheduling availability several weeks to months out.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Goals
Your breast augmentation consultation is the foundation of your surgical journey. By preparing thoroughly, asking the right questions, and choosing a qualified, experienced surgeon, you're setting yourself up for the best possible outcome.
Dr. Farbod Esmailian brings extensive experience and artistic expertise to every breast augmentation consultation. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Esmailian takes the time to understand your unique goals and anatomy, ensuring you receive personalized recommendations that align with your vision.
Ready to take the next step? Contact our Orange County practice today to schedule your comprehensive breast augmentation consultation. During your appointment, you'll receive expert guidance, honest recommendations, and the detailed information you need to make an informed decision about your breast augmentation journey.
