If you’re considering breast augmentation surgery, the best way to achieve the safest results is to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Doctors who are considered board certified hold a certification with the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).
ABPS certification proves:
- They’ve graduated from an accredited medical school
- They’ve completed a residency of at least five years
- They have at least three years of experience in general surgery
- They’ve actively been practicing plastic surgery for at least two years
- They’ve passed mandatory comprehensive and written examinations (these surgeons are referred to as diplomats of the ABPS)
Why You Need a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is vital to your safety and the success of your cosmetic surgery. If the doctor you choose for your breast augmentation is board certified, you can rest assured that they have the best qualifications, ample experience and documented results of their work. Moreover, ABPS diplomats have extensive skill and experience in a wide range of plastic surgery procedures.
There are a number of advantages in choosing a qualified and highly-experienced plastic surgeon to perform your cosmetic surgery. For instance, if there are any complications during surgery, an experienced plastic surgeon will be more adept at handling the situation than any other doctor. In addition, a plastic surgeon that has performed many cosmetic surgeries will have had more time to perfect their technique and results.
Reputable plastic surgeons should have privileges to perform cosmetic surgery procedures in the operating room at an accredited hospital, not just in the surgery center in their own office. They work with a highly-skilled team, including board-certified anesthesiologists, nurses, and technicians to enhance patient comfort and to provide peace of mind to the patients and their families.
Get Familiar With Their Past Patients
During your consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon, ask to see before and after photos of actual patients who have undergone cosmetic surgery by the doctor. Get patient references from the surgeon that you can speak to about their experience. Most patients are willing to share their experience regarding their surgeon, the staff, hospital, the procedure and their recovery.
Don't Forget to Use Your Intuition
One of the most important factors in choosing a plastic surgeon is your personal comfort level with the doctor. You should feel comfortable asking questions about your cosmetic surgery procedure, so that you can make an educated final decision on if you want to proceed with the surgery and/or surgeon.
Questions to Ask at Your Breast Augmentation Consult
About the Surgeon
How many breast augmentations do you perform annually?
How many of your patients have had complications?
How many revisions have you performed?
What organization has accredited your surgical suite?
Which hospitals do you have admitting privileges at?
About the Procedure
What type of anesthesia do you recommend / will you use?
Will an anesthesiologist or a CRNA administer the anesthesia?
What incision do you recommend for me?
What are the risks of the surgery for me?
Do you prescribe antibiotics after the procedure?
About Breast Implants
What type of breast implant do you recommend for me?
Do you use textured or smooth implants?
What size implants do you recommend for me?
How will my implants affect mammogram screenings?
When will I receive the device card for my implants?
About Finances
What will be the total cost of my procedure, including surgical and anesthesia fee?
How much do the implants cost?
When can I cancel without losing my deposit?
When do you start charging for post-op visits?
Are there any other costs I should be aware of?
Do you offer financing or payment plans?
Updated August 2016
