An usual question

[Tatarxox]

Dr. Mele,

I was sitting here reading some of the post. Nothing specific. I had a random thought for one of the listed surgeons. Tonight, you were the chosen one..

"If you had a sister or any female relative, would you advise her against having a breast augmentation?" If so why? Aside from the standard risk ie cc, bottoming out, etc. Same goes for if you advised her to go forward with it..aside from the obvious reason of her desires, would you add anything to the pros of having it done?

I am "somewhat" of the opinion that, although some/most surgeons enjoy their profession, it is possible that some surgeons may be completely opposed to the procedures; therefore, performing the surgeries specifically for income. I would not say this is by any means unethical. The surgeons that I know of are very honest, "to my knowledge", about the risk.

Please, feel free to be candid. I appreciate your input. Thank you.

[Dr. Mele]

Dear Tatarxox:

Are you are you a reporter? Is this a trick question? It would be unethical for a surgeon perform surgery, for money or any other reason, that they knew to be harmful.

I treat every patient in my office as family. I advise against procedures when the medical risks or expectations are too high. I advise for procedures when they will accomplish to desired goals and have the greatest chance of making my patients happy. This applies to reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery, but also applies to life in general.

The primary goal after cosmetic surgery is that people are happy. To reach this goal a careful medical history is taken, a focussed physical exam is performed, expectations are evaluated and the options are discussed. Only after an informed decision to proceed has been made by the patient, will surgery be performed.

Breast augmentation is a safe and effective procedure. It is not perfect. The risks are discussed frankly, and the decision to proceed has to be mutual. My role as a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon is to provide professional guidance and be certain the I am doing everything in the safest and most predictable manner available. When I am certain this is the case, I am willing to proceed.

I hope this answers your question.

[Tatarxox]

Dr. Mele,

No, I am not a reporter. I appreciate your response. I was only looking for a "personal" perspective aside from the "professional" aspect, as a surgeon.

With you stating that it is "a safe and effective procedure", I would understand this to mean you would absolutely be supportive of the female member of your family, hypothetically.

Although I do agree that this type of surgery is not perfect, I do want to incorporate that not only does this procedure require medical expertise, but an artistic ability as well. I thank you for your time.