When searching for a cosmetic surgeon for breast augmentation, you should ensure that the surgeon is board certified in Cosmetic Surgery / Plastic Surgery. Both can provide excellent results. Next, check out their website for their before and after photos to make sure they are what you're looking for. Finally, consult with the surgeon and get a feel of his demeanor, talent, and amicability to relate well with you. You should feel comfortable and happy working with your chosen professional.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Thanks for your question! There are a lot of important factors to consider when you look into a surgeon to perform your breast augmentation.

First and foremost, I would be sure that he or she is board-certified (by the American Board of Plastic Surgery). In terms of experience, I would make sure that breast augmentation is the most common surgery that the surgeon performs. It's also important that your surgeon fully educates you on all of the options in breast augmentation (incision choice, location of the implant, and the type of implant). In our practice, we have found that patients also find our Vectra 3D imaging system to be really helpful in guiding the decision-making process for implant type and size, so I would recommend that you find a surgeon that offers that as well.

Best of luck!

Published on Jul 11, 2012

There are several things you should be looking for. First, is that plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery? Does he have surgical privileges in a local major hospital? Does he have experience in the procedures that you wish and does he listen to what you want done?

Published on Jul 11, 2012

You need to explore the training and experience of someone who is going to perform your breast augmentation. Communication is of tremendous importance- you and the surgeon have to be on the same page as to the plan and the objective. That can only be achieved by an in person consultation. You need to develop a relationship with someone you trust will do everything possible to optimize the outcome, and trust is very intuitive. Finally, ask around- your gynecologist, family doctor, the radiologist who does your mammogram.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Thank you for your question. It is very important to do research prior to choosing your plastic surgeon. Make sure that your surgeon is a board certified plastic surgeon who can show you examples of his work (has experience in the procedure that you are wanting).

It's also a good idea to see if you can talk to patients who have had a similar procedure to hear directly from the patient.

These days, online research is a great option!
Best wishes!

Published on Jul 11, 2012

What to ask before undergoing cosmetic surgery?

1. Do the benefits exceed the risks?
This is a real surgical procedure with real medical/surgical risks. A potential patient should be very familiar with the procedure in question as well potential benefits/possible complications. Patients are urged not to rush into any procedure until they have done their due diligence. Consult with your board certified plastic surgeon to determine whether you are a reasonable (i.e. “safe” candidate for surgery).

2. Cosmetic surgery is not a shortcut? Nor a fast-forward.
So you have decided to undergo cosmetic surgery? Have you explored non-surgical alternatives i.e. diet, exercise etc? Cosmetic surgery is meant as an adjunct to a healthy lifestyle whose goal it is to enhance/improve your appearance. Additionally, younger patients should not consider cosmetic surgery until development is complete.

3. Do you have realistic expectations?
Cosmetic surgery, while capable of dramatic changes, has its limits. A potential patient must take the time to complete an honest self-assessment. Why are you pursuing cosmetic surgery? Is this intervention likely to achieve the results you are seeking? Your board certified plastic surgeon can give you an honest evaluation and provide a reasonable assessment of outcome.

4. Is this procedure going to change your life?
Cosmetic surgery can do many things. However, it is important to understand what it cannot do. Cosmetic surgery is not a means to an end i.e. wealth, romance, self esteem. None of these things are rooted in external beauty/appearance. Patients pursuing surgery for similar reasons are likely to be disappointed.

5. Know your plastic surgeon!
There are numerous practitioners of plastic surgery. However, only a select few are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties). Board certification ensures completion of a rigorous training program of at least 6 years (with at least 3 years of dedicated plastic surgery training. Board certified surgeons have also completed written and oral examinations to determine competency and participate in a continuing medical education programs as a prerequisite of maintaining certification. Ultimately, certification ensures a measure of certainty when comparing surgeons. You can be assured that your board certified plastic surgeon has seen and treated it all before and is uniquely qualified to manage you pre-operatively, intra-operatively, and most importantly post-operatively.

6. Know your OR!
Patients should ensure that the procedure that they are undergoing is being performed in AAAASF or Medicare/JCAHO approved facility. This will ensure that the highest standards of safety are being adhered to.

Published on Jul 11, 2012