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Preparing for a Breast Surgery Consultation

What to expect from a cosmetic breast surgery consultation, how to evaluate a surgeon's credentials, and the questions that help you make an informed decision.

Educational Content — Not Medical Advice
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Surgeon Credentials

Board certification is the primary credential to verify. In the US, the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) certifies surgeons who have completed accredited plastic surgery training and passed written and oral examinations. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS/ASPS) are major professional societies whose members are board-certified. Verifying board certification directly through ABPS or the American Board of Medical Specialties is the most reliable approach. International equivalents include the Royal College of Surgeons (UK/Ireland) and similar national bodies.

What Surgeons Assess

A thorough consultation involves the surgeon assessing: your breast anatomy (skin quality, tissue thickness, ptosis degree, chest wall dimensions, asymmetry); your overall health and medical history; your aesthetic goals; your lifestyle and activity level; and the realistic outcomes achievable given your specific anatomy. Be cautious of consultations that skip thorough physical examination or that promise specific outcomes without addressing your individual anatomical starting point.

Questions to Ask

  • How many procedures of this type do you perform per year?
  • What are my specific risks given my anatomy and health history?
  • What implant type, size, and placement do you recommend and why?
  • What are the realistic outcomes — including best and worst cases?
  • What is the revision rate in your practice for this procedure?
  • What does follow-up care involve?
  • Can I see before-and-after photos of similar cases?

Informed Consent

FDA requirements mandate that patients considering breast implants receive comprehensive informed consent covering: the lack of lifetime guarantee, the likelihood of future revision, BIA-ALCL risk with textured implants, BII information, rupture monitoring requirements, and all documented complications. Declining to provide comprehensive informed consent is a red flag. Take time to read and understand all consent documents before signing.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked

Questions & Answers

How do I choose a good breast surgeon?

Key factors: ABPS board certification (verifiable at abplsurg.org), fellowship training in aesthetic surgery, high procedure volume for the specific surgery you're considering, experience with your specific anatomy and goals, willingness to discuss risks thoroughly, and before-and-after photos of similar cases. Initial comfort and communication style also matter for a long-term surgical relationship.

What should I bring to a breast surgery consultation?

Bring: a list of all medications and supplements, your medical history including previous surgeries, any relevant imaging (previous mammograms), a list of prepared questions, photos of results you find appealing as a reference, and if possible, a trusted person who can help you remember information. Many surgeons offer to photograph you during consultation for surgical planning.

How many consultations should I have before breast surgery?

Most plastic surgery guidelines recommend consulting at least two surgeons before proceeding with elective breast surgery. Comparing approaches, recommendations, and communication styles helps ensure you've found the right surgical partner. There is no benefit to rushing the decision-making process for elective surgery.

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