Breast Augmentation – 10 Important Questions to Ask Your Plastic Surgeon

North Shore breast enlargement should carry an extremely high level of patient satisfaction.  In the last few years, however, I have noticed an increase in the number of patients who have been referred to me because they are unhappy with the results of breast implant surgery. 

I think there are several reasons for this apparent contradiction.  First of all, the number of doctors who are marginally qualified to perform this surgery has increased.  Second, there are some individuals and organizations that have chosen to aggressively approach this field as an exercise in marketing.  The only interest is in selling a product.  No time is taken to see whether the operation is appropriate for the patient’s needs or anatomy.

Saying “no” to a patient is one of the most valuable services that a doctor can provide.  If a patient is requesting an operation that will damage her breasts down the road, or who has personal or medical reasons why this may not be the best time for surgery, then it is the doctor’s responsibility to instruct the patient as to why she should not proceed with the surgery.  To me, this is inherent in the concept of being a physician – one must always put patients’ interests first.

In our current era of hypermarketing, this role as trusted advisor is even more important.  As the advertising campaigns become increasingly glossy, as the websites become increasingly “enhanced” to promote unrealistic expectations, patients are increasingly confused about what are the realistic outcomes from this operation.  In my opinion, it is the doctor’s job to help his or her patient make a decision that is realistic, offers long-term value, and is tuned to her personal concept of beauty as well as her lifestyle.  Unless the physician and the patient take the time to establish clear communication, this result simply cannot be achieved.

To help you, I have put together a list of ten questions that anyone considering breast surgery should ask.  If you ask them of me, I would be honored.  If you ask them of another doctor, it may help you select someone who is proceeding from a true interest in your well-being.

1. What is your training and what are your credentials?

2. What is your experience in performing plastic surgery of the breast?

3. What is your artistic vision? What appeals to you the most?

4. In my particular case, what are you trying to achieve?

5. What is the accreditation of the facility where you will perform my surgery?

6. During my surgery, who will administer the anesthesia?

7. What types of breast lift surgeries do you perform?

8. What is your hospital affiliation?

9. How will the operation safeguard the natural form of my breast? 

10. Are you considering just the breast, or the whole patient?

As a final word of advice, have confidence in your instincts. There are different styles of doctors and different styles of patients.  You should continue your search if you feel you have not made a positive connection with your doctor and his or her team. Since I have been in practice in the Chicago area for many years, I have a pretty good sense of which doctors take a genuine interest in their patients’ well-being and work extremely hard to produce high-quality results. All I can tell you is this: if that little voice tells you that something isn’t quite right here, then please respect it. Shortly after your visit to the doctor’s office for consultation, give yourself a brief exit interview. Ask yourself the following questions. Did they take time to learn your health background? Do you think that the doctor has a good perception of your goals? Does he or she share your vision? If your instincts say yes and you have answered these questions in the affirmative, then it is very likely that your decision to proceed with breast augmentation surgery will be one that you’re going to be pleased with, both now and in the future.  To learn more about breast augmentation, visit here.