Questions To Ask About Breast Implants

Have you considered getting breast implants but were too intimidated to start the process? There are two crucial steps to take when starting the process - choosing a qualified plastic surgeon and asking the right questions. It is a sad fact that anyone with a medical degree and a license to practice medicine can call themselves a plastic surgeon. Do you want someone who specializes in podiatry doing your breast augmentation surgery or performing your brow lift? You need to educate yourself to ensure a positive outcome.

So how do you find a plastic surgeon who is a board certified plastic surgeon and not just a doctor performing random plastic surgeries? Check whether they have a plastic surgeon's certification and experience. You can check with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) online at www.plasticsurgery.org to verify their status. If the surgeon you are interested in is not a member, then that should be a warning sign to look elsewhere.

What type of training do board certified cosmetic surgeons have that non-board certified members do not have? At the very least, they must have completed a two or three-year training program in aesthetic plastic surgery from an approved medical school. Members of the board of plastic surgeons are qualified to perform reconstructive, plastic, cosmetic or aesthetic surgery.

After you have chosen a surgeon you are happy with, the next step is your first office visit. You will be asked to complete a medical history questionnaire for your surgeon to review. It is critical that you take up most of this first visit asking him or her questions. Here are some typical questions you should ask during your consultation regarding breast implants.

There are several standard questions you should inquire about during your first cosmetic surgery consultation. These include how often the surgeon has performed breast augmentation surgery? At what hospital or facility will the surgery be performed? What medical tests need to be performed before the procedure, and are they included in the price that is quoted? How long does this procedure take? What type of anesthetic will be used; general or local? What are the side effects, if any? What type and level of pain should be expected and what pain medications are used to treat it? How long after breast augmentation surgery can I return to work? How much will the breast augmentation cost?

Another important question to ask is about complications. If any should occur during your procedure, are there emergency resources ready? Getting breast implants is a serious medical procedure. It is recommended that you research your cosmetic surgeon's credentials and patient feedback before committing to any type of surgery. Knowing your surgeon is prepared in the event of an emergency will give you one less thing to worry about if you choose to have this procedure.