By Mark E. Freeman, M.D.
What type of implant is best for me and why?
There are numerous types of implants with different fills, textures, profiles and sizes. Be sure you understand the different options available and why the surgeon is recommending a certain type of implant for you. Be sure to ask about the warranty as well.
What incision or approach will be used?
There are 3 to 4 basic incisions that are used for breast augmentation. I believe that patients should be given the opportunity to choose the location of the scar. If you're not, be sure you understand why your surgeon is recommending a particular approach.
Will the implant be under or over the muscle?
There are positives & negatives to placing a breast implant either above or below the muscle. However, more & more surgeons are placing breast implants underneath the muscle to reduce capsular contracture rates, to conceal the edge of the implant and to improve mammography results. Be sure you understand & are involved in the decision of where to place the implant.
What are the restrictions for activity & work?
Every surgeon has a unique approach to postoperative care and restrictions. Ask specific questions about the amount of time that will likely be required away from work. You will also want to know the amount of time you will be required to avoid certain activities or exercises.
What are the possible complications?
No matter who your surgeon is, complications do happen on occasion. That is why it is important to find a surgeon with the proper training. You and your surgeon should have gone over a list of possible complications and what the plan will be if any of these were to occur. Be sure that your surgeon has hospital privileges at a nearby hospital in case of any significant complication.
What will the total cost of the surgery be?
Advertised prices for surgery have often conveniently left out costs for Implants, Anesthesia or Supplies. If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. When it comes to your body, you deserve only the best, it does not pay to shop for a 'bargain.' Be sure the price you were given included every possible expense. Be very wary of anyone attempting to add additional costs after your initial discussion.
Are there any financing options available?
Many surgeons offer financing for surgical procedures. If you don't have the funds immediately available, these plans are usually less expensive than allowing the amount to stay on a credit card for several months.
Are you a board-certified plastic surgeon?
Many 'cosmetic surgeons' claim to be 'board certified,' but anyone can start their own board organization or academy. The only board for plastic or cosmetic surgery recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties is the American Board of Plastic Surgery (of which I am a Diplomate). Most hospitals will only allow true board certified plastic surgeons to perform breast augmentation in their facilities. So another question to ask is “Do you have privileges to perform this surgery in a hospital?” This is a very important question to ask as many physicians unfortunately will try to cloud the issue with confusing board credentials.
Is your operating room certified?
Most cosmetic surgeries are not performed in a hospital, so be sure the facility that will be used is certified by the state and local regulatory bodies. These credentials are required to be posted by the facility. If you have any doubts, inquire specifically about the credentials of the surgery center & ask for a tour.
Who will be doing my anesthesia?
In my opinion, the safest anesthesia is performed by those trained in anesthesia. In some cases, cosmetic surgeons administer their own anesthesia to reduce costs. However, for breast augmentation, I feel you should have a medical professional dedicated to watching your vitals closely while your surgeon concentrates exclusively on the surgery.
Call Dr. Freeman's office today at 208-542-1050 or 800-575-8337 to schedule a breast augmentation consultation, or you can request an appointment online. Dr. Freeman's office is located at The Center for Aesthetics, serving Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Jackson Hole, and other communities in Wyoming and Idaho. Plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Freeman would welcome the opportunity to speak with you further about plastic surgery and to answer any of your questions concerning breast augmentation.