Essential Questions to Ask Your Plastic Surgeon

Choosing a plastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you'll make in your breast surgery journey. A thorough consultation helps you understand your options, set realistic expectations, and build trust with your surgeon. Here are the essential questions to ask during your consultation.

Questions About Credentials and Experience

Are you board-certified in plastic surgery?

Board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery ensures your surgeon has completed rigorous training and meets high standards of skill and ethics. This should be your first question.

How many of these procedures have you performed?

Experience matters. A surgeon who regularly performs your specific procedure will have refined techniques and better understand potential complications and how to avoid them.

Can I see before-and-after photos of your patients?

Reviewing a surgeon's portfolio helps you understand their aesthetic style and the results you can realistically expect. Look for patients with similar body types and goals to yours.

Do you have hospital privileges?

Even if your surgery will be performed in an outpatient facility, hospital privileges indicate that a hospital has vetted the surgeon's credentials and skills.

Questions About the Procedure

Which procedure do you recommend for my goals?

A good surgeon will listen to your concerns and goals before recommending a specific approach. Be wary of surgeons who push a particular procedure without understanding your needs.

What technique will you use, and why?

Understanding the surgical approach helps you prepare for recovery and know what to expect in terms of scarring and results.

Where will the surgery be performed?

Ensure the surgical facility is accredited and equipped with proper safety measures. Ask about the anesthesia team's qualifications as well.

How long will the surgery take?

This helps you plan for the day and understand the complexity of your procedure.

Questions About Recovery

What is the typical recovery timeline?

Understanding when you can return to work, exercise, and normal activities helps you plan accordingly.

What kind of pain can I expect, and how will it be managed?

Ask about pain management protocols, including medications and techniques to minimize discomfort.

What restrictions will I have during recovery?

Know what activities to avoid and for how long. This includes lifting, exercise, sleeping positions, and wearing certain garments.

How many follow-up appointments will I need?

Regular check-ups are important for monitoring your healing. Understand what's included in your surgical fee.

Questions About Risks and Complications

What are the potential risks of this procedure?

Every surgery carries risks. A trustworthy surgeon will be honest about potential complications and how they're managed.

What is your complication rate?

Experienced surgeons track their outcomes. Don't be afraid to ask about specific complications relevant to your procedure.

What happens if I'm not satisfied with my results?

Understand the revision policy. Some surgeons include revision surgery in their initial fee; others charge separately.

How do you handle emergencies after surgery?

Know who to contact if you have concerns outside of office hours and how emergencies are handled.

Questions About Cost

What is the total cost of the procedure?

Get a comprehensive quote that includes surgeon's fees, anesthesia, facility fees, and any necessary garments or supplies.

What payment options are available?

Many practices offer financing through companies like CareCredit or Prosper Healthcare Lending.

What's included in the price?

Clarify whether follow-up visits, compression garments, and potential revision surgery are included.

Trust Your Instincts

Beyond these questions, pay attention to how you feel during the consultation:

• Does the surgeon listen to your concerns?
• Do they explain things clearly without being condescending?
• Does the staff treat you with respect and care?
• Do you feel rushed or pressured?

The right surgeon will make you feel heard, respected, and confident in your decision. Take your time, consult with multiple surgeons if needed, and choose someone you trust completely.

Preparing for Your Consultation

To make the most of your consultation:

• Write down your questions beforehand
• Bring a list of current medications
• Be honest about your medical history
• Bring photos of desired results (understanding that individual results vary)
• Consider bringing a trusted friend or family member for support

Your consultation is the beginning of a partnership with your surgeon. Ask every question you have—a good surgeon welcomes your curiosity and wants you to feel fully informed.