Deciding to have breast augmentation surgery is a big decision, impacting how your breasts look and feel for the rest of your life. I feel strongly that the best patient is a well-informed patient. The more information you have about this potentially life-changing surgery, the more realistic your expectations will be and the more satisfied you will be with the results. For more information on breast augmentation, download our free fact sheet!
Before breast augmentation surgery, a no-fee consultation
Before performing breast augmentation surgery, I offer a no-fee consultation, lasting approximately 45-60 minutes. I thoroughly answer all of your questions so that you are completely comfortable before leaving the office. During this consultation, I typically:
- review your medical history
- discuss your goals and expectations
- perform an examination including breast measurements
- review the details of the procedure
- explain procedure options, including:
- saline vs. silicone implants
- round vs. teardrop shape implants
- incision location (above or below the muscle implant location)
- recovery time
- what your “new” breasts will look like post-surgery
- cost
To help you decide which breast size would best suit your body and desired goals, I will ask you to bring photos to the consultation of women’s breast sizes that illustrate the results you’re looking for. I also have breast implant samples which you can insert into your bra to help you decide which breast size would best suit you.
My answer on RealSelf.com to a breast augmentation consultation question
A woman in Tennessee recently asked this question to RealSelf.com:
“What can I expect from my breast augmentation consultation?”
Here is my answer:
Most importantly, you should be certain to start your consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon. During your consultation, you should cover:
- The current shape of your breasts, including any size or shape differences
- Your desired size and shape
- The type of implant you would prefer
- The incision location you would prefer
- The recovery period
- Relevant risks and potential complications
8 important questions to ask your plastic surgeon before getting breast augmentation surgery
During the pre-surgery consultation, it’s also very important for you to ask me questions. Here are some to keep in mind to ask me:
- Are breast implants safe?
Yes. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a variety of saline, silicone and gummy gel implants after years of clinical trials and studies to assure their safety. Some women with breast implants and many women without breast implants have developed connective tissue or other diseases. There is no current evidence to support a link between implants and these diseases. Breast implants, however, like any surgical procedure are not without risks and during your consultation with me, we will review these in detail. - Are you board certified and if so, by which board(s)?
Before undergoing breast augmentation, it’s very important to make sure your plastic surgeon is qualified to perform this highly specialized surgery. He/she should be board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) as well as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS). I am board certified by ABPS and a member of both organizations. - What sort of facility do you operate in?
Almost all cosmetic surgery is performed outside of a hospital. However, not all outpatient facilities are created equal. I perform all of my cosmetic surgery in the Surgical Specialty Center of Westchester, a state-of-the-art 4-operating-room, 11-recovery-bed ambulatory surgery center. Our center meets the New York Department of Health standards for Hospitals under Article 28, and this is what I insist on in my private practice. - How experienced are you in performing breast augmentation?
You certainly do not want your plastic surgeon to be “practicing” on you and your breasts. In my opinion, he/she should have performed hundreds of successful breast augmentation procedures, optimally for 10 years or more. Ask to see “before and after” pictures (untouched). - Which is the best size implant for me?
The size of a woman’s breast implants completely depends on the individual. The best size for you may not the best solution for your friend. Do you want a subtle enlargement or much larger, much more noticeable cleavage? When I consult with a patient before breast implant surgery, I take into consideration her overall build, chest circumference, shoulder width, height, weight and original breast size. Then we discuss the results she is hoping to achieve. - How long does the surgery take?
Breast augmentation is a fairly standard procedure that takes between 30 and 40 minutes. You will be able to go home the same day, although someone else will have to drive. - How long is the recovery?
After breast augmentation, most women return to work and light activity within one week. - How long do implants last?
Typically, there is no need to replace breast implants unless issues arise.
Considering breast augmentation?
If you are thinking about having breast implant surgery and would like to schedule a free consultation, please contact me and I will send you additional information prior to your appointment. I will assess the current appearance of your breasts, your reasons for wanting surgery, and your expectations. Then together, we will decide which options will bring you the results you’re looking for.
Seeing is believing
To see unretouched “before and after” photos of actual patients of mine who have had successful breast augmentation, please visit the Breast Augmentation page in the Photo Gallery section of my website.
If you already have breast implants, please come see me
If it has been a few years (or more) since your breast augmentation surgery, it’s important to get them checked. I highly recommend doing this once a year. Please make an appointment to come in and see me so I can check for any problems.
More information on breast implant surgery
You might also find these pages helpful on my website:
- Breast Procedures
- Breast Augmentation
- Breast Lift
- Breast Reconstruction
- Breast Reduction
- Breast Revision
Board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), Samuel J. Beran, MD is a highly accomplished plastic surgeon with offices in Manhattan, Harrison and Mount Kisco, NY. With more than 20 years’ experience and a thorough command of the most advanced techniques and technologies, Dr. Beran consistently provides his patients with the highest level of plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, face, skin and body. Recently, Dr. Beran was named a “Top Doctor” by RealSelf for his dedication to responding to consumer questions and patient feedback. The “Top Doctor” designation is awarded to less than 10% of the RealSelf physician community.
