What to Ask Before a Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries, but that doesn’t mean it’s a one-size-fits-all decision. Whether you’re considering implants or fat transfer, the choices can feel overwhelming. What size? What type? What happens in ten years? Before you book that consultation, plastic surgeons say there are a few key questions you need to ask to make sure your results line up with what you’ve been envisioning.
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Is Now the Right Time for Surgery?
Before even stepping into a surgeon’s office, Tucson, AZ plastic surgeon Raman Mahabir, MD says patients should ask themselves: Why now? “There are good and bad times to have surgery,” he explains. “Weight fluctuations can impact results, and pregnancy can also change the outcome. It’s important to be in a stable place physically and emotionally.”
Translation: If you’re planning on having kids soon or you’re in the middle of a major life transition, you may want to hit pause for now.
Implants vs. Fat Transfer: Which Is Right for Me?
There are two main options for breast augmentation: implants and fat transfer. Atlanta plastic surgeon Teri N. Moak, MD advises patients to start by figuring out which aligns best with their goals. “If you’re looking for a more natural, subtle enhancement, fat transfer is an excellent option,” Dr. Moak says. “But if you want a more dramatic size increase or a very structured shape, implants may be the better choice.”
It’s also worth considering how much fat you have to transfer—because if you’re super lean, implants may be the only way to get noticeable volume.
How Do I Choose the Best Implant Size and Shape?
Forget the “my friend got 300cc implants, so I want 300cc too” approach. Louisville, KY plastic surgeon M. Bradley Calobrace, MD says size should be based on your body, not someone else’s. “Implant size is determined by chest wall width and existing breast tissue,” he explains. “Your body structure should guide the decision, not someone else’s results.”
The type of implant also depends on the look you want. “Textured implants are rarely offered in the US due to their association with lymphoma,” Dr. Calobrace explains. “Smooth implants don’t carry that risk, and projection determines the look—ranging from round and full to teardrop and natural.”
For a better idea of what to expect, Dr. Raman Mahabir, MD recommends Vectra 3D imaging, a tool that lets patients see a realistic preview of different implant sizes and shapes on their own bodies before surgery. “It gives a very good estimate of how different implants will look, both in size and profile,” he says.
What Are the Long-Term Risks and Will I Need More Surgery?
The biggest thing people don’t ask? Implants aren’t forever. “The consent form may say there’s a 60 percent chance of future surgery, but realistically, it’s 100 percent if you live long enough,” Dr. Mahabir says. “If you’re in your 20s or 30s now, expect to have them replaced at least once, if not more.”
Dr. Moak adds that no surgery is risk-free. “I spend a whole section of my consult on ‘what can go wrong,’” she says. “It’s not about scaring patients but making sure they know that if something happens, I have a plan in place.”
Capsular contracture (scar tissue around the implant), rupture and long-term changes in breast shape are all possibilities. Dr. Moak notes you need a surgeon who’s transparent about this.
How Long Until I Can Get Back to Normal?
Surgeons say this is a major one, especially for active patients or moms. “I like my patients to be fully prepared,” Dr. Moak says. “How long until they can lift again? Pick up their kids? Return to high-impact workouts? These are things to consider before surgery.” Most patients can return to light activity within a few weeks, but high-intensity workouts and lifting (yes, even your toddler) may be off-limits for four to six weeks.
What Are Your Qualifications?
Not all surgeons are equal. Dr. Calobrace says there are two essential questions every patient should ask: “Are you a board-certified plastic surgeon by the American Board of Plastic Surgery? And how many breast augmentations have you performed in your career, and how many do you perform per year?”
A qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon can make all the difference, not just in achieving the best results but in ensuring your safety every step of the way.
