Breast Enlargement Questions – Most Frequently Asked & Questions You SHOULD Ask

Opting to have cosmetic surgery will be one of the biggest decisions you will ever make. From arranging your finances to finding the right surgeon for you – there is a lot to consider before you can get excited about your boob job.

Like many people considering breast augmentation, you probably have a lot of questions to ask. We’ve drawn on the expertise of our doctors to bring you the following answers to the most frequently asked questions.

 1.   How Safe Are Implants?

Extensive research has been carried out into breast implants. One of the most comprehensive studies (IRG 1998) found no scientific relationship between silicone gel implants and immune reactions, long-term illness or specific connective tissue disease. The Department of Health continues to monitor new scientific evidence on breast enlargement surgery.

2.   Do The Implants Ever Rupture?

It is virtually impossible for silicone implants to rupture spontaneously. In the unlikely event that this does occur (due to a strong force as in a car accident) the gel-like nature of the filling means that the substance will stay in place and will not leak or migrate outside the casing, so removal is easy.

3.   How Long Do Implants Last?

Many of our patients have the idea that implants have a defined “shelf-life” of around 10 years. This is not true, and we would never advise routine replacement for the sake of it. The average life expectancy of an implant is probably closer to 15-17 years, but this will depend on many factors. Your plastic surgeon can advise you of these.

4.   I’ve Heard Implants Increase The Risk Of Breast Cancer. Is This True?

There is absolutely no known association between breast implants and cancer of the breasts. Breast implants may interfere with the ability of x-rays to detect the early signs of breast cancer. It is vital that you tell your radiographer you have implants so that they can screen using a different technique.

5.   Will Implants Affect My Ability To Breastfeed?

Implants do not affect breastfeeding and it is possible for a woman to still breastfeed. Breast implants are placed beneath the gland of the breast, so they don’t interfere with the process of lactation. There’s also no evidence to suggest that silicone breast implants will harm your baby in any way. However, for more details ask your surgeon about the safety of breastfeeding with implants.

Besides the above common questions, you should always make sure to ask your plastic surgeons any of the applicable questions below in your consultation:

Questions For Your Surgeon

How long have you been performing breast implant surgery?

How many breast augmentation surgeries do you perform a year/month?

Are you/is my surgeon certified by the Board of Plastic Surgery?

On average, how many your breast surgery require revisions?

Have any medical malpractice suits been brought against you or the facility?

The Plastic Surgeons Past Work

Do you have any before and after photos I can look at?

Do you have any testimonials from past clients that I can see?

What if I don’t like the results of my breast augmentation surgery, what can I do?

Is there a risk of nerve damage to my nipples or breast?

What is the guarantee for this procedure, and what fees do I have to pay if I experience any problems?

Surgery Preparation

Are silicone or saline implants better for me — why?

What breast size do you recommend for my body type?

Do you recommend an alternative or additional surgery for better results? Such as a breast lift?

Are there any diet/lifestyle changes that are needed before breast implant surgery?

Will any of my regular medication affect the anesthesia/surgery? (It’s important to tell your surgeon of any medications you’re on)

The Breast Implant Procedure

Which type of anesthesia will be used? (local or general?) Will a certified anesthesiologist be administering this?

Where will my breast implant surgery take place? Is the clinic or practice accredited?

If there is a life-threatening emergency, Is the practice set up to deal with this?

In the event of any problems, which hospital would I be taken to?

Complications, Side Effects and Risks

What are the possible risks of breast implant surgery?

Is it possible to prevent breast implants from rupturing, rippling, or wrinkling?

Are there possible breast implant complications that I should be aware of?

If I have any complications, what is your policy? Do you cover expenses? Do you recommend a cosmetic surgery complication insurance policy?

Recovery From Surgery

How long will it take to heal from the procedure?

What do you recommend to speed up healing? Including bruising, pain or any swelling?

How long will I need off from work?

How soon can I get back to exercising post-surgery and at what intensity?

If I have an emergency after going home, how can I reach you/the plastic surgeon?

Financial Questions

If I may need a revision to my surgery, is that included in the price?

What is included in the fee for this procedure? What isn’t?

If removal of implant is needed, is this included in the cost?

If there are any complications after breast augmentation surgery, is that included in the fee?

Is finance offered for this breast augmentation procedure?

What is the deposit, if any and when is full payment due?

What if I change my mind before surgery?

Do you accept credit cards/other forms of payment?

Be sure to ask these questions and whichever else you need to in order to feel comfortable with your breast surgery

Posted In: Body Treatments Blogs

Written By: Dr Azhar Aslam