Breast Augmentation FAQs
1. How common of a procedure is Breast Augmentation?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number of Breast Augmentation surgeries has increased by 24% since the beginning of January 2000. In 2004, there were a total of 264,041 procedures done.
2. Why choose a plastic surgeon who is Board Certified versus one who is not?
In order for a plastic surgeon to become board certified, they have to go through a long, demanding process. It is not something that can be purchased. It is not a 6-month long process; it is a process that takes years. That is why there are so many more plastic surgeons that are not board certified. Plastic Surgeon’s willing to invest that amount of time, studying and studying more, and on top of that passing the tests, and then following the comprehensive rules set forward, in our opinion, deserve the respect that brings.
3. How is the Breast Augmentation surgery performed?
The plastic surgeon makes an incision (Note, the incision can be made in different locations of your body, depending on your preference), raising the tissue, and placing a breast implant underneath. The breast implant can be placed in one of two places. It can be placed either directly under your breasts or it can be placed under the chest muscle. The placement of the breast implants are dependent on your particular breasts, discomfort after surgery, level of activity (sports particularly) and other considerations that you should discuss with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon on your initial consultation.
4. What should I expect during my initial consultation?
Breast Augmentation is a very personal decision and the initial consultation is the most effective way for you to know if it is right for you. It is helpful for you to bring in a list of questions and concerns that can be specifically addressed. You and your breast surgeon will discuss your goals and how realistic they are. It is a very good idea to bring in before and after photos of other women with your desired results. This can give your breast surgeon a very good idea of the results you are looking for. This is also the time to discuss your preferred incision type, the type of breast implants used and both your short term and long term goals. If you are not 100% confident in the breast surgeon you should consult with another. It is probably one of the most personal decisions you will make, so you not only need to be confident it is the right thing for you, but also be confident that the breast surgeon can meet your goals.
5. A common mistake in choosing a plastic surgeon….
It is important to note that prices are different at every single breast surgeon’s location. Our recommendation is to not make a decision in choosing a breast surgeon based on price. You decision should be based solely on if that breast surgeon can meet your specific needs. However, keep your eyes open as well. It is common to find that 10 plastic surgeons are within 5% of each other’s price, and there is that one plastic surgeon who charges half of everyone else’s price. Be cautious, as that is usually a quick red flag. In no way does that mean paying less will give you worse results, it only means that your decision should never solely be based on price.
6. How much does it cost for a Breast Augmentation?
This is a simple question with a difficult answer. It completely depends. It depends on the doctor’s location, the type of breast implant used, the difficulty of the specific case and the type of incision. Overall, it is fair to say that Breast Augmentation surgeries range anywhere from $3,500 to $12,000. These costs include anesthesia, operating room facility, hospital stay if necessary and other miscellaneous expenses. In most cases, insurance usually will not cover the costs. However, do not worry.
7. What is the best way to pay?
Quite frankly, cash or credit card. However, nothing can be that simple. Breast Implants USA offers patient financing. We understand everyone has unique situations, so there are programs that have 0% APR for the first 12 months, to low rates for up to four years.
8. How long do I have to stay in the hospital?
Typically you will be at home, in the comfort of your own bed within a few hours of the surgery being performed. There is typically no need to stay the night in a hospital.
9. How long does a Breast Augmentation take?
Breast augmentation surgery typically takes anywhere from one hour to three hours. The amount of time completely depends on the type of incision being made, the type of anesthesia used and other circumstances.
10. How long does it take to fully recover from a Breast Augmentation?
We hate to be vague but this is one thing that should only be discussed with your breast surgeon. Nobody knows your specific situation and only your breast surgeon should be given the right to explain exactly what you should expect, because only the breast surgeon (and yourself) know your specific situation. When it comes to recovery, only take the advice of your expert breast surgeon.
11. I want to be sure to ask the right questions and know I will forget if I do not write them down. Do you have any?
We do have a list of common questions you can ask your plastic surgeon.
A. How long has the surgeon been doing breast augmentation?
B. Has the plastic surgeon ever had his/her medical malpractice insurance denied or revoked?
C. How many breast augmentation has the doctor done in total?
D. Is there a warranty on the implants?
E. How long will the procedure take?
F. What are the risks of having a breast augmentation? Both short term and long term?
G. What type of anesthesia will be used and who will administer it?
H. Where will the procedure be performed?
I. Does the plastic surgeon have any before and after photos to view?
J. How long will it take to recover fully?
K. What can I expect in the recovery process?
L. Is there anything I can do to make the recovery process quicker?
M. Are my goals realistic?
N. Am I a good candidate for a Breast Augmentation?
O. Are there any questions most patients asked that I have not asked?
P. How soon can I have the surgery?
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