Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that increases the size and shape of the breasts. It can be performed for a variety of reasons, including to enhance one’s appearance, improve breast symmetry, or restore volume lost after pregnancy or weight loss. The surgery typically involves placing an implant behind each breast to add volume and shape.
The decision to have breast augmentation should not be taken lightly. Before undergoing the procedure, it is important to understand all aspects of the surgery, such as board certification, anesthesiologist availability, implant sizing, best surgical outcomes, scarring, preparing for consultation and finding the right surgeon. This article will provide an overview of these topics so you can make an informed decision about having breast augmentation surgery.
Board Certification
Board certification is an important factor to consider when choosing a plastic surgeon. Board certified plastic surgeons have undergone rigorous training and testing in the field of plastic surgery, and they are held to the highest standards of medical practice. Board certification also ensures that the surgeon has been evaluated by their peers and is qualified to practice medicine safely and effectively.
When researching potential surgeons, it is important to confirm that they are board certified in plastic surgery by either the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC). The ABPS is recognized as the only certifying board for plastic surgeons in the United States, while the RCPSC is recognized as a certifying board for Canadian surgeons.

American Board of Plastic Surgery
The American Board of Plastic Surgery is responsible for certifying physicians who specialize in plastic and reconstructive surgery. To become board certified, a physician must complete a minimum of six years of surgical training following medical school, including at least three years specifically dedicated to plastic surgery. Additionally, applicants must pass written and oral examinations administered by the ABPS before being granted certification.
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada is responsible for certifying physicians who specialize in plastic surgery in Canada. To become board certified, a physician must complete at least five years of specialty training following medical school, including at least two years specifically dedicated to plastic surgery. Additionally, applicants must pass written exams administered by the RCPSC before being granted certification.
It is important to note that not all physicians who perform cosmetic procedures are board certified; some may only be licensed to practice general medicine or have received additional training from non-accredited programs. Therefore, it is essential to verify that your chosen surgeon is board certified before undergoing any type of procedure. Doing so will help ensure that you receive safe and effective care from a qualified professional.
Board certification is an important factor to consider when choosing a plastic surgeon, ensuring the highest standards of medical practice and safety. American Board of Plastic Surgery requires six years of surgical training including three specifically for plastic surgery; Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada requires five years with two dedicated to plastic surgery.
Anesthesiologist Availability
The availability of an anesthesiologist is a key factor when considering any type of surgery. An anesthesiologist is responsible for monitoring the patient’s vital signs during surgery and administering appropriate medications to ensure the patient’s safety. The availability of an anesthesiologist should be discussed prior to scheduling the procedure, as it will impact the cost and duration of the surgery.
Availability During Surgery
An anesthesiologist should be available throughout the entire duration of the surgery. This ensures that the patient’s vital signs are being monitored and that any necessary medications can be administered in a timely manner. Furthermore, if complications arise during surgery, having an anesthesiologist present can help to minimize risks and potential complications.
Availability After Surgery
After surgery, it is important for the patient to have access to a qualified medical professional in case any post-operative issues or reactions occur. An anesthesiologist may be able to provide advice on how to manage post-operative pain and other symptoms that may arise after surgery. Additionally, they can help monitor vital signs and administer medications if needed.
In conclusion, when considering any type of surgical procedure, it is important to discuss with your doctor or surgeon about their availability of an anesthesiologist throughout both the duration of surgery and aftercare period. Having access to a qualified medical professional throughout this process can help ensure optimal outcomes for patients undergoing any type of surgical procedure.
Availability
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During Surgery
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After Surgery
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Anesthesiologist Responsibility
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Monitor vital signs and administer medications in a timely manner. Minimize risks and potential complications.
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Provide advice on managing post-operative pain and other symptoms. Monitor vital signs and administer medications if needed.
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Implant Sizing
When considering breast augmentation, implant sizing is one of the most important factors to consider. It’s important to have realistic expectations about what size you want your breasts to be and how that size will affect your overall look. The size of the implants used in breast augmentation can range from very small to very large, so it’s important to discuss with your surgeon what size will be best for your body type and desired outcome.
Choosing an Implant Size
When choosing an implant size, there are several factors to consider. Your body frame and chest wall measurements will play a role in determining the right size for you. Additionally, the amount of existing breast tissue can also influence the size of the implants used. Your surgeon will also take into account your desired aesthetic outcomes when recommending a particular implant size.
A common method for choosing an implant size is to use a sizing system. This system uses different sized sizers filled with saline solution or silicone gel that you can try on under clothing to get an idea of what each implant size looks like on your body. Many surgeons offer this service during consultations so that patients can get a better understanding of how they would look with different sized implants.
Risks & Complications
It’s important to understand that larger implants may carry more risks and complications than smaller ones due to their increased weight and volume. Large implants may cause more stretching of the skin and tissue, which could lead to long-term sagging or other issues such as rippling or asymmetry over time. Additionally, larger implants may not fit properly within the chest cavity, leading to unnatural looking results or discomfort.
It’s also important to note that some women may experience difficulties breastfeeding after having larger implants inserted due to changes in mammary gland anatomy or damage caused by the surgery itself. For this reason, it’s recommended that women who plan on having children in the future opt for smaller implant sizes if possible.
Ultimately, discussing all potential risks associated with different sized implants with your surgeon prior to making any decisions is essential in order to ensure a safe and successful procedure with optimal results.
When considering breast augmentation, implant sizing is an important factor to consider and should be discussed with your surgeon. Larger implants may carry more risks and complications than smaller ones due to their increased weight and volume.
Best Surgical Outcomes
When considering any type of surgery, the best surgical outcomes are a top priority. To ensure that patients receive the highest quality care and results possible, there are several factors to consider when selecting a surgeon. The most important factor is board certification. A board-certified surgeon has completed an extensive training program and has been certified by a medical body in their specialty. This means they have the experience and knowledge to provide safe and effective care.
The availability of an anesthesiologist is also important for ensuring the best surgical outcomes. An anesthesiologist will be responsible for administering anesthesia prior to the procedure and monitoring vital signs throughout the surgery. This ensures that patients remain comfortable and safe during the operation.
Implant sizing is another important factor in achieving successful surgical outcomes. It is essential that implants are correctly sized to ensure optimal aesthetic results for the patient. The surgeon should discuss implant size with the patient before surgery to ensure they are happy with their decision.

In addition to these factors, surgeons should also take into account other elements which may affect surgical outcomes such as scarring, recovery time, and post-operative care instructions. To reduce scarring, surgeons should use minimally invasive techniques such as laser technology or endoscopic procedures whenever possible. Additionally, they should provide detailed instructions on how to manage pain, swelling, and any other aftercare needs following surgery.
Finally, it is important for patients to do their research before selecting a surgeon for their procedure in order to find one who meets all of their criteria for achieving successful surgical outcomes. Patients can read reviews from past clients or speak directly with their potential surgeon about their qualifications and experience before making a decision.
Preparing for Consultation
Once a patient has found a qualified surgeon who meets all of their criteria for best surgical outcomes, it is important to prepare well for the consultation appointment ahead of time. Patients should come prepared with questions about safety protocols, anesthesia options, recovery expectations, implant sizing considerations, and any other relevant topics related to their procedure so they can make an informed decision regarding treatment options moving forward.
Find Your Surgeon
Finding a qualified surgeon who meets all of one’s criteria for best surgical outcomes can seem like an overwhelming task at first but it doesn’t have to be! With some research and preparation beforehand, patients can easily identify a skilled professional who can safely perform their desired procedure with excellent results in mind.
Factor
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Description
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Board Certification
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Completion of extensive training program and certification by medical body in specialty.
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Anesthesiologist Availability
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Administers anesthesia prior to procedure and monitors vital signs during surgery.
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Implant Sizing
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Ensures optimal aesthetic results for the patient.
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Scarring Reduction Techniques
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Minimally invasive techniques such as laser technology or endoscopic procedures.
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Post-Operative Care Instructions
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Detailed instructions on how to manage pain, swelling, and other needs following surgery.
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Research & Preparation for Consultation Appointment
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Patients should come prepared with questions about safety protocols, anesthesia options, recovery expectations, implant sizing considerations, and any other relevant topics related to their procedure.
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Scarring
Scarring is a common concern for many people considering breast augmentation surgery. Scarring can be minimized with proper pre- and post-operative care, but it is important to understand that some scarring will remain after your surgery. The amount of scarring you experience will depend on the type of incision used during your procedure.
Types of Incisions
The three main types of incisions used in breast augmentation are inframammary, periareolar, and transaxillary. Inframammary incisions are made at the crease beneath the breast, while periareolar incisions are made around the circumference of the areola. Transaxillary incisions are made in the armpit area. Each type of incision has its own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to scarring.
Minimizing Scarring
The best way to minimize scarring is to follow all post-operative instructions given by your surgeon carefully. This includes avoiding activities that may put too much strain on your chest area, such as heavy lifting or strenuous exercise. It is also important to keep your incision site clean and dry, and to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet light. Additionally, you should wear a supportive bra for several weeks after your surgery in order to help reduce swelling and promote healing.
Long Term Effects
It is important to remember that scars take time to heal and fade, so it may take up to a year before you see the final results of your surgery. In most cases, scars will fade over time and become less noticeable with time. However, if you experience any signs of infection or complications during the healing process, it is important to contact your surgeon right away for further evaluation and treatment.
Preparing for Consultation
It is important to be prepared before having a consultation with your surgeon. Before the appointment, make sure to research the procedure and have a list of questions ready. Make sure to discuss any medical history or conditions that could affect the outcome of the surgery. If you are taking any medications, supplements, or vitamins, make sure that you bring a list of them with you to your appointment. Additionally, it is important to bring any relevant medical records or test results related to your surgery.
During the consultation, it is important to feel comfortable with your surgeon and ask as many questions as necessary in order to understand the procedure and what will be required of you. Make sure that you are aware of all risks and potential complications associated with the procedure. It is also important to discuss realistic expectations for surgical results and recovery times.
Questions To Ask Your Surgeon
When meeting with your surgeon, there are some key questions that should be asked:
- What type of anesthesia will be used?
- How long will the procedure take?
- What type of post-operative care will I need?
- Are there any risks associated with this procedure?
Find Your Surgeon
When you have gone through the process of researching and learning about breast augmentation, it is time to find your surgeon. The best way to do this is by asking friends and family for referrals, or by consulting with a reputable plastic surgeon. You can also look online for reviews of local plastic surgeons. Make sure to read these reviews carefully and consider all feedback before making your decision.
Once you have narrowed down your list of potential surgeons, make sure to schedule consultations with them. During the consultation, ask questions about their experience and qualifications, as well as any other concerns you may have. It is important to feel comfortable with your surgeon before committing to the procedure.
Finally, be sure to discuss pricing options during the consultation so that you are aware of what is covered in your particular case. Once you have chosen a surgeon who meets all of your criteria, you will be ready to move forward with the breast augmentation procedure.