It’s not uncommon for patients to be concerned about cost before undergoing a breast augmentation. Despite the procedure’s popularity and low rate of complications, it is still a medical procedure and patient safety and goals should be placed above all else.

If you are thinking about breast augmentation, continue reading to learn why cost should not be your first question and the type of information that you should prioritize for best clinical outcomes.

What Are the Surgeon’s Credentials?

First and foremost, it’s essential that your breast augmentation is performed in the safest way possible. For this reason, you should always research the surgeon’s credentials and expertise before committing to a surgery.

He or she should be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, which demonstrates extensive training and maintenance of his/her surgical skill set.

Additionally, patients should ask where their breast augmentation will take place and ensure that the surgical facility is accredited by one of the following agencies: AAAASF, AAAHC, IMQ, Medicare, and the state your surgeon practices in.

Is General Anesthesia Always Best for a Breast Augmentation?

Most board-certified plastic surgeons recommend that patients undergo general anesthesia for their breast augmentation. Not only does it protect your airway, it also facilitates a safer and smoother placement of the implant under the muscle.

With that being said, an untrained or unethical surgeon, who’s trying to cut costs, may encourage you to have breast augmentation with local anesthesia.

However, because muscle cannot be numbed with a local anesthetic, it can be difficult to deliver the implant under the muscle while the patient is awake. In fact, this approach can potentially lead to increased patient pain, elevated blood pressure, and more bleeding.

What Kind of Results Can You Expect from Your Breast Augmentation?

In addition to safety and credentials, patients should always consider expected results before cost. In order to get a better idea of the outcomes that you can anticipate from your breast augmentation, carefully look at the physician’s past work through before and after photos.

As you evaluate the images, make sure a frontal and side view are provided, that there is consistency between the pre- and post-op photos, and that you observe symmetry in the breasts.

This is also an opportunity to assess the physician’s aesthetic preference and determine if it matches yours. Look to see if the results are natural and in proportion to the patient’s frame or if they are indicative of an obviously augmented chest.

If you are considering breast augmentation, please call our office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Navin Singh. He will expertly assess your concerns and develop a customized treatment plan that best meets your needs and goals.