Breast Augmentation: from consultation to surgery

Nowadays, breast augmentation is not only a very well known cosmetic and surgical procedure, but also widely practiced throughout the world. But while the result is quite obvious, many women are still unaware of the whole process, since from consultation to surgery many aspects must be taken into account. Here is a short guide to help you see more clearly and prepare yourself.

1- Choosing your surgeon

Once you have made the decision to proceed with breast augmentation, the first step is to choose the surgeon who will perform the surgery.

The choice you make will be crucial, because apart from the fact that this type of surgery is aesthetic, it can still have an impact on your health. For this reason, it is essential to deal with a plastic surgeon who is a member of the Association des chirurgiens plasticiens du Québec (ASCPEQ).

In addition, don’t hesitate to consult various professionals and dare to ask questions. Ask the plastic surgeon about the various implant models, their positioning, scars, surgical procedures and convalescence. Remember that the more information you have, the better you will be able to make informed choices in accordance with your needs.

2- Consultation

Once your surgeon has been selected, your first contact is often made by phone or email, either with the receptionist or a plastic surgeon’s medical assistant.

The availability, knowledge and comfort of the staff will give you an indication of the professionalism of the clinic, as they will be your assets throughout the entire surgical process (before, during and after your surgery).

When you arrive at the clinic, a medical questionnaire will be given to you so the surgeon can assess your general health. In some cases, the surgeon may decide that because of a major health problem it is preferable for the patient to avoid surgery or surgery in a hospital setting.

In addition, a physical examination by the surgeon is essential to determine if you are a good candidate for breast augmentation.

3 – Try on breast implants

B, C, D, E sizes are multiple and generally, women know what they want. But is that really what they need? Trying on breast implants with a compression bra is one of the most popular steps during the consultation.

The plastic surgeon selects one or more breast implants, of different size or model, according to precise criteria – breast and thorax measurement, quantity of mammary glands, skin thickness, breast asymmetry, degree of breast ptosis (breast loss), muscle or ribcage abnormality – as well as the patient’s expectations. This gives a fairly good idea of the actual volume the patient can expect to have.

4 – 3D Imaging Simulation

For more realism and to be perfectly sure that the implants you have chosen will suit you, it is now possible to use 3D imaging simulation to virtually visualize the final result.

Since the choice of breast implants is not always easy, 3D imaging allows you to visualize your future result. The use of this technology involves the body scanning of patients (like taking a picture) and, after selecting the type, volume and positioning of breast implants, the software translates this data into 3D images.

It is with 3D imaging glasses that the patient can then see herself as in a fitting room. Diving view is often very impressive for patients

5 – Surgery

On the day of the surgery, the medical staff and plastic surgeon will look after you. Upon your release, a bra will be given to you. You will need to wear it for a period of six weeks to promote a good healing. A follow-up with your plastic surgeon will also be mandatory to verify that your body is recovering well.

At the Clinique de chirurgie et de médecine esthétique Dr Mario F. Bernier, we take the time to discuss the entire breast augmentation process with you so that you can make informed choices. For a consultation or more information, don’t hesitate to contact us!