What to expect when you visit a breast reduction surgeon…..

The first visit to a plastic surgeon for breast reduction or a breast lift can be scary because you don’t know what to expect…...

The first visit will be a consultation. When you arrive you will be met by a nurse or patient counselor who will tell you all about the consultation process and the lead up to surgery.

Then you will meet the surgeon. Never ever have any type of procedure without meeting the surgeon because you need to feel comfortable and there are certain questions that you need answered that only she will be able to do!

The first thing you will discuss is your medical history and what you want to look like after the surgery. This is not the time to start lying!!

If you smoke, tell her you smoke, if you drink, tell her you drink. Not telling her the truth could lead to complications during surgery!!

This visit is also the time to ask to see photos of past breast reduction or breast lift surgery so that you can point out the ‘look’ that you find most appealing.

After the surgeon has determined exactly what you want to achieve she will ask you to take off your top and bra so that she can determine your general physical condition and then she should give you a simple explanation of the best way to achieve your goal.

While you are topless, the surgeon will take photos of your breasts from the front and the side. These are taken for later reference.

During this visit either the surgeon or the nurse will discuss anesthesia, the location where the surgery will occur, costs, the recovery process and your obligations. She will also give order for various lab tests to ensure that you do not have any medical conditions.

You will also be told about the after effects of the surgery such as bruising and scars and what you will need to do after the operation to make sure that your bruises and scars are minimal.

Your surgeon will also discuss the risks which include possible complications of surgery and what happens if the surgery doesn’t achieve the result you are after.

At this point you will be asked to sign documents confirming that you have had this conversation and understand that complications can occur.

Don’t forget…this visit isn’t just about the surgeon telling you things, you need to ask questions and if you are not sure what to ask click here for a list of suggestions.