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Breast augmentation is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries worldwide. It is a procedure that can significantly enhance a person’s confidence and self-esteem, altering not just physical appearance but also the way they perceive themselves.
However, the journey to a successful breast augmentation is largely determined by a critical decision point: choosing the right surgeon. This decision is not one to take lightly, as the expertise, experience, and the aesthetic vision of the surgeon greatly influences the outcome of the procedure.
This guide will provide you with comprehensive insights into the crucial aspects you should consider when embarking on the quest to find the best breast augmentation surgeon. With the correct information and guidance, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your aesthetic goals and expectations.
One of the most crucial considerations in your search for a breast augmentation surgeon is their board certification, specifically, registration with the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). This certification serves as a seal of approval, indicating that the surgeon has completed the necessary education and training to perform breast augmentation.
Board certification with BAAPS ensures the surgeon has passed rigorous exams and maintains ongoing training, keeping up-to-date with the latest surgical techniques and safety standards. Furthermore, it ensures they adhere to strict ethical guidelines that prioritise patient safety and satisfaction.
By insisting on a BAAPS-certified surgeon, you significantly reduce the risk of complications and increase the likelihood of achieving your desired results.
In addition to BAAPS board certification, it’s also recommended to find a surgeon who specialises in aesthetic surgery. A surgeon’s focus on aesthetic surgery often means they have a high level of expertise and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in breast augmentation procedures. This can lead to more satisfactory outcomes and a lower risk of complications.
A surgeon’s membership with the General Medical Council (GMC) can further reinforce their specialisation in aesthetic surgery. To be a member of the GMC, a surgeon must not only be board certified by the BAAPS but also prove their primary focus is aesthetic surgery, primarily by performing predominantly cosmetic procedures.
Remember, not all plastic surgeons focus on the same areas. Some may specialise in reconstructive surgeries, while others might focus more on facial procedures. Therefore, a surgeon who concentrates particularly on breast augmentation, would be more adept and experienced in the specific techniques and considerations required for such procedures.
The importance of a surgeon’s experience in performing breast augmentations cannot be overstated. Surgeons who perform these procedures regularly are more likely to have refined their techniques and judgment over time. They are also more familiar with handling different patient anatomies and preferences, as well as managing any complications that may arise.
When considering a surgeon, ask about the number of breast augmentation procedures they perform annually. A surgeon who performs breast augmentations on a weekly basis, for instance, is more likely to have the hands-on experience necessary to achieve optimal results.
However, quantity should not overshadow quality. You’ll also want to look at the outcomes of these procedures. Ask about complication rates, patient satisfaction, and the frequency of revision surgeries. A seasoned breast augmentation surgeon should be able to provide this information transparently, further helping you make an informed decision.
Before you commit to a surgeon, it’s important to conduct thorough research about their reputation.
Start with online research. Look at the surgeon’s website, social media pages, and professional profiles. Also, consider visiting independent review websites to read testimonials from previous patients. These reviews can give you an understanding of other patients’ experiences, including their satisfaction with the surgical outcomes and their interactions with the surgeon and their staff.
Reach out to your personal network as well, including your primary care physician or other healthcare professionals. They might have valuable insights or referrals. You can also consider asking the surgeon for references from past patients who had similar procedures.
Don’t forget to verify whether any complaints, disciplinary actions, or malpractice suits have been filed against the surgeon. You can typically find this information through the GMC or BAAPS.
When choosing your breast augmentation surgeon, inquire about their hospital privileges, particularly privileges to perform breast augmentations at a reputable local hospital. Hospital privileges mean that the surgeon is permitted to perform specific procedures in that hospital.
The reason hospital privileges matter is that they serve as an extra layer of vetting. Hospitals conduct thorough background checks and require evidence of a surgeon’s training and competency before granting privileges. Hence, if your surgeon has these privileges, it provides an additional assurance of their skills and competence.
Moreover, in the unlikely event of complications that require hospital care, having a surgeon with hospital privileges ensures that your surgeon can continue to oversee your treatment. This continuity of care can be vital for your recovery and peace of mind.
If the surgeon only operates in private clinics or ambulatory surgery centres, check that these facilities are accredited by a recognised national health care accreditation organisation, which ensures they meet specific safety and quality standards.
The initial consultation is your opportunity to meet the surgeon face-to-face and get a sense of their expertise, communication style, and overall approach to patient care. It is an integral part of the process and a chance to see if you feel comfortable and confident with the surgeon.
During this consultation, the surgeon should spend a substantial amount of time, typically around 45-60 minutes, discussing your aesthetic goals, reviewing your medical history, and explaining the available surgical options. They should listen attentively to your concerns, answer all your questions in a clear and understandable way, and never rush you into making decisions.
Take note of whether the surgeon provides comprehensive and realistic information about the procedure, including potential risks and limitations. They should also show you before-and-after photos of their previous patients, which can help you understand what results to expect.
The initial consultation is your opportunity to assess the surgeon’s professionalism and patient care philosophy. You should leave the meeting feeling well-informed, comfortable, and confident in the surgeon’s abilities.
Choosing the right implant type and size is a critical step in your breast augmentation journey. While your surgeon’s expertise and advice are crucial in this decision-making process, it’s important that the ultimate decision aligns with your personal goals and expectations.
There are several types of implants, including saline, silicone, and highly cohesive silicone gel (often referred to as ‘gummy bear’ implants), each with its own pros and cons. Implants also come in various sizes, shapes, and profiles. The best choice for you will depend on factors such as your body frame, natural breast size, desired increase, and lifestyle.
During your consultation, your surgeon should provide detailed information about the different types of implants and guide you in choosing a size that is proportionate to your body frame and achieves the look you desire. They should also help you understand how factors like your skin elasticity, natural breast tissue, and chest wall shape may influence the selection.
Importantly, your surgeon should respect your individual wishes and not impose their own aesthetic preferences. They should be patient and willing to spend time helping you understand the implications of your choices. It’s your body, and while it’s important to heed professional advice, your personal comfort and satisfaction should always be the priority.
While there are numerous factors to consider positively when choosing your breast augmentation surgeon, there are also several red flags you should watch out for. These warning signs could indicate that a surgeon might not be the best fit for you.
Lack of Board Certification: If a surgeon is not certified by the BAAPS, it’s usually a sign to look elsewhere. Board certification ensures that the surgeon has completed the necessary training and continues to adhere to stringent safety and ethical standards.
Limited Before-and-After Portfolio: A reputable surgeon should have a comprehensive portfolio of before-and-after photos from their previous patients. If they are hesitant to show you their work or have a limited number of examples, it might indicate a lack of experience or satisfactory results.
Negative Reviews or Malpractice Suits: While one or two negative reviews might not be a deal-breaker, a pattern of dissatisfied patients or records of malpractice suits should raise concerns.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics: It’s important to feel comfortable and never rushed when making decisions about your body and health. If a surgeon or their staff puts pressure on you to commit to the procedure, particularly during the initial consultation, it’s usually a red flag.
Remember, choosing a breast augmentation surgeon is a personal and significant decision. It’s important to take your time and ensure that the surgeon you choose meets all your criteria and makes you feel comfortable and confident in their care.
London Cosmetic Surgery group Berkeley Square Medical , is one of the UK’s leading providers of Aesthetic and Cosmetic Surgery. For more information about breast augmentation at Berkeley Square Medical, please visit: https://www.berkeleysquaremedical.com/breast-enlargement
Patient Journey We are here to guide you to make the right decision for your well-being. If you are considering an aesthetic change to your appearance, we know that it’s one of the most important and personal decisions you wish to make. Therefore you need to be certain that the medical advice you receive is […]
Patient Aftercare All cosmetic surgery procedures at Berkeley Square Medical come with a comprehensive aftercare package and a 24-hour service so you can be assured you are always under the care and guidance of our surgical team. All your immediate aftercare is included in the cost of your surgery so there are no hidden extras in our […]
If you are considering Cosmetic Surgery, we understand that it's probably one of the most important decisions you're likely to make, therefore, you need to be sure it's right for you and you receive professional and independent advice about your procedure.
Our Philosophy We began our journey setting foot in the highly fashionable area of Berkeley Square, Mayfair where luxury fashion, galleries and five-star hotels all conveniently meet to set the example for world-leading client services and experience. Our goal was to create a cosmetic surgery practice that would not only exceed patients’ expectations but provide […]