Above is me before surgery... a picture my husband took when we were on vacation and I wanted him to take a photo of my yummy dinner, and my boobies got in the picture. lol.  Below is me after surgery!  Soooooo happy! 

Breast Reduction 

What to Ask at Your Breast Surgery Consultation

Already have surgery date set?   Visit my breast reduction blog page for helpful advice on getting ready for surgery before and after.  Also my must have list of items to have before surgery so you have a comfortable recovery. 

A breast consultation is an exciting first step — and it’s completely normal to feel a mix of curiosity, nerves, and anticipation. This visit is all about you: your goals, your questions, and making sure you feel confident every step of the way.

To help you make the most of your appointment, here are some thoughtful questions you may want to ask your surgeon.

Getting to Know Your Surgeon

Your comfort and trust matter. Some answers might be on their website as well. These questions can help you feel confident in your choice:

• Are you board-certified in plastic surgery?

• How much experience do you have with breast procedures?

• Have you worked with patients who have similar goals or body types?

• Can I see before-and-after photos of your patients?  Sometimes this might be on their website.
  
  

Talking About Your Goals

Everyone’s idea of “perfect” is different — and that’s a good thing.

1. Am I a good candidate for breast surgery?

2. Which procedure technique will be used?  Inverted-T (Anchor), Vertical (Lollipop), or Periareolar (Donut), is Liposuction included? 

3. What kind of results can I realistically expect?   Now this one is important, because I was a 40DD/DDD and I wanted to be a B cup.   I am going on 50 years old, so i asked for wider incisions to get to my goal because:

• I was not going with lipo for side boob, because i was quoted $5,000.  So instead I asked for wider insicions to get as much from sides as possible.   So talk about cost of lipo and ask what exactly it would cover, such as for me, lipo was only side boob, no bra line or upper flank area, so i did not see it worth the additional cost. Some surgeons may include it, some charge extra, so it is an important question to ask.

4. How will this surgery complement my natural shape?  I asked for two things  at my consult and on day of surgery when she was drawing on my breast. First, make sure my areola not left huge, lol.  And 2nd, please remember to cut wider to get as much from the sides as possible to get me to a B.  Very important to repeat your request to refresh their memory on your wanted outcome (i did this when she was drawing on me) instead of relying that they are reading all the side notes and not just insurance requirements.  My insurance required 819, so with 873 and 970 taken out and first thing she said to my husband was all went great, and that she went as far as she could go to get the side boob, and that she made them very even. (one boob was bigger then the other) i know she really listened to my request and did best she could, which was better then having to remember from an appointment that might be weeks or months ago.  I don't know why i had a fear that my sand dollar sized areolas where going to be my whole boob when i woke up.  lol!  Now they are like a shot glass size so that was a bit irrational on my part.  Haha!  Hey, we all have different nervous thoughts!  That was mine!

5.   Bring some inspiration pictures to show an idea of your goal sizing.   I forgot to do this, but I talked to my doctor and she really listened, but it does not hurt to have a visual as well as I had an inspo pic for myself that i was hoping to be. 

6. Nipple / Areaola  -  I wanted to make sure my areaola was made smaller, but if you are getting a very large reduction you would want to ask if you would be getting a FNG. I did not end up having to have a FNG but discuss with doctor if you would need one.

What is a FNG? It means Free Nipple Graft...

A Free Nipple Graft is a technique used during some breast reductions where the nipple–areola complex is completely removed and then grafted back onto the breast in a higher, more natural position.   Used more for very large breast/saggy breasts where nipple needs to be moved to where it needs to be.  Discuss with Dr. because loss of nipple sensation, loss of nipple, not being able to breastfeed are all things to discuss if having a FNG but your Dr will know which is best to do for your situation.   

Questions About Implants (If You’re Considering Them)

If implants are part of your plan, it’s helpful to understand your options:

• What types of implants do you offer?

• What size, shape, and profile would you recommend for my body?

• Where will the implants be placed?

• How long do implants typically last?

Understanding the Procedure

Knowing what to expect can bring peace of mind:

• Where will the incisions be placed?

• How noticeable will scarring be?  (I asked for wider incisions so mine were up to my armpits) 

• How long does surgery usually take?

• Will I be under general anesthesia?

• Where will my procedure be performed?

Safety & Peace of Mind

It’s okay — and encouraged — to talk openly about safety:

• What are the possible risks or complications?

• How are complications handled if they occur?

• Will surgery affect breastfeeding or nipple sensation?

• What can I do to support a smooth recovery?

Recovery & Healing

Planning ahead makes recovery easier:

• What does recovery typically look like?

• How much downtime should I expect?

• When can I return to work, exercise, and normal routines?

• Will I need help at home during recovery?

Results & Long-Term Care

Breast surgery is an investment in yourself — here’s what to ask about the future:

• When will I see my final results?

• How long will my results last?

• How might weight changes, aging, or pregnancy affect my results?

• Will I ever need a revision procedure?

Costs & Follow-Up

Clear expectations help you focus on healing:

• What’s included in the total cost?

• Are financing options available?

• How many follow-up visits are included?

• Who should I contact if I have questions after surgery?

Already have surgery date set?   Visit my breast reduction blog page for helpful advice on getting ready for surgery before and after.  Also my must have list of items to have before surgery so you have a comfortable recovery.