Understanding the Breast Implant Consultation Process
The breast implant consultation process is your opportunity to meet with a qualified plastic surgeon, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan. This comprehensive meeting typically lasts about one hour and serves as the foundation for your entire surgical journey.
Key stages of the breast implant consultation process:
- Preparation – Gathering medical history, questions, and visual references
- Discussion – Reviewing goals, options, risks, and expectations with your surgeon
- Physical Examination – Assessing breast tissue, measurements, and trying implant sizers
- Decision Planning – Understanding costs, timeline, and next steps
The consultation is designed as a two-way conversation where you can ask questions, express concerns, and learn about your options without any pressure to make immediate decisions. Your surgeon will evaluate your anatomy, discuss implant types and placement options, explain the procedure and recovery process, and help set realistic expectations for your results.
As Dr. Thomas Jeneby with over 20 years of experience in plastic surgery, I’ve guided thousands of patients through the breast implant consultation process to help them make informed decisions about their care. My goal is to ensure you feel confident and well-prepared before taking this important step toward achieving your aesthetic goals.
Learn more about Breast implant consultation process:
Before Your Consultation: How to Prepare for Success
Taking the first step toward breast augmentation is exciting, and proper preparation can make all the difference in having a successful consultation. Think of this as getting ready for one of the most important conversations about your future self. The more prepared you arrive, the more productive and confidence-building your appointment will be.
Researching your surgeon is absolutely essential before scheduling your consultation. Start by verifying credentials through the American Board of Plastic Surgery’s website. You can easily verify a surgeon’s certification to ensure they have the proper training and qualifications. This simple step helps you feel confident you’re meeting with a qualified professional.
Preparing thoughtful questions ahead of time ensures you don’t forget anything important during your appointment. Consider writing them down so you can refer to your list during the consultation. Gathering your medical history information beforehand also helps our discussion flow smoothly and keeps the focus on your aesthetic goals.
Don’t forget about bringing photos of results you like. Visual references help communicate your desired outcome more clearly than words alone. Choose images that represent realistic goals for your body type and frame.
Preparing for the Breast Implant Consultation Process
Having your medical information organized before your appointment allows us to spend more time discussing your goals rather than collecting background details. Your health history plays a crucial role in determining the safest approach for your surgery.
Your medical history list should include any past or current health conditions. This helps us understand your overall wellness and identify factors that might affect your surgery or healing process. Be thorough – even conditions that seem unrelated can sometimes impact surgical planning.
Current medications need to be documented completely. Bring a list of everything you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications can affect bleeding or interact with anesthesia, so this information is vital for your safety.
Allergies to medications, latex, or other substances should be clearly noted. Even if you think an allergy might not be relevant, please mention it. Previous surgeries also matter, regardless of what type they were or how long ago they occurred.
Your family history of breast cancer is particularly important for breast augmentation planning. This information helps us assess whether you need any pre-surgical screenings like mammograms or ultrasounds, especially if you’re over 40 or have a strong family history.
Recent mammogram results should be brought to your consultation if you have them. These help us understand your current breast health status.
Lifestyle habits including smoking and alcohol use need honest discussion. Smoking significantly increases risks like poor wound healing and infection, so we’ll need to discuss cessation before surgery. Being upfront about these habits helps us keep you safe and optimize your results.
Questions to Bring for Your Surgeon
This is your time to gain confidence and address any concerns you might have. There’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your health and appearance. Coming prepared with questions shows you’re taking this decision seriously.
Ask about your surgeon’s experience with breast augmentation specifically. How many procedures do they perform each year? Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery is non-negotiable – this ensures your surgeon has completed extensive training and meets the highest standards.
Facility accreditation matters for your safety. Where will your surgery take place, and is it accredited by recognized organizations? Accredited facilities must meet strict safety standards.
Discuss implant recommendations for your specific body and goals. Should you choose saline or silicone? What about shape, texture, and profile? Your surgeon should explain why certain options work better for your anatomy.
Understanding risks and complications helps set realistic expectations. Every surgery carries some risk, and you deserve to know what they are and how they’re minimized. Ask about the recovery timeline so you can plan time off work and arrange help at home.
The surgeon’s revision policy is important to understand upfront. What happens if you’re not satisfied with results or if complications arise? What costs might you face for revision surgery?
You can find additional questions on the ASPS question checklist to help guide your breast implant consultation process. A good surgeon welcomes questions and takes time to answer them thoroughly. This conversation is the foundation of your surgical journey, so make it count.
What to Expect During Your Breast Implant Consultation Process
Walking into your breast implant consultation process might feel a little nerve-wracking, but I want you to know that this hour-long session is entirely focused on you and your goals. Think of it as a comfortable conversation with a trusted advisor who happens to be a plastic surgeon. There’s absolutely no pressure to make any decisions today – our job is simply to give you all the information you need to feel confident about whatever choice you make.
The atmosphere in our San Antonio office is intentionally relaxed and welcoming. We’ve found that when patients feel at ease, they’re more likely to ask the important questions and share their true concerns. That’s exactly what we want – honest, open dialogue that helps us understand not just what you’re hoping to achieve, but also any worries you might have about the process.
Navigating the Breast Implant Consultation Process: Key Discussion Points
Our conversation will naturally flow through several important topics, each designed to give you a complete picture of what breast augmentation involves. Your aesthetic goals are where we always start because understanding your vision is crucial to creating a plan that makes you happy. Some patients come in with magazine photos, others describe wanting to fill out their clothes better, and some simply want to restore volume they’ve lost over time. Whatever your motivation, we want to hear it.
Here’s where honesty becomes really important – we’ll discuss what’s realistically achievable given your unique body. Your chest width, existing breast tissue, and skin quality all play roles in determining which implant sizes and shapes will give you the most natural, beautiful results. Sometimes patients are surprised to learn that bigger isn’t always better, especially when it comes to long-term satisfaction and comfort.
Based on our discussion and what we observe during your examination, I’ll share my professional recommendations about implant type, size, and placement. These suggestions come from years of experience and thousands of procedures, but they’re always custom specifically to you. We’ll talk through the reasoning behind each recommendation so you understand exactly why certain options might work better for your body.
Discussing risks and complications isn’t the most exciting part of our conversation, but it’s one of the most important. Every surgical procedure carries some risks, and breast augmentation is no exception. We’ll cover potential complications like infection, capsular contracture, changes in sensation, and implant-related issues. More importantly, we’ll explain how our surgical techniques and post-operative care protocols work to minimize these risks.
The recovery process varies from person to person, but we’ll give you a realistic timeline of what to expect. Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable the recovery is when they know what’s coming. We’ll discuss pain management, activity restrictions, and when you can expect to see your final results – usually around six to nine months post-surgery.
We’ll also cover anesthesia options and incision locations, explaining why certain approaches might be better suited to your anatomy and goals. These technical details might seem overwhelming now, but by the end of our consultation, you’ll understand exactly why we recommend specific techniques for your procedure.
The Physical Examination and Sizing
The examination portion of your breast implant consultation process typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes, and we always have a nurse present to ensure your comfort. This part might feel a bit clinical, but it’s absolutely essential for determining the best approach for your surgery.
We’ll take precise measurements of your chest wall and existing breast tissue, assess your skin quality and elasticity, and evaluate how much natural breast tissue you currently have. These measurements aren’t just numbers on a chart – they’re the foundation for selecting implants that will look and feel natural on your body.
The most exciting part for most patients is trying on implant sizers. These are essentially weighted inserts that give you a realistic sense of how different implant volumes will look and feel. You’ll slip them into a non-padded sports bra and get to see yourself from different angles. Many patients find this experience eye-opening – sometimes the size they thought they wanted looks different than expected, either larger or smaller than they imagined.
We may also use 3D imaging technology to show you simulated results with different implant options. While this technology isn’t perfect, it’s another helpful tool for visualizing potential outcomes and ensuring we’re all on the same page about your goals.
By the end of the examination, we’ll have determined the optimal implant size and projection for your body and aesthetic goals. If you’re torn between two sizes (which happens more often than you’d think), we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each option to help you make the choice that feels right.
Understanding the Quote and Next Steps
Before you leave, we’ll provide a detailed cost breakdown that includes every aspect of your procedure. This transparency is important – there should never be any surprise fees or hidden costs when it comes to your surgery.
Your quote will include the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia costs, facility fees, and implant costs. The total can vary depending on the type of implants you choose and any additional procedures you might need, like a breast lift. We’ll explain each component so you understand exactly what you’re investing in.
We know that breast augmentation is a significant financial investment, which is why we offer various payment options including in-house financing and partnerships with companies like CareCredit. Our goal is to make your desired procedure accessible without creating financial stress.
If you’re ready to move forward, we can discuss scheduling your surgery and coordinate dates that work with your personal and professional commitments. However, there’s absolutely no obligation to book anything today. In fact, we encourage patients to take time to process everything we’ve discussed, do additional research if needed, and make sure they feel completely confident in their decision.
Some patients schedule a follow-up consultation to ask additional questions or clarify details. Others take several weeks or even months to decide. Whatever timeline feels right for you is the right timeline – we’ll be here when you’re ready.
Making Key Decisions: Choosing Your Implants
One of the most exciting and personalized aspects of your breast implant consultation process is selecting the right implants for you. This involves understanding the various options available and how they align with your aesthetic goals and body type.
comparing Saline vs. Silicone Implants
| Feature | Saline Implants | Silicone Implants |
|---|---|---|
| Fill material | Sterile saline (saltwater) solution | Cohesive silicone gel |
| Feel and texture | Firmer, can feel less natural; higher risk of rippling and wrinkling | Softer, more natural feel; often called “gummy bear” implants (cohesive gel) |
| Rupture detection | Easily detectable; implant deflates | Not easily detectable; requires MRI for rupture detection |
| Shell type | Smooth or textured | Smooth or textured |
| FDA approval requirements | Filled during surgery; approved for 18+ years old | Pre-filled; approved for 22+ years old |
| Cost comparison | Generally less expensive | Generally more expensive |
Most patients tend to prefer cohesive gel implants due to their natural look and feel. Your surgeon will discuss the pros and cons of each type in detail, helping you make the best choice.
Implant Placement and Incision Options
Another critical decision is where the implants will be placed and the incision location. We’ll discuss these options thoroughly to determine what’s best for your anatomy and desired outcome:
- Subglandular (over the muscle): The implant is placed directly behind the natural breast tissue but in front of the pectoral muscle. This can offer a fuller upper pole.
- Submuscular (under the muscle): The implant is placed completely or partially behind the pectoral muscle. This is a common choice and can result in a more natural slope, potentially reducing the risk of capsular contracture and interfering less with mammograms. While initial pain might be slightly higher, there’s typically no long-term pain difference.
- Dual-plane placement: A hybrid approach where the upper part of the implant is under the muscle and the lower part is under the gland. This offers a good balance of natural shape and support.
Regarding incisions, the goal is to minimize visible scarring. The most common options include:
- Inframammary incision: Made in the crease beneath the breast. This is often preferred as the scar is well-hidden and allows for direct access to the surgical pocket. It’s associated with a significantly reduced risk of capsular contracture and minimal risk to future breastfeeding.
- Periareolar incision: Made around the edge of the areola (the darker skin around the nipple). This incision can result in a less noticeable scar but may slightly increase the risk of affecting milk ducts, which is a consideration if you plan to breastfeed in the future.
- Transaxillary incision: Made in the armpit. The implant is then inserted through this incision and positioned in the breast area. This leaves no scar on the breast itself.
Our board-certified surgeons will recommend the optimal incision and placement for your anatomy, ensuring the best possible aesthetic result and long-term satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Consultation
You’re bound to have questions about your upcoming breast implant consultation process – and that’s exactly what we want! Every patient comes in with different concerns, and we love addressing them all. Here are some of the most common questions we hear during consultations at our San Antonio practice.
How long does a breast augmentation consultation take?
Your breast implant consultation process typically takes about an hour, though we’ve found that time really flies when you’re engaged in meaningful conversation about your goals. Some consultations run a bit longer, especially if you have lots of questions (which we encourage!) or if your case requires more detailed discussion.
We’ve structured this hour to cover everything thoroughly – from your medical history and aesthetic goals to the physical examination and trying on those exciting implant sizers. The beauty of dedicating a full hour is that you’ll never feel rushed or like you’re being shuffled through an assembly line.
This is your time. If you need extra minutes to feel completely comfortable, we’re happy to take them. Your peace of mind is worth more than staying on a strict schedule.
Will I need a breast lift as well?
This is probably one of the most frequent questions we hear, and honestly, it’s a great one to ask. The answer really depends on what we find during your physical examination, particularly when we assess your skin elasticity and the degree of sagging you might have.
Here’s the thing about breast implants – they’re fantastic at adding volume and improving projection, but they’re not magic when it comes to lifting significantly sagging breasts. If you have mild sagging, implants alone might give you that subtle lift you’re looking for. However, if your nipples sit below your breast crease or you have considerable skin laxity, we might recommend combining your augmentation with a breast lift.
This combined procedure option is called an augmentation mastopexy, and while it sounds fancy, it simply means we’re addressing both volume and positioning in one surgery. During your examination, we’ll assess your nipple position, skin quality, and breast tissue to give you honest guidance about whether a lift would help you achieve your dream results.
What if I’m not ready to book surgery after the consultation?
Take a deep breath – this is perfectly normal, and we actually expect it! The breast implant consultation process is designed for learning and exploring your options, not for making on-the-spot decisions under pressure.
Many of our happiest patients took time after their consultation to really think things through. Maybe you want to gather more information, discuss everything with your partner or family, or simply let all the details settle in your mind. That’s not just okay – it’s smart.
We’re always here if you need to schedule a follow-up consultation to revisit any topics or ask new questions that pop up. Sometimes patients think of things they forgot to ask, or they want to try on different implant sizes after having time to reflect.
The most important thing is that when you do decide to move forward, you feel completely confident and excited about your choice. No pressure to decide immediately – your comfort and certainty matter far more than filling our surgery schedule quickly.
Conclusion
Your breast implant consultation process marks the beginning of an exciting change journey. Think of it as laying the groundwork for a decision that could boost your confidence for years to come. This initial meeting isn’t just about discussing implant sizes or surgical techniques—it’s about building a partnership with your surgical team based on trust, understanding, and shared vision for your results.
We’ve seen thousands of patients walk through our doors in San Antonio and Austin, each with their own unique story and goals. What they all have in common is the desire to feel more confident in their own skin. The consultation gives you the power to make that happen through informed decision-making.
Informed decisions truly lead to the best results. When you understand your options, feel comfortable with your surgeon, and have realistic expectations, you’re setting yourself up for success. That’s why we take the time to answer every question, address every concern, and make sure you never feel rushed or pressured.
At Plastic and Cosmetic Center of South Texas, our board-certified plastic surgeons combine years of experience with an artistic eye to help you achieve beautiful, natural-looking results. We’re committed to your safety above all else, and your satisfaction is what drives us every day.
There’s no timeline you need to follow except your own. Some patients know they’re ready to move forward right after their consultation, while others prefer to take time to reflect. Both approaches are perfectly normal and completely supported by our team.
Ready to take that first step toward feeling your absolute best? Schedule your personalized breast augmentation consultation with us today. We’re excited to meet you and help turn your vision into reality!
