: Before & After Photos

For the right woman, a breast augmentation can be a life-changing experience. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I meet with hundreds of women each year who are interested in exploring their options when it comes to implants. While most are suitable candidates, there are issues that are important to consider when deciding on the surgery.

There are several qualifying characteristics that will determine whether you’re a good fit for breast augmentation. While not all of the below are deal breakers, they are all worth considering. During your initial consult, I’ll discuss each of the following in more depth. It is critical that you are well informed before you make the final decision, and I will provide you with all the information you need to know to make the decision that’s right for you.

#1: You Should Be in Good General Health, including Good Mental Health

Having a healthy immune system can go a long way towards facilitating a speedy recovery. Before considering surgery, you should be upfront with your surgeon about any underlying medical conditions you might have. This allows us to ensure an optimal outcome without any surprises.

Let me know any and all medications you are taking – including birth control pills, aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications like Advil, Motrin, ibuprofen, Aleve, Bayer, Bufferin, Excedrin, and anything else.

Let me know if you use any recreational drugs – no judgement here but it’s important because certain recreational drugs can result in problems with anesthesia during the surgery.

Let me know if you’re under a lot of stress, feeling depressed, or feeling out of sorts. Life is stressful for everyone, and I certainly understand that, but if you’re feeling unusually stressed, please let me know. Breast augmentation is a wonderful procedure, and is designed to make your breasts more attractive and your body shape more in line with your desires, but it is not a solution for depression and won’t solve relationship issues.

#2: You are a Non-Smoker or Willing to Temporarily Stop Smoking.

Smoking is a big no-no when it comes to surgery of any kind. It can inhibit the healing process and prolong your overall recovery. If you currently smoke and are considering a breast augmentation, I recommend stopping immediately. You should be a non-smoker at least 2-weeks before surgery and throughout your entire recovery process.

#3: You are Doing It for Yourself

You should never undergo any cosmetic surgery for anyone aside from yourself. If a husband, boyfriend, or partner is the sole reason for your decision to get implants, you might not be a good fit for the surgery. That doesn’t mean that your partner should not be involved with the decision, it means that you and you alone make all final decisions regarding the procedure, including size and deciding to go ahead. On occasions, patients have told me that they are under pressure from a partner – if that’s the case for you, please call me in advance of the consultation, or at any time, and we can discuss appropriate strategies for dealing with the pressure you’re receiving. Remember – you are in control!

#4: You Have Time to Adequately Recover

With our busy lifestyles today, it’s important to ensure you’re taking enough time to recover. Pushing yourself too hard too soon can prolong the healing process and put you at risk for certain complications. I always recommend taking at least 4 days away from work or school, but certainly more if your position entails heavy lifting or strenuous activities. We’ll discuss the appropriate recovery period for you at your consultation. Also keep in mind that while you may be back to work in as little as 4 days, temporary swelling and bruising from the surgery may limit your choices of clothing, and certainly activities including sex and working out/running.

#5: You Have Realistic Expectations

Finally, you must go into the procedure with realistic expectations. Yes, your breasts will be immediately fuller and more shapely. However, it can take a number of months for your new breasts to fully settle into their new position. This can be a frustrating time for many women who are ready to jump into their new bikini-ready body right away. And while I use advanced techniques to minimize scarring, some scarring is inevitable.

If you’re ready to boost your self-image with breast augmentation, and you’ve weighed the pros and cons thoroughly, you’re most likely a good candidate for the procedure.

Take the Next Step

Ready to look and feel your best? Schedule a consultation with Andrew Barnett M.D. to discuss your options today. Consultations are available in both our San Francisco and Walnut Creek offices. You may schedule for either location by calling (415) 879-8735. Renee or Laurie will help you and answer any pre-consultation questions you may have!

Are My Results Permanent?

For the vast majority of patients, Gynecomastia surgery results are permanent. Certain procedures may require touch-ups over time, but unless you experience excessive weight gain, you can be confident that this is a once-in-a-lifetime procedure. Certain medications, steroid use, and medical conditions can cause return of the gynecomastia, and this will be discussed at your consultation.

How Do I Know if I am a Candidate for Male Breast Reduction?

The best candidates are healthy males who are close to their ideal weight. Gynecomastia surgery is not a procedure to correct obesity, but even in overweight patients, breast contouring can provide a dramatic improvement. If you have tried other methods to reduce your enlarged breasts, including weight loss, this procedure may be for you. As with any cosmetic procedure, it is important to have realistic expectations about optimal outcomes. Men taking steroids are not good candidates for this surgery.

Should I have Male Breast Reduction Surgery?

That’s a question only you can answer. Gynecomastia surgery can improve your self-confidence and increase your satisfaction with your body. You don’t have to make a decision during the first visit, and you may discover that male breast reduction isn’t right for you. Whatever you decide, I’ll be there to answer any questions you have in detail during your consultation.