Before breast augmentation, the most useful questions to ask your surgeon cover their qualifications and GMC specialist registration, where the operation will take place, which implants they recommend and why, what aftercare is included, what happens if something goes wrong, and the full cost. A good surgeon will welcome these questions and answer them clearly, without pressure. Take this list to your consultation and note the answers.
About the surgeon
- Are you on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery?: a good answer is a clear yes, with a GMC number you can check online. Our guide to the GMC specialist register explains why this matters.
- What are your qualifications?: look for FRCS (Plast), the specialist exit qualification for UK plastic surgeons.
- Which professional bodies do you belong to?: membership of BAAPS or BAPRAS indicates a commitment to professional standards.
- How often do you perform breast augmentation?: the surgeon should be comfortable describing breast surgery as a regular part of their practice.
About the hospital and anaesthetic
- Where will the surgery take place?: the answer should be a CQC-registered hospital with overnight facilities and on-site staff.
- Who gives the anaesthetic?: a consultant anaesthetist should be responsible; ask whether local anaesthetic is an option for you.
- Will it be a day case or overnight stay?: the surgeon should explain what is usual and what would change that plan.
About implants and technique
- Which implant brand and type do you recommend, and why?: a good answer relates the choice to your measurements and tissues, not simply to a preferred size.
- Where will the implant be placed?: you should hear the pros and cons of over-muscle, under-muscle and dual-plane positions for your body.
- Where will the incision be?: most surgeons use the fold beneath the breast; ask why.
- How will we choose size?: expect measurements, sizers or trial implants and an honest discussion of what your tissues can support.
- Will my implants be registered?: they should be recorded on the national Breast and Cosmetic Implant Registry.
It may also help to read our comparison of Motiva and Mentor implants beforehand.
About risks and realistic results
Ask which complications are most relevant to you and how they are managed. A good answer is balanced and specific, covering capsular contracture, rupture, rippling, asymmetry, changes in sensation and the fact that implants are not lifetime devices. Be cautious if risks are dismissed or described as negligible. Ask to see before-and-after photographs of patients with a similar starting point, and ask what would not be achievable for you.
About aftercare and follow-up
- Who should be contacted with a concern, including at night?: there should be a named contact and an out-of-hours number.
- How many follow-up appointments are included?: routine reviews with the surgeon or team should be part of the package.
- When is it safe to return to work, drive and exercise?: a clear, conservative timeline is a good sign.
- Which garments are needed?: you should be told what post-surgical bra to wear and for how long.
About cost and revision policy
Ask for a written quote showing exactly what is included: surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital and theatre fees, implants, garments and routine follow-up. At Mr Nassab’s practice, breast augmentation costs from £8,500 and the £150 consultation is charged separately. Ask what happens financially if an early complication needs a return to theatre, and what the policy is if you later want revision. See our guide to revision breast augmentation for more on why further surgery can be needed.
After the consultation
You should leave with written information, time to reflect and the opportunity for a second consultation before booking. Good practice includes a cooling-off period of at least two weeks between consultation and surgery. Be wary of any clinic that offers discounts for booking on the day, pressures you to decide quickly, or arranges your consultation with someone other than the operating surgeon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a breast augmentation consultation last?
Long enough to discuss your goals, examine you, take measurements and answer your questions without rushing. A second consultation is often helpful.
Is it helpful to bring photos to the consultation?
Yes, photos can help explain your goals. Your surgeon should explain honestly how your anatomy may differ.
Is it acceptable to see more than one surgeon?
Yes. Seeing more than one surgeon can help you compare approaches and feel confident in your choice.
Should the consultation be with the operating surgeon?
It should. The surgeon who will operate should assess you, discuss consent and be responsible for your care.
Is the consultation fee part of the surgery price?
No. At Mr Nassab’s practice the £150 consultation is always charged separately.
Related Guides
- Breast Asymmetry Correction Recovery
- Breast Asymmetry Correction: Risks and Safety
- Breast Asymmetry Correction: Questions to Ask
- Is Breast Augmentation Painful?
- The Inframammary Fold Explained
- Breast Augmentation Risks and Safety
- Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
- Choosing a Breast Augmentation Surgeon in the UK
