Before breast implant exchange, ask your surgeon about their specialist qualifications, where the operation will take place, how the old capsule will be managed, which implants they recommend and why, whether an uplift is needed, and what aftercare and revision arrangements are in place. Good answers are specific, honest about risks and tailored to your examination.
About the surgeon
- Are you on the GMC Specialist Register for Plastic Surgery?: a good answer is a clear yes, which you can check on the GMC website. Holding FRCS (Plast) shows specialist training in plastic surgery.
- Are you a member of BAAPS or BAPRAS?: membership of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons or the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons indicates a commitment to professional standards.
- How often do you perform revision breast surgery?: look for a surgeon who routinely manages implant exchange and complications, not only first-time augmentation.
Mr Reza Nassab is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register (GMC 4704243), holds FRCS (Plast) and is a member of the BAAPS Council.
About the hospital and anaesthetic
- Where will the operation take place?: the answer should be a CQC-registered hospital with appropriate overnight facilities if needed.
- Who gives the anaesthetic?: a consultant anaesthetist should give the general anaesthetic and see you before surgery.
- Will it be a day case?: a good answer depends on the complexity of your revision, with a clear plan for either option.
About your implants and the operation
- What is wrong with my current implants, if anything?: you should hear a clear explanation of your examination findings and whether a scan is needed.
- What will you do with the capsule?: the surgeon should explain whether it will be left, partly removed or fully removed, and why.
- Which implants do you recommend and why?: a good answer relates size, shape and profile to your chest measurements and tissue quality rather than simply matching a cup size.
- Is an uplift needed?: an honest answer may be yes, even if you hoped to avoid extra scars, if the breast has dropped over the implant.
- Could the implants be removed instead?: removal, with or without an uplift, should be discussed as an option.
About risks and results
- What are the main risks for me?: expect a discussion of general and implant-specific risks, including capsular contracture recurrence and BIA-ALCL, tailored to your history.
- What result is realistic?: a good surgeon talks about improvement rather than perfection and explains any limits caused by previous surgery.
- Are there examples of similar cases?: photographs of similar revision cases can help set expectations, although every patient is different.
About aftercare, costs and revision
- Who should be contacted if a problem arises?: you should be given contact details for the surgical team, including out of hours.
- What follow-up appointments are included?: the quote should list routine reviews after surgery.
- What happens if further surgery is needed?: ask about the revision policy and what costs might apply.
- What does the price include?: a written, itemised quote should cover the surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital, implants, garment and follow-up. The consultation fee is usually separate; with Mr Nassab it is £150.
Questions about recovery
- How much time off work is likely?: the answer should reflect your job and the extent of surgery, typically around two weeks for desk work and longer for physical roles.
- Will drains be used?: a clear answer explains when drains might be used, for example after capsule removal, and when they are likely to come out.
- When can exercise, driving and lifting children resume?: you should receive written guidance with realistic timeframes rather than vague reassurance.
- Which warning signs matter?: a good surgeon explains which symptoms need urgent contact, such as one breast swelling rapidly, and gives you a number to call.
Warning signs during your search
Be cautious of pressure to book quickly, discounts tied to a deadline, consultations held only with a salesperson or nurse rather than the operating surgeon, reluctance to discuss risks, and packages abroad without a clear plan for aftercare in the UK. Cosmetic surgery is only offered to adults aged 18 and over, and a cooling-off period between consultation and surgery is good practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should the same surgeon who did the first operation be seen again?
You can, and they know your history, but you are also entitled to seek a second opinion from another specialist.
What is worth bringing to the consultation?
Bring your implant card, any operation notes and scan reports, a list of medicines and a note of what you want to change.
How many consultations are sensible before deciding?
Many people benefit from a second consultation to review the plan, implant choice and quote before booking.
Is a cooling-off period required?
Professional guidance recommends time for reflection between consultation and cosmetic surgery, so you never feel rushed.
