A breast augmentation consultation is more than a “pick a size” appointment. It is where your surgical blueprint is established. The decisions made in this room influence safety, proportion, longevity, and how naturally your final result integrates with your anatomy.
At Egrari Plastic Surgery Center, our consultation framework reflects Dr. Sepehr Egrari’s training and philosophy as a double board-certified plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. For him, breast augmentation is a disciplined fusion of art and science. That philosophy shapes every consultation—through precise measurements, proportional analysis, technology-assisted planning, and a direct, transparent discussion of risk and long-term implant stewardship.
Clarity at the consultation stage is what ultimately protects your outcome. If you are asking, “What questions should I ask during a breast augmentation consultation?” you’re already on the right track. Below, we outline twelve essential questions that transform your visit from a preliminary discussion into a structured surgical strategy session.
1. Are You Board-Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
Board certification is not a “plus;” it is foundational. This question establishes the safety baseline for everything that follows. For example, Dr. Egrari is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and also board-certified by the American Board of Surgery.
The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is one of the 24 boards recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Certification confirms formal residency training in plastic surgery, rigorous examinations, and ongoing Maintenance of Certification requirements.
You can verify board certification directly through the American Board of Plastic Surgery and review board standards via the American Board of Medical Specialties.
2. Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
Not every patient is optimized for immediate surgery. A thoughtful consultation should evaluate:
- Skin elasticity
- Existing breast tissue
- Chest wall anatomy
- Lifestyle factors
- Future pregnancy plans
- Overall health
During your consultation with Dr. Egrari, we will discuss your goals, such as restoring volume after pregnancy or weight changes, improving symmetry, and refining shape. We will evaluate whether augmentation alone will meet your needs or if a combination of augmentation and a lift is necessary for optimal position and support.
3. What Implant Type Is Right for Me: Silicone or Saline?
This is one of the most important comparative discussions in your consultation.
Saline Implants
What they are: Silicone shell filled with sterile saltwater after placement.
Pros
- Smaller incision possible (filled after insertion)
- Rupture is immediately noticeable (implant deflates)
- Typically lower upfront cost
- FDA-approved for patients 18+
Cons
- May feel less natural in thinner patients
- Higher likelihood of visible rippling in patients with limited tissue coverage
- Slightly higher rupture rates in some studies
Silicone Gel Implants
What they are: Pre-filled silicone gel implants, often described as “cohesive” or “gummy bear” technology.
Pros
- More natural feel, closer to breast tissue
- Less visible rippling
- Popular among patients seeking subtle softness
- Lower visible deflation risk (gel remains within shell if rupture occurs)
Cons
- Higher cost
- Silent rupture possible (may not be immediately noticeable)
- FDA recommends periodic imaging to monitor integrity
Safety, Feel, Cost & Longevity Comparison
| Factor | Saline | Silicone |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Slightly firmer | Softer, more natural |
| Rupture Visibility | Immediate deflation | Often silent |
| Monitoring | Clinical exam | MRI or ultrasound recommended periodically |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Age Approval (per FDA) | 18+ | 22+ |
| Longevity | Not lifetime devices | Not lifetime devices |
4. What Size and Profile Will Match My Frame?
The goal is proportion, not simply volume. A structured consultation evaluates:
- Base width of the breast
- Chest wall dimensions
- Tissue stretch capacity
- Implant projection (low, moderate, high profile)
Dr. Egrari believes “size” is meaningless without context. We use Vectra 3D imaging to measure and visualize options, and we pair that with real-world sizing tools. In select cases, Dr. Egrari also uses an intra-operative sizing method to confirm the plan with precision—because the right result is proportional, not just bigger.
5. Where Will the Incision Be Placed?
Standard incision options include:
- Inframammary (under the breast fold): This approach provides the most direct visualization of the surgical pocket, allowing for precise implant placement and meticulous control, while the scar typically heals discreetly within the natural crease beneath the breast.
- Periareolar (around the areola): Because the incision follows the natural pigment transition of the areola, it can blend well cosmetically. However, it requires careful technique due to proximity to breast tissue and sensory structures.
- Transaxillary (underarm): Placed within a natural underarm crease, this incision avoids a scar on the breast but offers limited direct visibility and may require endoscopic assistance for optimal pocket control.
6. Should My Implant Be Placed Over or Under the Muscle?
Implant position affects:
- Soft tissue coverage
- Long-term support
- Mammogram visualization
- Risk of capsular contracture
As such, there is no universal answer to this question. For example:
- Submuscular placement may provide additional coverage in thinner patients
- Subglandular placement may offer faster recovery in selected cases
7. What Are the Risks of Breast Augmentation?
Transparency fosters safety and should be the foundation of any discussion regarding breast augmentation. This means that the risks associated with the procedure must be disclosed in a realistic and honest manner.
The FDA outlines the known risks, which include:
- Capsular contracture
- Implant rupture
- Infection
- Changes in nipple sensation
- The possibility of needing future revisions
- Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a rare cancer of the immune system primarily linked to textured implants
One element of Dr. Egrari’s protocol is a “no-touch” insertion method, often using an implant funnel device to reduce skin contact during placement. Published research shows a correlation between funnel-assisted insertion and reoperation rates for capsular contracture.
8. What Happens If an Implant Ruptures?
The FDA recommends periodic imaging (MRI or ultrasound) beginning 5–6 years after silicone implant placement and every 2–3 years thereafter to screen for silent rupture.
Saline Rupture
- Noticeable deflation
- Body safely absorbs saline
- Implant removal and replacement required
Silicone Rupture
- Often “silent”
- Gel typically remains within capsule
- May require imaging to detect
9. How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
Breast implants are durable, but not permanent. The FDA states implants are not lifetime devices and that many women will require removal or replacement at some point. Some implants last 10–20 years; others require earlier revision.
Longevity depends on:
- Implant type
- Body response
- Lifestyle
- Surgical technique
As such, your consultation should include a long-term management strategy.
10. How Will My Results Age Over Time?
Understanding how implants integrate with your anatomy over the long term is critical. Sometimes, combining augmentation with a lift (mastopexy) may better support longevity. Breast tissue changes with:
- Pregnancy
- Weight fluctuation
- Hormonal shifts
- Natural aging
This is where individualized surgical planning matters the most.
11. What Is the Recovery Timeline and Activity Restriction Plan?
Ask about:
- Initial recovery window
- Return to work timing
- Exercise restrictions
- Long-term activity considerations
Clear guidance reduces complications, and a structured post-operative protocol protects your outcome. For patients who want an additional comfort strategy, we can discuss EXPAREL®, a long-acting local anesthetic option often used to reduce early post-op discomfort.
12. What Is Your Long-Term Follow-Up Philosophy?
The best surgeons know that breast augmentation is not a one-day event. Ask:
- How often will I be seen after surgery?
- What monitoring do you recommend?
- How do you handle implant exchanges?
- What is your approach if complications arise?
Our follow-up philosophy is built around:
- Predictable checkpoints
- Accessibility when questions arise
- Long-term implant awareness (including rupture screening considerations for silicone)
- A straightforward pathway if you ever need an implant exchange or revision
More Questions? Here Are Our Best Answers to Breast Augmentation FAQs.
Can I breastfeed after augmentation?
Many women are able to breastfeed, particularly when implants are placed beneath the muscle. Outcomes depend on anatomy and technique, which are reviewed during consultation.
Will implants interfere with mammograms?
Implants do not prevent mammograms, though specialized imaging views are required. Submuscular placement may improve visualization. Always inform your imaging center that you have implants.
Do implants increase cancer risk?
Current evidence does not show that breast implants cause breast cancer. There is a rare condition called Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) primarily linked to certain textured implants.
What is Breast Implant Illness (BII)?
Some patients report systemic symptoms they attribute to implants. Research is ongoing. During consultation, we review the latest scientific guidance and discuss risks transparently so you can make an informed decision.
How should I prepare for surgery?
Preparation directly impacts recovery. We typically advise:
- Stop nicotine products well in advance
- Avoid certain medications and supplements that increase bleeding risk
- Complete all required lab work or medical clearances
- Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay the first night
- Prepare a recovery area with supportive pillows, medications, and easy-to-wear clothing
How can I optimize my recovery?
- Wear your surgical bra as directed
- Avoid heavy lifting and upper-body strain early on
- Sleep on your back with support
- Stay well hydrated and nourished
- Attend all follow-up visits
When can I return to exercise?
Light walking begins early. More strenuous lower-body activity resumes gradually. Upper-body and high-impact workouts typically wait several weeks to protect healing tissues.
Let’s Talk
If you are considering breast augmentation in Bellevue or the greater Seattle area, the next step is a private, comprehensive consultation. During your visit, Dr. Egrari will evaluate your anatomy, listen carefully to your goals, review implant options in detail, and outline a clear surgical and follow-up plan tailored specifically to you.
No pressure. No guesswork. Just disciplined planning and transparent guidance.
To begin the conversation, schedule your consultation with Egrari Plastic Surgery Center today.
