Breast Augmentation Mammoplasty Consultation: Questions To Ask Your Plastic Surgeon

A breast augmentation mammoplasty is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the world, with thousands of women opting for this procedure every year. However, a breast augmentation mammoplasty is a serious surgical procedure that requires careful consideration and a thorough consultation with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon.

If you are considering a breast augmentation, it is essential to ask your plastic surgeon the right questions to ensure that you are making an informed decision and will understand the details of your procedure. In this blog, we will outline some of the key questions you should ask during your breast augmentation mammoplasty consultation.

• What is your experience with breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery? One of the most important questions to ask your plastic surgeon is about their experience with breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery. You want to work with a surgeon who has extensive experience performing breast surgeries and who has a track record of delivering successful results. Before your consultation, you can also view their about page on their website to read about their education history and experience within the field of cosmetic surgery.
• What type of breast implants do you recommend? Breast implants come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. You will be able to discuss your desired results, so that your surgeon can recommend the best type of implant for you. Implants are available in a range of sizes, in round or teardrop shape, silicone or saline fillings and smooth or textured outer shells. The ideal type of implants vary for each patient, so the consultation is the place to work out which ones you need.
• What are the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure? As with any surgical procedure, a breast augmentation mammoplasty can be associated with some possible side effects, although the level of these risks can be minimised by choosing an experienced and qualified plastic surgeon. During your consultation, your surgeon should be upfront and honest with you about the associated risks, which may include infection, bleeding, scarring, and implant rupture, as well as how they will work to prevent or minimise these. It’s important to ensure transparency, that you are fully informed about all aspects of the procedure and that you are in reliable hands.

Disclaimer: The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

• How long is the recovery period for breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery? The recovery time frame can vary slightly from patient to patient, depending on the specific details of the procedure. Generally, a breast augmentation mammoplasty typically requires a recovery period of several weeks, during which you will need to avoid certain activities. Part of the purpose of your consultation is to determine the personalised details of your surgery and provide you with an idea of what your recovery will look like, based on your procedure.
• Can I see before and after photos of breast augmentation mammoplasty procedures you have performed? Before and after photos are an excellent way to get an idea of what kind of results you can expect from breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery. Ideally, your plastic surgeon should be able to provide you with some examples of their previous work, so you can see the kinds of results they have achieved for other patients. However, every patient is unique and results of other procedures should never be used as exact references for how your results will turn out, but as a guide only.
• How do I prepare for my surgery? Preparing for breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery typically involves making some lifestyle changes in the weeks leading up to your procedure, but each patient’s preparation steps may look a little different, depending on their personal health history, lifestyle factors and procedure details. Your plastic surgeon will outline what your preparation steps will entail. Usually, you will receive a detailed list of things to do (and things to avoid) in the days and weeks leading up to your surgery.
• What kind of anaesthesia will be used during my breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery? Breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery typically requires general anaesthesia, which means you will be unconscious during the procedure. So that you feel prepared, your surgeon can explain the anaesthesia process and answer any questions you may have, including the likelihood of any associated complications occurring and how you may feel after waking from the procedure, especially if it is your first time undergoing a surgical procedure with general anaesthesia.
• How much will my personalised procedure cost?The costs of your procedure will depend on a number of personalised factors, including the type of implant you choose and the amount of time that the procedure will take. One of the main purposes of your breast augmentation mammoplasty consultation is to calculate all of the fees and expenses associated with the procedure, and provide you with a personalised quote.
• How long will my breast implants last? Breast implants are not designed to last forever, and you will likely need to have them replaced at some point in the future. Your plastic surgeon will be able to provide you with information about the lifespan of the type of implant you choose, as well as recommendations for when you should consider replacing them.
• What kind of follow-up care will I need after my surgery? After your breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery, you will need to attend follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon to ensure that you are healing properly, monitor the success of your results according to your procedure goals and to address any concerns you may have. As part of your personalised procedure plan, any important post-procedure check-up’s can be scheduled, so that you will know well in advance when you will need to be seen again.
• What is your approach to minimising scarring after breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery? Scarring is an inevitable part of any surgical procedure, but your plastic surgeon should have a plan in place to minimise scarring as much as possible. They may use techniques such as placing incisions in inconspicuous areas or using advanced suturing techniques to minimise scarring.

Dr Tavakoli uses the most advanced techniques to minimise scarring as much as possible, and can inform you of how he will use these techniques in further detail, according to your personalised procedure. You should expect, however, that surgical scars will never completely go away.

• What happens if I am not satisfied with the results of my procedure? While most women are happy with the results of their breast augmentation mammoplasty surgery, there is always a chance that you may not be completely satisfied. Your plastic surgeon should be able to discuss your options for revision surgery and what the process would entail, outlining a plan for still aiming for your desired results should the procedure not achieve the outcome you had expected.
• Can I combine breast augmentation mammoplasty with other procedures, such as a mastopexy (breast lift)? If you are looking to address other concerns in addition to breast size and shape, you may want to consider combining breast augmentation mammoplasty with other procedures, such as a mastopexy. Generally, augmentation mammoplasties aren’t specifically designed to address excess skin or changes in the position of nipples that can sometimes occur due to the natural ageing process or due to other changes such as significant weight loss, so some women may benefit from undergoing a mastopexy as well, in conjunction with receiving implants, to address all of their aesthetic concerns at once. During you consultation, ask your surgeon what your options are.

Your breast augmentation mammoplasty consultation with Dr Tavakoli in Sydney

An obligation-free and cost-free breast augmentation mammoplasty consultation at our Sydney clinic is an opportunity to discuss your desired results, the details of the procedure, preparation and recovery advice, costs, and any personal concerns that you may have.

In a welcoming, supportive and empowering environment, you will be able to ask all of the questions above and any additional questions you want to ask. Clear communication and a mutual understanding is highly important when it comes to achieving your ideal results.

If you’re ready to book your breast augmentation mammoplasty consultation with a leading, experienced and qualified plastic surgeon, contact our team.

What happens at a breast augmentation consultation?

A comprehensive breast augmentation consultation in Sydney should cover several areas in sequence. Understanding what to expect helps you evaluate whether a consultation is thorough and whether the surgeon is taking a personalised, clinical approach to your care.

Medical history review

The consultation will typically begin with a detailed medical history review. Your surgeon should ask about previous surgeries, any existing breast conditions, current medications and supplements, allergies, smoking status, and your general health. This information directly influences whether you are a suitable candidate for the procedure, the anaesthesia approach, and the likely recovery timeline.

If any aspect of your medical history is relevant to surgical risk, your surgeon is obligated to discuss this with you openly. Transparency in this phase is a marker of thorough clinical practice.

Breast measurements and 3D imaging

Your surgeon or a clinical nurse will take precise measurements of your chest width, breast base diameter, nipple position, skin laxity, and the distance from your collarbone to your nipple. These measurements are used to determine which implant dimensions are anatomically appropriate for your frame.

Many Sydney clinics now use 3D imaging software to create a simulation of potential outcomes for different implant sizes and shapes. This can be a useful communication tool during your consultation. It is important to understand that any images generated are simulations only and do not represent a guaranteed surgical result.

Implant size and style selection

Based on your measurements, your goals, and the physical assessment, your surgeon will discuss implant options with you. This includes the choice between saline and silicone implants, the implant profile (low, moderate, or high), and the recommended placement technique. Your 2025 guide to breast implant placement covers the differences between sub-muscular, dual plane, and sub-glandular placement, which can help you understand what your surgeon recommends and why.

A thorough surgeon will explain their reasoning clearly rather than simply presenting a recommendation. If you feel that your questions about size or style are being dismissed, this is worth noting.

Questions to ask your surgeon

Preparing a list of questions before your consultation is one of the most effective ways to evaluate a surgeon and make a well-informed decision. The questions below are grouped by area and are designed to help patients compare two or three surgeons at this stage of their journey.

Credential and experience questions

Use these questions to verify qualifications and understand the surgeon’s clinical background:

• Are you registered with AHPRA, and what type of specialist registration do you hold?
• Are you a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons [FRACS(Plast)] or do you hold an equivalent specialist qualification?
• How many breast augmentation procedures have you performed, and how many per year currently?
• Which accredited day surgery or hospital facility will my procedure be performed at?
• Who is the anaesthetist, and are they AHPRA-registered? Will they be present throughout the procedure?
• Can you provide information about your outcomes and complication rates for breast augmentation?

Technique and implant questions

Use these questions to understand the clinical approach being recommended for your anatomy:

• Which implant type, brand, and profile are you recommending for my anatomy, and why?
• What placement technique do you recommend for me (sub-muscular, dual plane, or sub-glandular), and what are the reasons?
• Which incision approach will you use, and how is scarring typically managed?
• How do you determine the appropriate implant size for my frame, and what tools do you use?
• Is 3D imaging available, and how is it used in your planning process?
• What specific techniques do you use to minimise the risk of capsular contracture?
• How long do you expect the implants to last, and what does monitoring involve over time?

Understanding how to choose a plastic surgeon in Australia before your consultation will help you assess the quality of the answers you receive and compare surgeons with confidence.

Safety and risk questions

A thorough surgeon will raise risks proactively without being prompted. These questions ensure the conversation is complete:

• What are the most common complications associated with breast augmentation, and how are they managed?
• What is the most serious risk of this procedure, and how do you mitigate it?
• What is your personal complication rate for breast augmentation?
• What is your policy on revision surgery if I experience a complication?
• What symptoms or signs should prompt me to contact you after surgery?
• How many follow-up appointments are included and over what period?
• What does the consent process involve, and when will I be asked to sign?

After the consultation: the 7-day cooling-off period

Under the AHPRA cosmetic surgery reforms introduced in 2023, a mandatory minimum seven-day cooling-off period applies after you receive your consent documents and procedural information from your surgeon. During this period, you cannot confirm your surgery or sign the consent. This is a legal requirement under the new cosmetic surgery laws in Australia, not an administrative formality.

The cooling-off period serves a specific purpose: to ensure you have adequate time to read and consider the information provided, seek further advice from your GP or another surgeon if needed, and make a considered decision without commercial pressure.

Use this time to:

• Read every document provided at your consultation, including the consent forms, risk information, and implant data sheets
• Follow up with your GP to discuss the procedural recommendation and your suitability
• Research the implant brand and model recommended by your surgeon
• Note any additional questions that arise, and contact the clinic before making a decision
• If you are comparing surgeons, use this period to review and compare each itemised quote and clinical approach

Red flags at a consultation

Not all consultations are equal. The following are indicators that a consultation may not meet the standard expected under Australia’s cosmetic surgery regulations, or that the surgeon’s approach warrants closer scrutiny:

• Pressure to book or sign documents on the day of your first consultation
• No mention of the 7-day cooling-off period or active discouragement of it
• Inability or reluctance to confirm AHPRA registration or specialist qualifications on request
• No GP referral required before the surgical consultation (required under 2023 reforms)
• Risk information is vague, minimised, or not raised proactively by the surgeon
• Significant discounts are offered for booking quickly or on the day
• No written, itemised quote provided or offered
• The procedure will be performed in a facility that cannot confirm its accreditation status
• The anaesthetist is not named, not AHPRA-registered, or described only as ‘a nurse anaesthetist’
• Unrealistic claims about outcomes or dismissal of risks as unlikely

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring to my first breast augmentation consultation in Sydney?

Bring your GP referral letter (required under Australia’s 2023 cosmetic surgery reforms), a written list of your medications, supplements, and known allergies, a record of your medical history and previous surgeries, and a written list of questions for the surgeon. Consider bringing a support person to take notes. The printable checklist on this page covers everything you need to prepare.

How long does a breast augmentation consultation take?

A thorough first consultation typically takes between 45 minutes and 90 minutes. This allows time for a medical history review, physical assessment, breast measurements, discussion of implant options and technique, a review of risks, and time for your questions. If 3D imaging is used, allow additional time. A consultation that concludes in under 30 minutes may not cover all relevant areas.

Do I need a GP referral for my first breast augmentation consultation in Australia?

Yes. Under the AHPRA cosmetic surgery reforms introduced in 2023, a GP referral is required before attending a surgical consultation for breast augmentation. This is a mandatory requirement under the new cosmetic surgery laws in Australia. Contact your GP to arrange a referral before booking your surgical consultation.

Can I bring someone with me to my breast augmentation consultation?

Yes, and it is strongly recommended. Bringing a trusted support person allows someone else to listen and take notes while you focus on the conversation with your surgeon. Information about risks, procedures, and techniques can be complex, and having two sets of ears in the room helps ensure nothing is missed.

What is 3D imaging, and is it available for breast augmentation consultations in Sydney?

3D imaging uses specialised scanning software to create a three-dimensional model of your chest, allowing you and your surgeon to visualise how different implant sizes and shapes may relate to your specific anatomy. It is available at a number of Sydney clinics. It is important to understand that the images produced are simulations only and are not a representation of a guaranteed surgical outcome.

How many consultations do I need before breast augmentation?

Most patients attend a single surgical consultation before proceeding. However, consulting with more than one surgeon before making a decision is reasonable and is increasingly common among patients at this stage of the process. After each consultation, you are entitled to the full seven-day cooling-off period before any decision is required.

What is the 7-day cooling-off period, and how does it work?

Under the AHPRA cosmetic surgery reforms, a minimum seven-day cooling-off period applies after you receive consent documents and procedural information following your surgical consultation. During this period, you cannot confirm your surgery or sign the consent. The cooling-off period is designed to ensure you have adequate time to consider your decision without pressure. Any surgeon who asks you to sign or confirm before this period has elapsed is not operating within the requirements of the current cosmetic surgery regulations in Australia.

Book a Consultation with Dr Tavakoli, FRACS(Plast)

A consultation is not a commitment to surgery. It is an opportunity to ask every question on your list, have your anatomy assessed, and determine whether the clinical approach on offer is right for you.

Dr Tavakoli holds FRACS(Plast) specialist qualifications and has performed thousands of breast augmentation procedures at accredited facilities in Sydney. At your consultation, you will receive a thorough clinical assessment, a clear explanation of the options recommended for your anatomy, and a fully itemised written quote with no pressure to proceed.

To book your consultation, contact the team online or call 1300 368 107. Bring your GP referral and your questions.