Meta Description: Planning a breast reduction? A senior plastic surgeon with 45 years of experience guides you on how to prepare. Learn what questions to ask, what documents to bring, and how to set realistic goals for your surgery.

  Choosing breast reduction surgery is a powerful step toward relieving physical pain and enhancing your confidence. As one of the most patient-satisfying procedures, it can alleviate chronic pain and offer a new sense of freedom. Your consultation is the foundation for this positive outcome. Being prepared ensures you and your surgeon build a shared vision for your results. This guide, based on 45 years of surgical experience, will help you prepare.

Step 1: Prepare Your Personal & Medical Profile

Organizing your health information is crucial for safety and personalizing your procedure. Bring a detailed file including:

• Medical & Surgical History: List all past/present medical conditions, any previous surgeries, especially breast procedures.
• Medications & Allergies: Include all prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and any allergies (medications, tapes, anaesthetics).
• Family History: Note any family history of breast cancer.
• Lifestyle Factors: Be ready to discuss smoking and alcohol use.

Also, prepare to discuss your motivations:

• Physical Symptoms: Describe your specific discomforts (e.g., back pain, shoulder grooves, skin irritation).
• Your Vision: What are your hopes for size, shape, and life after surgery? (e.g., “I want to fit into standard clothing,” “I want to run without pain.”).

Step 2: Gather What to Bring

Being organized helps the consultation flow smoothly. Your checklist should include:

• A List of Your Questions: Don’t rely on memory. Use the questions below.
• Recent Mammogram: If you’re over 40 or have a family history, bring results from within the last year.
• Photographs:
  • Inspiration Photos: Find images of breast sizes and shapes you like on women with a similar body frame to yours.
  • Reference Photos: Your own photos from different angles 
  • A Supportive Bra: Bring a well-fitting, non-wired bra to discuss post-

operative garments and desired size.

Step 3: Master Your Question List : This is your opportunity to ensure you’ve

found the right surgeon. A great surgeon will welcome your questions.

About the Surgeon’s Expertise:

•     Are you certified by a recognised board in plastic surgery?
• How many breast reduction procedures do you perform each year?
• May I see before-and-after photos of your patients?

About the Procedure & Recovery:

• Which surgical technique do you recommend for me and why? 
• What is the realistic recovery timeline? 
• Crucial Question: Will I be able to breastfeed in the future?

About Practicalities:

• Is this surgery typically covered by insurance, and can your office assist?
• What does the total cost include? (surgeon, anaesthesia, facility, garments).

Your Goal: An Empowered Partnership

Walking into your consultation fully prepared transforms you from a passive patient into an active partner in your care. This empowers you to make the best decisions for your health and happiness, setting the stage for a successful and satisfying outcome.

Ready to become the most prepared patient in the room?
For an even more detailed roadmap, my book, “The Complete Pre-Consultation Guide for Women Planning Breast Reduction Surgery,” is available now on my website. Visit the designated section to download it at a minimal cost.

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider to make your medical decisions after examining you.

Author Bio:
Dr. Alaa Elsaharty is a retired Senior Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic, and Hair Transplant Surgeon. With an MD, MS, and FRCS (Edinburgh), his distinguished 45-year career spanned the UK, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. He is a member of several prestigious international societies, including ISAPS and ISHRS. This article is based on his decades of experience performing breast reduction surgery.                                   

Warmly,
Dr. Alaa Elsaharty MD, MS, FRCS (Edinb.)
www.sahartyplasticsurgery.net