The prospect of getting cosmetic surgery can be both exciting and daunting. There is the thrill of knowing you are taking a step towards the look you want to achieve, but at the same time, surgery is a big deal. Not to mention all the choices you need to make, such as the size and projection of your breast implants.
The breast augmentation consult can be a solo venture, if that is what works for you. But for many clients, there is a desire to have someone else tag along, for moral support or as a sounding board when it comes to making important decisions related to the surgery. So, who should you bring to a breast augmentation consult?
To bring or not to bring? In the end, the decision is personal.
Why You Should Consider Bringing Someone Along
The majority of cosmetic surgeons have no problem with clients bringing along a support person to their breast augmentation consult for need to know information. While there is no pressure to bring anyone but yourself, there are reasons to consider having someone by your side.
It’s a Lot of Information
And information overload could make it hard for you to keep everything straight, especially if your emotions are running high. Having a support person can ensure you don’t miss critical info. They can also keep track of the questions you need to ask. Let them take notes and keep things straight so you can focus on what matters most to you in the moment.
They Can Run Errands
Maybe you forget to bring the right bra for your consult, or you are just hungry. Having someone else with you allows for them to grab what you need without disrupting the process. While this is a small concern, it can make a big difference.
A Sounding Board Can Help
You will need to make important decisions during the consult. While the surgeon will be able to help you with this, getting input from a support person feels different. Expect to look at things like the volume, shape, fill and projection of implants. Also, your surgeon will likely ask if you want to add other procedures, such as a breast lift, with your augmentation.
You Can Prepare for Recovery
After surgery, you are going to need help at home for at least a few days. During the early days of recovery, even basic activities can feel difficult, such as getting dressed and cooking food. Having the person who will be assisting you there at the consult gives them the opportunity to be in the know right from the start. They can even ask their own questions about the recovery process and how they can best help you.
It’s a Major Life Event
Getting breast augmentation could be lifechanging for you, and your consult is the first step towards this. This makes your breast augmentation consult a major life event. As with other big events, you might be excited to share it with someone. While your support person may just be there to be excited for you, that has value.
Qualities to Look for in Your Support Person
While there are many reasons to bring someone along for your consult, it must be stated that not every person in your life will make a good support person — even if you dearly love them and they love you. Some people just aren’t the right fit for a cosmetic surgery consult.
However, many are. The key is to select someone who has the right qualities. These include:
- Being open to and supportive of the idea of cosmetic surgery
- Not feeling like they have a controlling stake in your decisions
- Having your best interests at heart
- Placing emphasis on honesty
- Knowing what you want to address with your breast augmentation
Be certain to avoid bringing anyone who isn’t supportive of your goals or might be tempted to pressure you into decisions that benefit them more than they do you.
Still, You Might Be Better off Solo
There is no requirement that you bring along a support person, and in many cases, bringing one can complicate things more than simplify them. It is absolutely acceptable to go alone. Ultimately, the guidance and support your loved one can offer is great, but your cosmetic surgeon is there for you. And they will be the expert whose opinion should hold the most weight next to your own.
Whatever you choose, know that you aren’t alone. Breast augmentation is one of the most popular forms of plastic surgery, which means there are millions of others you can learn from even if they aren’t present for the consultation.
Author: Dr. Joseph Castellano
Dr. Joseph Castellano is a native Floridian who grew up in the Tampa Bay area. After medical school and residency, Dr. Castellano returned home and has opened a practice in Tampa, Florida focusing on breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, liposuction, facelift, and eyelid rejuvenation. He is a member of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, American College of Surgeons, and American Medical Association
