Choosing a Cosmetic Breast Surgeon

Choose an American Board of Cosmetic Surgery Diplomate

Unfortunately, anyone licensed to practice medicine can legally perform breast augmentation—and this has led to a number of physicians putting their patients’ safety and appearance at risk. Contrary to what some may say, breast augmentation is not a “simple” procedure. It requires specialized training, experience, and an acute aesthetic sensibility to achieve the results most patients are looking for.

To become a diplomate of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, a cosmetic surgeon must complete a minimum of 12 months in fellowship training specifically in cosmetic surgery, as well as a minimum of 300 cosmetic surgery procedures—far more than what is required even for plastic surgeons. In addition, he or she must pass a rigorous 2-day written and oral examination and peer review process, only operate in accredited surgical facilities, and adhere to a strict code of ethics, including a commitment to continuing professional medical education to stay current in the latest techniques and safety measures.

I tell everyone about Dr. Pancholi. If you are looking for a surgeon you can trust to do the best job possible, you have just found him. 12 years ago, I produced a documentary on breast augmentation, interviewing surgeons and patients and filming surgery, so I searched hi and low for someone with the credentials and experience I could trust. I couldn’t be happier. Thank you Dr. Pancholi and staff—I really love you guys!
—F.D

Pay Attention to “The Look”

Just as every woman has an idea of what she sees as beautiful, every surgeon has a certain artistic eye and skill. As you look at different surgeons’ before and after pictures, notice if a surgeon tends to produce a consistent result that appeals to you personally You will often do this subconsciously as you say “Wow! I like this.” That doctor has matched up with what you consider to be “the look” you view as beautiful.

Your cosmetic surgeon’s “artistic eye” will play an important role in your outcome with breast augmentation, as it is not a certain breast implant, incision type, or the size you pick that will dictate your results so much as it is the skill and artistry with which your surgery is performed. Paying attention to consistent results that you find beautiful will help guide you to the right surgeon for you.

Before & After View Patient Results & Save Your Favorites >

Questions to ask at your breast augmentation consultations

There are certain no-compromise qualifications you should look for in any cosmetic surgeon whom you choose.

1. How long have you been practicing cosmetic surgery?

Cosmetic surgeons with many years of experience have had more opportunities to encounter different types of patients, achieve a wide variety of goals, and perfect his or her technique. More importantly, you want to make sure your surgeon is a cosmetic specialist, and does not simply perform breast augmentations on the side. Dr. Pancholi has practiced solely cosmetic surgery for over 10 years.

Learn why it is important to choose a board certified cosmetic surgery specialist for your procedure

2. How many breast augmentations, breast revisions, and/or breast lifts do you perform each year?

The answer to this question will help you determine if you are seeing a breast surgery specialist. A surgeon’s before & after portfolio can give you an idea of how many breast surgeries he or she performs compared to other procedures. If you are shown only one or two breast augmentation photos, either online or at your consultation, be wary. If you are able to view hundreds, however, this indicates that your surgeon performs these procedures regularly.

3. Who will provide my anesthesia?

Make sure that your anesthesia will be administered by a board certified anesthesiologist. These physicians have the highest level of training to administer anesthesia, and are best qualified to keep you safe. If a doctor tells you he performs his own anesthesia, or has only a nurse anesthetist on staff, find another surgeon.

4. Where will you perform my surgery?

For your safety, a reputable surgeon will perform surgery only in an accredited hospital or a fully accredited surgical center. Look for certification by the AAAHC or the AAAASF. These organizations require the surgery facility to be rigorously inspected and evaluated on a regular basis to meet exacting standards and assure a commitment to safety.

5. Where do you have hospital privileges?

Choose a cosmetic surgeon who has both admitting and surgical privileges at an accredited hospital. This means that he or she can both admit patients and perform cosmetic surgery in the hospital if needed. A surgeon with privileges to perform cosmetic procedures in a hospital reveals another layer of review and acceptance of his credentials. Dr. Pancholi has cosmetic surgery admitting and operating hospital privileges at:

Spring Valley Hospital
5400 South Rainbow Boulevard
Las Vegas, NV  89118
Telephone (702) 853-3884

6. Who will perform my surgery?

This may seem like a no-brainer, but you need to confirm that the cosmetic surgeon you meet with at your consultation will be the one operating on you from start to finish. A reputable surgeon will explain this process to you, as well as who will be assisting in the operating room. Make sure the operating room staff is fully trained and certified to carry out their roles as well—choosing a diplomate of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery ensures your procedure will take place in an accredited facility, with a qualified support team.