Everything to think through before your breast augmentation, lift, or reduction consultation — so you walk in informed and confident.
Choosing breast surgery is a big decision, and the best outcomes start with a well-prepared patient. This checklist walks you through the questions to consider, the goals to clarify, and the practical steps to take before meeting with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Carlos Mata (Dr. Scottsdale®). Use it to organize your thoughts so your consultation is focused, productive, and tailored to exactly what you want.
Start by defining what you want to change. Are you seeking more volume, a lift, smaller breasts, better symmetry, or restoration after pregnancy or weight loss? Knowing your primary goal points to the right procedure — a breast augmentation, lift, reduction, or a combination.
Gather reference photos of results you like (and dislike). They help communicate your aesthetic far better than words alone.
Be ready to discuss your medical history, medications and supplements, prior surgeries, family history (including breast cancer), and whether you plan future pregnancies. If you smoke, plan to stop well before surgery — it's essential for safe healing.
If you're due for a mammogram or breast imaging, ask whether it should be completed before surgery.
Bring your list. Useful questions include: Which procedure best fits my goals and anatomy? What are my implant or technique options? Where will my scars be? What is recovery realistically like? How long will results last? May I see before-and-after photos of similar patients?
Review real patient results in our before & after gallery beforehand to refine your questions.
Think through timing, time off work, help at home during the first days, and budget. Review financing options in advance, and if you're traveling, see our out-of-town patient resources.
Candidacy is ultimately a conversation. Dr. Mata will determine the right path at consultation.
Schedule ConsultationWe're curating a dedicated set of the arizona breast checklist cases for the gallery. In the meantime, the full Before & After archive includes related work.
Browse the full galleryNo. The checklist helps you clarify your goals, but Dr. Mata will recommend the right procedure for your anatomy and what you want to achieve during your consultation.
Depending on your age and history, breast imaging may be recommended before surgery. Bring it up at consultation, and complete any imaging your provider advises.
Your goals, reference photos, a list of questions, your medical history and medications, and any prior imaging or surgical records.
Often, yes — for example a lift with implants, or breast surgery as part of a mommy makeover. Dr. Mata will discuss combinations that fit your goals and safety.
Consultations with Dr. Mata are private, unhurried, and typically last 45 to 60 minutes. Your first conversation sets the foundation for everything that follows.
