ABC preoperative triage system in breast augmentation.

[BACKGROUND] A successful outcome of elective aesthetic surgery should be preceded by clear criteria for patient selection. A solid patient-doctor bond and, ideally, a relationship where "empathy" is the key should be the goal before proceeding. We describe the usefulness of a new practical psychological triage system: the 5 Preoperative Key Points.

[METHODS] Six hundred fifty-five consultations for primary breast enlargement performed by the same doctor that culminated in surgical procedures were included. A graphic was used to classify patients, taking personal adaptation into consideration.

[RESULTS] The system's scores were organized into three groups: group A (32 %, n = 210), B (55 %, n = 360), and C (13 %, n = 85). Of a total of 655 nonconsecutive consultations, 646 (98.6 %) proceeded to the second consultation and its respective procedure. Only nine group C cases (1.3 % of total consultations and 10.5 % C group patients) were discouraged from undergoing the procedure.

[CONCLUSION] These 5 Preoperative Key Points proved to be simple, practical, and applicable to our daily practice. Applying a simple and practical psychological triage system shall prove beneficial not only for surgeons but for patients as well.

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