Before any surgical procedure—and especially before breast augmentation— a thorough consultation with the surgeon is required. In Belgium, the law requires a 15-day reflection period between the consultation and the procedure. At Claris Clinic, this consultation is much more than a formality: it is the moment when the relationship of trust between the patient and her surgeon is built, and when the surgical plan takes shape. Our clinics are located in Brussels (European Quarter), La Hulpe, and Liège (Château des Thermes).
What to Expect During Your Appointment at Claris Clinic
1. Listening and Medical History
The consultation begins with an in-depth discussion during which the surgeon listens to your motivations, expectations, and concerns. The surgeon also reviews your complete medical history, including any previous surgeries, current treatments, allergies, family history of breast cancer, and your lifestyle (smoking, exercise, plans for pregnancy, etc.).
2. The Clinical Examination
The surgeon performs a comprehensive clinical examination of the breasts to assess: their current size and shape, the quality and elasticity of the skin, the position of the nipples, symmetry, and any ptosis (sagging breasts). This information is essential for selecting the appropriate size and type of implants.
3. Simulation and Selection of Implants
Using simulation tools (sizer trials, photo morphing), you can visualize the potential results based on different implant options. The surgeon will explain the differences between round and anatomical implants, the available sizes, the surface types (smooth or textured), and the possible surgical approaches (areolar, inframammary, axillary).
4. Providing Preoperative Information
You will receive all the information regarding anesthesia, the procedure itself, the length of your hospital stay, postoperative care, and recovery times. You will be given an official information sheet. The cost of breast augmentation and the coverage options will be discussed with complete transparency.
The Legal Cooling-Off Period in Belgium
In accordance with Belgian legislation on cosmetic surgery (Law of May 23, 2013), a minimum cooling-off period of 15 days must elapse between the consultation and the surgery. This period cannot be shortened and is intended to protect you from making hasty decisions. You should use this time to ask any additional questions, compare implant options, and prepare yourself mentally and physically for the procedure.
Can the consultation be conducted remotely?
Claris Clinic also offers video consultations for an initial contact. This option allows you to discuss your plans, ask your initial questions, and assess whether a procedure is feasible before coming to the clinic for a full in-person consultation. This cosmetic teleconsultation is particularly useful for patients who live in more remote areas or abroad.
Preparing for Your Appointment: Questions to Ask
To get the most out of your pre-surgery consultation for breast augmentation, prepare your questions in advance :
- Based on my body type, what kind of implants do you recommend?
- What is the least noticeable approach for my situation?
- What is the risk of capsular contracture, and how can it be minimized?
- How long will my recovery take, and when will I be able to start exercising again?
- Is there any medical follow-up after the surgery, and how often does it take place?
- What is the total cost of breast augmentation, including postoperative follow-up care?
Frequently Asked Questions About the Pre-Surgery Consultation for Breast Augmentation
Is there a fee for consultations at Claris Clinic?
Yes, a surgical consultation is a comprehensive medical service that is subject to a fee. The cost is provided when you schedule your appointment.
How many consultations are required before breast augmentation surgery?
Generally, a thorough initial consultation is sufficient before the procedure, followed by compliancewith the 15-day legal waiting period. A second consultation can be scheduled if you have any concerns or additional questions.
Can you choose the size of your implants on your own, without medical advice?
No. The size of the implants should be chosen in consultation with your surgeon, taking into account your body type, the quality of your tissue, and your activities (such as intense exercise or future breastfeeding). An implant that is too large for your body increases the risk of complications and unsatisfactory results.
What documents should I bring to the appointment?
Be sure to bring any recent blood test results, the results of any mammograms you may have had, a list of your current medications, and your primary care physician’s contact information. This information will help the surgeon prepare a comprehensive and safe treatment plan.
Breast Implants: Types, Safety, and Lifespan
Breast augmentation with implants involves placing breast implants either under the pectoral muscle or under the breast tissue. The latest-generation implants are filled with cohesive silicone gel, offering excellent stability and a natural-looking result. During the initial consultation, the surgeon evaluates the shape and current volume of your breasts to determine the best solution for you. The lifespan of breast implants is generally estimated to be between 10 and 20 years, depending on the type of surface (smooth or textured) and the patient’s lifestyle. The safety of the procedure is paramount: modern implants undergo rigorous monitoring and extensive clinical studies.
Surgical technique: incision, placement, and retrieval
The surgical technique is chosen during the consultation based on your anatomy and your goals. The incision can be made in three ways: inframammary (in the crease under the breast), periareolar (around the areola), or axillary (in the armpit). Each incision site offers advantages in terms of scarring and implant placement. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia or sedation and lasts an average of 1 hour and 30 minutes. The hospital stay is typically one night. Postoperative recovery requires 5 to 7 days of rest before resuming light activity. Sleeping on your stomach is not recommended for several weeks. A revision or follow-up surgery may be considered if the results do not meet expectations, although this is rare when performed by an experienced surgeon.
Risks, Breast Shape, and Alternatives to Breast Implants
Like any cosmetic surgery procedure, breast augmentation carries risks that are important to discuss during the initial consultation. The main potential complications include infection, capsular contracture, and changes in sensation. Breast asymmetry or insufficient volume may also warrant a second procedure. For patients with significant breast ptosis, a mastopexy (breast lift) may be performed in conjunction with implant placement. An alternative to implants is fat injection (lipostructure), which involves using the patient’s own fat harvested through liposuction. This technique is particularly suitable for modest corrections to breast volume or to improve a pear-shaped contour. During your consultation, the doctor will explain which option is best for you based on your stage of breast development, your height, and your overall body type.
Claris Clinic’s Expertise in Breast Surgery
The field of cosmetic breast surgery requires specialized expertise and a constant pursuit of best practices. At Claris Clinic, our surgeons’ experience in performing breast surgery ensures results that combine femininity with a natural look. The importance we place on the patient-surgeon relationship is at the heart of our approach: every postoperative care plan is carefully tailored, from the initial consultation through to the first postoperative shower and regular follow-up visits. We use only the latest generation of breast implants, validated by rigorous clinical studies, which provide excellent filling material for long-lasting results. Our guiding principle is to provide a professional and transparent medical experience, where consistent results and patient safety are always our top priorities. Contact us today to schedule your first consultation and begin your journey with confidence.
