Before a breast augmentation, the preliminary consultation with the plastic surgeon is not just a formality: Belgian law requires it for any cosmetic surgery procedure. This is also where your plan takes shape. You discuss your expectations, the surgeon examines you, you work together to choose the type and size of the implants, and then you leave with a written summary and a detailed estimate. A cooling-off period of at least fifteen days must then elapse before the procedure.
At Claris Clinic, this consultation can take place in Brussels (Rue Belliard, European Quarter), La Hulpe, or Liège (Château des Thermes), depending on your preference. The procedure itself is performed in the operating room at Claris La Hulpe, on the southern outskirts of Brussels.
What happens during a consultation at Claris Clinic?
1. Your Expectations and Background
The consultation begins with a discussion. The surgeon will ask you what you’d like to change, what’s bothering you right now, and what results you envision. The surgeon will then review your health history: past surgeries, current treatments, allergies, personal or family history of breast cancer, smoking, exercise habits, and plans for pregnancy or breastfeeding.
2. The Clinical Examination
The surgeon then examines your breasts and takes measurements: volume and shape, skin quality and elasticity, nipple position, symmetry, and any degree of ptosis (sagging breasts). These measurements guide the choice of implants. They also indicate whether an augmentation alone is sufficient or if it should be combined with a breast lift.
3. Choosing Prosthetics
You’ll try on implants of different sizes, which will give you a concrete idea of the final result. The surgeon will present your options: round, anatomical, or ergonomic implants made of cohesive silicone gel, with a smooth or textured surface or made of polyurethane, and placement either in front of or behind the pectoral muscle. At Claris Clinic, we work with brands such as Motiva, Mentor, Silimed, and GC Aesthetics. The incision is most often made in the crease beneath the breast.
4. The written report and the estimate
At the end of the consultation, the surgeon will explain the anesthesia, the procedure itself, the postoperative care, the risks, and the scheduled follow-up visits. The law requires that this information be included in a written report, dated and signed by you. You will also receive a detailed estimate (required for procedures costing more than €1,000), which includes the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, operating room fees, implants, and follow-up care. As a general guide, breast augmentation at Claris Clinic costs between €4,955 and €5,475, depending on the type of implant, including VAT and follow-up care.
The 15-day cooling-off period
The law of May 23, 2013, which governs cosmetic medicine and surgery, requires a minimum period of fifteen days between the signing of the written report and the procedure (Article 20).
These two weeks are for reviewing the documents, asking any questions that come to mind afterward, and making arrangements for your recovery: a few days off work, help around the house at first, and a non-underwire bra to wear for six weeks.
Can the first consultation be done remotely?
Yes. Claris Clinic offers an initial video consultation. You can discuss your plans, ask your initial questions, and the surgeon will tell you whether breast augmentation is a viable option for you. This is convenient if you live far from our clinics or abroad. The clinical examination, however, cannot be done over video: an in-person consultation is still required before the procedure. For practical details, see our article on how to join a video consultation.
Questions to Ask During the Consultation
Write down your questions ahead of time: on the day of the event, you’ll always forget one or two. For example:
- What type of implant and what size would you recommend? Why?
- Where will the scar be?
- In my case, will the implant be placed in front of or behind the muscle?
- What is the risk of capsular contracture, and how can it be minimized?
- When will I be able to go back to work, and then resume exercising?
- How many follow-up visits are scheduled after the surgery?
- What exactly does the quote include?
For more tips, see our article on questions to ask yourself before breast augmentation surgery.
Key Points About the Intervention
Once the reflection period has ended, the procedure takes place in the operating room at Claris La Hulpe. Here are the main points:
- Anesthesia: general, or local using the Preservé technique.
- Duration: 60 to 90 minutes; return home the same evening.
- Aftercare: Discomfort for about three days; return to office work after 5 to 7 days; return to sports after 4 to 6 weeks.
- Follow-up visits: at least the next day and one week later, then generally at one month, six months, and one year.
- Dental implants: designed to last at least 10 to 15 years, with regular follow-up visits.
Complications are rare but can occur: hematoma, infection, capsular contracture, and changes in nipple sensation—which are usually temporary. The surgeon will go over these with you during your consultation. For information on recovery time, see our article on how much rest to plan for after breast augmentation. The breast augmentation page provides details on everything else: techniques, implants, cost, and results.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Pre-Surgery Consultation for Breast Augmentation
Is there a fee for the consultation?
Yes. The informational consultation with the surgeon costs between 50 and 70 €. It does not obligate you to anything.
How many appointments are needed before the surgery?
At Claris Clinic, the treatment process includes two appointments before the procedure and at least three follow-up visits afterward. The preoperative evaluation includes a consultation with an anesthesiologist and, if necessary, additional tests.
Can you choose the size of your breast implants on your own?
You have a say in the matter, but the final decision is made by the surgeon. The size depends on your body type, the thickness of your tissue, and your activities. An implant that is too large for your chest increases the risk of complications and results in a less natural-looking outcome.
What documents should I bring?
A recent blood test, if you have one; your most recent mammogram or breast ultrasound; a list of your medications; and your primary care physician’s contact information.
Is there an alternative to dentures?
Yes, breast lipofilling: your own fat is harvested via liposuction and then reinjected into the breasts. It is suitable for modest volume enhancement, as 20 to 30 percent of the fat is reabsorbed within the first few months. It can also be used to complement breast implant surgery. At Claris Clinic, it costs €6,450.
To schedule an appointment in La Hulpe, Brussels, or Liège, visit our appointment scheduling page or call +32 (0)2 789 69 00 (La Hulpe and Brussels) or +32 (0)4 223 24 25 (Liège).
