Breast augmentation

Today, the majority of prostheses are essentially filled with cohesive silicone gel. Historically, one of the most common complications of breast augmentation was the formation of a rigid membrane, called a shell or capsule, around the prosthesis, which could lead to breast deformity and even pain.

The most common types of prosthesis are :

• The popular round shape gives the breast a full, rounded appearance, accentuating the curvature of the upper part of the breast.
• The anatomical or “teardrop” shape, designed to mimic the natural shape of the breast, offers a more natural appearance.
• The ergonomic shape, which is a round prosthesis that is less dense and less filled, making it possible to give the breast an anatomical shape while avoiding the risk of prosthesis rotation.

Choosing the right volume of breast implants to achieve the desired result can be complex. This choice depends on a number of factors, such as the patient’s morphology, body shape and expectations in terms of results. Your plastic surgeon will guide you through these considerations to determine together the volume and shape of your prostheses.

The profile of the breast implants determines the projection of the breast. There are different implant profiles:

• Low profile: For slight augmentation and medium cleavage.
• Medium profile: For natural augmentation and intermediate cleavage.
• High profile: For an impressive décolleté with breasts projected forward.
• Very high profile: For a very imposing décolleté with significant projection.

The choice of implant volume is also crucial in determining cup augmentation.

Implants range from 125cc to over 1500cc. Depending on the number of cc (cubic centimetres), your breasts will be one or more cup sizes larger. Most women prefer breast implants of no more than 500cc for a natural result.

Measure your cup size accurately

The cup size is determined by the difference between the waist circumference and the bust circumference. For an accurate measurement, position the tape measure on the most prominent part of the chest, typically at the nipples. A difference of 12.5 cm is equivalent to an A cup, and each additional 2.5 cm increases the cup size.

The different types of scars possible for breast augmentation depend on the surgical technique used and the patient’s personal preference. The most common types of scars associated with breast augmentation are :

Peri-areolar scar
This scar lies around the areola, and may be more visible if it is not well hidden by the edge of the areola. It also has the disadvantage of having to pass through the mammary gland to insert the implant. In addition, this approach makes it more difficult to fix the lower pole properly, and the prosthesis runs the risk of dropping below the natural fold of the breast after a few years.

Inframammary scar
This scar lies under the breast (“submammary fold”) and may be hidden by the lower edge of the bra. It allows good control of the procedure, and is by far the most frequently used.

Axillary scar
This scar is located in the armpit. However, it may require a longer incision, is more visible and may be more problematic or a source of infection. It is hardly ever used anymore.

Behind the pectoral muscle
Behind the pectoral muscle: implants placed behind the pectoral muscle are generally less visible, especially when tissue thickness is insufficient. However, the retropectoral approach can lead to more intense pain during recovery and is mainly reserved for very thin women with very little breast tissue. In addition, this technique presents an increased risk of implant migration, upwards and/or outwards, in the longer or shorter term, under the effect of muscle contractions. There is also a higher risk of early implant rupture (before 10 years), as prostheses are subject to greater wear and tear due to muscular contractions and friction on the ribs, whose surface is sometimes very irregular.

In front of the pectoral muscle
The implant is placed above the pectoral muscle. This implantation is simpler and can achieve good results when the thickness of the gland is sufficient to camouflage the prosthesis. The result may vary, however, if the thickness decreases over the course of the patient’s life (pregnancy, menopause, weight loss).

Silicone breast implants are generally considered “reliable”, and can last a minimum of 10 to 15 years. However, this can depend on a number of factors, such as the type of implant used, implant quality, general health and post-operative management. It’s important to talk to your surgeon to get a clearer idea of how long your breast implants will last.

It is also important to remember that breast prostheses
sometimes need to be replaced over time
for reasons such as leakage, displacement or loss of shape. You should therefore monitor your body carefully and follow up regularly with your surgeon to ensure that everything is going well.

As with all women, you should continue to undergo breast cancer screening. If an X-ray examination is prescribed, it is advisable to inform the radiologist of the presence of implants.

The cost of breast augmentation in Belgium can vary considerably depending on a number of factors, such as the region, the type of implant used, the complexity of the operation and the surgeon’s level of experience and reputation.

In Belgium, the cost of a breast augmentation generally varies between €3,500 and €5,500 incl. VAT (since January 1, 2016 the government has imposed a 21% VAT on cosmetic surgery in Belgium).

It’s a good idea to talk to several surgeons to obtain quotes and take into account all the costs associated with the operation, including anesthesia and post-operative expenses.

There are no contraindications to breastfeeding after breast augmentation. Only the peri-areolar incision can reduce the ability to breastfeed. Talk to your surgeon!

It’s perfectly possible to have a mammogram with implants if you’ve had a breast augmentation. However, please inform the technician and radiologist before the examination.

Claris Clinic only works with the best implant brands, offering the highest standards of safety and quality. The incidence of breast cancer in women with prostheses is extremely low. To find out more, read our blog post