augmentation mammaire

Breast augmentation

Breast augmentation is one of the most common and safest cosmetic procedures. This procedure increases the volume and improves the shape of the breasts, resulting in a more balanced and proportionate silhouette.

Rate this page
Make an appointment
Rate this page

Breast augmentation surgery

Augmentation mammaire

Whether for aesthetic reasons, to correct breast asymmetry or to restore breast volume after weight loss or pregnancy, breast augmentation can be an effective way to gain self-confidence and feel more comfortable in your own body.

However, as with any surgical decision, the choice to undergo breast augmentation must be carefully considered. It’s important to understand the process, the different types of implants available, the placement techniques used, the potential results and the associated risks.

Rate this page
Durée
DURATION
approx. 45 minutes
Anesthésie
ANESTHESIA
general anesthesia
Repos
RECOVERY
4 to 7 days
Cicatrice
CICATRICE
Approx. 3 cm

Why choose breast augmentation?

This cosmetic surgery procedure, with its diverse and often intimate motivations, aims to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. One of the main motivations is to improve self-esteem. In fact, many women report increased self-confidence after the procedure. This procedure helps women achieve the breasts they desire, contributing to their general well-being and personal satisfaction. Breast augmentation can also be used to rebalance body proportions.

breast implant

For women with a wide pelvis or asymmetrical breasts, for example, breast augmentation helps create a more harmonious silhouette. In addition, following major body transformations such as pregnancy or major weight loss, which can cause a loss of volume and a loss of muscle tone. Sagging skin breasts, breast augmentation can provide a feeling of rejuvenation by restoring the breasts to their previous size or even making them larger. Finally, breast augmentation can help correct congenital breast deformities, offering a more natural breast appearance to the women concerned.

Rate this page

Breast augmentation: some important points

What are the different types of breast implants?

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.

Breast implants

The volume of these prostheses generally ranges from 200 to 800 cc, although implants outside this range do exist. Before undergoing breast augmentation, it’s crucial to consult a qualified plastic surgeon to determine the type of implant best suited to your morphology and expectations. The surgeon will examine your breasts, discuss your goals, and inform you of the potential risks associated with the operation. During this consultation, you will have the opportunity to try on different sizes of external prostheses to define your desired volume.

Rate this page
Which implant volume to choose?

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.

IncreaseVolume of breast implants
From cup A to cup B250 to 300 cc
From cup A to cup C300 to 350 cc
From cup A to cup D370 to 430 cc
From B cup to C cup250 to 350 cc
From B cup to D cup350 to 400 cc
From B cup to DD cup400 to 450 cc
From C cup to D cup300 to 350 cc
From C cup to DD cup370 to 450 cc
From C cup to E cup450 to 550 cc
From D cup to DD cup300 to 400 cc
From cup D to cup E450 to 600 cc

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.

Rate this page
What are the possible approaches?

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 :

Breast augmentation approaches


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.

Rate this page
Where is the breast implant placed?


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.

implant positioning


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).

Rate this page
How long do breast implants last?

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.

Rate this page
How much does a breast augmentation cost?

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.

Rate this page
Augmentation mammaire

What are the latest trends in cosmetic surgery?

According to the recent global survey by ISAPS (International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery), worldwide aesthetic surgery has seen remarkable growth of +19.3% compared to 2021, totaling over 12.8 million surgical procedures and 17.5 million non-surgical procedures.

The results of this survey of over 1,000 board-certified plastic surgeons from 90 different countries concur with those of the report provided by ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons), carried out among their 11,000+ members.

What about breast surgery? With an increase of +16.8% since 2018, breast augmentation is among the Top 5 most performed operations in 2022. According to ASPS, “breast augmentation has been one of the most popular procedures since 2006”.

At Claris Clinic, we attach the utmost importance to complying with the safety guidelines recommended by ISAPS and ASPS. This approach is designed to guarantee high-quality aesthetic surgery for all our patients.

Source: ISAPS and ASPS

These two organizations are the world’s leading authorities on cosmetic surgery. Their main mission is to educate the public about plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine, while promoting patient safety. Their conclusions, based on data collected from thousands of professionals, offer enlightening insights into trends and developments in this constantly evolving field.

Rate this page

Breast augmentation: in which cases?

The decision to undergo breast augmentation surgery is based on a personal decision on the part of the patient. Women’s breasts vary in appearance and volume, which in some cases can lead to a desire to correct the shape of their breasts.

This dissatisfaction may be linked to a personal perception of the body or may, for example, arise following one or more pregnancies. Some women see their breasts change and lose volume after giving birth and breastfeeding their child(ren).

Rate this page

Breast augmentation procedure

Preliminary consultation

Prior to any breast augmentation operation, an in-depth individual consultation takes place. The specialist then provides detailed information on the procedure, taking into account the needs and physical conditions of each patient. If the decision to proceed is made, additional appointments are scheduled to measure the breasts, try out the implants and discuss the surgical procedure in detail. An anesthesia consultation is also scheduled.

Choice of incision technique and implant position

The size of the implant and the nature of the breast influence the choice of incision technique and implant position. After a thorough interview, the doctor will decide on the most appropriate incision technique, which is usually the fold under the breast.

When it comes to implant placement for breast augmentation, there are also three options to consider:

  • Subglandular position: here, the implant is placed between the mammary gland and the pectoral muscle.
  • Sub-muscular position: the implant is placed under the pectoral muscle.
  • Dual plane technique: the implant is placed partially under the pectoral muscle.
Rate this page

The surgical procedure

The breast augmentation procedure lasts around 45 minutes and is performed under general anesthesia. As a general rule, implants are inserted through a small incision in the fold beneath the breast. These are placed in front of or behind the pectoral muscle. Because every woman is different, it’s not always appropriate to systematically place the implant under the muscle.

After the operation, a membrane of collagen naturally produced by the body, called the shell, surrounds the prosthesis. This can sometimes thicken and change the shape of the breast. However, the new cohesive silicone gel prostheses reduce the formation of this thick shell, making for a more natural feel. As a result, it is no longer necessary to systematically position the implant very deeply, especially for women who want larger implants after weight loss or pregnancy.

Immediate post-operative care

Breast augmentation is performed under general anesthesia, and requires about one hour for the procedure, anesthesia and recovery. Suction drains are no longer required. Once the operation is over, you will be monitored in your room for a few hours before being allowed to return home, with a prescription for oral analgesics. It is advisable to be accompanied for the journey home. Our medical team will also ensure rigorous post-operative follow-up of your breast augmentation, and will remain at your disposal should you have any questions or concerns.

Rate this page

Post-operative follow-up with the breast augmentation surgeon is necessary. A consultation is usually organized soon after surgery to assess wound healing, and again two or three weeks later. A check-up after six weeks is also planned to examine the shape of the breast, and a check-up after six months is recommended. Follow-up care is generally specific to each surgeon and may vary slightly on a case-by-case basis.

After the operation, the chest may feel tight, especially if the implant is placed under the muscle and if the prosthesis is large. We recommend wearing a non-wired bra, day and night, for six weeks after implant insertion (to be adapted according to the surgeon).

The wound under the breast, 3 to 5 cm in size, is usually covered with a watertight dressing, allowing you to take a shower the day after the breast augmentation. Sutures are absorbable and do not need to be removed. It may take several weeks to see the final result of the procedure.

Rate this page

The result

3 to 4 months is the ideal time to appreciate the results of breast augmentation, as the breasts have regained their suppleness and the prostheses have stabilized. Without aiming for perfection, and with realistic desires, we can affirm that the gain in breast volume has an impact on the overall silhouette and allows greater freedom of dress.

post increase

Breast augmentation is a common and safe surgical procedure for improving the size, shape and symmetry of the breasts. Our clinic offers personalized solutions for every patient, using the latest techniques and cutting-edge technologies to guarantee natural, long-lasting results. This is an important and personal decision, which is why we take the time to understand your needs and expectations so we can offer you the most suitable treatment. Contact us to learn more about breast augmentation and to schedule a consultation with our team of plastic surgery specialists.

Rate this page

Fees for breast augmentation surgery

Breast augmentation with prostheses
de 4955 € à 5475 € (*)
Lipofilling breast augmentation
5775 €
Changing breast implants
de 4175 € à 4950 € (*)
Breast lift with prostheses
de 5950 € à 6775 € (*)
First consultation
de 30 € à 70 €
*depending on the type of implant. All our prices are indicative and include VAT. The complete and precise estimate will be validated during the consultation with the surgeon.

FAQ

Will I be able to breastfeed after breast augmentation with implants?

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

Rate this page
Can implants be used for mammography?

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.

Rate this page
Are implants dangerous to my health?

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.

Rate this page

Make an appointment

Claris La Hulpe
(Site Hôtel Dolce)
Chaussée de Bruxelles 135 B
1310 La Hulpe
Online appt. at La Hulpe
Claris Bruxelles
(Quartier Européen)
Rue Belliard 141
1040 Bruxelles
Online appt. at Bruxelles
Claris Liège
(Château des Thermes)
Rue Hauster 9
4050 Chaudfontaine
Online appt. at Liège