01Indications for breast augmentation
Breast augmentation (or augmentation mammaplasty) consists of increasing breast volume and reshaping the chest in cases of hypotrophy, agenesis, breast hypoplasia or breast asymmetry. It can be performed for:
- aesthetic reasons: improving the appearance, shape and volume of the breasts, or correcting a loss of volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss (« deflated breasts », ptosis);
- reconstructive reasons, eligible for insurance coverage: breast reconstruction after cancer, congenital malformation (tuberous breasts, Poland syndrome), agenesis or significant asymmetry.
02Implants, lipofilling or composite: the techniques
Increasing breast volume relies on three main techniques. Dr Hunsinger helps you choose the one best suited to your anatomy and your goals, always aiming for a natural result.
Breast augmentation by lipofilling
Also called « breast augmentation without implants », breast lipofilling involves harvesting your own fat (saddlebags, flanks, thighs) by liposuction, purifying it and then reinjecting it into the breasts. The result is very natural and biocompatible (no foreign body), and permanent after 1 to 2 sessions. The only limitation is the amount of fat available: the gain in volume remains moderate (about one cup size).
Breast augmentation with implants
Breast augmentation with implants places a soft silicone-gel implant in front of the muscle (subglandular), behind the muscle (submuscular) or straddling the two (dual plane technique, for a natural contour). Implants are round (the most widely used) or anatomical; restrictions on macro-textured implants now favour smooth round implants.
Composite breast augmentation
A combined method pairing an implant (for volume) surrounded by autologous fat: the fat conceals the contours of the implant, corrects chest-wall irregularities and refines the cleavage — for a particularly natural result.
The lifespan of a breast implant is on average around 10 years; some patients keep them longer, provided they are regularly monitored (ultrasound generally every 2 years). An implant is therefore not a permanent device: a replacement may be needed during one’s lifetime.
03Before / after results
04How the procedure works
Before the procedure
A consultation at the Rive Droite Paris Étoile clinic helps define the desired size, shape and volume, and identify the harvesting areas in the case of lipofilling. It is also the time to choose the type of implant for an augmentation with implants.
The surgeon takes photographs and performs a 3D simulation of the result; trying on implant sizers under your clothes is possible. Pre- and post-operative prescriptions are given, along with antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent any risk of infection.
During the procedure
The procedure takes place at the clinic, whatever method is chosen. The patient goes home the same day or the next day.
By lipofilling, in 3 stages: atraumatic suction of the fat by liposuction, purification by centrifugation, then reinjection into the breasts in the form of fat microdroplets. The procedure is slightly longer (and slightly more expensive) than the placement of implants.
With implants: the surgeon makes a short incision — inframammary (fold), axillary (armpit) or periareolar — and places the implant in a pocket created between the pectoral muscle and the gland (subglandular, submuscular or dual plane position). The incisions are closed and a dressing is applied.
After the procedure
Breast augmentation is not very painful and complications are rare. The usual recovery:
- painkillers in case of residual pain;
- possible discomfort during the first few weeks when raising the arms;
- wearing a compression bra for 4 to 6 weeks;
- daily disinfection of the scars;
- 5 to 10 days off work, no sport for 1 month.
The results are visible immediately. With implants, the swelling of the first few weeks masks the final volume: the contour can be fully appreciated once it has subsided. Follow-up visits are scheduled at one week and then at one month.
05Prices & fees in Paris
| Procedure | Aesthetic fees |
|---|---|
| Breast augmentation with implants | 5 400 – 7 000 € |
| Breast augmentation by lipofilling | 6 000 – 9 000 € |
| Composite breast augmentation (implant + fat) | 8 200 – 10 000 € |
Indicative “from” prices, surgeon fees included. The final quote is given at the consultation, after examination, depending on the area treated and the technique chosen. Part of the procedure may be covered by French national health insurance when the medical criteria are met.
06Your questions
What is the price of a breast augmentation in Paris?+
The price depends on the technique: from €5,400 for an augmentation with implants, €6,000 by lipofilling and €8,200 for a composite augmentation. The details are shown in the price list below; see also our explanations on the price and insurance coverage of a breast augmentation.
Implants or lipofilling: how to choose?+
Lipofilling offers a very natural result with no foreign body, but a moderate gain in volume (≈ one cup size) and requires a sufficient fat reserve. Implants allow a larger and more controlled gain in volume. Composite augmentation combines the two. The choice is made during the consultation according to your anatomy, the desired volume and your preferences — Dr Hunsinger guides you towards the most suitable solution.
Does breast augmentation give a natural result?+
Yes, that is the priority. The choice of soft implants, the right positioning (in particular the dual plane technique), lipofilling or composite augmentation now allow a result true to your anatomy, with no « done » look. A reasonable gain of one to two cup sizes ensures the harmony of your figure.
Is the procedure painful?+
The operation itself is not painful (general anaesthesia). Recovery is a little restricting during the first few weeks, but the pain stays limited and temporary.
What are the risks of a breast augmentation?+
As with any surgery, risks (infection, haematoma) exist but remain rare. With implants, rotation or capsular contracture may require a revision. Dr Hunsinger explains these risks during the consultation, in full transparency.
Is the operation reversible?+
Yes, breast augmentation is reversible (both implants and lipofilling): reshaping or removal remains possible if you are no longer happy with the result. This is, however, rare, as the result generally meets expectations.
Is breast augmentation reimbursed by the French health service?+
Insurance coverage is possible in certain cases: reconstruction after a mastectomy, bilateral breast agenesis, very significant hypoplasia (below an « A » cup) or major asymmetry. The surgeon then submits a prior-agreement request to the French national health insurance.
How do I choose my cup size?+
The new size depends on your anatomy, your starting cup size, the technique and the desired shape. The surgeon guides you towards a natural result; a gain of one to two cup sizes is entirely achievable.
Can a failed breast augmentation be corrected?+
Yes, in many cases a failed breast augmentation can be revised. A prior clinical examination determines what can be done to obtain a satisfactory result.
