Composite breast augmentation combines the placement of implants with a transfer of your own fat. The implant provides the volume. The fat improves the shape, softens the edges of the implant and fills the cleavage. This technique is mainly intended for slim patients, with little breast tissue, or with an asymmetry. It aims at a more natural result than an implant alone.
How the procedure unfolds
In practice
- In consultation, I analyse your request and your expectations.
- I examine your breasts, the quality of the skin and the areas where fat can be harvested.
- I also collect information about your state of health and your breast history.
- We take photographs for your medical record.
- I offer you a 3D simulation of the expected result with the Crisalix software.
- Breast imaging is generally requested before the procedure.
- I give you all the information about the surgery and the implants, then I give you an estimate.
A second consultation is mandatory before any procedure. You must stop smoking at least one month before the procedure.
Surgery
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, at the Clinique Pasteur in Toulouse. It is done on an outpatient basis or with one night in hospital.
I place the implant through an incision located most often in the fold under the breast, sometimes around the areola. The scar measures a few centimetres.
I then harvest the fat by liposuction from the areas we have chosen together. The fat is purified and injected around the implant through very small incisions.
The procedure generally lasts between 2 and 3 hours. You go home with a compression bra and a compression garment on the harvested areas.
Postoperative effects
Pain generally lasts a few days. It can be stronger when the implant is placed behind the muscle.
- Bruises and swelling appear on the breasts and on the harvested areas. They generally fade within two to three weeks.
- You can return to normal activity after one to two weeks.
- Sport can be resumed after about six weeks.
- The breasts are high and tight at first, then they soften.
- Part of the fat is resorbed during the first months.
The final result can be assessed after six months to one year. I see you again at several follow-up consultations, then every year for the follow-up of the implants.
Choosing the implants
We choose together the shape, the volume and the position of the implant (in front of or behind the muscle). This choice depends on your body shape, the quality of your tissues and your wishes. Implants are not placed for life. Regular follow-up is necessary. A replacement may be proposed over the years. Pregnancy and breastfeeding remain possible with implants.
What to do to optimize the result?
- Hydrate yourself and your skin.
- Do not smoke: tobacco reduces fat survival and slows healing.
- Wear the bra and the compression garment as recommended.
- Avoid arm efforts and pressure on the breasts during the first weeks.
- Protect the scars from the sun during the first year.
- Keep a stable weight.
Social security coverage
Breast augmentation for aesthetic purposes is not covered by social security. In some cases (malformation, absence of breast development, significant asymmetry), coverage may exist. We discuss this in consultation.
Pricing
From 5200 euros, on estimate given at the end of the consultation.
The SOFCPRE information sheet for your procedure is given to you during the consultation.