Aesthetic and plastic surgeon Doctor Roman Merle performs breast augmentation surgery in Antibes. The procedure is designed to enhance the size of the bust and restore confidence in patients who are self-conscious about the size or shape of their breasts.

When is a breast augmentation procedure appropriate?

Breast augmentation augmentation (or « augmentation mammoplasty by prosthesis ») aims to increase the size of breasts that are underdeveloped (breast hypoplasia). This condition can be linked to insufficient development at puberty or may become apparent later in life, following pregnancy, significant weight loss or due to hormonal imbalance. The procedure can be carried out once physical development is complete (around 17 or 18 years’ old).

Doctor Merle - Plastic Surgery - Antibes - Breast Augmentation
Doctor Merle - Plastic Surgery - Antibes - Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation procedure

An augmentation mammoplasty by prosthesis will usually take around 2 hours and is performed under a general anaesthetic. Aesthetic and plastic surgeon Doctor Roman Merle will use one of several operating techniques:

  • Periareola — the incision is made under the areola (darker skin around the nipple) or horizontally running along the nipple
  • Transaxillary — the incision is made in the armpit ;
  • Inframammary fold — the incision is made along the crease underneath the breast

The choice of technique will depend on each individual patient’s body type and expectations.

Doctor Merle - Plastic Surgery - Antibes - Breast Augmentation
Doctor Merle - Plastic Surgery - Antibes - Breast Augmentation

Once the incision is made, Dr Merle will insert the implant either in the breast tissue under the gland, above the pectoral muscle (subglandular or premuscular) or beneath the pectoral muscle (submuscular).  Decisions regarding the type of implant (round or anatomical) and their positioning will be made after a thorough discussion with Dr Merle who will fully explain the advantages and inconveniences of each option. Dr Merle can also insert a Redon drain to dissipate any fluid that may collect around the implant.  As soon as the procedure is done, the patient will be put into a shaping compression bandage.

Depending on the procedure and each individual, the patient may be able to leave the hospital on the same day or stay in for 24 hours.

The cost of a breast augmentation procedure performed in Antibes by aesthetic and plastic surgeon Doctor Roman Merle, starts at €2500 and in some rare cases may be reimbursed by Social Security.

What to expect following surgery

After surgery, some discomfort may be felt over a few days, especially when the implants have been positioned behind the pectoral muscle. Swelling and bruising often occur. Doctor Merle will be able to prescribe appropriate medication to help reduce any discomfort.
The shaping compression bandage is removed a few days after the procedure and then a specially adapted support bra must be worn for 2 months. Any sporting activity should be avoided for at least one month after the operation

Case n°1 — Before/after

Can other operations be combined with a breast augmentation procedure?

Dr Merle can also perform a breast lift at the same time as the augmentation procedure if you have ptosis of the breasts (sagging).
Another option that Dr Merle can propose at the same time as performing breast augmentation surgery is lipofilling. This involves removing fatty tissue from your thighs, buttocks or abdomen to re-inject into the breasts to complement the implant and achieve an even more harmonious result.