Breast surgery in Paris 16 — aesthetic and reconstructive

The breast brings together very different requests: a volume felt to be insufficient or too heavy, an asymmetry, laxity that has appeared after a pregnancy, a malformation present since adolescence, or the reconstruction of a breast after cancer treatment.

Breast surgery has a wide range of techniques at its disposal. The choice does not depend on any preference of principle, but on the morphology of the chest, the volume of glandular tissue present, the quality and elasticity of the skin, and the position of the areola.

Aesthetic or reconstructive breast surgery: what is the difference?

Aesthetic breast surgery modifies a shape felt to be unsatisfactory in the absence of disease: augmentation of a naturally underdeveloped volume, correction of laxity linked to time or to a pregnancy. It is not reimbursed and requires a written quotation together with a fifteen-day reflection period.

Reconstructive surgery corrects a constitutional anomaly or a sequela: tuberous breasts, Poland syndrome, marked asymmetry, hypertrophy with functional impact, reconstruction after mastectomy.

The operative procedures are often similar. It is the indication that separates them, not the technique.

What assessment is needed before breast surgery?

The consultation allows the breasts, the skin, the chest, the position of the areolas and any asymmetry or ptosis to be examined. A mammogram, an ultrasound or another investigation may be requested according to age, personal and family history and the clinical examination.

Current medication, allergies and medical history must be reported. Tobacco in particular increases the risks of poor healing and areolar necrosis: stopping is strongly recommended, following the surgeon's instructions.

Which breast surgery is reimbursed?

The following may be eligible for reimbursement, subject to conditions and prior authorisation from French health insurance: breast reduction where the volume removed reaches the regulatory threshold and the functional impact is documented; correction of tuberous breasts; Poland syndrome; marked breast asymmetries; reconstruction after mastectomy.

Not reimbursed: aesthetic breast augmentation, correction of isolated ptosis, lipofilling for purely aesthetic purposes.

Breast surgery, pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy and breastfeeding generally remain possible after breast surgery, but no technique can guarantee that the ability to breastfeed will be preserved.

Conversely, a pregnancy occurring after an operation may change its result: variations in volume and laxity of the tissues affect an operated breast as they do a natural one. Where a pregnancy is planned in the near future, this point deserves to be discussed before setting a date for surgery.

Frequently asked questions

Does breast surgery prevent breast cancer screening?

No. Screening continues according to the recommendations applicable to your age and your history. The presence of implants must always be reported to the professional carrying out a mammogram, an ultrasound or an MRI, so that the views can be adapted.

From what age can surgery be performed?

Breast volume must be stable. A breast reduction can be considered from the age of 17 under these conditions. For aesthetic procedures in a minor, parental consent is required.

Last updated: August 2026 · Medical content reviewed by Dr Benjamin Pulvermacker, board-qualified plastic surgeon in Paris 16.