Breast augmentation continues to evolve with new technologies focused on improving outcomes, minimizing trauma, and optimizing long-term patient satisfaction. One of the most exciting recent advancements in this space is the Motiva Preservé system, a next-generation surgical platform designed to create a controlled, precise, and minimally traumatic implant placement experience. Although not yet available in the United States, it’s gaining traction worldwide, with anticipated U.S. availability projected for the first quarter of 2026.
In this blog, we explore how the Preservé system works, what makes it different from traditional augmentation techniques, and why it represents a significant leap forward for both surgeons and patients.
What Is the Motiva Preservé System?
The Motiva Preservé system combines a series of sterile, single-use components—including a tissue expander balloon, introducer sheath, and Motiva implant—that are used in a specific sequence to create a precise pocket and place the implant with minimal tissue trauma.
At its core, the Preservé system is designed to standardize and streamline the augmentation process while significantly reducing the manual manipulation and tissue trauma typically associated with conventional techniques.
Step-by-Step Overview: Inframammary Incision and Balloon Expansion
The procedure begins with a small inframammary incision (crease below the breast)—an approach that offers direct access, optimal control, and excellent concealment of the final scar. Unlike more traumatic techniques that involve blunt or sharp dissection to create the implant pocket, the Preservé system utilizes a temporary balloon expander.
This balloon is inserted into the surgical plane—either subfascial or subglandular, depending on the patient’s anatomy and surgical goals—and gently inflated with saline or air. As it expands, the balloon creates a uniform, bloodless pocket, reducing the need for forceful retraction or cutting through tissue.
Once the pocket is formed and the balloon is deflated and removed, the implant is placed atraumatically through a sterile introducer, further minimizing direct contact and potential contamination. This technique offers several downstream benefits in terms of patient recovery and long-term results.
Avoiding Animation Deformity
One major advantage of the Preservé technique is its ability to avoid animation deformity, a common issue with implants placed under the muscle. Because the implant is placed in a subfascial or subglandular plane, there is no distortion or movement of the implant when the chest muscles flex—making this an ideal option for athletic patients or anyone seeking a more natural, stable result.
Atraumatic Placement and the Preservation of Tissue Integrity
Traditional methods of pocket creation often involve a combination of cautery and blunt force, which can traumatize nerves, blood vessels, and surrounding soft tissue. The balloon expansion method used in the Preservé system is gentle and consistent, significantly reducing mechanical stress on the tissues.
This atraumatic approach leads to less post-operative pain, reduced swelling and bruising, and shorter recovery times. Perhaps most importantly, it enhances the likelihood of preserving nipple sensation, a major concern for many patients considering breast surgery.
Reducing Capsular Contracture and Infection Risk
Another key advantage of the Preservé system is the use of a closed, sterile environment from implant preparation to final placement. The Motiva implant is never touched by the surgeon or exposed to the surrounding surgical field, which minimizes contamination.
Additionally, the gentle balloon dissection avoids bleeding, which is a known risk factor for capsular contracture. By reducing both contamination and trauma, the Preservé system may contribute to lower rates of post-operative complications, including infection and excessive scar tissue formation.
Advanced Implant Technology with Motiva Ergonomix
The Motiva Ergonomix implant used with the Preservé system features a responsive gel-shell interface that adapts to body movement and positioning, mimicking the look and feel of natural breast tissue. Its proprietary microtextured surface reduces the risk of inflammation, rippling, and capsular contracture—further enhancing safety and aesthetic outcomes.
Optimizing Results with Motiva Implants
Motiva implants are known for their soft feel, natural shape, and durability. When paired with the Preservé system, the placement is optimized to enhance these characteristics. The precise pocket formation ensures that the implant sits exactly where intended, reducing the risk of malposition or asymmetry.
Because the Preservé system allows for exact implant placement without overstretching or tearing tissue, patients can achieve highly predictable, natural-looking results with less downtime.
What Does This Mean for Patients?
For patients, the Preservé system represents a meaningful improvement in the breast augmentation experience. Key benefits may include:
- Better preservation of nipple sensation
- Less post-operative pain and faster recovery
- Lower risk of capsular contracture
- Reduced swelling, bruising, and scarring
- Highly precise, natural-looking results
- No animation deformity with subfascial or subglandular placement
Although this technology is not yet FDA-approved in the U.S., it is being used successfully throughout Europe, Latin America, and Asia. Surgeons and patients in the U.S. are eagerly awaiting its arrival, expected as early as Q1 2026.
Looking Ahead
As a plastic surgeon, my goal is always to provide patients with the safest, most effective, and most advanced techniques available. The Motiva Preservé system represents the convergence of science, engineering, and surgical artistry. By minimizing trauma and maximizing precision, it promises a better experience for patients from consultation to final results.
We’re closely watching developments and preparing for the opportunity to bring this technology to our Dallas practice as soon as it becomes available. If you’re considering breast augmentation and want to learn more about future options like the Preservé system, schedule a consultation—we’d love to share what’s on the horizon.
