Preservé Breast Augmentation tl;dr

• Implant Sizes: 150cc–315cc (think subtle, natural, “yoga boobs” or “ballerina boobs” vibes)‍
• Placement: Over the muscle (subglandular placement, muscle stays intact)‍
• Scar: About 2.5 cm, hidden in the breast crease‍
• Anesthesia: Mild sedation (no general anesthesia needed)‍
• Surgery Time: About 30 minutes‍
• Recovery: Light activities right away, workouts in about 2 weeks‍
• Ideal For: First-time augmentation, active lifestyles‍
• Not Ideal For: Big size jumps, those needing a lift, saline implants, under the muscle‍
• Bonus: You can get the procedure done in the morning and still make it to dinner with your girlfriends that evening.

How is Preservé breast augmentation different from traditional?

Think of it as just another safe option for breast augmentation. Preservé is a technique that keeps your chest muscles intact and comes with a shorter recovery time. The implant is placed under the breast tissue, over the muscle (subglandular), which means less soreness, less downtime, and a more natural, athletic result. Traditional augmentation is still amazing, especially if you want larger implants or more customization. Preservé gives you a new option that allows you to 'get the boobs' with less downtime.

Is Preservé breast augmentation branded?

Yes! The Preservé method was developed by Motiva (Establishment Labs). It’s not just a style of surgery—it’s a specific, advanced technique.

Is Preservé available everywhere?

Not yet. Only a select number of surgeons in the U.S. are trained in Preservé right now. Luckily, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rafi Fredman at Amelia St. Louis is one of them, and we’re pretty obsessed with that.

Is Preservé breast augmentation safer than traditional?

Both Preservé and traditional breast augmentation are safe when done by a skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon. Preservé takes advantage of newer techniques and implant technology that reduce downtime and are less invasive. Your surgeon will talk through the risks and benefits of each during your consultation so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for you.

Where are the Preservé breast augmentation scars?

About 2.5 cm (around an inch) in the breast crease. Most people have to look pretty hard to spot them.

How long does the Preservé procedure take?

About 30 minutes. Quick enough that you could be out to brunch before your girlfriends even know you were in surgery. Okay, maybe not brunch, but dinner’s definitely an option.

Does Preservé breast augmentation require general anesthesia?

Nope! Most are done “awake” with mild sedation. You’re totally comfortable, breathing on your own, and recovery from sedation is a breeze.

Who is a candidate for Preservé breast augmentation?

You might be a great fit if: 

• This is your first breast aug
• You want a subtle, natural-looking boost (150cc–315cc range, think 1–2 cup sizes)
• You’re active or an athlete, military, first-responder, you get it 
• You love the idea of being back to real life almost instantly

What’s the recovery time like?

Fast. In theory, you can have surgery in the morning and be out to dinner that same night. Light activities and lower-body exercise can start right away, with full workouts cleared in about 2 weeks (depending on your surgeon’s requirements).

When can I work out after Preservé?

It’s up to your surgeon, but most people are back to daily activities right away and fully back to workouts, including lifting and HIIT, at 2 weeks. You may have to wait 4–6 weeks for water submerging/swimming for the incisions to heal.

Can Preservé be done under the muscle?

No. One of the key benefits of Preservé is that it preserves your natural tissue, so there’s no cutting or lifting of the muscle. The implant sits on top of the muscle, under the breast tissue, which supports the implant like a nest. This also helps preserve your anatomy and sensation.

Can I get a breast lift with Preservé?

Technically, yes, but Preservé is ideal for patients who don’t need a lift to get the look they want. If you need both, your surgeon will walk you through your options.

Can this be done with any implant?

No. Preservé can only be done with the latest Motiva Ergonomix implants. Your surgeon will talk through what sizes are available (currently 150cc–315cc).

Is Preservé better than traditional?

It’s not about better; it’s about options. Preservé is amazing for smaller, subtle results with a quick recovery. Traditional gives you more flexibility with implant size, brand, profile, and type (including saline). Both are safe, both are effective. It just depends on your anatomy and your goals.