Natural Looking Breast Augmentation: Preservé by Motiva® in NYC & Long Island
Dr. Kevin Tehrani at Aristocrat Plastic Surgery is one of the first board-certified plastic surgeons in New York to offer Preservé by Motiva®, an advanced tissue-preserving breast augmentation system now available at our NYC, Long Island, and Southampton locations. The Preservé system is performed exclusively with Motiva SmoothSilk® Ergonomix2® implants, which are carefully selected and tailored to harmonize with each patient’s natural frame and body shape. This personalized approach ensures a natural looking breast augmentation that complements your unique proportions and anatomy. These implants adapt to your body’s natural movement and are supported by clinical data showing 0% inferior malposition (implant lowering) at three years. The result is a breast augmentation that looks natural, feels soft, and recovers faster than conventional methods. With smaller incisions, reduced inflammation, and a standardized technique backed by peer-reviewed research, Preservé represents a thoughtful evolution in breast enhancement for women who want safety, innovation, and beautiful outcomes. The goal is not only physical enhancement, but also helping you become a more confident you. read more
Medical Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While we strive for accuracy and reliability, no guarantee is made that the content is complete, current, or without inaccuracies. Always consult your physician or a qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Do not ignore or delay seeking medical advice because of content presented here.
What Is Preservé by Motiva®?
Preservé by Motiva® is an advanced breast augmentation system developed by Establishment Labs, the manufacturer of Motiva breast implants. It combines a standardized, minimally invasive surgical technique with proprietary instruments and Motiva’s sixth-generation SmoothSilk® Ergonomix2® implants to achieve breast enhancement while preserving the patient’s native anatomy.
Preservé is available at Aristocrat Plastic Surgery’s Manhattan, Great Neck, and Southampton offices, and is performed by Dr. Kevin Tehrani, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience in advanced breast procedures. Dr. Tehrani creates a personalized treatment plan based on your existing breast tissue, anatomy, and goals to ensure natural looking breast augmentation results. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial for achieving the best outcome, and it is important to review before and after galleries to find a surgeon whose results align with your desired aesthetic.
Traditional breast augmentation often involves cutting through breast tissue and sometimes detaching or lifting the pectoral muscle to create a pocket for the implant. Preservé takes a fundamentally different approach. Using the Motiva® Channel Separator, a patented instrument that gently parts tissue without cutting, and the Motiva® Inflatable Balloon, which gradually expands to create a precisely shaped pocket, the Preservé technique minimizes trauma to existing breast tissue, nerves, blood vessels, and chest muscles.
The implant is then placed using a no-touch insertion technique to maintain sterility and reduce the risk of contamination. Because the procedure avoids aggressive dissection, patients typically experience less pain, less swelling, smaller incisions (approximately 2.5 cm), and a significantly faster recovery. Many Preservé procedures can be performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation rather than general anesthesia, adding an additional layer of safety and convenience.
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How Does Preservé by Motiva® Work? Step by Step
Step 1 -Local Tissue Preparation
Dr. Tehrani begins by numbing the surgical area using a tumescent solution. This local anesthesia approach, often combined with mild IV sedation, allows most patients to remain comfortable without the risks associated with general anesthesia. The tumescent solution also helps prepare the tissue for gentle separation.
Step 2 -Small Inframammary Incision
A small incision of approximately 2.5 cm (about one inch) is made within the inframammary fold, the natural crease beneath the breast. Careful incision placement within this fold is chosen to minimize visible scarring and optimize aesthetic outcomes. The small incision size is made possible by the flexible design of the Ergonomix2® implant and the Preservé insertion technique.
Step 3 -Tissue Separation Without Cutting
Using the Motiva® Channel Separator, Dr. Tehrani creates a narrow pathway to the implant space without cutting through breast tissue, nerves, or blood vessels. This instrument gently parts the tissue along natural planes, preserving the breast’s internal support structures and maintaining nipple sensation.
Step 4 -Precision Pocket Creation
The Motiva® Inflatable Balloon is inserted through the channel and gradually expanded to create a pocket that closely matches the size and shape of the selected implant. This controlled expansion gently elongates the tissue to “nest” the implant, reducing the risk of displacement or malposition over time.
Step 5 -No-Touch Implant Placement
The Motiva SmoothSilk® Ergonomix2® implant is placed using a sterile insertion sleeve that prevents direct contact between the implant and the skin. This no-touch technique minimizes the risk of bacterial contamination and supports long-term implant safety.
Step 6 -Incision Closure and Recovery
The incision is closed and surgical adhesive is applied to support healing and maintain incision integrity. The entire procedure typically takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Patients return home the same day with detailed aftercare instructions and a supportive garment. Many patients report being comfortable enough to resume light activities by the evening of surgery.
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Preservé Breast Implants Technology: What Makes It Different
SmoothSilk® Surface
An advanced nano-textured shell engineered to reduce friction between the implant and surrounding tissue. Clinical data shows SmoothSilk promotes a lower inflammatory response compared to traditional smooth or textured surfaces, which may help reduce the risk of capsular contracture and support healthier tissue integration over time.
Ergonomix2® Design
Unlike traditional implants that maintain a fixed shape, Ergonomix2® implants respond dynamically to body position and movement. Implant shape options include round implants and teardrop (shaped) implants, each influencing the final breast contour and natural looking breast augmentation results. Round implants tend to add upper pole fullness and create a more augmented look, while teardrop or shaped implants provide a natural slope for a subtler, natural appearance. Ergonomix2® implants appear fuller and rounder when upright, then shift into a more anatomical, teardrop-like shape when lying down. This closely mimics the behavior of natural breast tissue, resulting in a softer feel and more authentic appearance during everyday activities. read more
TrueMonobloc® Shell
A continuous, unified shell construction that combines the implant’s outer layer, patch, and gel into one structure. This design enhances durability, flexibility, and ease of insertion through smaller incisions without compromising structural integrity.
BluSeal® Safety Layer
A visible blue indicator layer built into the shell that allows the surgeon to confirm implant integrity before placement. This provides an additional safeguard against defects or leakage, giving both patients and surgeons greater confidence during the procedure.
ProgressiveGel® Fill
An advanced silicone gel engineered to mimic the density and movement of natural breast tissue. ProgressiveGel provides a soft, elastic feel with smooth, natural motion, contributing to the realistic look and feel that distinguishes Motiva implants.
Qid® Microtransponder
A tiny identification chip embedded in the implant that stores the device’s serial number and specifications. This allows for non-invasive identification and is compatible with all standard breast imaging methods, including MRI and ultrasound.
Who Is a Candidate for Preservé by Motiva®?
Preservé is designed for a wide range of patients seeking breast enhancement or revision surgery with an emphasis on preserving natural tissue, sensation, and structural integrity. Ideal candidates include those seeking a breast augmentation procedure that carefully matches implant size and breast size to their body frame and natural frame, ensuring harmonious, natural-looking results. Ideal candidates include:
- Women seeking first-time breast augmentation who want a less invasive approach with faster recovery
- Patients who desire a subtle, natural-looking enhancement (typically one to two cup sizes) rather than dramatic volume change
- Women concerned about preserving nipple sensation and natural breast tissue
- Patients who prefer to avoid general anesthesia in favor of local anesthesia with mild sedation
- Women replacing older implants who want an updated technique with reduced tissue disruption
- Patients seeking correction of mild asymmetry or changes in breast shape due to aging, weight fluctuation, or breastfeeding
- Post-mastectomy patients exploring reconstruction options with a tissue-preserving approach
Approximately 90% of patients seeking primary breast augmentation are candidates for Preservé. During your consultation at Aristocrat Plastic Surgery, Dr. Tehrani will evaluate your anatomy, goals, and medical history to determine whether Preservé is the right approach for your desired outcome. Patients who require a breast lift in addition to augmentation, or who need implant sizes beyond the currently available Ergonomix2® range (150cc–315cc), may be better suited for traditional augmentation techniques.
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Why Choose Dr. Tehrani for Motiva Breast Implants
Dr. Kevin Tehrani is a board-certified plastic surgeon known for his precision, aesthetic expertise, and commitment to patient safety. With extensive experience in advanced breast procedures, he offers Motiva Implants to provide patients with the latest in implant technology and natural-looking results. His personalized, patient-focused approach ensures you receive care tailored to your goals, with an emphasis on safety, innovation, and long-term satisfaction.
Preservé vs. Traditional Breast Augmentation
Understanding the differences between Preservé and conventional breast augmentation helps patients make an informed decision. The table below highlights key distinctions:
| Feature | Preservé by Motiva® | Traditional Augmentation |
| Tissue Approach | Gentle separation; no cutting through breast tissue | Dissection through tissue and/or muscle |
| Chest Muscle | Preserved; subglandular placement | Often lifted or detached (submuscular) |
| Incision Size | ~2.5 cm (1 inch) | ~4–5 cm |
| Anesthesia | Local + mild sedation (most patients) | General anesthesia (standard) |
| Procedure Time | ~30–45 minutes | ~1–2 hours |
| Recovery | Light activity same day; full activity ~2 weeks | Light activity ~1 week; full activity ~4–6 weeks |
| Nipple Sensation | Preserved (tissue-sparing technique) | May be temporarily or permanently affected |
| Malposition Rate | 0% at 3 years (clinical data) | Varies by technique and surgeon |
| Implant Options | Motiva Ergonomix2® only (150–315cc) | Multiple brands, types, and sizes available |
NOTE: Preservé and traditional augmentation are both safe and effective when performed by a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. The best approach depends on the patient’s anatomy, goals, and implant preferences. Dr. Tehrani offers both options and will recommend the technique best suited to each individual during consultation.
In addition to implants, fat transfer breast augmentation is another option for achieving a natural looking breast augmentation. This technique involves harvesting fat from areas such as the abdomen or thighs using liposuction, purifying it, and then injecting it into the breasts. Fat transfer provides a natural enhancement without implants and offers the dual benefit of body contouring in the donor area while increasing breast volume. It can be performed as a standalone procedure for those seeking a more organic look, or combined with implants to achieve a softer, more natural appearance.
Benefits of Preservé by Motiva® for Natural Looking Results in Breast Augmentation
- Tissue preservation: Preservé protects natural breast tissue, nerves, blood supply, and chest muscles. The technique avoids cutting through internal structures, which supports long-term breast health and maintains nipple sensation. Skin elasticity is also considered, as it affects how the implant sits and moves, contributing to optimal, natural-looking results.
- Smaller incisions: The flexible Ergonomix2® implant and specialized insertion technique allow placement through an incision of approximately 2.5 cm, resulting in less visible scarring.
- Faster recovery: Because Preservé minimizes tissue trauma and avoids muscle manipulation, patients experience less pain and swelling. Many can resume light activities the same day, with full recovery in approximately two weeks.
- No general anesthesia required: Most Preservé procedures are performed under local anesthesia with mild IV sedation, eliminating the risks and recovery time associated with general anesthesia.
- 0% malposition at 3 years: Clinical data from a 100-patient prospective study shows zero cases of inferior implant displacement at three years, demonstrating exceptional long-term implant stability.
- Natural look and feel: Ergonomix2® implants adapt to body position and movement, providing a dynamic shape that closely mimics natural breast tissue. The result is soft, natural-feeling breasts that move with the body, enhancing the natural appearance of the augmentation.
- Subtle enhancement: Preservé is ideal for patients seeking subtle enhancement and a natural appearance, prioritizing soft contours and a harmonious, authentic look.
- Moderate profile implants: Moderate profile implants are available for those who want a balance between projection and natural appearance, and can be selected to suit individual anatomy and desired results.
- Reduced visible rippling: The Preservé technique and careful implant choice help minimize visible rippling, especially in patients with thinner tissue, for a smoother, more natural look.
- Reduced capsular contracture risk: The SmoothSilk® surface is designed to lower inflammatory response and promote biocompatibility, which may help reduce the risk of capsular contracture compared to traditional implant surfaces.
- Improved surgeon-patient communication: The standardized Preservé technique, combined with VECTRA 3D imaging available at Aristocrat, allows patients and Dr. Tehrani to plan and visualize results collaboratively before surgery.
- Comprehensive warranty coverage: Motiva provides the Always Confident Warranty® for rupture (lifetime), Product Replacement Policy for capsular contracture (Baker III/IV), a 5-Year Extended Warranty at no additional cost, and the Woman’s Choice Program® offering up to $1,500 in support if you later choose to reverse your augmentation.
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One of the most significant advantages of the Preservé technique is a dramatically streamlined recovery compared to traditional breast augmentation. Because the procedure avoids muscle detachment and aggressive tissue dissection, post-operative discomfort is substantially reduced.
- Day of surgery: Most patients are comfortable enough to walk, eat, and perform basic self-care within hours of the procedure. Many report being able to go out to dinner the evening of surgery.
- Days 1–3: Mild soreness and swelling are common but manageable with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication. Light daily activities can typically be resumed.
- Week 1: Most patients can return to desk work and light activities. Dr. Tehrani will schedule a follow-up visit to assess healing and address any questions.
- Weeks 2–4: Swelling continues to decrease. Most patients can resume exercise and more vigorous activities by the two-week mark, with Dr. Tehrani’s clearance.
- Months 1–3: Implants gradually settle into their final position. The breasts will continue to soften and take on their natural shape as the body adjusts.
- 6 months and beyond: Final results are fully visible. The Ergonomix2® implants will continue to move naturally with the body for long-term comfort and aesthetics.
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Recovery After Preservé Breast Augmentation
Why Choose a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon at Aristocrat for Preservé by Motiva®?
- Expert surgeon: Dr. Kevin Tehrani is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience and dual fellowship training. His precision, aesthetic expertise, and commitment to patient safety make him one of the most trusted Preservé providers in the New York metropolitan area.
- Comprehensive breast expertise: Aristocrat offers the full spectrum of breast procedures, including Motiva Ergonomix® and Ergonomix2® implants, silicone and saline options, breast lifts, breast revision, breast reconstruction, and fat transfer. Every procedure is informed by advanced planning tools and personalized to each patient’s anatomy.
- VECTRA 3D imaging: Aristocrat is equipped with the VECTRA 3D breast simulation system, allowing you to preview your Preservé results in photorealistic 3D before committing to surgery.
- EXPAREL speedy recovery: Dr. Tehrani offers EXPAREL long-acting local anesthesia to further reduce post-operative pain and minimize the need for opioid medications.
- Three convenient locations: Preservé consultations and procedures are available at our Manhattan, Great Neck (Long Island), and Southampton offices.
- Patient-centered experience: From private consultation rooms to an attentive, compassionate staff, every aspect of your Preservé experience at Aristocrat is designed around your comfort, confidence, and satisfaction.
Preservé Consultation Locations
- Manhattan: 33 W 56th St, Floor 1, New York, NY 10019 | 332-265-0312
- Great Neck: 833 Northern Blvd, Suite 160, Great Neck, NY 11021 | 516-498-9790
- Southampton: 15 Hill St, Southampton, NY 11968 | 631-931-0165
Frequently Asked Questions About Preservé by Motiva®
What is Preservé by Motiva®?
Preservé is a next-generation breast augmentation system that uses specialized instruments and Motiva SmoothSilk® Ergonomix2® implants to enhance breast volume while preserving natural breast tissue, chest muscles, nerves, and blood supply. It is designed to be less invasive than traditional augmentation, with smaller incisions, reduced tissue trauma, and a faster recovery. The technique focuses on achieving a natural looking breast by optimizing implant coverage and supporting a natural contour that blends with the chest wall.
How is Preservé different from traditional breast augmentation?
Traditional augmentation typically involves cutting through breast tissue and often detaching or lifting the pectoral muscle to create a pocket for the implant. Preservé avoids this by using a channel separator and inflatable balloon to gently part and expand the tissue without cutting. This results in less pain, less swelling, smaller incisions (~2.5 cm), and the ability to preserve nipple sensation and chest muscle function. The way the implant sits within the breast is carefully managed to minimize visible implant edges and create a more natural contour, especially important for thinner patients or those with less natural breast tissue.
How long does the Preservé procedure take?
The procedure typically takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, significantly shorter than traditional breast augmentation which usually takes one to two hours. Most patients return home the same day.
Do I need general anesthesia for Preservé?
Most Preservé procedures are performed under local anesthesia with mild IV sedation, rather than general anesthesia. This reduces risk, eliminates the need for intubation, and typically results in a faster, more comfortable recovery with fewer side effects.
What size implants are available with Preservé?
Preservé is performed exclusively with Motiva SmoothSilk® Ergonomix2® implants, which are currently available in sizes ranging from 150cc to 315cc. This range is well suited for patients seeking a subtle, natural-looking enhancement of one to two cup sizes. Patients who desire larger implants may be better candidates for traditional augmentation with a wider range of implant options.
Will the results look and feel natural?
Yes. Ergonomix2® implants are specifically designed to mimic the behavior of natural breast tissue. They become fuller and rounder when you stand, then shift into a more anatomical, teardrop-like shape when you lie down. The combination of dynamic implant design and tissue-preserving surgery gives patients soft, natural results that move with the body. The choice of implant shape, placement, and the use of fat grafting can help achieve a natural looking breast, natural contour, and subtle enhancement of the upper breast for a realistic, proportionate appearance.
How stable are the results long-term?
Stability is one of the key advantages of Preservé. Because the tissue is gently elongated and shaped to nest the implant, the risk of displacement is greatly reduced. Clinical data from a 100-patient prospective study reported 0% inferior malposition (downward implant movement) at three years. While individual outcomes vary, this evidence highlights the reliability of the system for maintaining breast shape and positioning.
What is the recovery like after Preservé?
Recovery is typically faster and more comfortable than with traditional augmentation. Many patients resume light activities the same day and return to work within a few days. Mild soreness and swelling are common for the first week but are well-managed with medication. Full activity, including exercise, can usually be resumed within two weeks with Dr. Tehrani’s clearance.
Is there a warranty on Preservé implants?
Yes. Motiva provides comprehensive warranty coverage including the Always Confident Warranty® for rupture (lifetime coverage), Product Replacement Policy for capsular contracture (Baker III/IV), a 5-Year Extended Warranty at no additional cost, and the Woman’s Choice Program® offering up to $1,500 in financial support if you later choose to reverse your augmentation. Details will be explained during your consultation.
Can Preservé be combined with a breast lift?
Technically, Preservé can be discussed alongside a breast lift, but the Preservé technique is best suited for patients who do not need a lift to achieve their desired results. If you require both augmentation and lift, Dr. Tehrani will walk you through your options during consultation, which may include traditional augmentation combined with mastopexy.
Is Preservé only for first-time augmentation?
No. Preservé can be used for primary breast augmentation as well as revision surgery for patients replacing older implants. It is also being explored for breast reconstruction in select cases. Dr. Tehrani will assess your candidacy during your consultation.
Is VECTRA 3D imaging available for Preservé planning?
Yes. Aristocrat Plastic Surgery offers VECTRA 3D breast simulation to help you visualize your potential Preservé results before surgery. You can try on different implant sizes, compare options side by side, and collaborate with Dr. Tehrani on your personalized surgical plan.
Can fat grafting be used with Preservé or other breast augmentation procedures?
Yes. Fat grafting can be used alone or in combination with breast implants to enhance implant coverage, disguise implant edges, and create a smoother, more natural contour. This technique is especially beneficial for patients with thinner breast tissue or less natural breast tissue, as it helps achieve a natural looking breast shape and volume by minimizing the visibility of implant edges and providing a seamless transition between the implant and surrounding tissue. Using fat grafting with implants can be particularly helpful for thinner patients or those seeking a subtle, natural enhancement.
What is the best implant placement for a natural look, especially in thinner patients?
Submuscular placement of breast implants is often preferred for patients with less natural breast tissue or thinner patients. Placing the implant beneath the chest muscle provides more soft tissue coverage over the implant, reduces the visibility of implant edges, and minimizes the risk of rippling. This approach helps the implant blend more naturally with the chest wall, resulting in a more natural looking breast and contour, especially for those with thinner breast tissue.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Augmentation
What are breast implants and how long do they last?
Breast implants are medical devices used in the breast augmentation procedure and reconstruction. The two main types are saline-filled and silicone-filled, both with an outer silicone shell. Most implants are expected to last roughly 10–15 years, but they are not lifetime devices and may require future surgeries for replacement or removal. Choosing the right implant size and breast size is essential for achieving a natural looking breast augmentation procedure and optimal, natural results.
What is the difference between saline and silicone breast implants?
Saline breast implants are filled with sterile saline solution and can be inserted empty, allowing the surgeon to adjust volume during surgery. Silicone breast implants are filled with a viscous silicone gel, providing a softer and more natural feel, especially in patients with less soft tissue coverage. Motiva Ergonomix2® implants used in Preservé are silicone-based with ProgressiveGel® for enhanced naturalness. Both saline and silicone implants can be used to achieve a natural looking breast, depending on the patient's anatomy, implant size, and aesthetic goals.
What are the risks and complications of breast augmentation surgery?
Risks and complications include infection, scarring, asymmetry, hematoma, seroma, breast pain, poor cosmetic outcomes, implant rupture, capsular contracture, and the rare risk of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), especially with textured implants. The SmoothSilk® surface used in Preservé is designed to minimize inflammatory response and has shown no cases of BIA-ALCL in clinical data.
What is capsular contracture?
Capsular contracture is a complication where the tissue capsule around the breast implant tightens, which can cause discomfort or changes in breast appearance. The SmoothSilk® nano-textured surface used in Motiva implants is specifically designed to reduce the risk of capsular contracture by promoting healthier tissue integration.
What is Breast Implant Illness (BII)?
Some patients report systemic symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and cognitive issues, sometimes referred to as Breast Implant Illness (BII). Clinical data for the Preservé system has shown no cases of proliferative diseases or BIA-ALCL. If you develop symptoms, consult your healthcare professional for evaluation and guidance.
Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?
Most patients can breastfeed after breast augmentation, as implants generally do not interfere with breastfeeding. The tissue-preserving approach of Preservé is specifically designed to protect breast tissue and nerves, which may further support breastfeeding capability.
What lifestyle changes are needed before and after surgery?
Patients should stop smoking and using all nicotine products at least 2–4 weeks before and after surgery to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications. Dr. Tehrani will provide personalized pre- and post-operative instructions during your consultation.
What is recovery like after breast augmentation?
Soreness, swelling, and bruising are common for a few weeks after surgery. Patients are often advised to wear a compression garment or sports bra for support. With Preservé, recovery is typically faster, with many patients returning to light activities the same day and full activity within two weeks.
Experience the Future of Breast Augmentation
Take the next step toward breast augmentation that works with your body, not against it. With Preservé by Motiva® at Aristocrat Plastic Surgery, you can enhance your figure while preserving your natural tissue, sensation, and chest muscles. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Tehrani today to see if Preservé is right for you.
