Good candidates for Motiva Preservé are healthy adults aged 18 or over, at a stable weight and not smoking, who want a moderate, natural-looking increase in breast size and have little or no sagging. People hoping for very large implants, those with significant drooping or marked asymmetry, and anyone planning pregnancy soon may be better served by a different approach or by waiting.
Who Preservé tends to suit
- Modest goals: you would like to add volume and shape in proportion to your frame rather than make a dramatic change.
- Good skin and tissue quality: enough natural breast tissue or soft-tissue cover to disguise the implant edge.
- Minimal sagging: the nipples sit at or above the breast fold, so volume alone can achieve the look you want.
- Preference for a lighter recovery: you are drawn to a short incision, gentle dissection and the option of being awake under sedation.
- Realistic expectations: you understand what implants can and cannot do and are comfortable with future maintenance.
When another approach may be better
Preservé is not the right fit for everyone. Very large implants need a larger pocket and incision, which conflicts with the principles of the technique. If the breasts have dropped so that the nipple sits below the fold, an implant alone may leave the breast sitting low over it, and an augmentation mastopexy or breast lift may be advised. Significant asymmetry or tuberous breast shape often requires additional reshaping. Some patients who want a small change prefer a fat transfer instead of implants.
Health factors that matter
Mr Nassab will review your general health carefully. Smoking and vaping, including nicotine replacement, impair blood supply and wound healing, so stopping for at least six weeks before and after surgery is strongly advised. A stable body weight matters because weight change alters breast shape. Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, bleeding disorders or a history of blood clots need to be well controlled and may require input from your GP. Tell the team about all medicines, including weight-loss medication, supplements and any history of breast problems. A family history of breast cancer may mean a scan beforehand.
Timing: weight loss and pregnancy
It is generally best to reach a weight you can maintain before surgery. If you are planning a pregnancy in the near future, it is usually sensible to wait, because pregnancy and breastfeeding change breast size and shape and may alter the result. Allow several months after finishing breastfeeding for the breasts to settle before being assessed. Major life events, stress or recent bereavement are also good reasons to pause.
Emotional readiness
The best reason for surgery is a personal wish to change your body, not pressure from a partner, social media or anyone else. Cosmetic surgery is only for adults aged 18 and over. If you have a history of body image concerns, it is helpful to discuss these openly; Mr Nassab may suggest waiting or seeking support before proceeding. A cooling-off period between consultation and surgery gives you time to reflect.
What happens at the assessment
At consultation Mr Nassab measures your chest width, breast base, nipple position and tissue thickness, and asks what you would like to achieve. He will explain whether the implant size you have in mind fits your frame and whether Preservé, a conventional augmentation or another option is likely to meet your goals. The consultation costs £150 and is separate from any surgical quote.
Alternatives to consider
Options include a padded or push-up bra, fat transfer for a subtle change, standard breast augmentation for larger volumes, and combining an implant with a lift when there is sagging. Deciding not to have surgery is always a valid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What implant sizes suit Preservé?
Preservé is usually best for moderate sizes that suit your chest width and tissue cover. Mr Nassab will advise on a range rather than a single number.
Is there a minimum age?
Cosmetic breast surgery is only for adults aged 18 and over, and your breasts should have finished developing.
Can Preservé be done after having children?
Yes, provided the breasts have settled after breastfeeding and there is not significant sagging. If there is, a lift may be recommended.
Does body weight affect suitability?
Being at a stable, healthy weight improves safety and the longevity of the result. Mr Nassab will discuss your individual situation.
Can smokers have Preservé?
Smoking increases the risk of wound and healing problems. You will be asked to stop well before and after surgery.
What if Preservé is not suitable?
Mr Nassab will explain why and outline the alternatives, such as a conventional augmentation, a lift combined with implants or fat transfer, so you can decide what suits you best.
