Motiva Preservé uses a short incision, most often placed in or just above the crease beneath the breast, so the scar is typically small and sits where it is hidden by the natural fold and most bras and bikini tops. Like all scars, it matures over 12 to 18 months, usually fading from pink to a pale, flat line.
Where the incision is placed
The standard Preservé incision is in the inframammary fold, the natural crease under the breast. Placing it here keeps the scar away from the nipple and the front of the breast, and it avoids cutting through breast tissue or milk ducts. Mr Nassab marks the position carefully with you standing, so that once the implant is in place the scar sits in or just above the new fold. Occasionally other positions, such as around the lower edge of the areola, are discussed, but the fold is used for most patients.
How long is the scar?
The incision length depends mainly on the size and type of implant. A key principle of Preservé is to use the shortest incision that allows the implant to be placed safely and without damage. For moderate implant sizes this is typically noticeably shorter than a conventional augmentation incision. Larger implants need a longer incision, which is one reason Preservé is best suited to people wanting a modest, natural change. Your likely scar length will be explained at consultation.
How the scar matures
- First few weeks: the scar is closed with dissolvable stitches beneath the skin and covered with a dressing or skin glue. It may look slightly red and feel firm.
- Two to three months: the scar is often at its most noticeable, pink and possibly a little raised as collagen is laid down.
- Six to twelve months: redness fades and the scar softens and flattens.
- Twelve to eighteen months: most scars reach their final appearance as a fine, pale line, though this varies with skin type.
Looking after your scar
Good scar care begins once the wound has fully closed and the team has confirmed it has healed, usually after two to three weeks. Silicone gel or silicone sheets applied daily for several months can help the scar settle. Gentle massage with a plain moisturiser can soften firmness. Protect the scar from sunlight for at least a year using clothing or a high-factor sunscreen, because sun exposure can darken healing scars. Avoid tight bras or straps rubbing across the fold in the early weeks, and keep to activity restrictions so the wound is not stretched.
Factors that affect how scars heal
Genetics play the largest part. People with darker skin tones are more prone to raised (hypertrophic) or keloid scars, and a personal or family history of keloid scarring should be mentioned at consultation. Smoking, infection, wound tension and some medical conditions slow healing and can worsen a scar. Patients who have had previous breast surgery through the same crease may have existing scar tissue that is incorporated into the new incision.
If the scar is not healing well
Contact the team the same day if the wound becomes red, hot, swollen or starts to discharge, or if you develop a fever. If a scar becomes thick, raised or itchy over the following months, early treatment helps. Options include pressure and silicone therapy, steroid injections into the scar and, once it has matured, surgical scar revision. Most Preservé scars heal well without the need for further treatment.
Scars and your choice of approach
If a small, hidden scar is a priority, Preservé is often an appealing option. It is worth remembering that the scar is only one part of the decision: implant size, tissue cover and your goals are equally important. Read more about recovery in the Preservé recovery guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the Preservé scar be visible?
It is placed in the crease under the breast, so it is usually hidden when standing and by most underwear and swimwear. It may be seen when lying down or raising the arms.
How long does it take for the scar to fade?
Most scars fade significantly over the first year, with the final appearance at around 12 to 18 months.
Are stitches removed afterwards?
Usually not. Dissolvable stitches beneath the skin are typically used.
Can a scar from previous surgery be reused?
Often, yes. An existing fold scar can sometimes be used, which avoids creating a new scar.
Is the scar shorter than with a standard augmentation?
For moderate implant sizes the Preservé incision is usually shorter, because the technique aims to use the smallest opening that allows the implant to be placed without damage. Larger implants need a longer incision, so scar length is discussed alongside implant choice at consultation.
