Medically reviewed by: Dr. Brian S. Coan, MD, FACS  |  Last reviewed: July 2026  |  Reading time: 6 minutes

If you have been researching breast augmentation in Cary, NC, you may have come across the Preservé breast implant technique and wondered whether it could be the right approach for your goals. Developed to prioritize the long-term health of your breast tissue while still delivering beautiful, natural-looking results, this method represents a meaningful shift in how breast implant surgery can be performed. Whether you are considering your first augmentation or revisiting options after a previous procedure, understanding candidacy for the Preservé technique is an important step in your decision-making process.

Our team at CARE Plastic Surgery is here to help you explore your options with clarity and confidence. To speak with a member of our team, call our office or contact us online.

Quick Answer

The Preservé technique tends to be the best fit for patients seeking their first augmentation, with adequate soft tissue coverage, minimal-to-no drooping, and a preference for a natural-looking, proportionate result. It may not be the right approach for patients with significant ptosis, very limited tissue coverage, or certain health conditions. A personalized consultation with Dr. Coan is the only reliable way to confirm candidacy.

Preservé® Candidacy at a Glance

Technique

Tissue-preserving implant placement using the Motiva® Preservé® system

Implant Compatibility

Performed with Motiva® silicone implants

Often a Good Fit For

First-time augmentation patients with adequate tissue coverage and minimal drooping

May Not Be Ideal For

Significant ptosis, very limited tissue coverage, or certain health conditions

Recovery

Many patients return to light activity within one to two weeks

FDA Status

Performed with FDA-approved Motiva® implants (PMA, women 22+)

What Is the Preservé Breast Implant Technique?

The Preservé breast implant technique is an approach to breast augmentation designed to minimize disruption to the natural breast tissue during implant placement. Unlike traditional methods that may involve more extensive dissection, the Preservé technique prioritizes tissue preservation, aiming to reduce the impact on the surrounding structures while still achieving aesthetically pleasing, proportionate results. The technique is performed using Motiva® implants, which received FDA approval for primary and revision breast augmentation in women 22 and older.

At its core, the technique focuses on strategic implant placement with careful attention to the integrity of the pectoralis muscle, the breast parenchyma, and the overlying soft tissue envelope. By reducing unnecessary trauma to these structures, the approach may support a smoother recovery experience for many patients and help maintain a more natural feel over time.

Dr. Coan, our double board-certified plastic surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, brings more than a decade of specialized experience to every breast augmentation consultation at CARE Plastic Surgery. Patients pursuing breast augmentation in Cary and Raleigh, NC, benefit from his commitment to techniques that honor both surgical precision and long-term tissue health.

In our practice, we find that patients who research the nuances of their surgical options tend to have more satisfying consultations and outcomes, an approach consistent with the informed-consent principles the FDA recommends for anyone considering breast implants. Understanding what the Preservé approach involves and why it differs from conventional techniques is a meaningful step in advocating for your own care.

Am I a Good Candidate for the Preservé Breast Implant Technique?

Candidacy for the Preservé breast implant technique is best determined during a personalized consultation, consistent with the individualized evaluation process ASPS recommends for breast augmentation generally, but there are several characteristics that may indicate a strong fit for this approach.

Patients Seeking Their First Augmentation

Women who have not previously had breast implants and present with adequate soft tissue coverage may be well-suited to this tissue-sparing method. Patients with good baseline breast tissue quality tend to respond favorably to the precision of the Preservé approach.

Patients with Active Lifestyles

Because the technique is designed to minimize disruption to the pectoralis muscle, many patients with physically active lifestyles, including those who exercise regularly or engage in upper-body training, may appreciate the potential benefits of reduced muscle involvement during placement.

Patients Interested in a Natural-Looking Result

If your goal is a proportionate, natural-looking enhancement rather than a dramatic change in size, the Preservé technique may align well with your expectations. Dr. Coan’s approach consistently centers on results that complement your existing anatomy.

Patients Combining Procedures

Many patients benefit from combining breast augmentation with a breast lift or as part of a mommy makeover that may also include a tummy tuck. The Preservé approach can be incorporated into combination procedures when appropriate, and Dr. Coan will assess your full candidacy during your consultation.

Not every patient is an ideal candidate for this specific technique. Factors such as significant ptosis (breast drooping), very limited tissue coverage, or certain health considerations may influence whether an alternative approach is recommended, similar to the general candidacy factors ASPS and the FDA outline for breast augmentation overall.

What to Expect During the Candidacy and Consultation Process

Understanding whether the Preservé breast implant technique is right for you begins with a thorough, personalized evaluation. At CARE Plastic Surgery in Cary, NC, consultations with Dr. Brian Coan are designed to be collaborative, informative, and never rushed.

Physical Assessment

Dr. Coan will evaluate your breast tissue quality, skin elasticity, chest wall anatomy, and overall proportions. These factors directly inform whether the Preservé technique is the most appropriate method and which implant profile, size, and placement will support your desired outcome.

Medical History Review

Your general health, prior surgeries, and any relevant medical history will be reviewed carefully. Conditions affecting healing, circulation, or tissue integrity may influence surgical planning and candidacy, consistent with the pre-surgical factors outlined in the FDA’s patient checklist.

Goal-Setting Conversation

This is one of the most important parts of the consultation. Our team takes time to understand what you hope to achieve, not just physically but in terms of how you want to feel and present yourself. Whether your priorities are proportionality, recovery time, or long-term tissue health, those goals shape every recommendation we make.

Patients who are also curious about complementary body contouring options may find it useful to explore liposuction as part of a broader treatment conversation. Dr. Coan’s extensive procedural range allows for thoughtful, integrated planning when multiple goals are on the table.

Why Choose CARE Plastic Surgery in Cary, NC?

Dr. Coan is a double board-certified plastic surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons with more than a decade of experience in aesthetic, reconstructive, and innovative surgical care. Patients can verify board certification through the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and can look for surgeons recognized by organizations such as The Aesthetic Society. Dr. Coan’s credentials reflect not only technical mastery but a recognized commitment to excellence that extends throughout the Triangle region and beyond.

Dr. Coan has been honored with the MAGGY Award for Best Plastic Surgeon in Cary, NC by Cary Magazine for eight consecutive years, named Best Plastic Surgeon in Durham by readers of Durham Magazine every consecutive year since 2010, and earned Gold for Best Plastic Surgeon in the 2026 5-West Diamond Awards. These recognitions reflect the trust that patients and peers alike have placed in his care.

At CARE Plastic Surgery, our integrated approach also means that patients have access to surgical expertise and the full-service experience of skinCARE Medspa, all under one roof. You can also browse our before-and-after gallery or read patient testimonials. For those considering a complete aesthetic journey alongside breast augmentation, our team is here to support every step.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the Preservé breast implant technique different from traditional breast augmentation?

Traditional breast augmentation techniques often involve more extensive dissection of the muscle or surrounding tissue during implant placement. The Preservé technique is designed to minimize that disruption, prioritizing tissue preservation throughout the procedure. This approach may support a more comfortable recovery experience for many patients and help maintain the natural integrity of the breast tissue over time. Dr. Coan will explain which technique best suits your anatomy during your consultation.

Is the Preservé technique appropriate for breast revision surgery?

In some cases, elements of the Preservé approach may be applicable during revision procedures, depending on the condition of the existing tissue and the goals of the revision. However, revision cases are evaluated individually, as the anatomy and tissue quality present after a prior augmentation can vary significantly. Dr. Coan has extensive experience in both primary and revision breast surgery and will assess your specific situation thoroughly before recommending any approach.

What implant types are used with the Preservé breast implant technique?

The Preservé technique is performed using Motiva® silicone implants, which are engineered specifically for this tissue-preserving placement method; it is not performed with saline implants. Dr. Coan will discuss the specific Motiva® implant profile, size, and projection that best fit your anatomy and aesthetic goals. Patients are encouraged to ask detailed questions during the consultation so they can make a fully informed decision.

What is recovery like after the Preservé breast implant technique?

Many patients experience a recovery that is well-tolerated, with most returning to light daily activities within a week or two. Because the technique is designed to reduce disruption to surrounding tissue and muscle, some patients report a more comfortable initial recovery compared to traditional approaches, though individual experiences differ. Dr. Coan and our team provide detailed post-operative instructions and remain closely available to support you throughout your healing process.

What are the risks of breast augmentation with the Preservé technique?

As with any breast implant procedure, risks may include infection, changes in nipple sensation, capsular contracture, and implant rupture or malposition. Both the FDA and ASPS maintain detailed, current information on breast implant risks and safety monitoring. Dr. Coan reviews these risks individually with every patient so that consent is fully informed.

Does CARE Plastic Surgery serve patients outside of Cary, NC?

Yes. CARE Plastic Surgery welcomes patients from throughout the Triangle region, including Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and surrounding communities. Patients traveling from beyond the immediate area are encouraged to contact our team to discuss scheduling a consultation and to learn more about what to expect during their visit.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are ready to find out whether the Preservé breast implant technique is the right choice for your goals in Cary, NC, we invite you to schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Coan at CARE Plastic Surgery. Our team is here to answer your questions, walk you through your options, and help you move forward with confidence. Contact CARE Plastic Surgery online today or call us to get started.

Trusted Medical Resources

At CARE Plastic Surgery, we believe patients make better decisions when they have access to medically trusted, accurate, evidence-based information. If you’d like to learn more about breast implant safety or how to choose a qualified and board-certified plastic surgeon, these resources are an excellent place to start.

Breast Implant Safety

• FDA: Breast Implants Overview — Comprehensive information about breast implants, candidacy, surgery, long-term considerations, and patient education.

• FDA: Things to Consider Before Getting Breast Implants — The FDA’s patient checklist, questions to ask, and important considerations before breast augmentation.

• FDA: Risks and Complications of Breast Implants — Information about rupture, capsular contracture, additional surgery, changes in sensation, and other known risks.

Breast Augmentation Safety

• American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Breast Augmentation Risks & Safety — An overview of common risks, expected recovery, and safety considerations from the leading professional organization for plastic surgeons.

• American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Breast Implant Safety — Current information on breast implant safety, including BIA-ALCL, BIA-SCC, and breast implant illness (BII).

Choosing a Qualified Plastic Surgeon

• American Board of Plastic Surgery: Verify Board Certification — Learn what board certification means and verify that your plastic surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

• The Aesthetic Society — A professional membership organization dedicated to advancing safety and excellence in aesthetic plastic surgery.

Medical Review

This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Brian S. Coan, a double board-certified plastic surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. It is intended to educate prospective patients and should not replace an in-person consultation or individualized medical advice.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for an in-person consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon, who can evaluate your individual health history, anatomy, and goals. Please consult Dr. Brian S. Coan or another qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon before making any decisions about breast augmentation or any other cosmetic procedure.

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