At Memorial Plastic Surgery, we specialize in advanced Breast Augmentation techniques designed to preserve your natural anatomy while enhancing long-term results.
Our Preservé approach focuses on maintaining tissue integrity, minimizing disruption, and delivering outcomes that look and feel naturally yours. By combining precision techniques with innovative technology, we provide a more refined surgical experience with optimized recovery and results.
Not sure if Preservé is right for you?
Get a personalized recommendation based on your goals.
What Is Preservé Breast Surgery?
Preservé Breast Surgery is an advanced approach to breast augmentation that prioritizes the preservation of natural tissue, nerves, and structural integrity.
Unlike traditional methods, this technique minimizes disruption to the breast, allowing for more natural movement, improved sensation, and more sustainable long-term outcomes.








The Preservé Difference
- Targeted preservation of natural breast tissue
- Minimal disruption to nerves and blood supply
- Enhanced precision in implant placementnt muscle manipulation or placement under the pectoral muscle
- Reduced trauma to surrounding structures
- Faster, more comfortable recovery
- Natural-looking shape, movement, and feel
How Preservé Breast Surgery Works
The preservation technique utilizes state-of-the-art instruments and methods to create an implant pocket within the breast while keeping all supporting structures intact:
Precise Incision
A carefully placed incision designed to minimize visible scarring
Ultrasound Guidance
Advanced imaging technology ensures accurate and controlled implant placement
Gentle Dissection
Minimizes trauma to surrounding tissue for improved healing
Balloon Expansion
Creates space for implants while preserving natural structures
Implant Placement
Positioned for optimal symmetry and a natural contour
Minimal Closure
Refined closure techniques reduce tension and support better scar healing
TRANSAXILLARY PRESERVÉ BREAST AUGMENTATION
Refining the PreservÉ Technique Even Further
At Memorial Plastic Surgery, we continuously refine the Preservé technique using advanced surgical tools and precision-driven technology.
This allows us to further enhance outcomes, reduce recovery time, and deliver consistently natural-looking results tailored to each patient.
Inside the operating room with Dr. Hsu
A documented look at Preservé Breast Surgery — a minimally invasive technique that preserves natural breast anatomy through a small 2–3 cm incision, ultrasound guidance, and gentle tissue dissection rather than cutting.
Performed by
Patrick Hsu, MD, FACS
Board-Certified Surgeon
PROCEDURE
Preservé Breast Surgery
Minimally invasive breast augmentation
FACILITY
Memorial Plastic Surgery
Houston · Clear Lake, Texas
Contains surgical footage. Recorded with patient consent.
What is Transaxillary Preservé Breast Augmentation?
Transaxillary refers to the incision approach used in breast augmentation, not the technique itself.
Transaxillary Preservé Breast Augmentation is a specialized technique where implants are placed through a small incision in the underarm.
This approach avoids visible scarring on the breast while maintaining the core principles of the Preservé method—precision, minimal disruption, and natural results.
Benefits of Preservé Breast Surgery
Natural Results
Designed to maintain the natural structure of the breast, resulting in enhanced shape, movement, and feel
Faster Recovery
Minimized tissue disruption supports a smoother and more efficient healing process
Reduced Complications
Preservation-focused techniques help lower the risk of certain surgical complications
Improved implant positioning
Enhanced precision allows for better symmetry and long-term stability
Minimal Scarring
Strategic incision placement and refined closure techniques help reduce visible scarring
Preservé Breast Surgery vs. Traditional Augmentation
Preservé Breast Surgery focuses on preserving natural anatomy, while traditional augmentation often involves more disruption to tissue and structure.
This preservation-first approach supports improved recovery, more natural movement, and longer-lasting results.
| Feature | Preservé Breast Surgery | Traditional Augmentation |
| Incision Size | 2-3 cm | 4-6 cm |
| Ligament Preservation | Complete | Cut/disrupted |
| Muscle Disruption | None | Significant (submuscular) |
| Bleeding | Minimal to none | Moderate |
| Recovery Time | 3-5 days | 1-2 weeks |
| Animation Deformity Risk | None | Moderate (submuscular) |
| Capsular Contracture Risk | Very low | Higher |
| Sensation Preservation | Excellent | Variable |
| Scarring | Minimal | Moderate |
| Long-term Stability | Excellent | Good |
The Difference
3–5
vs. 1–2 weeks traditional
Ready to experience the Preservé difference?
Your consultation with Dr. Patrick Hsu includes a personal anatomical assessment, 3D imaging options, and a candid discussion of whether Preservé is right for your goals.
- Dr. Patrick Hsu, FACS
- Private & discreet
- No obligation
Ideal Candidates for Preservé Breast Surgery
You may be a candidate if you:
- Want a natural-looking breast augmentation
- Prefer minimal disruption to breast tissue
- Value preservation of sensation and long-term integrity
- Are in good overall health
- Have realistic expectations about results
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Preservé Breast Surgery different from traditional breast augmentation?
Preservé Breast Surgery focuses on preserving natural tissue and minimizing disruption, resulting in a more refined procedure with natural-looking outcomes and potentially faster recovery.
How long do results last?
Results are long-lasting, especially when supported by proper aftercare and a stable lifestyle. Your surgeon will guide you on maintaining optimal results over time.
Will I be able to breastfeed after Preservation Breast Surgery?
Because the technique prioritizes tissue and structural preservation, many patients maintain the ability to breastfeed. However, this can vary by individual.
What size implants will I need?
Most patients experience a smoother recovery compared to traditional methods, with less discomfort and downtime due to reduced tissue trauma.
How painful is recovery?
Discomfort levels vary, but the minimally disruptive approach is designed to reduce overall pain and improve the recovery experience.
Home » Preservé Breast Surgery
Preservé Breast Surgery in Houston, TX
At Memorial Plastic Surgery, we’re proud to introduce Preservé Breast Surgery – a groundbreaking technique that represents the next evolution in breast enhancement. This innovative approach prioritizes the preservation of your natural breast anatomy while delivering beautiful, authentic results that look and feel completely natural.
If you’re considering breast augmentation but want to maintain the integrity of your natural breast tissue, Preservation Breast Surgery offers the perfect solution. This minimally invasive technique provides fuller, more shapely breasts with faster recovery, reduced complications, and results that truly enhance your natural beauty.
What Is Preservé Breast Surgery?
Preservation Breast Surgery is an advanced breast augmentation technique that minimizes tissue trauma by preserving the critical anatomical structures within your breast. Unlike traditional breast augmentation methods that require extensive cutting and disruption of breast ligaments, muscles, and fascia, this revolutionary approach works with your body’s natural architecture.








The Preservé Difference
Traditional breast augmentation techniques often involve:
- Cutting through the circummammary ligament (the natural support structure of the breast)
- Disrupting Cooper's ligaments within the breast
- Significant muscle manipulation or placement under the pectoral muscle
- Larger incisions and more tissue trauma
Preservation Breast Surgery, by contrast:
- Preserves all natural breast ligaments and support structures
- Uses specialized instruments to gently create space between tissue layers
- Requires only small incisions (2-3 cm)
- Maintains muscle integrity and function
- Results in minimal bleeding and faster healing
How Preservé Breast Surgery Works
The preservation technique utilizes state-of-the-art instruments and methods to create an implant pocket within the breast while keeping all supporting structures intact:
Precise Incision
A small 2-3 cm incision is made in the natural breast crease
Ultrasound Guidance
Advanced imaging ensures accurate placement
Gentle Dissection
Specialized blunt instruments create a channel through (not cutting) the circummammary ligament
Balloon Expansion
A medical balloon is inflated to gently create the implant pocket, pushing tissue aside rather than cutting through it
Implant Placement
The implant is positioned in the “Preservation Space” – between the breast capsule and the breast gland/fat
Minimal Closure
The small incision is carefully closed with minimal scarring
Benefits of Preservé Breast Surgery
Natural Results
By working within your natural anatomy rather than disrupting it, Preservé Breast Surgery delivers results that look and feel authentically you. The preserved ligaments provide natural support and shape, ensuring your enhanced breasts move naturally and maintain their position over time.
Faster Recovery
Most patients experience:
- Significantly less post-operative pain
- Minimal bruising and swelling
- Return to daily activities within 3-5 days
- Return to exercise within 2-3 weeks (with doctor approval)
- Ultra-fast recovery compared to traditional methods
Reduced Complications
The preservation technique dramatically reduces common breast augmentation complications:
- Lower Capsular Contracture Risk: Minimal tissue trauma means less inflammation
- No Animation Deformity: Pectoral muscle remains undisturbed
- Reduced Bleeding: Bloodless surgery technique
- Less Implant Malposition: Natural ligaments keep implants in place
- Preserved Sensation: Minimal nerve disruption maintains nipple sensitivity
Smaller Implants, Better Results
One of the most exciting aspects of Preservé Breast Surgery is “intelligent volume placement.” Because the technique places volume exactly where you need it most (typically the upper and inner breast), you can achieve your desired look with a smaller implant. Smaller implants mean:
- Less weight on breast tissue
- Better long-term shape maintenance
- More natural appearance
- Reduced risk of complications
Minimal Scarring
The tiny 2-3 cm incisions heal beautifully and are virtually invisible, hidden in your natural breast crease.
Preservé Breast Surgery vs. Traditional Augmentation
Memorial Plastic Surgery uses Motiva® Ergonomix® implants exclusively for Preservé Breast Surgery. These state-of-the-art, 6th-generation implants are specifically designed for the preservation technique.
| Feature | Preservé Breast Surgery | Traditional Augmentation |
| Incision Size | 2-3 cm | 4-6 cm |
| Ligament Preservation | Complete | Cut/disrupted |
| Muscle Disruption | None | Significant (submuscular) |
| Bleeding | Minimal to none | Moderate |
| Recovery Time | 3-5 days | 1-2 weeks |
| Animation Deformity Risk | None | Moderate (submuscular) |
| Capsular Contracture Risk | Very low | Higher |
| Sensation Preservation | Excellent | Variable |
| Scarring | Minimal | Moderate |
| Long-term Stability | Excellent | Good |
Ideal Candidates for Preservé Breast Surgery
Preservé Breast Surgery may be right for you if you:
- Desire natural-looking breast enhancement
- Want to preserve your natural breast tissue and anatomy
- Are in good overall health
- Have realistic expectations about outcomes
- Prefer faster recovery time
- Are concerned about animation deformity or capsular contracture
- Are athletic or physically active
- Want minimal scarring
- Are seeking primary (first-time) breast augmentation
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Preservé Breast Surgery different from traditional breast augmentation?
Preservé Breast Surgery is fundamentally different because it preserves all the natural support structures of your breast. Traditional techniques cut through ligaments and may involve placing implants under the muscle, while preservation works within your natural anatomy for better, longer-lasting results.
How long do results last?
While breast implants are not lifetime devices, the preservation technique’s emphasis on maintaining natural support structures means your results should remain stable for many years. Most patients enjoy their results for 10-15+ years before considering any revision.
Will I be able to breastfeed after Preservé Breast Surgery?
Yes! Because the technique preserves breast tissue and doesn’t cut through milk ducts, breastfeeding ability is typically maintained. However, we recommend completing your family before undergoing any breast surgery.
What size implants will I need?
One of the advantages of preservation surgery is that smaller implants often achieve the same visual result as larger implants in traditional augmentation. During your consultation, we’ll use 3D imaging and precise measurements to determine the optimal size for your goals.
How painful is recovery?
Most patients are surprised by how comfortable they feel after Preservé Breast Surgery. The minimally invasive nature means significantly less pain than traditional methods. Most patients manage well with over-the-counter pain medication after the first few days.