There’s A New Approach To Breast Augmentation, Here’s What To Know
new and improved
By Style Journos | 1st September 2026As modern women, we have the power to choose – our lifestyle, our clothing, our bodies; our choice. Breast augmentation has been around for decades, but the way surgeons approach the procedure continues to evolve. New technologies are changing the conversation, with a growing focus on how surgery is performed and how much of the body’s existing anatomy can be preserved in the process.
But what is this new approach, and who might – or might not – be suited to it? Brisbane specialist plastic surgeon Dr David Sharp explains what patients need to know about the new Preservé technique.
Introducing Preservé
Preservé is the latest development in breast augmentation techniques that has recently become available in Australia after overseas success. It takes a new approach to creating the space, or pocket, in which a breast implant is positioned that is able to preserve more of the breast’s existing supporting structures.
The technique involves surgery and the placement of breast implants, much like other processes – so what makes Preservé unique? The surgery uses small incisions to create an implant pocket above the chest muscle. “The philosophy behind the technique is to preserve natural support structures while minimising tissue disruption during implant placement,” Dr Sharp says.
While a new approach can understandably attract attention, Dr Sharp says its arrival doesn’t mean it will be suitable for everyone. “One of the most important principles in plastic surgery is that there is no single procedure that suits every patient,” he says.
Who may not be suited to it?
There isn’t one single way to perform breast augmentation. Surgical technique, implant position, and implant size can vary depending on a person’s anatomy and the outcome being sought. This is where understanding the limitations becomes particularly important.
Preservé currently has restrictions around the types and sizes of implants that can be used with the technique, meaning it won’t necessarily suit every patient or desired result.
“While Preservé may be a suitable option for some women, not all patients are candidates for its above-muscle implant placement,” Dr Sharp says.
“It is designed for straightforward breast enhancement rather than reshaping complex anatomy, where more comprehensive surgical techniques may still be required.” Dr Sharp also adds that the treatment may not be suitable when surgery needs to address significant breast asymmetry, tuberous breasts or breast ptosis (sagging).
The above-muscle positioning comes with other considerations, too. For patients with minimal natural breast tissue or fat on the chest, Dr Sharp explains that implant edges or rippling may potentially be more visible or palpable. It’s one of the reasons suitability needs to be assessed individually.
Consultation is key
While new developments in cosmetic surgery can generate plenty of conversation, they’re still surgical procedures that need to be considered carefully. Breast augmentation is invasive surgery and carries risks. Anatomy, medical history, expectations and the limitations of different surgical approaches should all form part of the conversation before deciding whether to proceed.
It’s also worth considering how established a newer technique is, particularly when it has only recently become available locally. “Every innovation needs to demonstrate not only technical feasibility but also long-term safety, predictable outcomes and genuine patient benefit,” Dr Sharp says.
“It’s also helpful to remember that this is a new technique, so Australian surgeons do not yet have extensive experience in it.”
Ultimately, Preservé adds another approach for surgeons and patients to consider – not a replacement for existing breast augmentation techniques and not an option that will suit everyone.
For anyone considering breast augmentation, the starting point should be an individual consultation with an appropriately qualified specialist plastic surgeon, where the available surgical options, potential risks, limitations, and expected outcomes can be discussed in relation to their individual circumstances.
Disclaimer: This article contains general information only and is not medical advice. Cosmetic surgery is invasive and carries risks. Results, recovery, and suitability vary between individuals. Seek advice from an appropriately qualified specialist plastic surgeon about your individual circumstances before making decisions about cosmetic surgery.
Imagery: Death To Stock (Daniel Farò)
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