Also known as augmentation mammoplasty, breast augmentation increases the breast size with implants placed beneath the breast tissue or chest muscles. As one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the U.S., many patients undergo this surgery.
If you’re considering breast augmentation, you may have heard of Motiva® — one of the most advanced implants available. Here’s everything you need to know, from their benefits to future considerations.
What Are Motiva Breast Implants?
Motiva is a brand of silicone gel-filled implants known for their cutting-edge technology, such as:
- ProgressiveGel®: Provides results that look and feel more natural
- TrueMonobloc®: Offers greater flexibility and durability
Another unique feature of these implants is their double-layered outer shell. An inner layer creates a barrier with a specialized chemical composition, preventing silicone leakages. The strong outer layer makes implants less likely to rupture.
The brand offers various sizes with two main types of breast implants:
- Motiva Round: These round implants strike the perfect balance of firmness and softness. They’re ideal for those who want to achieve breasts with a perky appearance, more pronounced projection and a fuller upper pole.
- Motiva Ergonomix®: These ergonomic implants are the first of their kind. They adjust to patients’ body movements and mimic how real breasts behave.
Although Motiva implants were first introduced in 2004 and have been widely used worldwide since receiving their CE marking in 2010, the FDA only approved them in September 2024.
The Benefits of Motiva Implants
At Miami Plastic Surgery®, we know that breast augmentation surgery is a significant decision, and we’re here to help you determine whether these next-generation implants are right for you. To guide your decision, here are the benefits of choosing Motiva implants:
- Enhanced safety features: These implants’ nanosurface technology may help your body respond better to the devices, reduce the risk of capsular contracture, and limit inflammation. You can also have a microchip embedded within the implant to conveniently scan and verify details, such as its type and size or your surgery date.
- Natural feel and appearance: Motiva implants are among the most natural-looking on the market due to their silicone gel. Your new breasts will also feel very similar to real ones. However, setting realistic expectations is essential — while implants may simulate natural breast tissue, they likely won’t be an exact match.
- Customization options: The implants come in different shapes and sizes, allowing you to select based on your body type and desired results. Whether you want a full and perky look or a subtle augmentation, you’ll likely find the ideal Motiva breast implant for you.
- Minimally invasive surgical techniques: Motiva MinimalScar® is a breast augmentation technique that makes incisions of roughly an inch, approximately half the size of a standard incision. This can result in a faster recovery with little scarring.
Ideal Candidates for Motiva Implants
Your surgeon will advise whether a breast augmentation with Motiva implants is right for you. Many women are great candidates. However, there are instances where the procedure may not be the best decision. The following factors must be considered:
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- Health: Your body must be able to withstand the physical demands of this procedure and the healing process, so your overall health and well-being are essential in determining whether you’re a suitable candidate. Illnesses may cause complications during surgery or prolong the recovery period. It is also advisable to schedule your surgery around three to six months after pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Personal motivations: Everyone has their reasons for wanting to enhance their appearance. Whatever your reasoning, ensure you do it for yourself — you deserve to feel confident in your skin and comfortable with your choices.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Choosing the right practitioner is paramount. If you are interested in breast augmentation, the first step is to consult a qualified and experienced surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, such as Dr. Max Polo or Dr. Jason Altman. As Dr. Polo explains, “Proper patient selection, surgical technique, and post-op care are far more important than implant brand in assuring an excellent outcome. A good surgeon will help you customize that excellent outcome with the implant that best suits your specific anatomy and goals.”
Ask questions during your pre-surgery consultation. Your surgeon will discuss your surgical choices, your desired breast size, and how you want them to look. They will then recommend the best implant type and shape based on your preferences. When you book a consultation at Miami Plastic Surgery®, our team of experts will ensure you feel supported at each step and can make informed decisions.
Your procedure will be performed in our accredited state-of-the-art surgery suite, and you will be able to go home the same day. Your anesthesia provider will ensure a safe and comfortable procedure.
The procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Your surgeon will make an incision to insert the implant, either in the crease beneath your breast, around your nipple, or under your armpit.
- They will separate your chest’s muscles and connective tissues from your breast tissue to create a pocket for implant placement. Your placement will either be under or above your pectoral muscle.
- Once the implant is in place and centered to your nipple, your surgeon will use stitches to close the incision and cover it with surgical tape.
Directly after surgery, you may feel heavy-headed and disoriented. Some swelling, pain, and tenderness are expected and can subside within a week post-op. Light activity may be resumed three days after surgery, and heavy activity, including weight bearing, can resume after six weeks. Always take medication as prescribed and follow aftercare instructions, like sleeping in an elevated position and avoiding alcohol.
Potential Risks and Considerations
While studies show that Motiva implants may have fewer complications, all cosmetic surgeries have possible risks, including:
- Bleeding and scarring.
- Distorted breast appearance.
- Possible revisions.
- Leaking or displaced implants.
Any breast augmentation has long-term considerations. As complications like contractures and ruptures may arise years after your procedure, monitoring your implants is paramount. You should receive ultrasound imaging five to six years after your surgery and every two to three years thereafter.
You will also need to attend various follow-up appointments with your surgeon, typically scheduled a couple of days post-op and then at regular intervals in the weeks and months following your procedure. These appointments are vital, allowing your practitioner to observe your healing process and determine whether you are ready to engage in regular activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some FAQs to provide you with the necessary information to make an informed choice.
How Long Do Motiva Implants Last?
While Motiva implants are durable, it’s important to understand that breast implants have a life cycle that can be unique to any patient. Generally speaking, current data for silicone implants shows that rupture rates 10 years after surgery are less than 10%. You should consult your surgeon for best practices regarding implant longevity.
Can I Breastfeed With Motiva Implants?
Women can breastfeed with implants, but these devices may reduce or eliminate milk production. Always inform your surgeon if you plan on breastfeeding in the future, as they can keep this in mind when deciding the most suitable surgical approach.
What if I Decide to Remove or Replace My Implants?
Removing or replacing your implants requires additional surgery. If you have these devices taken out, you may require further procedures, such as a breast lift or fat transfer, to remove excess skin and reshape your breasts. At Miami Plastic Surgery®, Dr. Altman has a passion for revision and reconstructive surgery and can help you achieve your desired results when removing or replacing your implants.
Schedule a Consultation With Miami Plastic Surgery®
Motiva implants can achieve breasts that look and feel natural while reducing your risk of post-surgery complications. However, choosing the right surgeon matters more than the implant brand. At Miami Plastic Surgery®, you’ll be in good hands with our expert practitioners. Both Dr. Polo and Dr. Altman are board-certified and highly experienced in breast procedures.
If you are interested in receiving breast augmentation surgery in Miami and Coral Gables, schedule a consultation with Dr. Polo or Dr. Altman today!
