Transumbilical Breast Augmentation
What is Transumbilical Breast Augmentation?
Transumbilical Breast Augmentation - or TUBA for short - is a new method of performing breast augmentation. The procedure utilizes endoscopic surgery techniques. Instead of inserting the implant directly into the breast via incisions under the breast or arm, the TUBA technique is performed completely through the patient's navel, also referred to as the "belly button".
How Is the Procedure Performed?
During a transumbilical breast augmentation, a very small incision is made in the patient's belly button. This allows the doctor to slide a very slender instrument under the skin, up, the abdomen and to the breasts. A tissue expander is used to open a space for placement of the implant. At this time the size and position of the implant is verified. The doctor will then maneuver an empty saline implant into the previously created space, where it will be filled with sterile saline. The incision in the belly button is then closed.
What Are the Advantages?
The great advantage of Transumbilical Breast Augmentation versus other methods of breast enlargement is that recovery time can be greatly reduced and that scarring can be kept to an extreme minimum. In addition, other advantages include:
- Recovery time can be reduced by nearly half the time.
- Chances of infection are reduced due to the small incision.
- The risk of loss of sensation in the breasts and nipples is greatly reduced.
- Lessens the risk of breast feeding complications in the future. This is because the placement of the implant is directly under the breast tissue rather than having to cut through it.
- The operation takes less time which means less time under anesthia.
- The extent of post-operative care is greatly reduced.
- The duration and extent of the pain associated with breast enhancement surgery is lessened.
