Transumbilical Breast Augmentation

TUBA is done on outpatient basis. The patient can return home a couple of hours after surgery.

A small incision is made in the inner folds of the navel. A slender instrument is then guided under the skin from the navel area to the area behind the breast tissue. A tissue expander is then guided into the area to create a pocket of space where the saline implant is to be placed. The size and location of the pocket is verified using an endoscope and an empty saline implant is folded and placed into this pocket. Then the implant is filled with a sterile saline solution to the desired size. All instruments are extracted from the body and the incision is closed up with dissolvable stitches.

The bandages can be removed the very next day and the patient can take a shower. Patients need to take it easy for the next few weeks but can go back to work in a couple of days.

Compared to traditional methods of breast augmentation surgery:

1. TUBA surgery is quicker
2..Takes less anesthesia time.
3. Quicker recovery time,
4. Nearly bloodless and scarless.
5. There is no damage to the milk ducts and very less damage to tissue and nerves.
6. Less bruising, less swelling and less pain.
7. There is less chance of infection and need for post operative wound care too is less.
8. The procedure allows implants to be placed in both breasts through a single incision.
9. The same incision is used later for removal or replacement of the implants.
10. There is no disruption of abdominal muscles
11. It is a very good option for those who cannot afford to take an extended amount of time off.

There are several disadvantages also lined against this technique.

12. TUBA cannot be done on those who need reverse signs of aging and hence require a breast lift too.
13. Only saline filled implants can be used.