Is TUBA Breast Augmentation Right for You?

For many women considering breast augmentation, scarring on the breast can be a major drawback. Most breast augmentation procedures require incisions along either the breast crease or the edge of the areola. And though these incisions are carefully placed to be as hidden from view as possible, they are still a deterrent to many who consider undergoing breast augmentation. TUBA (transumbilical breast augmentation)is an endoscopic procedure requiring only a small navel incision rather than a breast incision. The breast implants (silicone only) are inserted through a small belly button incision and tunneled to proper position using an endoscope. Many report the tiny navel incision as nearly imperceptible. And along with reduced scarring, this minimally invasive procedure requires a shorter, less painful recovery than other breast augmentation procedures making it a tempting option. But is TUBA breast augmentation really the best option for you? To help answer that question, here is a list of pros and cons to consider.

Pros:

*no breast scar and minimal scarring at all. This procedures is often referred to as "scarless" because the incision is hidden in the natural folds of the navel.

*only one scar needed rather than one for each breast.

*shorter, easier recovery in many cases.

*decreased risk of damage to breast nerves and milk ducts.

*implants can be placed either above or below pectoral muscle, though some surgeons will only place them above the muscle.

Cons:

*not all surgeons are properly trained to perform this type of procedure.

*cannot be used with silicone implants.

*cannot be performed with breast lift.

*complications such as "bottoming-out", capsular contracture, and improper placement of implants cannot be corrected using same incision.

If you are currently exploring your options for breast augmentation, Hampton Roads experts at Plastic Surgery Center of Hampton Roads can answer your questions.