What Is TUBA Breast Augmentation? A Complete Guide
TUBA, or transumbilical breast augmentation, is an innovative surgical technique that positions breast implants through a small incision in the belly button rather than on the breasts themselves. Dr. Robert A. Shumway at Shumway Cosmetic Surgery in San Diego, CA is one of a handful of plastic surgeons in the United States skilled in this specialized procedure, having performed TUBA successfully for years and even becoming the first surgeon to perform this technique in Europe in 2018.
How Does TUBA Breast Augmentation Work?
The procedure represents a significant advancement in breast augmentation. Dr. Shumway makes a small incision measuring approximately 1.5 to 2 cm inside the navel. Then, with a specialized endoscopic instrument equipped with a telescopic camera, he creates a narrow tunnel just beneath the skin that extends from the navel to the breast area.
Next, he inserts saline breast implants in their deflated state and carefully guides them to the breast pocket. Once positioned either above or below the chest muscle, the implants are filled with sterile saline solution to the desired size through a small tube. The endoscopic camera allows Dr. Shumway to verify implant placement with absolute precision, ensuring symmetrical and natural-looking results. The entire procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes to complete.
What Are the Benefits of TUBA?
TUBA breast augmentation offers several distinct advantages over traditional breast augmentation methods, including:
No visible scarring on the breasts: The single incision remains hidden in the natural folds of the belly button, leaving the breasts completely scar-free.
Reduced risk of nipple sensation changes: Since no incisions are made on or near the breast tissue, there is minimal risk of nerve damage that could affect nipple sensitivity.
Shorter surgery time: Most TUBA procedures are completed in 30 minutes or less, reducing anesthesia risks.
Faster recovery: The minimally invasive nature means less tissue trauma, reduced swelling, and quicker return to normal activities.
Lower infection risk: With only one small incision away from the breast area, the risk of infection is significantly reduced.
Minimal bleeding: The technique eliminates the need for sharp cutting or burning of breast tissue, which minimizes blood loss and eliminates the need for surgical drains.
Preserved breast tissue: Natural breast tissue remains largely undisturbed, which may reduce potential complications with future breastfeeding.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for TUBA?
Not everyone is suited for TUBA breast augmentation, but you may be an excellent candidate if you:
Want to completely avoid scars on your breasts
Desire a natural-looking breast size increase
Are in good overall health and maintain a non-smoking lifestyle
Prefer a faster surgery with shorter recovery time
Are comfortable with saline breast implants
Have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
During your consultation at Shumway Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Shumway will evaluate your anatomy, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine whether TUBA is the right choice for you. It’s important to note that TUBA is specifically designed for use with saline-filled implants, though advances in the technique are continually evolving.
How Does TUBA Compare to Traditional Breast Augmentation?
Traditional breast augmentation typically involves incisions made in one of three locations: under the breast fold (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). While these incisions are generally well-concealed, they still leave permanent scars on or near the breast area.
The TUBA approach differs significantly by placing the incision in the belly button, where it heals into a virtually invisible mark. Because TUBA requires only one small incision away from the breast tissue, it involves less skin trauma and tissue disruption. Traditional methods often require handling or cutting breast tissue, which can increase the risk of nerve damage and nipple sensation changes.
TUBA involves shorter surgery times and less anesthesia exposure, contributing to an easier overall recovery experience. The absence of tension on the incision site permits the use of larger implant sizes without fear of wound complications.
What Should You Expect During Recovery?
One of the most appealing aspects of TUBA breast augmentation is it has a quick and comfortable recovery period.
Immediately After Surgery
Following your TUBA procedure at Shumway Cosmetic Surgery, you will spend 1 to 2 hours in a recovery room before being released to go home. The quick nature of the 30-minute procedure reduces traditional surgical risks.
Days 1 to 7 After Surgery
During the first week, you’ll notice changes in sensation, comfort levels, and breast appearance. It can take a week or more for your implants to properly settle into their final position. Pain levels during this time often depend on implant placement, and submuscular placement (beneath the chest muscle) typically causes more discomfort than above-the-muscle placement. Most patients find they can return to work and light daily activities within one week of surgery.
Weeks 2 to 4 After Surgery
By the second week, most regular activities can be reincorporated into your routine. Around weeks 3 to 4, you’ll start noticing your implants settling into a more natural position. Most of the swelling should have subsided by this point, and your maximum benefits will be more visible.
Weeks 5 to 6 and Beyond
At the six-week mark, most patients have fully recovered and can resume all regular activities, including strenuous exercise. Your breasts should look and feel completely natural by this stage. Dr. Shumway will schedule follow-up appointments to evaluate your healing progress and ensure optimal results.
Are There Any Risks or Complications?
Like any surgical procedure, TUBA breast augmentation carries some potential risks, though the complication rate is notably low. Possible risks include:
Infection
Breast pain or discomfort
Temporary numbness
Changes in implant position
Implant leakage or rupture
It’s worth noting that studies have shown TUBA implants demonstrate excellent longevity rates that are comparable to or better than implants placed through traditional incision sites. The TUBA technique eliminates several modes of implant injury that can occur with other methods, as the implants are never used as tissue expanders, don’t contact sharp instruments, must be inserted empty, and closure sutures are distant from the implant.
If complications do arise, additional surgery may be required to address the issue. Dr. Shumway will discuss all potential risks during your consultation and answer any questions you may have.
Why Choose Dr. Shumway for TUBA Breast Augmentation?
Dr. Robert A. Shumway is a board-certified facial plastic and cosmetic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience enhancing patients’ natural beauty. As a diplomate of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Shumway is recognized nationally and internationally for his expertise in TUBA breast augmentation.
Schedule Your TUBA Consultation Today
If you’re interested in breast augmentation without visible breast scars, TUBA may be the ideal solution for you. Contact Shumway Cosmetic Surgery in San Diego, CA, to schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert A. Shumway. During your visit, you’ll discuss your aesthetic goals, learn more about the TUBA procedure, and discover whether this innovative technique is right for you.
TUBA, or transumbilical breast augmentation, is an innovative surgical technique that positions breast implants through a small incision in the belly button rather than on the breasts themselves. Dr. Robert A. Shumway at Shumway Cosmetic Surgery in San Diego, CA is one of a handful of plastic surgeons in the United States skilled in this specialized procedure, having performed TUBA successfully for years and even becoming the first surgeon to perform this technique in Europe in 2018.
