If you’ve ever thought about
breast augmentation but felt hesitant because of concerns over visible scarring, you’re not alone. Many patients share that feeling. The idea of enhancing your silhouette is exciting, but the thought of scars on the breasts can be a real dealbreaker. That’s why at
Shumway Cosmetic Surgery, we’re so excited to share an innovative approach that almost entirely eliminates those concerns:
Transumbilical Breast Augmentation, commonly known as TUBA.
What is TUBA, and Why Does it Matter?
TUBA is a revolutionary breast augmentation technique that avoids incisions on the breasts altogether by placing implants through a tiny incision hidden within the belly button. That means no scars on your breasts—only one small, discreet incision nestled inside your navel. Imagine enhancing your bust without anyone seeing a telltale surgical mark on your chest.
You might be wondering, how is this even possible? With TUBA, a highly skilled surgeon makes a very small incision in the belly button, creates a tunnel under the skin up to the breast area using special instruments and an endoscopic camera, and places the implants through this pathway to sit perfectly in place. The entire process is carefully monitored in real-time, which adds precision and control to ensure beautiful, natural-looking results.
Because the incision is made away from the breasts, you sidestep the usual concerns about visible scars or keloid formation on the chest that can sometimes occur—especially if you have sensitive skin or a tendency toward scarring. For patients who want to keep their breasts completely scar-free, TUBA is truly a game-changer.
How Does TUBA Compare with Traditional Breast Augmentation?
Traditional breast augmentation often involves incisions either under the breast fold, around the areola, or in the armpit. While these are generally well-hidden, they can still leave scars that some patients find distressing. The TUBA approach flips this on its head by placing the incision in the belly button, where it’s naturally concealed.
Since TUBA involves just one small incision in the navel—typically around 1.5 cm—the surgery is less invasive in terms of skin trauma. This means quicker healing and a reduced risk of infection. Another advantage is shorter surgery time and less anesthesia, which makes your recovery easier overall.
Most traditional breast augmentations require handling or cutting breast tissue, which can pose a risk to nerves and sometimes affect nipple sensation. TUBA’s approach avoids incisions or cuts on the breasts and reduces those risks significantly.
Are There Limitations with TUBA?
Every procedure has its specifics, so it’s important to understand what TUBA can and can’t do. Currently, the procedure is primarily performed using saline implants, which are inserted empty and filled once placed in the breast pocket. This allows the implant to travel through the small tunnel from the belly button to the chest. However, there have been groundbreaking advancements and some surgeons are developing techniques to place silicone gel-filled implants via transumbilical incision as well.
TUBA usually works best for patients looking for a moderate increase in breast size—typically up to about two cup sizes (or 400cc implant volume). For patients who want larger implants or who have complex breast anatomy concerns, other augmentation techniques might be more appropriate.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for TUBA?
You could be a great candidate for TUBA if you:
- Want to avoid scars on your breasts completely
- Desire a natural-looking breast size increase (up to two cup sizes)
- Have good overall health and non-smoking status
- Prefer faster surgery and recovery times
- Are comfortable with saline implants or can consult a specialist about silicone options
We always recommend a personalized consultation so we can discuss your goals, medical history, and anatomy in detail to determine the best approach for you.
What Should I Expect from the TUBA Procedure and Recovery?
Your TUBA surgery is typically an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia or sedation. The single incision in your belly button is tiny and well-hidden within the natural folds. An endoscopic camera guides the surgeon as a tunnel is created to the breast area, and the implant pocket is carefully formed under or over the chest muscle as needed.
Because the surgery is less invasive around the breast area and uses only one small incision, most patients report less pain and discomfort compared to traditional breast augmentation. Many find they can return to light activities and work within a few days. Swelling and bruising usually resolve quickly, and the belly button incision scar fades well over time, becoming virtually invisible for most patients.
The results? Beautifully enhanced breasts with natural contours, no scars on the breasts, and a quicker, more comfortable recovery. It’s why many of our patients choose to schedule TUBA procedures on a Friday so they can be back at work by Monday.
Why Choose Shumway Cosmetic Surgery for Your TUBA Procedure?
Dr. Robert Shumway and his experienced team are passionate about providing the latest and safest techniques tailored to your unique needs. We understand the emotional and aesthetic importance of your breasts and work closely with you every step of the way.
With TUBA, you get all the benefits of breast augmentation without the worry of visible breast scars. We use the most advanced instrumentation and techniques, supported by years of experience and a commitment to precision and patient comfort.
We’ll guide you through the consultation, surgery, and aftercare with honesty and care because we want you to feel confident and radiant in your own skin.
Take the Next Step
If breast augmentation with minimal scarring sounds like your dream come true, TUBA might be the perfect solution. We encourage you to reach out to learn more about how this innovative procedure can help you achieve your goals without the scars—and stress—that you might have expected.
Ready to feel confident and beautiful with natural-looking results and no visible breast scars? Contact Shumway Cosmetic Surgery today to
schedule your personalized TUBA consultation and take the first step toward the transformation you deserve. Your journey to lasting confidence begins now!
