Today’s prospective patient has more choices than ever before for the type and technique of breast augmentation. Silicone gel-filled implants were recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration, providing an excellent alternative for many women. Unfortunately, because silicone gel-filled implants come pre-filled, they cannot be placed through small, remote incisions.
Transumbilical breast augmentation was developed in the late 80s and discussed amongst surgeons in 1991. It was met with skepticism by the plastic surgery community and few surgeons bothered to learn the procedure. Since that time, a great deal of knowledge about the procedure has accumulated, vindicating it as a valid and safe procedure. Despite this fact, there are few surgeons who are qualified to perform the procedure today.
Saline-filled breast implants allow the surgeon to perform transumbilical breast augmentation (TUBA) because they can be placed empty inside the body and filled remotely by a filling tube that is removed at the end of the surgery. This procedure allows the surgeon to accurately place saline-filled implants reliably and safely into a position either above or below the muscle. Results are identical to any other type of breast augmentation except there will be no scars on or near the breast. Your recovery, on the other hand, will probably be more comfortable and quicker than standard breast augmentation. The surgery itself is quicker, so you will be under anesthesia for a shorter period and therefore you will be less groggy following your procedure. You will probably have less discomfort as well. Patients who have had TUBA surgery typically take less pain medications for a shorter period, are more active, and begin their normal day-to-day activities, like driving a car, sooner.
Like any other plastic surgery procedure, you should first begin by choosing only a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. During your consultation, you should ask about his or her experience with TUBA surgery and how many surgeries he or she has performed; a surgeon with a few hundred TUBA surgeries is considered very experienced. Finally, you should have a good report and feel comfortable communicating with your prospective surgeon. This is the basis for a long term, happy relationship that you and your doctor will both enjoy.
We always welcome new and returning patients; please feel free to schedule a consultation with me by calling 310-275-0040. We hope to hear from you soon.