Transumbilical Breast Augmentation Surgery San Antonio
Transumbilical Breast Augmentation Surgery (TUBA) is a type of breast implant incision we offer at our San Antonio plastic surgery center that is made within a woman's belly button. Because this incision is the only one made, this type of surgery involves the least noticeable scarring of any other breast augmentation incision. Two hollow paths are made through which deflated saline implants travel under the stomach skin to the breast area. Once they are in place, they are filled to a patient's desired size and adjusted by Dr. Constance Barone.
TUBA Patient Testimonial (Part Two)
Planning
TUBA surgery procedure begins with an initial consultation at our San Antonio practice. Dr. Barone will speak candidly with you about your goals and expectations, evaluate your health, and determine whether you are a candidate for the procedure. All aspects of the procedure, including risks and alternatives, will be explained to you. At this point, Dr. Barone will discuss with you the placement of the implant, ie. above or below the muscle. Patients should be aware that transumbilical breast augmentation can only be performed using saline breast implants. Dr. Barone will also discuss costs and financing of the procedure, and address any other concerns you may have.
Preparation
Detailed instructions on how to prepare for the TUBA procedure will be given to you before surgery. They will include guidelines on what to eat and drink before the operation, and whether to take or avoid certain medications and vitamins. Dr. Barone may also recommend you have a mammogram before the breast enlargement to ensure the health of your breasts. It is recommended that you arrange for someone to take you home after surgery, and possibly stay with you for a few days to care for you, if necessary.
Transumbilical Breast Augmentation Surgery
The transumbilical breast augmentation surgery for our San Antonio-area patients can be performed as an outpatient procedure in one of our affiliated hospitals. Either a local anesthetic combined with a sedative or general anesthesia will be used during the procedure. The incision for implant placement will be made inside the navel. It will be about an inch to an inch-and-a-half long. The abdominal skin is very elastic, which will help prevent stretching of the incision. A tunnel will be created through the naval incision and will come to rest under the breast mound, creating a tunnel for the insertion of the breast implants. Ultimately, the breast implants are inserted through the tunnel and inflated, and the incisions are then closed with dissolvable sutures. The entire breast augmentation procedure should only take about 30-45 minutes to complete.
Transumbilical Breast Augmentation Recovery
Some pain and discomfort will be felt in the chest and abdominal areas; however, this can be alleviated with medication. Patients may experience a loss of sensitivity, sharp pains, and bruising during the few weeks after surgery. Most patients feel better within three to four days after the procedure. Normal, daily activities can typically be resumed within a few days; however, patients should not participate in strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for a period of six weeks after the procedure.
Our San Antonio and Austin-area breast augmentation surgeon may advise patients to have mammograms after the procedure. Special mammographic views maybe needed in order to see all the breast tissue.
For more information on transumbilical breast augmentation surgery, recovery, cost, and more, contact our San Antonio office today.