Transumbilical Breast Augmentation (TUBA) in Seattle

Transumbilical Breast Augmentation,sometimes called TUBA, uses a small incision hidden inside the belly button to place saline implants. For the right candidates, Dr. Javad Sajan uses this technique because it can create a fuller chest with no scars on the breast itself. By utilizing a specialized endoscope, Dr. Sajan can carefully navigate the implant to its proper position with heightened precision, leading to a natural-looking contour and long-lasting, beautiful results for many patients worldwide.

Transumbilical breast augmentation (TUBA) uses a single hidden incision inside the navel, so there are no scars on or near the breasts. Through this small opening, the surgeon creates a narrow tunnel under the skin up to the breast area, carefully preserving surrounding tissues. Once the tunnel is made, empty saline implants are passed through the umbilical incision and positioned in the prepared pockets. After the implants are correctly placed, they are filled with sterile saline to the desired volume, allowing the surgeon to fine-tune size and symmetry before closing the tiny belly-button incision.

Transumbilical breast augmentation (TUBA) offers some unique advantages, but it isn’t right for everyone.

Pros

• Hidden incision inside the belly button
• No scars on or near the breast
• Minimal disturbance to breast tissue
• Nearly invisible scarring at the umbilical site
• Less post-operative discomfort for many patients
• Potentially reduced recovery and healing time

Cons

• Limited to saline implants only
• Not ideal for all body types or breast anatomies (especially significant sagging or asymmetry)

A good candidate is someone who:

• Prefers saline implants: Ideal for patients who are comfortable choosing saline breast implants, since TUBA is not performed with silicone implants.
• Has appropriate anatomy: Best suited for patients with relatively small to moderate breast size, minimal sagging, and no major chest wall or breast deformities.
• Wants no breast scars: Good option for those who strongly value a scarless-looking chest and are willing to have the incision hidden in the belly button.
• Understands the tradeoffs: Candidates should accept the limitations of TUBA (implant type, technical demands, possible revision complexity) and have realistic expectations about outcomes.

If transumbilical breast augmentation isn’t the best fit for your anatomy or goals, several proven alternatives are available:

• Transaxillary (Underarm): Incision hidden in the natural crease of the armpit, keeping scars off the breast.
• Inframammary (Breast Fold): Incision placed in the crease beneath the breast, offering the most direct access and control for implant placement.
• Periareolar (Areolar Border): Incision along the edge of the areola, where natural color changes can help camouflage scars.

Your TUBA surgery will take place on an outpatient basis at our state-licensed surgery center. An overnight hospital stay will not be necessary. The anesthesiologist will administer either a general (deep sleep) or a combination of intravenous sedation and anesthesia. You will be carefully monitored throughout your surgery and recovery to ensure your safety and comfort.

Dr. Sajan will make the small incision in a fold of your belly button, insert an endoscope, and create the tunnel to the breast. Once at the destination point, he will create a pocket underneath the pectoralis major muscle of the breast. The uninflated implant will be moved through the tunnel to the pocket and when in position, it will be filled/inflated with a saline solution. After inflation is completed, the tube is removed, the implant capsule seals itself, and Dr. Sajan uses the endoscope to ensure that everything is in place before exiting the tunnel and closing the navel incision with sutures. The same procedure is repeated for the other breast.

You will be given detailed information about the procedure and recovery process. Carefully follow Dr. Sajan's instructions about oral and topical medications. To achieve successful breast augmentation results, you have to take care of your incision area, level of activity, and follow-up appointments. Following these instructions will help facilitate the healing process and optimize your results.

Breast augmentation with the TUBA procedure can help you achieve a more balanced body shape and give you a more positive self-image. The results of your surgery will be immediately noticeable and will continue to refine over the weeks and months following recovery. Contact Dr. Sajan's office to schedule a consultation appointment and discuss your transumbilical breast augmentation options.