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Dr. Zachariah is one of the most experienced surgeons in the U.S. performing the Transumbilical method of Breast Augmentation.

Breast Augmentation Using the TUBA Method

When considering breast enlargement in San Jose, almost every woman wants the most natural-looking result possible. While breast implant size and type is important, another crucial consideration is the method used to place the implant underneath your breast tissue. Most methods, such as inframammary and periareolar, require incisions on or around the breast itself, increasing your chances for unattractive scarring that will detract from your larger, more shapely breasts.

But a proven method that has been around for over 15 years offers patients a great way to improve their breast appearance and gain a more attractive figure without obvious visible scarring. Transumbilical breast augmentation, or TUBA, is a surgical method Dr. Zachariah can use to insert saline breast implants through the navel ("belly button"), carefully positioning the implants under the breast tissue (subglandular) or under the pectoral muscle (submuscular) for a more naturally-curved appearance. Be sure to discuss your positioning options in detail with Dr. Zachariah during your consultation.

San Jose cosmetic surgeon Dr. Zachariah specializes in the TUBA procedure and is one of the most experienced surgeons in the U.S. for this procedure. To see before and after photos of patients who have chosen this procedure, visit our TUBA method breast augmentation photo gallery.

How TUBA Is Performed

Once you have received general anesthesia or local anesthesia with minimal sedation, Dr. Zachariah begins the procedure by making a half-circle incision inside the belly button, where scarring will be very hard to notice. After placing this incision, the doctor inserts a tube to create two narrow pathways between the belly button and each breast. To make sure these tunnels and pockets for the implants are placed accurately, Dr. Zachariah uses an endoscope. After the pockets for the implants have been created, Dr. Zachariah next inserts the empty breast implants through the tunnels created under your skin, and once in place, fills each implant with sterile saline (salt water) based on your desired breast size.

While it may sound complicated, this procedure actually may take less time than other breast implant placement methods while causing minimal bleeding and safeguarding nipple sensation and mammary function. Shorter surgical time means that a reduced amount of anesthesia is needed and the risk of complications is minimized. Also, TUBA is generally the most affordable implantation method available.

Recovering from Breast Enlargement in San Jose

If you choose TUBA breast augmentation in San Jose with Dr. Zachariah, you are likely to see a much quicker recovery than patients who choose other methods. Most patients begin to enjoy their fuller, natural shape and return to their normal activities in about three to five days, with full recovery in about three to five weeks. Because the navel is a natural scar itself, the skin inside the navel is likely to heal properly with minimal scarring. Also, the skin and tissue around the abdominal area is very elastic, which further helps to reduce scarring. Patients need to take care of the incision site to avoid infection, and need to wear a support bra until any swelling around the breasts has subsided.

Generally, because TUBA causes very little tissue trauma compared to other insertion methods, patients experience much less pain after surgery. However, as with any surgery, some discomfort from stretched muscles and skin should be expected. Dr. Zachariah can prescribe pain medication to help you feel more comfortable during the recovery process.

Advantages of Transumbilical Breast Augmentation

• No visible scars
• Retains nipple sensation
• No effect on breast feeding
• Natural appearance
• Least discomfort
• Quicker recovery
• Less expensive
• Best technique for women who are prone to scarring

TUBA isn't right for every woman, so Dr. Zachariah also offers other breast enlargement methods in San Jose, including axillary (insertion through the armpit), areolar (insertion along the lower border of the areola), or inframammary (insertion underneath the breast in the inframammary fold) incisions. You can learn more about each of these methods during your consultation.

Regardless of the implant method you choose, count on San Jose cosmetic surgeon Dr. Zachariah to provide a beautiful breast augmentation outcome that will have you looking and feeling your best.