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Morgantown, West Virginia, has long been a center of education, research and medical excellence. Home to West Virginia University and a thriving healthcare community, our city continues to contribute to advances in medicine. Aesthetic surgery is another field in which Morgantown is making its mark.
One example is Transumbilical Silicone Breast Augmentation (TUSBA), a specialized surgical procedure that allows silicone breast implants to be inserted through a small incision hidden within the belly button, avoiding incisions on the breasts. Beyond its innovative approach, TUSBA offers an additional benefit for patients who value privacy as scars on the breasts can be a telltale sign of breast augmentation. For many individuals, this discretion is an important part of their personal choice.
TUSBA is a relatively recent development in aesthetic surgery. Started in South Korea in 2011, the technique continued to evolve and was introduced in the United States around 2021.
TUSBA represents an advanced application of both cosmetic and endoscopic surgical techniques. The approach combines specialized surgical expertise, detailed anatomical knowledge, precision and advanced instrumentation to allow implant placement through a small incision hidden in the belly button.
What makes this particularly noteworthy is how uncommon the technique remains worldwide. Our research identified eight surgeons or groups who publicly advertise offering TUSBA on their websites: three in the United States and five internationally, across South Korea, Taiwan, Brazil and Italy.
In the United States, two practice in California, while the third is here in Morgantown. Although these figures do not represent a worldwide registry, they highlight Morgantown’s participation in a highly specialized area of aesthetic surgery.
This achievement is larger than one procedure: a commitment to medical leadership, innovation and expansion of options available to patients.
Medicine is constantly evolving. Advances in surgical techniques, technology and clinical research create opportunities to improve patient care, expand treatment choices and refine existing approaches.
Being a pioneer or early adopter carries both opportunity and responsibility. Innovation should not mean embracing something simply because it is new. Meaningful progress requires scientific evaluation, specialized training, sound clinical judgment and a commitment to patient safety.
TUSBA reflects this philosophy. It provides an additional surgical option for appropriately selected patients. The ultimate measure of progress is not how advanced a procedure sounds, but how effectively and safely it serves patients.
As a surgeon practicing in Morgantown, I take pride in contributing to this culture of innovation. Bringing specialized surgical techniques to our community is part of a broader commitment to advancing patient care and helping shape the future of aesthetic medicine.
These achievements also create opportunities beyond healthcare.
As specialized medical services attract patients from across the country and internationally, they introduce visitors and their families to the beauty, hospitality, and character of West Virginia.
From the beauty of Coopers Rock and the serenity of Cheat Lake to Morgantown’s vibrant university atmosphere and the unparalleled energy of WVU Mountaineer football games, our city offers a memorable experience. Visitors seeking medical care can enjoy many attractions before treatment or after appropriate recovery.
Medical innovation, education, tourism and economic development can complement one another, strengthening our community and showcasing West Virginia’s many accomplishments. Morgantown has demonstrated these qualities across many fields. Continued investment in medical innovation and specialized expertise will further strengthen its reputation as a center of excellence.
We have every reason to celebrate our city’s achievements and look confidently toward what comes next.
Ehab Akkary, MD, FACS, FAACS, MBA, is a fellowship-trained, triple Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon practicing in Morgantown, West Virginia. He is Board Certified in cosmetic surgery by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS), Facial Cosmetic Surgery by the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery (ABFCS), and General Surgery by the American Board of Surgery (ABS). He is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS). Through this monthly column, he shares practical, evidence-based information to help readers make informed decisions about their health, surgery, and overall well-being. Learn more at www.YourDreamBody.com or contact him at eakkary@yourdreambody.com.