What Are the Chances of Necrosis of Belly Button with Tummy Tuck and Umbilical Hernia Repair?

I will be having an umbilical hernia repaired by a general surgeon at the time of my tummy tuck procedure. My PS has warned me there is a chance of umbilical necrosis, which has me a little worried. I appreciate knowing there is a real chance of necrosis happening, but would like to put it into perspective. Is necrosis common following a hernia repair of this type, and if not what is the percentage likelihood of it happening? I am 5'7" and 150 lbs., good overall health.

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6 Doctor Answers | Asked by MaumeeMG

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Umbilical necrosis risk is increased with multiple periumbilical procedures

Unfortunately, umbilical necrosis is something that can happen with any surgery that involves making incisions around your umbilicus. This risk is increased as more procedures are performed and, therefore, the umbilicus is further stressed and potentially left with reduced blood supply. However, despite the increased risk of umbilical necrosis, the scheduled combined procedure may remain the best way to address your needs. I would encourage talking to your plastic... more

Belly button necrosis after hernia repair and tummy tuck. It can happen.

It is not common for this to happen but I do not think a realistic percentage can be assigned to this happening. Each surgical case is different. Ask your plastic what he/she thinks the chances are.

Umbilical Hernia Repair and Skin Necrosis?

Thank you for the question. There many variables involved in the potential risk of skin necrosis after umbilical hernia repair. I, too prefer to deal with the umbilical hernia myself, as opposed to having another surgeon in both. There are " techniques" involving tissue handling and preservation that allow for increased maintenance of blood flow to the umbilicus the plastic surgeons in general are well-trained to perform. Best wishes... more

Belly button necrosis with tummy tuck and hernia repair.

While it is true that repairing the umbilical hernia and doing the tummy tuck increases the chance of belly button necrosis, there is no way to put a percentage risk on it. The size of the hernia and how thinned out the skin has become play a factor; the larger the hernia and the thinner the skin, the more risk of the belly button becoming necrotic. Necrosis means the skin dies, turns black and becomes a scab. I agree with Dr. Johnson. We deal with umbilical hernias and... more

Umbilical risks are higher with hernia repair

The umbilical hernia comes through a defect in the base of the umbilicus, and without extreme care the hernia repair with the tummy tuck can strangulate the umbilicus and necrosis can result. I find I can reduce risks when I do things myself. Not that all general surgeons are rough, it is just that the plastic surgeon has a better overall sense of the procedure, and most of us would prefer the general surgeon stay home. Best of luck, peterejohnsonmd.com

Problem more likely with concurrent hernia/tummytuck

Tough to put a number on the chance of tissue loss in this situation....rare with tummytuck alone, but increased chance of problem with umbilical hernia repair at same time. in the event of trouble, once it heals, a new umbilicicus could be made with local tissue. hopes this helps....don't let this worry hold you back!!!