Tummy tuck - 2 years post op -irritation around belly button (Photo)

Question

I had full tummy tuck 2 yrs back. I always had irritation around my belly button since the beginning. I can’t sneeze properly without putting my hand on my stomach and holding it tight. Even after 2yrs I can’t stretch or do yoga properly . It would swell and I will irritation(kind of inflammation) . Is it common to have this kind issue after TT? I can’t still start exercising or sneeze properly without having this feeling around belly button.Any suggestions on what to do next would greatly help.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

A good place to start is a visit to your surgeon for an evaluation.  It may be that a hernia is present and creating the discomfort.  Further testing/imaging studies may be needed to find the cause of your symptoms.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for reaching out with your concern about experiencing irritation around your belly button when sneezing or exercising, two years after your tummy tuck. Based on your description, it's likely that the discomfort is related to the permanent sutures used during the procedure to plicate or imbricate the rectus abdominis muscle. These sutures are placed internally, extending from the sternum down to the pubic region.
It's possible that these sutures may be a bit too tight, leading to the discomfort you're experiencing. While it's less likely, another potential cause could be excessive tightness of the abdominoplasty in terms of the skin, but this doesn't seem to be the case from your photos.
If the pain you're experiencing is significantly affecting your quality of life, I would recommend revisiting your plastic surgeon. They may need to consider the option of removing or adjusting the permanent sutures from the rectus muscle to alleviate your discomfort.
I hope this response provides clarity and assists you in addressing the discomfort you're experiencing post-tummy tuck. Wishing you the best of luck in resolving this issue.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Ira H. Rex lll, MD · Answer

it certainly seems you need an evaluation by a plastic or general surgeon. Perhaps a CAT scan or oother imaging type could help explain your findings. A hernia may have to be considered. Also, there are often many sutures in this area from tightening the muscle, and also there may be a seroma in this area.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear ssr85,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

It looks to me like the opening for your bellybutton was placed a bit too low.
I’m not sure revising your bellybutton is going to be a worthy pursuit.
Doing so will leave new scars on your abdomen.
If you put a Q-tip into your bellybutton. I think you’ll find the Q-tip points down.
The placement of your bellybutton opening may also reflect the fullness above the bellybutton. This is most likely the bellybutton holding up the skin, creating a skin bulge.
Placing the belly button accurately during surgery is not always easier straightforward. Surgeons who have extensive experience with the procedure typically get this right more than those who have less experience or less inherent skill.
 at this point, you need to ask yourself if you’re willing to have surgery to change the outcome.
Unfortunately, the ability to choose the better provider has since past.
If you’re outcome bothers you enough that you’re willing to have revision surgery, including the potential of adding scars to your abdomen then you should either follow up with your provider or have consultations with other plastic surgeons in your community.
Best,
Matt hagstrom, MD

Tummy tuck - 2 years post op -irritation around belly button (Photo)

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Tummy tuck - 2 years post op -irritation around belly button (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Irritation around belly button

Answer: Irritation around belly button

Answer: Tummy tuck outcome

Answer: Tummy tuck outcome

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.