What are those scars around circular scar on my belly button?

Question

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding the scars around your belly button. From examining your photo, it looks like you’re experiencing hypertrophic scarring around the circular incision. Hypertrophic scars are thick, raised scars that can develop after surgery or injury, especially in areas with more tension, like the abdomen. These types of scars often respond well to treatment with Kenalog (a corticosteroid injection), which helps reduce scar thickness and improve texture over time. I recommend discussing this with your plastic surgeon, as they can evaluate the area and determine the most effective treatment plan for you.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Swflmom81,

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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your query. It seems you have had a tummy tuck and the scars seem to be a result of stretching of the standard tummy tuck scars around the belly button . Scar treatments can help with reducing the visibility of the scars. Please discuss your concerns with your Plastic surgeon. All the best!

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

It appears that these are some residual marks from sutures that were used to close up your belly button.  These may have been required to match the skin up exactly at the time of the closure. In the ideal world, all of this closure could be done with a suture that runs underneath the surface of the skin and dissolves in 4 to 6 weeks, but if there are small gaps, external sutures would be placed to co-op the skin perfectly.

Ram Kalus, MD, FACS · Answer

Without knowing your history it appears those scars are related either to a prior tummy tuck, or laparoscopic surgery, or both. You know best what prior surgery you have undergone. Scar revision can be considered and performed by a board certified plastic surgeon (not a dermatologist). Best of luck to you.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

In a standard tummy tuck there is an incision made for your belly button.  Sometimes due to tension, poor healing, or technique this scar is more visible on certain patients.  If you wish you can have your scar revised about a year after surgery in hopes of it healing more favorably.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You appear to be developing a hypertrophic scar in the area were sutures were placed. This can be calmed down with Kenalog injections. Go visit with your surgeon.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

I think you’re referring to scars from the sutures used to secure the bellybutton during the procedure.
Follow up with your provider.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD