Do belly button scars show much or are they hidden under the folds after Tummy tuck?

Umbilicoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure to help create a more attractive belly button. This can be accomplished by itself such as creation of an "innie" from an "outie" but is more frequently done at the time of a tummy tuck. In my opinion, the belly button is the most important cosmetic part of a good tummy tuck. The lower tummy tuck scar is hidden well too low for the patient to routinely "show it off", but the belly button is easily flaunted. Patients are very concerned about their belly button and want as natural an appearance as possible.
Attractive belly buttons are generally vertically oriented. A "T" shape created by an overlying small "hood" is considered attractive as well. Additional attractive attributes include the absence of surrounding stretch marks, minimal fat, no hair (on a female) and smooth surrounding skin without visible scarring.
To try to achieve the perfect belly button surgically, plastic surgeons have modified our technique over the years. I have been happy with a modification of an inverted "U" incision pattern. This helps to prevent narrowing (stenosis) of the scar and hides it on the inside of the belly button where it is not as visible. This creates a very nice vertical belly button with a small overlying hood. The umbilical stalk should be attached tightly to the abdominal fascia to help create an "innie".

Hello J.D.,

Thank you for your inquiry regarding belly button scars following a tummy tuck procedure. It's natural to have concerns about scarring and how it may impact the appearance of your belly button.

The visibility of belly button scars can vary depending on several factors, including the surgical technique used, individual healing patterns, and the skill of your plastic surgeon. In many cases, belly button scars can be strategically placed and designed to minimize visibility, often blending into the natural contours and folds of the skin.

While some patients may experience more noticeable scarring, particularly in the early stages of healing, it's important to note that scars tend to fade and improve over time with proper care and management. Additionally, your plastic surgeon will take steps to ensure that your belly button scar heals as inconspicuously as possible.

If you have specific concerns about the appearance of your belly button scar or desire a particular shape (such as vertical or circular), I encourage you to discuss these preferences with your plastic surgeon. Together, you can collaborate on a plan to achieve the desired outcome and address any aesthetic concerns you may have.

Your plastic surgeon is committed to ensuring your satisfaction with the results of your tummy tuck procedure, including the appearance of your belly button scar. By maintaining open communication and working closely with your surgeon, you can help ensure that your surgical experience meets your expectations and delivers the aesthetic outcomes you desire.

I hope this information helps alleviate any concerns you may have about belly button scars. If you have any further questions or would like to discuss your options in more detail, please don't hesitate to reach out to your plastic surgeon for personalized guidance and support.

Best regards,

Dr. Katzen

It’s not unusual for women to be concerned about the
appearance of their belly button following abdominoplasty surgery.These patients want a belly button with an
attractive shape and well hidden scars.With
careful attention to detail these goals can be easily accomplished by placing
the scars on the inner aspect of the umbilicus.If you’re
concerned about the appearance of your belly button following this procedure,
it’s essential that you discuss your aesthetic goals with your plastic surgeon
prior to surgery.

The tummy tuck scar should be well hidden by your underwear, so it would be below the top of the your underwear, going horizontally across. It may extend from hip to hip, or be a little shorter. The scar could be placed using the same incision as was used for a C-section. But the purpose of a tummy tuck is to get rid of any folds, so it wouldn't be located in one. The scar around your belly button would look like it's part of your belly button, so that shouldn't be visible either.

Belly button scars vary tremendously in their appearance with some being barely visible and others appearing red and thickened. This is quite difficult to predict.