I was wondering if a scar like this could be turned into a belly button? (Photo)

Question

I was born with gastroschisis and I have two scars one bigger than the other. What surgery would I get for this if it could happen and how much could the cost be around? Would my insurance be able to pay for some of it?

Larry C. Leverett, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Polite: As you no doubt realize by the paucity of surgeons' responses, this is a very usual presentation. When I was a plastic surgical resident a couple decades ago, we corrected gastroschisis in many babies but never, at that time, considered the cosmetic deformity that these patients would come to realize as they mature. As one considers the mid-abdominal scar, there are several aspects that should be addressed. It is wide, poorly textured, and flat (doesn't have natural concavity). At this point, you need to realize that it will never look totally natural b/c it will always have scars around it. To that end, the surgeon must create a depression and narrow the defect, both of which can be done surgically. Additionally, there may be a need to leave a permanent purse-string suture underneath the skin.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. It is hard to tell without a physical examination, you may benefit from a scar revision, I recommend you to schedule an email, Skype or in-person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss what procedure is the best for you.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Polite931067,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. This can probably be improved with a surgery to correct your scars. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

I was wondering if a scar like this could be turned into a belly button? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Scar

Answer: Scar

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Everything you need to know about Belly Button Surgery

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I was wondering if a scar like this could be turned into a belly button? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Scar

Answer: Scar

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Belly Button Surgery

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