Could I Change my Innie Belly Button into an Outie?

Question

I realize this is usually asked in reverse but I have some confidential reasons for this. I always liked the way outies look personally, call me crazy. I have a fit body with a typical innie. It is shaped like a "T." I am wondering if it would have to be inside out or if additional skin would be needed to make the outie part with. I prefer that it stick out quite far, may be close to an inch or half of that. I just want it to stand out. Is this possible?

Randy Wong, MD · Answer

The technical aspects of turning an innie to an outie is something like pulling your socks inside out. The collagen structure that anchors the belly button to the muscle layer needs to be released and then, the everted skin would need to be filled with tissue for volume. Fat is the easy choice, but you could have other materials placed as a small implant for projection if you wish. The perimeter of the "button" will need to be tacked to create the most natural appearance.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

This is an unsual request and I am not sure it could be achieved. You could try fillers to see if the skin is distensible but that would be an off label indication. If successful you could consider grafting.

Could I Change my Innie Belly Button into an Outie?

Answers (2)