35f 5ft 2inch 114lbs. I have diastasis recti 5cm and umbilical hernia. What's the best surgical approach? (photos)

An umbilical float abdominoplasty is an option for patients that do not have significant excess skin. This prevents an incision from being placed around the umbilicus. But as you have mentioned, it lowers the umbilicus, sometimes too much. An umbilical hernia can be repaired with a full abdominoplasty. With this procedure, as much skin as needed can be removed. You may have a small vertical scar from you umbilicus in the lower abdomen. I would have a few consultations as a thorough exam can help guide you to the best options.

Thrifty 96679.
Thank you for your excellent photo series. This is a common occurrence. Many plastic surgeons have a couple of approaches to deal with this. :

(1) Umbilical hernia repair by a general surgeon as a separate procedure.
Waiting six months and having a traditional full abdominoplasty with muscle plication. This ensures the circulation to the belly button can be maintained during your full abdominoplasty

(2) Simultaneous umbilical hernia repair from an intraperitoneal (inside the belly) approach through a modest vertical incision in the belly button stalk. This can be done simultaneously with the general surgeon present or by the Plastic Surgeon alone . It is a bit risky, because it still can compromise the circulation to your bellybutton but definitely less risky to the belly button through a traditional umbilical hernia which completely divides the stalk at the base.

In my opinion, I don't believe an umbilical float is an approach that I would use for your situation because of what you mentioned your bellybutton is already low. Additionally, this doesn't avoid the hernia which needs repair.

It may be best to get a couple more consultations from Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to get their recommendations on how they would approach your situation.

Best wishes,

ESJ,

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