How to fix belly button 5 years post-op tummy tuck / umbilical hernia repair (photos)

Question

Hi, I had a tummy tuck/ umbilical hernia repair in 2018. My button died and I have been trying to get it fixed since by skin procedures. Nothing is working. Does anyone have experience with this? Clinical trial? I'll try anything! Was told I can't have a revision TT because I don't have enough skin but I'm ready for anything that will give me somewhat of a normal looking belly button. Pls pls pls help!

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

In your situation it would be the best to cexcise scar (BB) and close it for period of 6-12 months. After that time a new BB should be reconstructed using local flaps, possibly skin gradt. In person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon with experience in BB reconstruction would help. Good luck.

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.

Gianfranco Frojo, MD · Answer

I would highly recommend a revision umbilicoplasty. Any board-eligible / board-certified plastic surgeon with aesthetic surgery experience should be able to help you with this.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Gg3289,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ahmad H. Ahmadi, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, belly button necrosis does happen, although it is very rare. Your best course of action is to see a board-certified plastic surgeon to examine you. There are various ‘flap’ and skin grafting techniques that can be used to create near-natural-looking belly button.

How to fix belly button 5 years post-op tummy tuck / umbilical hernia repair (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Belly button

Answer: Belly button

Answer: Reconstructive belly button surgery

Answer: Reconstructive belly button surgery

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Everything you need to know about Belly Button Surgery

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How to fix belly button 5 years post-op tummy tuck / umbilical hernia repair (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Belly button

Answer: Belly button

Answer: Reconstructive belly button surgery

Answer: Reconstructive belly button surgery

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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.