Tummy tuck time? Why does my belly button look like this? (Photo)

Hello, and thank you for your question regarding your belly button and the pictures you shared. Based on the images and your description, it appears you have a protuberance at the base of your belly button, which is likely an umbilical hernia.

An umbilical hernia is essentially a sac that can contain fat or, in some cases, a portion of the small intestine. If you experience sudden abdominal pain, it’s critical to seek immediate medical attention, as this could indicate an incarcerated hernia. This condition occurs when part of the intestine becomes trapped, leading to strangulation, restricted blood flow, and potential tissue death. Although rare, a strangulated hernia is a life-threatening emergency.

Fortunately, an umbilical hernia can be repaired during a tummy tuck procedure. When performing a tummy tuck, the surgeon makes an incision low on the abdomen and carefully dissects up to the belly button and beyond. During this process, the hernia is visualized, and its contents—whether fat or intestine—are returned to the abdominal cavity. The hernia opening is then closed, creating a smoother and more natural abdominal contour.

This procedure also allows for the creation of a new, aesthetically pleasing belly button, which seems to align with your goals. Additionally, your abdominal muscles can be tightened to restore a flatter appearance, especially after the stretching caused by pregnancies.

In some cases, the hernia repair portion of the procedure may be covered by medical insurance, so it’s worth discussing this with your plastic surgeon and insurance provider. The combined surgery, which includes a tummy tuck and hernia repair, is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes about 3 to 4 hours.

I recommend seeking a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Don’t hesitate to consider surgeons outside of Chicago, if needed, as choosing the right surgeon, is essential for achieving the best results.

I hope this answers your questions and gives you confidence in pursuing your goals. Best of luck!

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

You may have a small hernia in your belly button, which is not that uncommon and can be fixed during the tuck. An examination is needed to be certain and possibly a CT scan.

Your belly button situation is pretty common after one (or many children). That little button looking outpouching is most likely a small umbilical hernia which creates an outtie. It is from increased pressure inside the belly during pregnancy. We usually fix small belly button hernias like this during tummy tucks. You also have the old belly button piercing which is common. Not only is it important to fix the hernia, but you have to do a good belly button technique to recreate the innie because yours is stretched out right now. This is why I take a good amount of time on my belly buttons during the tummy tuck procedure because they are the most visible part of the TT. Make sure to check the postop pics of the surgeon you are considering to see a good amount of consistent "cute" belly buttons that make you happy. Best of luck on your journey!