Is my belly button closing up? I had an FDL TT 1 week ago. (photo)

Question

The dr said to leave the medicated gauze in it for the first 48 hours and then to wash it every day and put nothing else in it. I’ve done just that but I’m really worried that it’s closing up. It seemed much bigger 2 days after surgery. What should I do? I really don’t want to be without a bellybutton!

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo.  It is difficult to tell what is occurring based on your photo.  I would suggest following up with your plastic surgeon in person to be fully assessed.  Continue to follow your surgeon's instructions.  Best of luck to you!

R. Brannon Claytor, MD, FACS · Answer

Following surgery for a tummy tuck operation that involves an umbilical inset it is not uncommon for scarring and wound healing to contract the belly button. Close follow up with your plastic surgeon is essential and massage to these areas may be helpful. Clinical trials or under way to explore the efficacy of micro needling to early healing of scars and improve long-term results. Look for experience practitioners in your area for assistance with Punta healing if you still have questions. Board-certified plastic surgeon’s are always the best option

Robert M. Lowen, MD · Answer

This should be followed closely, as I am sure it is, with your plastic surgeon.  Some instructions for wound care may changed depending on his/her re-examination.  This picture shows loss of at least the superficial epidermis of the belly button skin, but without an in-person exam, the extent of tissue loss cannot be determined, and may not make itself apparent until more time has gone by.  Meantime, the goal is to keep the area from drying out and preserving tissue.

Richard J. Brown, MD · Answer

I can not tell but it looks like you are having some wound healing problems. I would discuss with your surgeon.

Ahmed Ali-Khan, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

Hi thank you for your question. Its a difficult one to respond to from the photo. Overall it looks like you may have some skin separation or an early infection. If so these can usually be sorted out fairly simply.
I suggest you visit your surgeon for a review to be sure what is going on.
best wishes.

Is my belly button closing up? I had an FDL TT 1 week ago. (photo)

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Answer: Belly Button

Answer: Belly Button

Answer: What's happening to my belly button?

Answer: What's happening to my belly button?

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Is my belly button closing up? I had an FDL TT 1 week ago. (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Belly Button

Answer: Belly Button

Answer: What's happening to my belly button?

Answer: What's happening to my belly button?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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