Options for umbilical hernia repair and loose skin around navel? (Photo)

Question

What is the best option to repair the hernia and to have the loose skin above the bellybutton removed/improved. I have been to two doctors, one suggested just the hernia repair and that he would be able to get a small amount of skin removed, the other said the hernia repair would not remove enough skin and that a mini tuck would be able to get more of it but still not all of it. I have some loose skin when I bend over and I have 1-2 finger diastasis. I do not want a full tummy tuck.

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. I think the best way to treat the hernia as well as the excess skin above your belly button is with a full tummy tuck. Just repairing the hernia and trying to excise some skin will provide minimal correction to the skin laxity, place a scar in the central abdomen, and not repair your diastasis at all. I would have another consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon who performs a large volume of body contouring procedures. Hope this helps!

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and series of photographs.  Though nothing replaces an in-person examination I would recommend having your umbilical hernia repaired laparoscopically and then pursue a mini-tummy tuck approach with an umbilical float procedure.  This will allow access to your upper abdomen for muscle repair, and as your belly button appears to be naturally high, pulling down on the skin should place it at a position closer to the top of your hips.  The stalk can then be re-attached to your abdominal wall to improve its appearance.  Hope that this helps.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry.  Your situation is really tough because you are in great shape and have a concern hard to completly address without a full tummy tuck.  My advise is for you to really come to terms with your goals and expectations and go on other consults and let the surgeons explain what is the best they can do without a tummy tuck.  Good Luck.

Robert Singer, MD · Answer

Following
the advice of anyone who would presume to tell you what to do based on two
dimensional photos without taking a full medical history, examining you,
feeling and assessing your tissue tone, discussing your desired outcome and
fully informing you about the pros and cons of each option would not be in your
best interest. Find a plastic surgeon that you are comfortable with and one
that you trust and listen to his or her advice. The surgeon should be certified
by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member of the American
Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). You should discuss your concerns
with that surgeon in person.
Robert Singer, MD FACS
La Jolla,California

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Honestly, this is the kind of thing that requires an in person exam. My best advise would be for you to get a third opinion and then make your decision accordingly. My best,
Dr. Sheila Nazarian
@drsheilanazarian on Instagram

Options for umbilical hernia repair and loose skin around navel? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Options for umbilical hernia repair and loose skin around navel?

Answer: Options for umbilical hernia repair and loose skin around navel?

Answer: Mini tummy tuck?

Answer: Mini tummy tuck?

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Options for umbilical hernia repair and loose skin around navel? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Options for umbilical hernia repair and loose skin around navel?

Answer: Options for umbilical hernia repair and loose skin around navel?

Answer: Mini tummy tuck?

Answer: Mini tummy tuck?

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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.