I'm 2 weeks post tummy tuck, is my belly button closing or is it just misshaped? (Photos)

Question

I had a tummy tuck 2 weeks ago. I'm concerned with the vertical slit shape and healing of my belly button. My doctor told me it takes time to heal. Is my belly button closing? Is it suppose to heal this way? it was round prior to surgery. Also it's red around and little white stuff on bottom is it infected?

Jan Hochtritt, BSc, MD · Answer

Tightening of bellybutton
Thank you very much for your question. On your photo your bellybutton indeed looks like it has the tendency to close up. I would suggest you speak with your plastic surgeon about what he suggests for you to do next. I would suggest plugging it up with gauze. Some people also use a marvel. This has to be done for quite a long period because scars  have the tendency to contract for about 12 months after the surgery. Have a wonderful rest of the day and greetings from the beautiful out of Jamaica.

William L. Reno, III, MD · Answer

You are still very early in the healing process.  Over time the skin will stretch and the shape will change some as well.  It is difficult to tell from your pictures but the redness appears to be more related to healing rather than infection.  Continue to see your plastic surgeon as you heal and discuss your concerns.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

At two weeks post op you still have expected swelling which is influencing the appearance of your belly button.  Continue to follow the advice of your plastic surgeon and be sure to discuss your concerns.  It's important that you feel comfortable and confident in your recovery.

Marc J. Salzman, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

It appears from you photograph that the redness is probably secondary to normal wound healing. However, there is an area that looks suspicious at the bottom of the incision that may be related to a spitting suture. I have found that belly buttons, while they may be narrow in the early postoperative phase, tend to widen a bit as time progresses. I would recommend you go back to your operating plastic surgeon for a wound check. Congratulations on your surgery

William A. Terranova, MD (retired) · Answer

I do not think your belly button is infected.  This kind of redness is common during the early weeks post-op.  It is indeed narrower than normal now, but should widen as the welling subsides.  If it does not take on the shape you desire, you can (and should) discuss a revision with your surgeon.  Good luck.

I'm 2 weeks post tummy tuck, is my belly button closing or is it just misshaped? (Photos)

Answers (5)

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