Lump exaggeration after belly button piercing 1-year post TT with MR, do I need a revision? (Photo)

Question

After my tummy tuck 5/2019 I had a lump inside my belly button. I got it pierced 7/2020 to hide it and it exaggerated the lump. Should I take it out and will my belly button go back down or will I need revision?!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear rfoster0715,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Shlomo Widder, MD · Answer

Dear R,
  Thanks for posting your picture. From observing the picture it appears the the stud is infected - red and swollen, so I recommend that you remove it.
  I am not sure in regard to the lump inside your belly button, because it is not visible in the picture. It could be skin fold or reactive scar tissue to a suture.
   In any event, see your plastic surgeon to evaluate your infected stud, because he might put you on antibiotics to enhance the healing. Once the infection subside your surgeon will be able to assess the lump better and take the right action.
          All the best
                  Dr Widder

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

You probably had some hypertrophic scar tissue in your belly button and piercing it created more inflammation leading to more scar tissue.

I suggest following up with your surgeon. Steroid injections might help with this.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom, MD

Lump exaggeration after belly button piercing 1-year post TT with MR, do I need a revision? (Photo)

Answers (3)