1 months post op Tummy tuck, I have belly button problems. Any suggestions?

Question

hi its been a month after my tummy tuck lately i been feeling like my belly button is closing and they told me to put a cotton ball so it dont close all the way how do i know if am doing it correct

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks for sharing your concerns with us. In my practice for cases like yours I recommend a belly buttom prothesis. At this point of your recovery is normal to hace swelling. To reduce the swelling, I recommend you perform daily lymphatic drainage massage therapy over the abdomen and wear a postoperative girdle from thigh to the breasts.If the after six months post-op, I recommend you send us your photos, to give you more information about how we can solve this problem.Respectfully,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,I recommend that you have your concern assessed in person by your Plastic Surgeon and follow their advice. If you note any concerning changes let them know right away. Take care

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

You don't need to overdo it, just place enough cotton to hold the umbo open a normal size.  you can also use a moist dressing like xeroform.

Mathew A. Plant, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It sounds like your surgeon is asking you to put something (a cotton ball) into your belly button to stent it open and keep the opening as large as possible. If this is the case, you probably can't do it wrong as long as you get something in there. If you are unsure then speak with your surgeon as only they will know for sure what they want you to be doing. Hope that helps!

Joubin Gabbay, MD · Answer

What you may be experiencing as the result of scarring in a relatively small new belly button. Sometimes having a piece of gauze in the area can help prevent the scar from sticking to itself and further shrinking down the sides of the belly button.I would certainly have your surgeon watch this closely to ensure that you have good healing of the wound.I wish you the best.Dr. Gabbay

Paul Gill, MD · Answer

I would recommend aggressive massage and the use of a finger, earplug, or marble to stretch the scar.  If no immediate improvement, a steroid injection may help.   Stay in close contact with your surgeon.   All the best.

Pedro M. Soler, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. All that is needed is a sufficient amount to hold the umbilicus patent although in my office I tend to tell the patients to use a small marble. I would still encourage you to discuss in person with your plastic surgeon. I hope this helps. Best wishes.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Constricted bb must be addressed immediately! I recommend a small sterilized marble inserted. But only in person opinions and examinations allow that determination to be made...

Jourdan Gottlieb, MD · Answer

I am not sure I understand what your surgeon advised. An in person visit for in person instruction is in order.All the best.

1 months post op Tummy tuck, I have belly button problems. Any suggestions?

Answers (9)

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