Why is my scar outside my belly button after Tummy tuck? (photos)

Question

Just curious why my scar is outside my belly button after my tummy tuck. I feel as if this won't heal discretely.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Best Scar Management is important to minimize or completely hide from view, the telltale signs of your surgery—namely, scars. Both you and your surgeon want you to have the most minimal scarring possible. There are many possible causes for scars that are enlarged or not healing well. Unsightly scars are most commonly due to genetics, underlying medical conditions, or improper scar/wound care. The last part is very important and patients can make a noticeable difference in their scars’ appearance by following best scar management practices.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and series of photographs. It looks like you have gotten a very nice tummy tuck result, but i do see your area of concern.  Though there are limitations in every patient's anatomy to shape the belly button, I would recommend good scar treatment and time to improve upon your results.  You should heal with a thin pale scar given appropriate treatment, see the below link for useful information.

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

I would talk your surgeon about this. The good news is that you have a very nice abdominal contour, and subtle transverse scar. However, as you point out, the bellybutton has "blossomed out", which makes the scar more obvious. Revising this can be difficult, so I would discuss this with your surgeon. Luckily, your scar is still red which means that it is not matured yet. After a year or so, the scar will fade and become much less obvious. Discuss with your surgeon options such as: Revision, lasering, micro-needling, scar pads, etc.Best of luck!

Dr. Subbio
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Newtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Dr. Subbio
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Newtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

The umbilicus can be the critical issue after tummy tuck as this is the scar that cannot be easily concealed. Your result appears to have turned out very well, though the umbilical scar is a challenge. There are many ways to set in the umbilicus during tummy tuck, and revision questions are frequently posted. Pressure, massage and silicone sheet can help things turn for the better, with a wait and see approach as you continue to heal.

Daniel Krochmal, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you very much for your question, and for providing the pictures.Overall, you seem to have a pleasing shape to your torso, and incisions which will go on to heal well once the redness has faded.  Regarding your umbilicus, every surgeon has their own technique regarding how to shape it.  I would discuss the appearance with your surgeon.  Belly buttons can be difficult to make smaller.  I would wait until your incisions aren't red (therefore they will be less noticeable), before making any decisions on undergoing a revision.  Best of luck!

Why is my scar outside my belly button after Tummy tuck? (photos)

Answers (5)

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