Belly Button Almost Closed After a Five Month Tummy Tuck.

The belly button commonly heals with an unpredictable result due to the scar tissue that occurs with the original clamping of the umbilical cord. Once the scar has softened (typically 6-9 monhts) a scar revision or neo-umbilicoplasty can be preformed to open or create a new belly button.

I agree that you likely have a constricted or stenosed umbilicus after abdominoplasty or tummy tuck.  This is a fairly common condition that depending on the technique utilized by your surgeon can occur.  In general, it is much better to have a smaller or subtle belly button than a large belly button.  One of the tell tale signs of a bad tummy tuck is a large belly button that looks like a target sign - and this can be extremely hard to fix.

My recommendation is to get a foam ear plug and maybe try to find a solid solicone ear plug (usually can find at a sporting goods store when they sell firearms).  You basically do aggressive scar massage and fit in the solid silicone ear plug and you can "maintain" the circumference of the umbilicus.  Not to scare you but I have seen some TOTALLY close off and at 5 months, you can still prevent this and likely stretch it some without needing a surgical revision. If this does not work, I would recommend revisiting your board certified plastic surgeon and discuss options with him or her.  I hope this helps!

Sincerely,

James F. Boynton, M.D., F.A.C.S.