Can my belly button be removed permanently during tummy tuck?

Question

I’m wanting to have my tummy tucked, I’ve got significant loose skin that requires supportive underwear at all times otherwise I struggle with bladder control (I’ve carried two babies to term and I’m currently working on weight loss I started at 140but I’m currently 110kilos) My question is, can my belly button be permanently removed during the tummy tuck procedure, i don’t want a belly button.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Annalauren92,

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your situation. Your question regarding the potential for a tummy tuck without preserving or recreating the belly button is quite unique.

Most often, a tummy tuck includes creating a new opening for the belly button since it is naturally located in the skin that is being tightened and repositioned. However, not all patients want to maintain a belly button, and some prefer the aesthetic of a smooth abdomen without a navel.

Technically, it's possible to perform a tummy tuck without recreating a belly button, resulting in a smooth abdominal wall. This choice is entirely dependent on the patient's preference and their discussion with the surgeon. However, this is quite rare and can make the abdomen appear somewhat unnatural to some due to the absence of a typical anatomical feature.

I recommend having a detailed discussion with your plastic surgeon about your desires and concerns. They can provide you with the pros and cons and guide you on the best course of action that aligns with your aesthetic goals.

Keep in mind, achieving the best results with your tummy tuck involves a tailored approach to your unique needs, so discussing your preferences with your surgeon is essential.

Best of luck on your journey.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Caner Kacmaz, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. In tummy tuck surgeries belly button does not get removed at all. The standard procedure is to keep the patient's existing belly button. During the surgery, the original belly button is moved to a higher position so it looks very natural after the surgery. However, if a patient is adamant that she doesn't want a belly button it can be removed completely. Thank you.

Miguel Mota, MD · Answer

Hi! Not a very common question but an interesting one! 
The answer is yes. The belly button actually serves no purpose other then an aesthetic one. 
In that sense, it is an important anatomical feature, but it can certainly be permanently removed if that is what you wish for.

Best of luck!
Dr. Miguel Mota

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Annalauren92,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, it can be removed and would be easier than trying to save it. However, if you show your abdomen, others might think it is odd to not see the belly button.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Once you have reached your weight loss goals I encourage you to visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you.  During the standard tummy tuck procedure excess skin is removed from slightly above the belly button down to the level of the hip bones.  Muscle repair is made to strengthen the abdominal wall and correct diastasis.  Then skin above the belly button is pulled down to meet the level of the hip bones.  A new incision is made for the belly button to come through to complete the look.

Eduardo Garrido, MD · Answer

Hello from Dominican Republic and thank you for your question. If is your decision yes it can be do it, not all patients have the same standard and you have to be sure this is what you want to get. 
Regards Dr. Garrido

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Well, this is the first request to remove an umbilicus (belly button) in my 26 years of practice.
There are several items to consider first;
If you have bladder issues now, tightening the abdominal muscles may increase your internal abdominal pressure which may in turn aggravate your bladder issues.
Removing the umbilicus is not a difficult procedure, I would just like to know why before I did it.
Dr. Taranow

Cagil Meric Erenoglu, MD · Answer

Removing the belly button easy, but is an unnecessary action. If you can add your photographs, it will be easier for us to evaluate your situation.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

The belly button and easily be removed and sometimes is when patients have medical insurance based abdominal skin removal called a panniculectmy. 
Discuss during consultation.
Mats Hagstrom, MD

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