How long does it take belly button to heal after tummy tuck? (Photos)

Question

How long does it take belly button to heal after tummy tuck ? I am 5 weeks post op tummy tuck. My belly button never gave me any trouble. I just took off my compresion garmet and had some blood around it. I wiped it with alcohol pads. Seems like a small hole. Maybe a scratch. What do I do? Is this normal?

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question and photo. The colour looks good based on the photo and minor, superficial openings will typically heal well if kept clean. Pictures can't replace a physical exam though so if you are concerned about any changes I recommend that you ask your plastic surgeon to see you.All the best

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear tT and lipo soon,it is hard to tell without an examination whether there is some problem with your belly button. Generally speaking, it should heal at the same time as your tummy tuck incision. I would suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

Usually belly buttons heal at the same time as the rest of the abdominoplasty incision. Sometimes there can be a little separation of the skin and some delay. Occasionally there can be more delayed healing because of poor circulation. The most important thing is to follow your surgeon’s instructions and you will do fine. Be patient and hang in there.

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

The bellybutton should heal right along with the rest of the incisions. A small amount of blood as you described is probably not a worrisome thing. It may represent a suture which was near the surface or the incision just getting rubbed too hard or other possibilities. You should have your plastic surgeon checked the area. Usually just local care will allow it to heal without any problems.

Graeme J. Southwick, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Hello and I appreciate your concern. While two weeks after surgery may seem like a good amount of time, our bodies heal at their own pace and the process cannot be rushed. While it is difficult to tell for certain from your photos alone, it does appear that your belly button is healing well and there does not seem to be any signs of possible complications. However, it is best to check in with your plastic surgeon personally to assess the condition of the belly button and be sure no further steps need to be taken to ensure no issues arise as your body is healing. Good luck with your recovery process!

Tim Sayed, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

The incisions after a tummy tuck can take up to two-three months to by truly, fully healed. The majority of healing is in the first 6 weeks, but small areas may open up or be incompletely sealed at this juncture. Usually all you have to do is apply some ointment (Aquaphor or an antibiotic, depending on whether there is dry scab or drainage) and a dry dressing/Band-Aid daily for a week or two and it ought to close up. Your surgeon can guide you with specific instructions.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello 
  
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.  
  It heals in the same time that the TT incision. Based on your pictures it looks normal, however i recommend you contact your PS and discuss all your concerns.  .  
  
Good luck :)

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Thank you for the photos but if you have concerns you should see your surgeon and get his recommendations Dr Corbin

How long does it take belly button to heal after tummy tuck? (Photos)

Answers (8)

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