Crease in upper and lower belly button area? (Photos)

Question

Hi! Im really concerned about the crease in my upper and lower belly button, my dr says it will go away, i didn't have it in the early days after post op but then it appeared and never went away! Is this permanent? What should I do about it? My friend have surgery at the same time and she is completly flat (another surgeon and a longer incision) and i have been looking for photos of people with 6weeks tummy tucks and ALL of them are super flat. Thank you!

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

At this point in your recovery, it is much too soon to be worried about the outcome.  It takes time for the swelling to resolve.  It may be 6 months or more before the shape has reached its final look.  Be patient.   Watch your physical activity. Everyone is different.
  However, your crease is not normal.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs and I see your area of concern.  Most likely this crease is a result of the skin of the stomach being gathered in the center to minimize the length of your incision.  This should relax and smooth with time so hang in there!  Voice your concerns to your surgeon, they can offer you the best reassurance.

Jeremy S. Hurren, BSc, MBBS, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

I am not sure why this crease has formed. 6 weeks is early in the recovery. There will be oedema of the tissues and so this may well improve even resolve completely although it is not possible to be sure at this stage how it will turn out. 
You certainly should bring it to the attention of your PS as I believe you have done so already. I would normally wait at least 6 months before looking to closely at creases, folds etc after a tummy tuck. Time is a great healer and at present you are early in your recovery. The skin and wound looks healthy in the photograph.
Best wishes.

Crease in upper and lower belly button area? (Photos)

Answers (3)