How can I shape my belly button while it's healing? (Photo)

Question

My belly button has stitches that need to be removed in 2 weeks. Before the stitches are removed may I put gauze in my belly button to help shape it? And is it okay to put neosporin inside my belly button before I add the gauze, or should I use polysporin? Thank you!

S. Larry Schlesinger, MD, FACS · Answer

It's hard to give you a complete answer as the photograph you provided is not a close up of your belly button.  From what I can see, you are starting to get stenosis which is contracture of the rim of the belly button.  This can lead to a very small pinhole opening if not treated.  This problem happens to all plastic surgeons who do tummy tucks at one time or another.  At this point, you need to see your plastic surgeon to find out what is his or her favorite technique for treating this unfortunate but well known complication.  In my practice, we sometimes use gauges (the things kids use to create large earring holes) if the belly button appears to be contracting.  Fortunately, this is a rare occurrence but treatable.  At times, a re-do surgery is necessary, and this can be done under local in the office.  As far as the use of neosporin or polysporin on your belly button, that is never a good idea.  These ointments available over the counter, unfortunately, if used for more than 5 days can lead to a red rash (allergic reaction).  This then makes one think they have an infection, and then they use more of the ointment and it becomes a vicious cycle.  This particular form of overuse of over the counter ointments is known as dermatitis medico mentosis.  The short answer here is call your Board Certified plastic surgeon.  He or she will have a handle on all your questions and concerns.

George Marosan, MD · Answer

Your belly button was made small and during healing, the scar tends to make it smaller. What I found in my practice when this happens, is use a compressible ear plug into the belly button. This will prevent scar contracture and will keep it soft. You might need to do this for 6-8 weeks. Good luck.

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

First, you should always check with your plastic surgeon before doing anything. Things that we have found effective are packing with a type of moist gauze called xeroform, which is good in the first week or so after surgery, and then wearing a small marble in the belly button. this will need to be held in with tape, and the marble has to be small enough rather than one of the standard sizes.

How can I shape my belly button while it's healing? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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