What is the difference between a ventral hernia and umbilical?

greyghost I’m sorry, but I am a bit confused. Did you only have an umbilical hernia repaired by a general surgeon or was this part of a tummytuck operation performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon? If this was the result of a general surgery procedure, I would wait about six months and then consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to evaluate options to improve your tummy and abdominal wall. Come see me or another board certified plastic surgeon in the area for a full evaluation. Good luck.

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  An umbilical hernia is a type of ventral hernia but not all ventral hernias are umbilical.  Without photos it is difficult to offer definite advice and I would continue to work with your surgeon about your concerns so that the best treatment recommendation can be offered.  

I appreciate your concerns and I'm sorry you're having these issues. I suggest you continue to discuss the issue with your plastic surgeon and perhaps with additional healing time, the belly button will improve. If you're not satisfied, then consider a second opinion. Umbilical hernias occur around the belly button and ventral hernias are typically located more superiorly than the belly button.