Is It Normal to Have Darking of the Skin Around the Belly Button at 4 Months Post Op? (photo)

Question

Is it normal to have darking of the skin around the belly button at 4 months Post op? I didnt have this darking of belly button before.To the right of the belly button there is some darkering there also.Is this Normal? I contacted my PS office 2/6/12 and they stated it was normal and as long as its not oozing fluids I'm fine.This isnt pleasing to me. It looks like it gets darker everyday. Stomach is very tender and still swelling along incision line. Should I get second option from another PS?

Stanley Okoro, MD · Answer

Pigmentation changes around incisions especially after tummy tuck is common. However, your changes looks like a rash. Even though it takes 1 year for scars to mature, you should expect some improvement at 4 month. I would recommend visiting your plastic surgeon for an evaluation. if they will not see you, then get a second opinion.

David Bogue, MD · Answer

It is very common to see pigmentation changes around any healing incision, particularly if the patient has pigmented skin to begin with. These changes are not always permanent, but they can take over a year to dissipate.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and picture.

	Pigment changes around incision lines after tummy tuck are common.  This is more frequently seen with patients who have naturally pigmented skin. Often, these changes do subside to some degree with time ( it may take over a year to see the scars fully mature).  I do not think a second opinion will be helpful to you.

	Best wishes.

Is It Normal to Have Darking of the Skin Around the Belly Button at 4 Months Post Op? (photo)

Answers (3)