Knot/Bump above belly button getting bigger? (Photo)

Question

I had a tummy tuck 2 years ago and I have a knot above my belly button that seems to be getting bigger. It is a little tender. I’m guessing it’s either a small umbilical hernia or an umbilical Granuloma although I have no oozing of any kind. My ct scan is scheduled for next month to find out what it is. If it is either of these 2 things above how is the procedure performed and how much recovery time will I need? Thank you !

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi,
Thank you for your question regarding the abdominal bulge above your umbilicus one year after your tummy tuck. There could be several reasons for this bulge, including an umbilical hernia, seroma, granuloma, or a collection of permanent sutures from the surgery. A CT scan should provide clarity on the cause.
The appropriate treatment will depend on the diagnosis:
If it's a seroma or hematoma, surgical removal may be necessary.
In the case of a hernia, repair would be required.
If the bulge is due to permanent sutures used in rectus abdominis muscle plication, these might need to be removed or revised.
Recovery time will vary based on the treatment. Generally, expect about 7 to 10 days of recovery for surgery. For a hernia repair, you should avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds for around six months.
It's important not to worry too much before you have the results of the CT scan. Once you have a clear diagnosis, your surgeon will be able to advise on the best course of action.
Good luck with your CT scan and potential treatment.
Sincerely,

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Modest369,
I understand your concern. IT looks like something that can be removed under local anesthesia with a short recovery period. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The scheduled CT scan should give you answers as to what is causing the bump that concerns you.  The recovery will depend on the nature of the bump and what is involved in resolving it.  Regardless it should be less recovery than the tummy tuck.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

If you’re diagnosed with an umbilical hernia or granuloma, the treatment approach can vary:

1.	Umbilical Hernia Repair: This typically involves a surgical procedure to close the opening in the abdominal wall. Recovery time can vary but often includes restrictions on strenuous activities for a few weeks.
	2.	Umbilical Granuloma Treatment: This may involve various methods such as applying a silver nitrate solution or a simple excision. Recovery time for granuloma treatment is generally quicker than hernia repair.

Your surgeon will provide detailed information based on your specific diagnosis. After the CT scan, they will discuss the recommended procedure, potential risks, and the expected recovery period.

Best of luck !

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The granuloma can be removed in the office under local anesthesia. The hernia will need general anesthesia and a general surgeon may need to perform this procedure, but insurance should cover this.

Knot/Bump above belly button getting bigger? (Photo)

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Knot/Bump above belly button getting bigger? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Bump above BB

Answer: Bump above BB

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

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