Why some belly buttons get dark after Tummy Tuck?

Question

Why some belly buttons get dark after a tummy tuck? What can I do to prevent it from happening? Thank you

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

I think it is likely that photos you may have seen are instances where the native skin surrounding the belly button was darker.  In a tummy tuck, the belly button is kept in its place, and the skin from above is pulled down and to surround the belly button in its new position.  Sometimes the skin from above may be lighter, thereby making the belly button seen darker by comparison.  Good question.Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Michael Dobryansky, MD, FACS · Answer

In times of stress, like after surgery, pigment producing cells of the skin can sometimes go into an "overdrive" mode and produce too much pigment. You should mention this to you plastic surgeon. They may recommend topical therapy to control pigment production. Good luck!

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

It is related to your own skin color. The darker your the darker your navel. Normally we do not see the normal color of the Belly button because it remains inside, but after TT we pull the skin out, so now it becomes obvious. Also scar tissue become darker on dark skin patients. There is no way to prevent it.After surgery and after is 100% healed, you may try Hydroquinona 4% cream. May work, may not. But if your results are awesome, nobody will notice your BB color ;)Dr. Cardenas

David Boudreault, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Plsmith,Thank you for your question.  There are multiple reasons for a darker belly button after a tummy tuck.  One reason is that the belly button is now coming through skin that was higher on your abdomen and may have had less overall sun exposure.  Another reason is the change in blood supply after a tummy tuck.  When the belly button is isolated for transfer, a significant amount of the blood supply is cut off and the umbilicus can retract and essentially scar over.  As it's healing, it can appear darker.  I would recommend discussing your concerns with your plastic surgeon.  Although they will not be able to predict how your belly button will heal, they may consider floating your umbilicus to help avoid this change in color.  This really depends on an in person examination and detailed discussion with your plastic surgeon.Hope that helps.Best,Dr. B

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