Opinions of belly button post tummy tuck? (Photos)

Question

I hate the look of my coin slot belly button after tummy tuck. Would love opinions about the look of it... Wondering what my options are. Scared to have surgeon redo it because I'm afraid It may turn out even worse.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. Without knowing the length of time since your procedure or if you are still feeling any sort of swelling or other issues it may be hard to tell by photos if this is the final result. But, here are some basic healing points that I provide to patients:Swelling can persist for
several months and will gradually improve and will look better at three months,
six months, and even one year. Frequently the pubic area and the scrotal and
penis area for men can become very swollen and discolored during the first two
weeks due to gravity as this is the lowest area for swelling to accumulate.

It may take several
months for a tummy tuck patient’s scars to soften, for sensation to return, and
for relaxing of the tight sensation in the abdomen. In the case of extensive
surgery, abdominoplasty recovery can be uncomfortable and may take longer. Scars
may stay red, become thick or widen. It can take 12-18 months for the scars to
settle.

These can be improved
with topical treatments such as BioCorneum, Scar Guard, Scar Fade and Mederma.
Redness can be improved with laser treatments and the scars can be kept narrow
with products such as Embrace.  On
occasion, keloids or hypertrophic scars can develop and will need treatment
including Kenalog, 5FU and laser.

You should understand that the price of your procedure includes several follow-up visits so that the healing process can be examined while you are healing. You will be able to get some more detailed advice on your specific case from your surgeon. Good luck.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

You should allow 6-12 months for final healing as your belly button may change. Close follow up with your plastic surgeon is recommended to address your concerns and any options.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

I appreciate your concern, but your photos demonstrate an overall very nice result. Since it takes a full year for scars to mature and settle down, try to stay patient and ask your surgeon about the best ways to treat your scars. Good luck!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Certain belly buttons are easier to remedy than others.  The current appearance can be remedied by widening the appearance.

Ron Hazani, MD, FACS · Answer

I don't see any asymmetry or widen scar to be concerned about. How far out of surgery are you?

Opinions of belly button post tummy tuck? (Photos)

Answers (5)