Belly button itch underneath skin after 2 1/2 years after tummy tuck. Is this normal?

Dear Kobbers,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went 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

Thank you for your question. It's not uncommon for some patients to experience lingering numbness or itching after a tummy tuck. Nerve regeneration can take time and may lead to sensations such as itching, tingling, or burning. While it is possible for these sensations to persist for a couple of years, they usually improve over time.

It is important to remember that I am not your doctor, and this answer is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. If you're concerned about the possibility of cancer or any other complication, I would recommend discussing your symptoms with your surgeon or a healthcare professional. They can properly assess your condition and provide appropriate guidance.

Thank you again for reaching out, and I wish you the best of luck on your continued recovery journey.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Numbness and itching can last for a long time after tummy tuck surgery, and may even be permanent.
I recommend you massage lotion to the area daily. The feeling you are experiencing is not a sign of cancer.

Nerve regeneration is a slow process. Changes in sensation from a tummy tuck are not uncommon and you may be experiencing slight nerve changes even this far out. If you are concerned, visit with your surgeon for an evaluation.

I cannot say that I have ever heard of a patient experiencing your particular symptoms after a TT but it is not uncommon for some patients to have odd sensations in there abdominal region after surgery. Solely based on your symptom I cannot completely rule out cancer or some sort of other pathology but I would say the chances of something bad going on are quite low. I would always recommend a medical evaluation by your PMD to address any concerns.

Cancer typically does not itch, but numbness and some other nerve sensation changes like itching do occur after a tummy tuck.

It’s not unusual to have long-term numbness on the lower central abdomen after a full tummy tuck. The numbness can be perceived as itching just like you describe it. Scratching, it will make things worse. There is no treatment other than to learn to ignore it.
This is not an uncommon experience in areas that have permanent numbness after surgery. Patients who have brow lift, sometimes have the same sensation in their scalp. Most people eventually get used to it.
Try not to engage and definitely don’t scratch your skin
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD