What Are the Chances of Necrosis of Belly Button with Tummy Tuck and Umbilical Hernia Repair?

Question

I will be having an umbilical hernia repaired by a general surgeon at the time of my tummy tuck procedure. My PS has warned me there is a chance of umbilical necrosis, which has me a little worried. I appreciate knowing there is a real chance of necrosis happening, but would like to put it into perspective. Is necrosis common following a hernia repair of this type, and if not what is the percentage likelihood of it happening? I am 5'7" and 150 lbs., good overall health.

Emily A. Williams, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, umbilical necrosis is something that can happen with any surgery that involves making incisions around your umbilicus.  This risk is increased as more procedures are performed and, therefore, the umbilicus is further stressed and potentially left with reduced blood supply.  However, despite the increased risk of umbilical necrosis, the scheduled combined procedure may remain the best way to address your needs.  I would encourage talking to your plastic surgeon about how he or she handles umbilical necrosis and what you might expect as a long term outcome if you are faced with this complication.  You can then best determine if that risk and outcome is acceptable to you.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not common for this to happen but I do not think a realistic percentage can be assigned to this happening. Each surgical case is different. Ask your plastic what he/she thinks the chances are.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	There many variables involved in the potential risk of skin necrosis after umbilical hernia repair.  I, too  prefer to deal with the umbilical  hernia  myself,  as opposed to having another surgeon in both. There are " techniques" involving  tissue handling and preservation that allow for increased maintenance of blood flow to the umbilicus the plastic surgeons in general are well-trained to perform.

	Best wishes.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

The umbilical hernia comes through a defect in the base of the umbilicus, and without extreme care the hernia repair with the tummy tuck can strangulate the umbilicus and necrosis can result. I find I can reduce risks when I do things myself. Not that all general surgeons are rough, it is just that the plastic surgeon has a better overall sense of the procedure.
	Best of luck, peterejohnsonmd.com

Michael S. Hopkins, MD (retired) · Answer

While it is true that repairing the umbilical hernia and doing the tummy tuck increases the chance of belly button necrosis, there is no way to put a percentage risk on it.  The size of the hernia and how thinned out the skin has become play a factor; the larger the hernia and the thinner the skin, the more risk of the belly button becoming necrotic.  Necrosis means the skin dies, turns black and becomes a scab.

	I agree with Dr. Johnson.  We deal with umbilical hernias and tummy tucks all of the time and have found some 'tricks' that help preserve the blood circulation to the belly button. I usually feel better repairing the hernia myself.  That being said, there are no guarantees.  Even with a tummy tuck without a hernia repair, there is a risk of the belly button becoming necrotic.  Talk with your plastic surgeon and get some reassurance.

What Are the Chances of Necrosis of Belly Button with Tummy Tuck and Umbilical Hernia Repair?

Answers (6)

Answer: Umbilical risks are higher with hernia repair

Answer: Umbilical risks are higher with hernia repair

Answer: Belly button necrosis with tummy tuck and hernia repair.

Answer: Belly button necrosis with tummy tuck and hernia repair.

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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What Are the Chances of Necrosis of Belly Button with Tummy Tuck and Umbilical Hernia Repair?

Answers (6)

Answer: Umbilical risks are higher with hernia repair

Answer: Umbilical risks are higher with hernia repair

Answer: Belly button necrosis with tummy tuck and hernia repair.

Answer: Belly button necrosis with tummy tuck and hernia repair.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.