5 weeks post op after tummy tuck. My belly button is truly flat and a huge disappointment. Will the marble trick work? (photos)

Question

Will the marble trick work? Packing with gauze? I don’t want to wait until it’s too late to form an indentation. Silagen makes a silicone sphere for this purpose. Am I a candidate and when is it proper timing? I’ve shared my concern repeatedly with my PS and he’s taking a wait/see approach and said my abdomen just doesn’t have any depth. It did before my TT though and I feel like the purpose was to be able to feel confident in swimwear. I feel like it looks horrible.

Trefor Nodwell, MD · Answer

Hi there,In my experience marbles, beads and other stretching devices are most useful when the opening for the umbilicus (belly button) is small and/or shrinking. And, in truth they are only of limited benefit.I am not familiar with their use in a shallow/flat umbilicus where the opening is not constricted.So - waiting is likely to be an important part of your recovery.However, while you are waiting you can discuss with your surgeon the potential role of silicone gel products, scar creams and laser therapies to help keep the scar supple and thin while you recover.5 weeks feels like a long time when you have concerns, but remember it can take months before your result settles and matures enough to draw final conclusions.Best of luck,Dr Nodwell

James M. Sheridan, MD · Answer

Dear mommaoffour,Thank you for your question.  I am not personally familiar with using a marble to shape the umbilicus.  Your phots indicate that you still have quite a bit of swelling, including of the umbilicus.  Be patient and let the swelling resolve; the shape will change to the better typically over the firs several months (4-8).  Continue to meet with your surgeon.  Good luckJames Sheridan, MD

5 weeks post op after tummy tuck. My belly button is truly flat and a huge disappointment. Will the marble trick work? (photos)

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5 weeks post op after tummy tuck. My belly button is truly flat and a huge disappointment. Will the marble trick work? (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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