What can be done to revise belly button scar after tummy tuck? (Photo)

Question

I am over one year post op tummy tuck and am so devastated by my belly button result. It looks awful with the obvious “circle around the belly button” incision as well as the scar healed horribly despite I have never had any issues with hypertrophic scarring with any other surgeries I have previously had. I have used scar creams and silicone sheeting since early on post op and continue to do so hoping by chance my result can get better but I know realistically at this point it probably wont :/

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

A scar around the umbilicus like that occasionally occurs. You need a surgical scar revision which can be done under local anesthesia in half an hour. I do not charge for such revisions

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry! Scar creams can be used on scars to minimize appearance as well as silicone scar sheets. Lasers such as Microneedling can also be performed to minimize appearance as well. We would love to see you in person or virtually to discuss treatment options or schedule a consult with a licensed aesthetician.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis. We see atrophic and hypertrophic scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to discuss the best treatment options for your type of skin. .

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Stanley Okoro, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and the photo you provided. I would recommend scar treatment with Kenalog injections and possible scar camouflage tattooing.  Make sure you consult with a board certified plastic surgeon who has experience with hypertrophic scarring.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear sunniflowers,
I understand you are concerned with the appearance of your scars. As your scars heal, it should flatten out and lighten. Loss of pigmentation or hyperpigmentation may also be experienced but will resolve over time. Always follow your surgeon's post operative care instructions when it comes to scar management to avoid any complications like infection and for faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

it is relatively frequent to see this type of scar around new BB. Circular scars tend to become hypertrophic Revision in local anesthesia is to be considered. Good luck.

What can be done to revise belly button scar after tummy tuck? (Photo)

Answers (6)