How can I keep my new belly button dry? (photos)

I tell my patients to place a dry gause inside the belly button (very carefully). The gause should be changed frequently 3 to 4 times a day. I also recommend they avoid neosporin, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or any other ointments. The area should be clean with only soap and water. 

The navel should be kept clean was soap and water or some other mild detergent. Modest drainage should be relatively short lived and can be taken up by absorbent pad.

can be pushed gently into the depths of the belly button to keep the skin from touching adjacent skin (aka maceration) and this will allow it to dry out.  If you push excessively hard, you could create a separation of the wound edges so gentle is the key.  Or you could ask your surgeon for what he/she prefers and go that way.