Why are some people's belly buttons higher than others when they get a tummy tuck?

Question

Hello I am 36 years old and I am interested in getting a full tummy tuck with Liposuction. I am wondering why some people's bellybuttons are higher than others when they get a tummy tuck. They look very unnatural when they are too high. Also, can you ask the doctor to put your scar as low as possible?I would prefer mine to be where my C-section scar is

Adam Tattelbaum, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. With respect to the belly button, plastic surgeons have some discretion about where it is placed. The umbilical stalk can only stretch so far, but when needed it can be pulled upward or downward to a degree, even left or right.In my own practice, I favor a lower position as well, but I try to leave a few inches between the belly button and the incision so that the underwear or bathing  suit can sit above the scar, but there is normal  skin between the bikini top edge and the belly button.  I find that quilting of the abdomen ( sewing the skin to the abdominal wall) helps to keep the belly button in a lower position as well.Most surgeons, myself included will try to keep the scar as low as possible. In all of my patients I am either at, or below existing c-section scars. It makes no sense to me to leave a second scar behind. Again, I find that quilting helps to keep scars in a lower position. Your PS will have to evaluate how loose you are with a pinch test. This will determine how low the scar can realistically be.I have included tummy tuck FAQ below that may help as well. Best wishes.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

It may take several months for a tummy tuck patient’s scars to soften, for sensation to return, and for relaxing of the tight sensation in the abdomen. In the case of extensive surgery, abdominoplasty recovery can be uncomfortable and may take longer. Scars may stay red, become thick or widen. It can take 12-18 months for the scars to settle.

These can be improved with topical treatments such as BioCorneum, Scar Guard, Scar Fade and Mederma. Redness can be improved with laser treatments and the scars can be kept narrow with products such as Embrace.  On occasion, keloids or hypertrophic scars can develop and will need treatment including Kenalog, 5FU and laser.The re-positioning of your belly button can be determined by the use of an incision in the area of your belly button. If you are looking for multiple options for your procedure and healing process then you should not hesitate at all to schedule additional consultations with other board certified plastic surgeons to make sure that you will be going along with a procedure with which you agree. Look at the before and after photos provided by surgeons in your consultations to make sure you are completely comfortable with reaching your desired results before scheduling a procedure. Good luck!

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. If you are an appropriate candidate, a tummy tuck can be done through a low and short incision, all completely below the
bikini line.  The belly button can be designed to look natural and have no scars on the exterior.   Your muscles can also be
plicated resulting in a flat abdomen.  Make sure you
specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have
had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.  The
most important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I
recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic
surgeon who can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

It is determined by your anatomy and your surgeon. A low scar and natural appearing belly button is always the goal.An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon is recommended to confirm you are a candidate as well as discuss your options and expectations.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Since the belly button is not disconnected during a full Tummy Tuck, it should sit where it was before surgery but the position can appear elevated because excess skin and fat aren't pulling downward on frontal abdominal tissues.I recommend that you review pre/post photos of your chosen surgeon's work. Talk about your concerns with them. Ensure you select a Plastic Surgeon who is board certified and an expert in this area.All the best

Why are some people's belly buttons higher than others when they get a tummy tuck?

Answers (10)

Answer: Tummy tuck incisions

Answer: Tummy tuck incisions

Answer: Belly Button/Scar Positioning

Answer: Belly Button/Scar Positioning

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.

Why are some people's belly buttons higher than others when they get a tummy tuck?

Answers (10)

Answer: Tummy tuck incisions

Answer: Tummy tuck incisions

Answer: Belly Button/Scar Positioning

Answer: Belly Button/Scar Positioning

Browse related questions

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.