Cosmetic procedure issues related to the belly button can almost always be corrected with belly button surgery, also known as umbilicoplasty. From smoothing excess skin around the navel to turning an “outie” into an “innie”, the results can be phenomenal. Just have a look at our umbilicoplasty before and after photos to see the potential outcomes you can achieve with this procedure.
Below, we’ll take a look at some of the most commonly desired outcomes for patients who undergo plastic surgery for belly button issues. We’ll also discuss what the surgery itself involves and answer some frequently asked questions.
What Can Umbilicoplasty Correct?
Everyone has something about their appearance they don’t like. Umbilicoplasty procedure is a great option for anyone who is dissatisfied with the appearance of their navel. This surgical technique can:
- Reduce scars near the navel, including piercing scars and scars from surgery
- Reduce the overall size of the belly button
- Fix umbilical hernia, adjusting the loose skin around the belly button for an improved appearance
- Turn an “innie” belly button into an “outie”
- Replace the navel after an injury or surgery
- Get rid of wrinkles and loose skin around the belly button
- fix a unattractive belly button
- Improve the torso’s overall appearance
What Does Belly Button Surgery Involve?
It’s difficult to detail one surgical protocol for all belly button surgeries because all such surgeries are inevitably going to be different. One patient’s surgery to reduce wrinkles will look totally different from another patient’s surgery to resize the navel.
At your consultation appointment, Dr. Matthew Schulman will go over what you hope to achieve. He will then examine your torso, ask you some questions about your medical history, and present you with options.
The vast majority of belly button surgeries involve a small incision, made within the belly button. This incision will heal inconspicuously so that it will not be obvious (often, it is not even visible). Next, Dr. Schulman will address the main issue you’re hoping to improve (adjusting the shape or size, reducing wrinkles or bulges, etc.). Finally, the incision will be closed up.
Most patients are aiming for a smooth, lump-free torso area and a youthful-looking “innie” belly button that has a vertical appearance and a slight hood on the top edge.
Belly Button Surgery Recovery Time
After this surgery, most patients after a few weeks recover fairly quickly. If additional procedures were performed (such as abdominoplasty surgery or liposuction), your umbilicoplasty recovery may take longer and involve more discomfort.
Surgery on the belly button alone, however, usually only requires one full day of recovery (24 hours). In some cases, when the surgery is more invasive or accompanied by another procedure, recovery may take up to one to two weeks.
Common symptoms associated with belly button surgery recovery include slight bruising, swelling, and light soreness (usually only during the first day or two). Dr. Schulman will have you refrain from strenuous activities or lifting anything heavy for a short period at the beginning of your recovery. Be sure to attend your followup appointments and pay close attention to your post-operative care instructions.
FAQ
Can I get plastic surgery on my belly button during a abdominoplasty?
Yes, many people request improvements during tummy tuck surgery. For example, we can change an “innie” into an “outie”, reduce the appearance of your navel, or get rid of belly button scars.
Can I get belly button reconstruction after tummy tuck surgery?
Yes, if you are unsatisfied with the appearance of your belly button after abdominoplasty, umbilicoplasty procedure after tummy tuck surgery is an option. Belly button reconstruction can also be performed alongside a tummy tuck.
How much does it cost for belly button surgery?
Most belly button surgeries cost between $2,000 to $5,000. Ultimately, the cost of your surgery will depend on the surgeon you choose, where you have your procedure performed, and how much work is required for the procedure.
Can I fix my belly button without a abdominoplasty?
Yes, if you only have an issue with your belly button that you would like to correct, you don’t need a abdominoplasty, and you can simply undergo belly button surgery.
Can a plastic surgeon fix a belly button piercing?
Yes. It’s not uncommon for patients to be concerned with belly button piercings that have become misshapen over time. This may be due to aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or an accident in which a piece of jewelry was ripped out of the piercing hole. No matter the issue, a surgical procedure like umbilicoplasty is usually the best option for correction.
Is it possible to reshape belly button without surgery?
Not usually. Cosmetic belly button issues can typically only be corrected with surgery.
Is Umbilicoplasty used in hernia repair?
Originally, umbilicoplasty treated infant umbilical hernias, but it’s now popular for cosmetic procedures. Common culprits for unattractive belly button include pregnancy and piercing scars.
Set Up Your Plastic Surgery Procedure
Are you unsatisfied with the appearance of your navel? Do you have additional questions about cosmetic surgery belly button surgery? Please call our NYC office today to book a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Matthew Schulman.
Dr. Schulman will talk to you about your goals for surgery, examine your belly button, and discuss your options with you. Contact us today.