Belly button piercings gained popularity in the 90s and early aughts. So, in your younger years, you may have decided to get one, thinking it would highlight your midsection.
Over time, however, many people who made this choice ended up removing their navel piercing—whether due to lifestyle changes, a rejected belly button piercing, or simply changing body piercing preferences.
Unfortunately, the piercing removal may have left behind an unappealing piercing hole that became quite noticeable as scar tissue formed. If this sounds familiar, the good news is that belly button piercing scar removal surgery could be an option to repair this area.
Piercing scar removal (or belly button hole repair) surgery is designed to improve the appearance of scars left by piercing holes or other issues.
What Is Belly Button Piercing Scar Removal?
Belly button piercing scar removal is a cosmetic procedure tailored to address the scarring caused by removed or rejected belly button piercings. The approach depends on factors such as the type of scar, the original piercing, and your cosmetic goals. Techniques may involve excising raised scars, revising the piercing site, or performing umbilicoplasty for loose skin.
Local anesthetic is often used, and the procedure typically takes under an hour. Most patients aim to achieve a natural-looking navel with minimal visible scarring. Dr. Matthew Schulman, a board-certified plastic surgeon, will determine the best approach for your needs.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Belly Button Piercing Scar Removal Procedure?
You are in good physical health.
You should be free from medical conditions that could affect healing or increase the risk of complications. If you smoke, quitting well before the procedure is essential to improve recovery outcomes.
You have realistic expectations.
Understanding the limitations of the procedure is crucial. While it can significantly improve the appearance of scarring, results depend on factors like your skin type and the severity of the scar.
Your scarring affects your confidence.
If a umbilicoplasty scar negatively impacts your self-esteem, this procedure could help. Many patients seek it to enhance their body image and comfort in tight clothing.
You have no active infections or skin conditions.
After belly button piercing removal, the area must be healthy and free of any infections or irritations. This reduces the risk of complications during recovery.
Is Belly Button Piercing Scar Removal Painful?
Most belly button piercing scar removal procedures and belly button revision procedures are performed under local anesthesia. This ensures you remain comfortable throughout the process. You may feel slight pressure, but pain is unlikely during this plastic surgery.
Afterward, mild discomfort, swelling, or tenderness is normal. Your surgeon may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage any lingering soreness.
What Is Belly Button Piercing Scar Removal Recovery Like?
Recovery from belly button piercing scar removal is usually straightforward. You will likely need to keep the incision site clean and dry for the first week to prevent infection. Avoid activities that strain your abdominal area, such as heavy lifting or intense exercise, for at least two weeks.
Most patients can resume their normal routine after a week, but healing varies. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Schulman will ensure your progress is on track, that you are achieving your desired cosmetic appearance, and that healing with indeed minimize scarring.
Belly Button Piercing Scar Removal Complications
Though rare, complications can occur, including infection, keloid scars, or dark skin discoloration around the treated area. Keeping the incision site clean is critical during the recovery period. Improper care or premature resumption of physical activities can lead to delayed healing or uneven results.
An allergic reaction to sutures or dressings is also a possibility but is uncommon when performed by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Schulman. Following Dr. Schulman’s aftercare instructions is the best way to minimize risks and ensure optimal results.
FAQs: Belly Button Piercing Scar Removal
How much does belly button piercing scar removal cost?
Your umbilicoplasty cost depends on the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s expertise, and your location. Some patients may combine the procedure with umbilicoplasty for loose skin, which could affect pricing.
Contact Dr. Schulman’s office for a detailed consultation to discuss your needs and get a cost estimate.
Where can I undergo belly button piercing scar removal near me?
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Matthew Schulman performs this procedure for patients at his New York City practice. Please take a moment to check out our belly button piercing scar removal before and after photos for an idea of the results you can expect with this surgery.
What is the difference between belly button piercing revision and scar removal?
Belly button piercing revision focuses on correcting the placement or appearance of a rejected piercing. Scar removal, on the other hand, aims to treat scarring caused by a previous piercing. Depending on your goals, these procedures can be combined for optimal results.
Can this procedure be done alongside a tummy tuck?
Yes, many patients combine belly button surgery with tummy tucks, especially after significant weight loss. This can create a more contoured abdominal area while addressing scars or loose skin around the navel. Discuss your goals with Dr. Schulman to see if combining procedures is right for you.
Request a Consultation Today
Ready to learn more about removing your belly button piercing scar? Call today to request a consultation appointment with body contouring specialist and board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Matthew Schulman.
