Umbilicoplasty (Belly Button Surgery)
Umbilicoplasty, also known as belly button surgery, is a surgical procedure to reshape or reposition the belly button. It can be used to change the appearance of an innie belly button to an outie, or vice versa.
Who is a good candidate for umbilicoplasty?
Umbilicoplasty is a good option for people who are unhappy with the appearance of their belly button. It can be used to correct a variety of problems, including:
- An innie belly button that is too small or too deep
- An outie belly button that is too large or too protruding
- A belly button that is misshapen or asymmetrical
- A belly button that has been damaged or scarred from surgery or injury
What are the risks of umbilicoplasty?
All surgery carries some risks, including:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Numbness or tingling in the skin
- Fluid collection under the skin
- Scarring
What happens during umbilicoplasty?
Umbilicoplasty is usually performed under local anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision around the belly button and remove any excess skin or tissue. The belly button will then be repositioned or reshaped, and the incision will be stitched closed.
How long does umbilicoplasty take?
Umbilicoplasty typically takes 1-2 hours and you can go home on the same day.
What is the recovery time for umbilicoplasty?
The recovery time for umbilicoplasty is typically around 2 weeks. You will also need to avoid strenuous activity for 2 weeks.
What are the results of umbilicoplasty?
Umbilicoplasty can produce dramatic results, giving you a more aesthetically pleasing belly button. However, it is important to remember that no surgery is perfect, and there will always be some scarring.
Here are some additional tips for patients considering umbilicoplasty:
- Be realistic about your expectations. Umbilicoplasty cannot magically convert your belly button into the perfect belly button.
- Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in umbilicoplasty.
- Ask your surgeon about their aftercare plan.
- Be prepared for a slightly longer recovery period.
- Be patient with your results. It can take up to a year for your belly button to fully heal.
Here are some frequently asked questions about umbilicoplasty:
- Can I get umbilicoplasty if I am pregnant? No, you should not get umbilicoplasty if you are pregnant. The incisions from umbilicoplasty can increase the risk of infection during pregnancy.
- What is the difference between umbilicoplasty and outie repair? Umbilicoplasty is a general term for any procedure that reshapes or repositions the belly button. Outie repair is a specific type of umbilicoplasty that is used to correct an outie belly button.
