The Importance of a Belly Button During a Tummy Tuck

When patients are seeking an abdominoplasty, one of the main areas of focus is the belly button. For some it is THE most important concern they have, and they want to ensure it looks as natural as possible. For the surgeon, the belly button is important cosmetically, but it also plays an important role during the recovery and healing.

The role of the belly button during tummy tuck recovery

Prior to a tummy tuck it is essential for patients to thoroughly clean the navel area every day for a week leading up to surgery. After a tummy tuck it is patients need to take pristine care of the belly button, including cleaning it and keeping it dry. The goal is to heal properly, and a major part of proper healing is avoiding infection. Patients that do not clean their belly button are at a higher risk for infections that can lead to serious issues. An unclean belly button can also develop a foul odor. It is important to follow the pre and post-op instructions from the surgeon to ensure you are taking the proper steps to clean and nurture the belly button.  

How to clean the belly button before and after tummy tuck surgery

Cleaning the belly button after tummy tuck surgery is simple: wash the area daily with warm soapy water and pat it dry with a clean towel. Post-surgery, clean gauze can be placed over the navel area if it is leaking fluid and to avoid contact with clothing.

How to choose the right belly button during tummy tuck surgery

The belly button is a central point of focus on the abdomen and surgeons concentrate on the belly button during a tummy tuck because if done correctly it can make the results look natural and if done incorrectly, it can show signs of surgery or be susceptible to issues when healing.

Technically, the belly button is a scar that occurs when the skin heals once the umbilical cord is cut after birth. Genetics, the technique used when the cord was cut and the way it healed, help to determine if the belly button becomes either an “innie” or an “outie”.

A full tummy tuck removes the skin of the lower abdomen and pulls down the skin from the upper abdomen, which requires the surgeon to release the belly button and create a new one in a different location. New navels should be placed in an ideal location of the abdomen to create a natural and authentic look.

The belly button plays an essential role during a tummy tuck, and it has to be handled with care to ensure successful surgical outcomes.