Posted: June 15, 2024
A tummy tuck is an excellent solution to achieve a firmer, flatter midsection. However, it’s common to have questions about the procedure and results, including whether a tummy tuck will change your belly button. This post covers how a tummy tuck alters the appearance of your belly button, and what you can expect when choosing a tummy tuck to enhance your physique.
At Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Scottsdale plastic surgeon Dr. John J. Corey has over three decades of experience. He is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. What’s more, he is a member of both the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Corey draws on his extensive training in Brazil and the United States to provide exceptional patient care and results.
Understanding the Tummy Tuck Procedure
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area while tightening the underlying muscles, creating a flatter, firmer abdomen.
Dr. Corey carefully reshapes the abdominal area during the procedure to achieve a natural, aesthetically pleasing contour. A crucial part of this process involves repositioning the belly button.
Repositioning the Belly Button
The belly button remains attached to the underlying muscles during a tummy tuck. However, as the excess skin is removed and the remaining skin is tightened, the position of the belly button needs to be adjusted to ensure it remains in a natural location on the abdomen.
Dr. Corey meticulously repositions and reshapes the belly button to maintain its natural appearance, often creating a more aesthetically pleasing look. According to the National Institutes of Health, the appearance of the belly button post-tummy tuck can impact the patient's satisfaction with the results. Therefore, speaking with your surgeon about your options is imperative before proceeding.
Exploring Different Techniques
Various techniques in tummy tuck procedures specifically address the belly button, such as:
- Belly button float: Involves detaching the belly button from its surrounding skin but keeping it attached to the underlying tissue, allowing it to be repositioned.
- Belly button slide: This technique slides the belly button to a new position without detaching it, ensuring minimal scarring and a natural appearance.
- Mini-tummy tuck with umbilical relocation: The maxi-mini offers significant improvements with a shorter recovery time and minimal adjustments to the belly button position.
What to Expect After a Tummy Tuck
Post-surgery, your belly button might look slightly different. This change is generally subtle; many patients find their belly button looks even better. Dr. Corey takes excellent care to ensure that the new belly button appearance complements the overall enhanced look of the abdomen.
Here are some common post-tummy tuck changes to expect:
- Repositioning: The belly button is moved to a more natural position on your tightened abdomen.
- Reshaping: The shape of the belly button is often refined to enhance its appearance.
Look Your Best with a Tummy Tuck in Scottsdale
At Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, we understand that each patient is unique, so we tailor each procedure to your aesthetic goals. Dr. Corey spends ample time with every patient so you feel comfortable and confident in your decision to proceed.
If you're considering a tummy tuck, contact Aesthetic Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation with Dr. Corey today. Call 480-767-7700 and take the first step toward your new look.