Yes, it is possible to undergo a surgical procedure to change the appearance or structure of the navel, formally known as umbilicoplasty. This surgery focuses on the umbilicus, or belly button, to modify its size, shape, or projection. While often performed for cosmetic reasons, it can also be a reconstructive step following medical treatments or injuries. Umbilicoplasty is a quick procedure that can be performed alone or combined with other abdominal contouring surgeries like a tummy tuck or liposuction.
Primary Reasons for Seeking Umbilicoplasty
The motivations for seeking umbilicoplasty fall into two categories: aesthetic enhancement and medically indicated repair.
On the cosmetic side, many individuals wish to change an “outie” belly button to an “innie,” or to refine a navel that has become stretched or distorted. These changes often occur due to pregnancy, which stretches the tissue, or substantial weight loss, which leaves excess skin around the navel. The procedure can also correct scarring from a rejected belly button piercing or previous abdominal surgery, creating a smaller, vertically elongated appearance.
From a medical standpoint, umbilicoplasty is often performed in conjunction with the repair of an umbilical hernia. This condition occurs when tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. While the hernia repair addresses the structural defect, the umbilicoplasty ensures the resulting belly button retains a natural and proportional appearance. Although pure umbilicoplasty is elective and not covered by insurance, the portion associated with hernia repair may be considered medically necessary. Addressing a hernia is important because the protruding tissue can become trapped, potentially leading to pain or other functional problems.
What Happens During the Procedure
The umbilicoplasty procedure begins with the administration of anesthesia, which can be local (for simple, isolated procedures) or general (for complex cases or those combined with a hernia repair). The surgeon carefully places incisions within the natural folds of the belly button whenever possible to conceal scarring. The goal of the surgery is to manipulate and reshape the skin and underlying tissues to achieve the desired outcome.
If the aim is to create a deeper innie, the surgeon may remove excess skin or scar tissue from around the navel opening. The surrounding tissue is then tightened and repositioned to create a more defined indentation. When an umbilical hernia is also being addressed, the surgeon first closes the defect in the abdominal wall before reshaping the exterior of the navel. The procedure typically lasts between 30 minutes and one hour, though time may be longer if combined with other body contouring operations.
Recovery and Post-Operative Care
Recovery from umbilicoplasty is quick, with most patients discharged home on the same day as the surgery. Patients can expect temporary bruising, swelling, and mild soreness immediately following the procedure. Pain is manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers.
During the first few weeks of healing, it is important to keep the surgical site clean and dry to prevent infection. Stitches are often dissolvable, but if not, they are typically removed 7 to 10 days after the operation. Patients must avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or anything that strains the abdominal area for approximately four to six weeks to ensure optimal healing.