An “outie” belly button, or protruding navel, is a common anatomical variation where the skin of the umbilicus extends outwards instead of indenting inwards. This appearance is typically a cosmetic characteristic, resulting from the natural healing process after birth. While most outies are harmless, some can indicate an underlying medical condition, or individuals may choose surgical alteration.
Understanding Outie Belly Buttons
The belly button forms at birth after the umbilical cord is cut. This leaves a stump that dries and falls off within one to two weeks, creating the navel, essentially a scar. Its appearance, whether an “innie” (concave) or an “outie” (convex), depends on the natural healing process of the skin and underlying connective tissue. How the cord was clamped or cut, or stump care, does not influence its shape.
An outie belly button typically forms when scar tissue or underlying fascia protrudes slightly as the area heals. Approximately 10% of people have an outie, making it less common than an innie, but still a normal human variation.
When an Outie Indicates a Concern
While most outie belly buttons are harmless, a protruding navel can sometimes signal an umbilical hernia. An umbilical hernia occurs when a portion of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the belly button. This can cause a bulge that may become more noticeable when coughing, crying, or straining.
Signs that might suggest an umbilical hernia include a bulge that suddenly appears, changes in size, or causes pain or tenderness. Adults with umbilical hernias may experience discomfort or a dull aching sensation, especially when pressure is applied to the abdomen. It is advisable to consult a doctor if the outie becomes painful, tender, red, discolored, or if it is accompanied by nausea or vomiting, as these can be signs of a more serious complication.
Surgical Options for Reshaping
Umbilicoplasty is the primary surgical option for individuals seeking to change an outie belly button’s appearance. This cosmetic surgery reshapes the skin and underlying tissue around the navel to create a more inverted, or “innie,” look. Surgeons typically make small incisions within the belly button to minimize visible scarring, removing excess skin or fat and repositioning tissue to achieve the desired shape.
Umbilicoplasty is generally an outpatient procedure, often performed under local anesthesia, though general anesthesia may be used depending on scope or combination with other procedures. It can also address issues like stretched skin from pregnancy or weight loss, or scarring from previous piercings. While a standalone surgery, it is sometimes combined with other abdominal procedures, such as a tummy tuck or liposuction, for comprehensive aesthetic improvement. No effective non-surgical methods can permanently change an outie belly button’s appearance.
What to Consider Before Reshaping
Before surgical reshaping, a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is important. During this, the surgeon assesses candidacy, discusses realistic expectations, and explains the procedure. Recovery for umbilicoplasty is relatively quick, with most patients returning to light activities within days. Full recovery takes two to four weeks, though swelling and bruising may persist.
Patients should be aware of potential scarring, though incisions are typically placed within the navel for discretion. Other considerations include potential asymmetry or over/undercorrection, with results varying by individual healing and anatomy. As with any surgery, risks like infection, bleeding, or wound healing problems exist, which will be discussed. Maintaining a stable weight and avoiding smoking before and after surgery contributes to optimal healing and lasting results.