Umbilicoplasty Belly Button Surgery

What is Umbilicoplasty?

Umbilicoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to modify the appearance of the navel or belly button. Whether due to significant weight changes, pregnancy, piercings, or congenital factors, some individuals may find their navel’s appearance displeasing. Umbilicoplasty can reshape the belly button to achieve a more desired look, improving the overall aesthetics of the abdomen.

Why Choose Umbilicoplasty?

For many, the navel plays a significant role in defining the aesthetic appeal of the abdomen. Umbilicoplasty can address a variety of concerns, including:

  • Herniated Belly Buttons: Where the belly button protrudes outwardly due to a minor hernia.
  • Enlarged or Stretched Navels: Often seen after pregnancy or significant weight loss.
  • Misshapen Navels: Resulting from injury, previous surgeries, or piercings.

How It’s Done

Umbilicoplasty is often a straightforward procedure, though the exact method can vary based on the specific concerns being addressed. Typically performed under local anesthesia, the procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

The surgeon makes small incisions around the navel to remove excess skin and tissue. Once the desired shape is achieved, the incisions are sutured. If the procedure involves correcting a herniated navel, additional steps may be taken to repair the underlying muscles.

Why Plano Plastic Surgery?

At Plano Plastic Surgery, excellence is our standard. Both Dr. Haidenberg, with his 16 years of experience in cosmetic surgery, and Dr. Yaker, the celebrated force behind Plano Plastic Surgery, have dedicated years to perfecting aesthetic surgeries—from breast augmentations to rhinoplasties and liposuctions. With them, you’re not just opting for transformative results but also genuine care and understanding. Our approach is personal—tailored to every patient’s concerns and desires.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Ideal candidates for umbilicoplasty include individuals who:

  • Are dissatisfied with the appearance of their navel due to stretching, scars, or herniation.
  • Have good overall health, ensuring they can undergo surgery without significant risks.
  • Possess a stable weight, as significant weight fluctuations post-surgery can alter the results.
  • Maintain realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery.

Umbilicoplasty Recovery and What to Expect

Recovering from an umbilicoplasty is generally more straightforward than recovering from more invasive surgeries. However, as with any surgical procedure, individual experiences may vary, and it’s crucial to follow the post-operative guidelines provided by the surgeon.

Immediate Post-Operative Phase

Discomfort and Pain: Mild discomfort is expected, usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers or those prescribed by the surgeon.

Dressings: The treated area will be covered with surgical dressings to keep it clean and supported.

Activity Restrictions: Most patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities for the first few days.

Mid Recovery Phase (1-2 weeks)

Suture Removal: If non-dissolvable sutures were used, they might be removed within the first week.

Return to Daily Activities: Many patients can resume regular daily activities within a week, though heavy lifting and rigorous exercise should be avoided.

Swelling and Bruising: Any swelling or bruising should begin to subside during this period.

Long-Term Recovery

Final Results: The full results of the umbilicoplasty will become evident as the area fully heals and settles, typically within a few months. Scar Maturation: Scarring is minimal with this procedure, and with proper care, any scars will fade significantly over time.

Potential Side Effects

Sensation Changes: Temporary numbness around the treated area may occur but typically resolves on its own.

Scarring: While the procedure aims to produce minimal scarring, the body's healing response can vary. Proper wound care can help minimize scarring.

Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there's a risk of infection, though it's relatively rare when post-operative care guidelines are followed diligently.