The bellybutton is an often overlooked part of the body that can make a big difference in the appearance of the abdomen. One of the easiest ways to spot a poorly done tummy tuck is an unnatural-looking bellybutton. When it comes to tummy tuck surgery at my Austin practice, I take great care to incorporate that feature into the overall result.
With the help of a trained, aesthetic-focused, board-certified plastic surgeon, a bellybutton will blend seamlessly with the newly tightened and sculpted tummy. In this blog post, I’ll explain the precise steps I take to create a better bellybutton when I do tummy tuck surgery, whether it’s performed alone or as part of a mommy makeover.
What happens to the bellybutton during a tummy tuck?
During this procedure, a horizontal incision is made at the pelvic line to allow us to tighten skin and muscle on the abdomen. Additionally, a small incision is made inside the bellybutton to free it from the surrounding skin. The bellybutton itself is attached to a stalk and does not move during the surgery. Upper abdominal skin is pulled down, and excess skin is trimmed. Because of the new placement of skin, a new opening for the bellybutton is created, and the bellybutton is carefully sewn into place through the surface.
How do you create a natural-looking result?
Precision is key in the outcome of the bellybutton, both in how much skin is removed, as well as the exact placement. I carefully sculpt the soft tissues to allow for a beautiful inset. I make sure I hide the incision just inside the navel so it is very hard to spot. Suture placement is also essential to a seamless result; there must be no detectable evidence of sutures—even after they are removed.
Can the original shape or look of the bellybutton be changed?
Yes. Many patients ask to go from an outie to an innie, and while it’s possible in some cases, every instance is different and a consultation is required to determine what is possible. I will explain how I strive to create a vertical-oriented bellybutton, as it appears to elongate the abdomen. To see examples of this, please visit our before-and-after photo gallery.
With an artistic eye and an approach specifically tailored to each person’s body, I’m able to help men and women achieve slimmer, flatter abdomens without having to worry about bearing the signs of surgery. This gives them the freedom to confidently show off their new midsection.
For those interested in learning more about tummy tuck surgery in Austin, please contact us online or call (512) 288-8200 to request a personal consultation.
