Summer is here, and with it comes, belly-baring clothing and bathing suits. I see many patients who are unhappy with the appearance of their belly button. With it being the focal point of the torso, you may feel like your belly button is too large or misshapen to wear the clothing you like. You may miss the cute belly button you once had, but have no fear! There are options available to restore the look of your tummy and make you confident to wear those crop tops and bikinis again!

Am I a Candidate?

Belly button reconstruction should be a consideration of yours if:

  • Your belly button has been stretched due to pregnancy or weight gain
  • You previously had a piercing, and the scar left behind has affected the shape of your belly button
  • Your feelings about your belly button prevent you from wearing the swimwear and clothing you desire

Three-Dimensional Approach

During a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), excess skin and fat are removed from the abdomen. This can affect the shape and positioning of the umbilicus (belly button) and may require it to be repositioned. With my training in engineering, I plan the reconstruction using a three-dimensional approach. By doing this, it allows me to visualize the final results better and make sure you are getting the look you had hoped to achieve. By utilizing my special belly button reconstruction technique, scarring will be much less visible, and your new belly button will look more natural.

How It Works

During the tummy tuck, an incision is made around the belly button to create a “stalk” of tissue underneath. This isolates the umbilicus in order to be able to move it. Once the excess tissue from the abdomen is removed, a V-shaped incision is made where the new belly button is created. A core of fat is also removed from under the skin to create an indent for the new belly button. The shape of the incision allows for a more natural oval shape, minimizes visible scarring, and helps prevent any scar tissue from tightening during the healing process.

While umbilicoplasty can be performed as a standalone procedure, it is rare. Because recovery from tummy tuck surgery can take some time, you should consider undergoing the procedure in the winter so you can be ready for that bikini in time for summer!

If you miss your cute belly button and want to get back into that crop top, contact Dr. Reichner at (714) 997-5200 to schedule a consultation.