What Happens to Your Belly Button During a Tummy Tuck?

During a traditional tummy tuck, your natural belly button is preserved, but the surrounding skin is repositioned, which can change how your belly button looks. While it may seem like a small detail, the appearance of your belly button plays an important role in achieving natural-looking results.”

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Before and After Tummy Tuck in Houston, Texas, by The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery

1. Yes, You Keep Your Own Belly Button

Your natural navel is preserved throughout the procedure. During your tummy tuck, one of our board-certified plastic surgeons will separate your belly button from the surrounding skin and leave it attached at its base.

2. It May Be Repositioned

During a full tummy tuck, the abdominal skin is tightened, and weakened abdominal muscles may be repaired when necessary. The natural belly button remains attached beneath the skin and is brought through a new opening as the surrounding skin is repositioned. A mini tummy tuck, meanwhile, focuses on the area below the navel, so your belly button is typically left untouched.

3. The Scar Is Designed to Be Discreet

The incision is typically placed along the inner edge of the belly button to help the resulting scar blend into its natural contours. Our plastic surgeons focus on creating a natural-looking navel with appropriate shape, depth, and subtle upper hooding.

4. Your Belly Button’s Shape Can Change Slightly

A natural-looking belly button typically has subtle depth and proportions that complement the patient’s abdominal anatomy. The final appearance depends on individual anatomy, surgical technique, and healing.

5. Healing Takes Time

Some swelling, tenderness, and mild crusting around the belly button are normal during the early stages of healing. These symptoms generally improve over the following weeks, while the scar may continue to fade and mature over the course of a year or longer. We will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions and walk you through exactly what to expect during your recovery.

Take the Next Step

To discuss your body contouring options with one of our specialists, request a consultation using the online form or call The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery at (713) 799-9999 to get started.