Umbilicoplasty

What is an umbilicoplasty?

An umbilicoplasty is a quick surgical procedure to alter the appearance of the umbilicus-more commonly known as the belly button. The goal of most umbilicoplasty procedures is to create an oval, innie belly button.

The Anatomy of the Abdominal Wall

Good candidates for this procedure include those unhappy with their belly button appearance, women whose umbilicus has changed following pregnancy, or those who are seeking a hernia repair to correct an umbilical hernia may benefit from this cosmetic surgery.

Often, an umbilicoplasty is performed in conjunction with more extensive abdominal procedures like an abdominoplasty or tummy tuck as these procedures also address surrounding loose skin, excess skin, and excess fat via liposuction.

What cosmetic concerns does an umbilicoplasty procedure treat?

1. Abdominal Contour: An umbilicoplasty creates an oval, innie belly button which both alters the umbilicus appearance and can smooth and contour the abdomen.
2. Mommy Makeover: For women who have developed an undesirable belly button appearance postpartum, an umbilicoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure to correct and/or restore belly button appearance.

Who is the ideal candidate for an umbilicoplasty procedure?

The ideal candidate for an umbilicoplasty is at a healthy, stable weight and would like to change the appearance of their belly button. An umbilicoplasty is not recommended for those who are significantly overweight or women planning to become pregnant.

What is the average recovery associated with an umbilicoplasty procedure?

Most patients experience a few days of acute recovery following an umbilicoplasty, although swelling can persist for a few weeks depending on the candidate. Most candidates resume work after a day or two and exercise can resumed after two to three weeks.

What are the potential side effects of an umbilicoplasty procedure?

Possible side effects of an umbilicoplasty include scarring, asymmetry, bruising, pain, discomfort, and prolonged swelling.

What can someone expect from the results of an umbilicoplasty procedure?

The results of an umbilicoplasty will be immediately visible following the procedure and will finalize within a few days as bruising and swelling resolve. The results will be affected by pregnancy and significant weight gain or weight loss.

What is the average cost of an umbilicoplasty procedure?

An umbilicoplasty can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. The actual cost of an umbilicoplasty is dependent upon location, board certified plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery.