Understanding the Belly Button
The belly button, or navel, is the scar left after the umbilical cord is cut at birth. Its appearance varies greatly from person to person, with some having an 'innie' (inverted) and others an 'outie' (protruding). The shape is influenced by several factors, including the amount of skin and tissue around the umbilical stump, the way the umbilical cord was tied, and individual healing processes. In most cases, an 'outie' belly button is simply a natural variation and not a medical problem [1].
Why Consider Changing an Outie?
While an 'outie' is generally harmless, some individuals may feel self-conscious about its appearance. This can be due to its size, shape, or how it looks in certain clothing. Changes to the abdominal area from pregnancy, significant weight fluctuation, or previous surgery can also affect the navel's appearance and lead someone to consider surgical alteration.
Surgical Procedures for Navel Alteration
For those interested in changing the appearance of their outie belly button, plastic and reconstructive surgery offers solutions. The most common procedure is called umbilicoplasty.
Umbilicoplasty Explained
Umbilicoplasty is a cosmetic surgery specifically designed to reshape or resize the belly button. It can be used to create a more desirable shape, often transforming an 'outie' into an 'innie' [1]. The procedure involves removing excess skin and tissue and then carefully suturing the remaining skin to create a different contour for the navel. This surgery is typically performed by a plastic surgeon.
Considerations for Umbilicoplasty
Before undergoing an umbilicoplasty, a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential. The surgeon will evaluate the individual's specific anatomy, discuss their aesthetic goals, and determine if umbilicoplasty is the appropriate procedure. They will also explain the surgical process, potential risks, and expected recovery time.
Addressing Umbilical Hernias
In some instances, a protruding belly button may be caused by an umbilical hernia. This occurs when a portion of the intestine or other abdominal tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall near the navel. Umbilical hernias can cause a bulge, which may become more noticeable when straining or crying [2]. While common in infants and often resolving on their own, adult umbilical hernias typically require surgical repair to prevent complications [2]. If an umbilical hernia is present, a surgeon may repair the hernia and perform an umbilicoplasty to improve the navel's appearance simultaneously.
Beyond Reshaping: Complete Removal
A less common option than umbilicoplasty is the complete removal of the belly button, a procedure sometimes referred to as umbilectomy. This is a more significant surgical intervention that results in a smooth area where the navel once was. While some individuals may seek this for cosmetic reasons, it is not as frequently performed as umbilicoplasty.
The Surgical Process
The specific surgical process will vary depending on whether an umbilicoplasty, hernia repair, or umbilectomy is being performed. Generally, these procedures involve making incisions, reshaping or removing tissue, and then closing the incisions with sutures. Local or general anesthesia may be used depending on the complexity of the surgery and the patient's preference.
Recovery
Recovery time will also depend on the extent of the surgery. For a simple umbilicoplasty, recovery is often relatively quick, with patients able to return to normal activities within a few weeks. More complex procedures, especially those involving hernia repair, may require a longer recovery period [1]. Post-operative instructions will typically include wound care, pain management, and restrictions on physical activity to ensure proper healing.
Choosing a Surgeon
Selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in abdominal procedures and umbilicoplasty is crucial for achieving satisfactory and safe results. Reviewing the surgeon's credentials, looking at before-and-after photos, and having a thorough discussion about expectations are important steps in this process.
Table: Umbilicoplasty vs. Umbilectomy
| Feature | Umbilicoplasty | Umbilectomy |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Reshape or resize the navel | Complete removal of the navel |
| Result | Modified navel appearance (often an 'innie') | Flat abdominal surface |
| Commonality | More common cosmetic procedure | Less common, sometimes for specific medical or aesthetic reasons |
| Complexity | Generally less complex | More complex as it involves removing a anatomical feature |
| Scarring | Scars typically hidden within the new navel contour | Results in a linear scar where the navel was |
Conclusion
For individuals who are unhappy with the appearance of their outie belly button, surgical options are available to either reshape it into an 'innie' through umbilicoplasty or, less commonly, to remove it entirely. These procedures can also address underlying medical conditions like umbilical hernias. Consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon is the first step to understand the possibilities and make an informed decision about navel alteration.
