Belly Button Surgery: Assessment, Hernia and Risks

Belly button surgery (umbilicoplasty) changes the shape, size or position of the navel. Cosmetic umbilicoplasty is different from diagnosing or repairing an umbilical hernia, which requires appropriate surgical assessment.

Assessment and alternatives

The surgeon should examine the navel, abdominal wall, scars, skin, possible hernia, health, medicines, smoking and previous surgery. Imaging or referral may be needed when a hernia or another condition is suspected. No treatment is also an option.

Procedure planning

The operation may reshape selected skin and deeper tissue and can sometimes be combined with clinically appropriate abdominal surgery. A mini or full tummy tuck should not be added simply for cosmetic packaging; its indications and additional risks require separate consent.

Risks and recovery

Risks include bleeding, infection, delayed healing, visible scars, asymmetry, altered sensation, an unnatural or narrowed navel, recurrence where a hernia is treated, dissatisfaction and revision. Recovery, work, exercise and travel timing vary.

See Revitalize’s abdominal surgery information, named doctors and assessment route.