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Belly Button Lift: Everything You Need To Know5 min read

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Caroline Hedges

Caroline Hedges is a critically acclaimed researcher, writer and serial entrepreneur. With a knack for making the obscure plain, she is able to distill her research in writing both fun and engaging posts.
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If you’re considering a belly button lift, you’re not alone. This procedure is becoming increasingly popular, and for a good reason. A belly button lift — also known as belly button surgery or umbilicoplasty — can provide several benefits, including improved appearance, increased confidence, and better self-image. Here at Aesthetica, we believe being well-informed is the best first step in your plastic surgery journey! Today’s article will discuss the benefits of a belly button lift in detail. We’ll also take a look at some of the most common questions people have about this procedure.

What is a Belly Button Lift?

A belly button lift is a surgical procedure that can improve the appearance of the belly button. The belly button is a sensitive area that can be easily altered by pregnancy, weight gain, or aging. As a result, many patients choose to have a belly button lift to improve their appearance.

What's the Umbilicoplasty Technique?

The umbilicoplasty procedure is relatively simple and can be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on your preference:

  1. The surgeon will make an incision around the belly button.
  2. The belly button will be repositioned and sutured into place.
  3. The incisions will be closed, and a dressing will be applied.

The entire procedure usually takes 1-2 hours to complete.

The most appealing benefits of belly button lifts are:

  • Recovery from a belly button lift is quick and easy. 
  • Most patients return to their normal activities within a week. 
  • There is minimal to no scarring associated with this type of surgery.

Who is a Good Candidate for a Belly Button Lift?

Ideal candidates for a belly button lift enjoy good physical health and have realistic expectations from their surgery. Depending on the aesthetic concern, an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Chang may recommend other procedures, such as abdominoplasty or liposculpture, alongside your umbilicoplasty.

The Benefits of a Belly Button Lift

It is possible to beautify the abdominal area with umbilicoplasty. In recent years, belly button surgery has come a long way from the days of unnaturally wide or shallow navels created by surgical procedures in the past. Modern-day techniques help correct umbilical deformities and make the belly button appear more uniform and attractive. This is a direct result of the advancements made in surgical techniques. It is possible to conceal scars within the navel by:

  • Not pulling on the area.
  • Keeping the site clean and applying the wound-care products your surgeon recommends.
  • Protecting your incisions from the sun.

How Do I Prepare for the Procedure?

It is imperative that before undergoing any procedure, you find a reputable surgeon with experience in performing the procedure you are interested in. To help guide your questions and keep track of the answers you get from different surgeons, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery has created a helpful checklist you can print out and bring to the consultation.

Preparing for an umbilicoplasty procedure is not an arduous process. However, to reduce the chances of postprocedural complications, you will likely need to quit smoking at least one month before the procedure. Your plastic surgeon may also advise you to stop taking certain medications or supplements in the weeks leading up to the surgery. Ensure your surgeon goes over what you’ll need to do to prepare before scheduling the procedure.

Belly Button Lift Recovery

Most patients experience slight discomfort after a belly button lift. The navel is a sensitive area, so the tiny incisions involved in this procedure can be uncomfortable for some patients. However, pain medication is usually sufficient to manage any discomfort. In addition, patients can expect some swelling and bruising around the incision site, which will subside within a week or two. 

The final results of belly button lift surgery are usually visible within a month or two, and most patients are delighted with their new belly button. If you are considering an umbilicoplasty, be sure to discuss your expectations with your surgeon to ensure that you are both on the same page.

Belly Button Lift Recovery Tips

One of the most common questions we receive at Aesthetica is: What are your top five tips for recovery after belly button lift surgery?

  1. Time your surgery accordingly: A belly button lift entails approximately six weeks of recovery. If you have a big event incoming (e.g., a wedding or vacation), plan your surgery at least six weeks in advance!
  2. Follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions: This includes no heavy lifting, no driving for two weeks, and wearing a compression garment for 4-6 weeks.
  3. Don’t smoke: Smoking delays the healing process and increases the risk of complications. If you smoke, quitting at least two weeks before surgery is ideal. 
  4. Eat healthily and stay hydrated: Eating a healthy diet helps your body heal and recover more quickly. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein in your diet. Staying hydrated is also essential – drink plenty of water and avoid caffeinated beverages.

Take it easy: The recovery from a belly button lift is not an overnight process. It can take several weeks for your incisions to heal and the swelling to go down completely. So, be patient and take it easy – you’ll be back to your old self in no time!

Ready to Start Your Belly Button Lift With Dr. Chang?

Ready for your belly button lift? Come meet with us at 19500 Sandridge Way, Suite 350, Leesburg, VA 20176, or call us at (703) 574-4342 for a complimentary consultation with Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Phillip Chang before moving forward with your procedure! If everything matches up, our team will help you navigate the entire process, from beginning to end! Also, remember to check out our blog and social media for more information on plastic surgery and plastic surgery trends!

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