Before refining the shape of the navel, we first check the cause of the protrusion
Atelier Plastic Surgery Clinic
We look at depth, width, scars, and the condition of the surrounding skin and fascia together.
We do not set the direction of a navel consultation based only on shape and depth. The conditions to check differ for a navel that looks wide or shallow, one that protrudes outward, and one that has been deformed by a scar from a previous surgery. At Atelier Plastic Surgery, we examine the surrounding abdominal skin and fascia, check for a hernia with ultrasound when needed, and then decide the scope of correction.
Navel Consultation
Please tell us when the change in shape began
Consultation questions differ depending on whether the navel has protruded since birth, whether it widened horizontally after pregnancy or a change in weight, or whether a scar remained after laparoscopic surgery or a piercing. Along with when the change occurred, please also tell us if you have any pain or discomfort.
The width and depth of the navel are related to the skin laxity of the whole abdomen. Even if you want a small navel, rather than simply reducing the diameter, we also review the tension of the surrounding tissue and the possibility that the opening becomes narrow. The decision is not made with the goal of exactly reproducing the shape in a photo.
In the consultation, we first distinguish whether only the navel can be refined or whether there is also sagging of the surrounding skin. Even for the same shape concern, the scope and recovery burden differ between standalone correction and considering abdominal surgery together.
We check whether a protruding navel is only a skin problem
A navel that sticks out may involve the condition of the fascia in addition to the skin and subcutaneous tissue. In some cases it is an umbilical hernia, in which tissue is pushed out through a defect in the fascia beneath the navel, and this must be distinguished from an approach that only refines the appearance.
At Atelier, we check the fascia and whether there is a hernia by palpation and ultrasound, and if needed we plan fascia closure together. Depending on the size of the defect and your symptoms, a consultation with general surgery may be needed. If the area bulges when you strain or you can feel a lump, please tell us during the consultation.
We do not judge a protrusion accompanied by abdominal pain or other symptoms as merely a cosmetic issue. If your condition changes suddenly, such as sudden severe pain or vomiting, do not wait for a cosmetic consultation appointment; get evaluated promptly at a medical institution.
How do you distinguish standalone correction from abdominoplasty?
| Concern | What we evaluate together |
|---|---|
| Wide, shallow shape | Diameter and depth, base fixation and suture tension |
| Protrusion | Skin and fascia condition, and whether there is a hernia |
| Surgery or piercing scar | Scar, surrounding tissue, and narrowing |
| Sagging of the surrounding abdominal skin | Limits of standalone correction and the scope of abdominoplasty |
If the surrounding skin is firm and only the shape of the navel is a concern, standalone correction can be considered. If the surrounding skin is also loose, sagging may remain even after refining only the navel, so we explain how this relates to abdominoplasty or mini abdominoplasty.
In abdominoplasty, the original navel and the surrounding skin are planned together. Do not assume it is the same process as standalone surgery; check the incision, fixation and anesthesia scope. A detailed explanation is available in the Umbilicoplasty guideand the Abdominoplasty guide.
Even for a small area, check the risks and scars
Even if the incision is planned inside the navel, a scar can form. We discuss risks such as bleeding and hematoma, infection, delayed wound healing, reduced blood flow to the skin with partial necrosis, and changes in sensation. Changes in shape, such as the opening becoming narrow or becoming wide and shallow again, and asymmetry may also occur.
If hernia repair is included, we separately review the possibility of recurrence and the risks that depend on whether reinforcing material is used. The anesthesia method and recovery plan vary depending on the scope of surgery and your health condition, and additional correction may be needed.
Please tell us about any previous abdominal surgery, your scarring tendency, the medications you take, and whether you smoke. When deciding the timing of surgery, we also discuss your future pregnancy plans. Pregnancy or weight changes may change the condition around the navel again.
During recovery, hygiene and use of the abdomen are managed separately
After surgery, you will be given instructions on dressing and wound care for the navel. Secretions easily collect inside the navel, so hygiene is important, but do not wipe deeply, remove the gauze, or adjust the shape on your own. When you can shower and how to care for the area will be explained after we check the condition of the wound.
If only the shape was corrected versus fascia closure or hernia repair was done together, the restrictions on activities that strain the abdomen may differ. Check when to resume work, exercise and lifting heavy objects separately. The point when you return to daily life and the point when the final shape settles are not the same.
If swelling and pain worsen, or you have concerning symptoms such as discharge or skin color changes, contact the clinic to have it checked. Costs are explained after we examine the scope of surgery and whether procedures are combined; please also ask what follow-up visits and additional care are included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the navel be operated on by itself?
It can be considered if the surrounding abdominal skin is firm and the shape of the navel is the main concern. We first examine whether there is also sagging in the surrounding area.
Is every protruding navel a hernia?
We do not decide based on appearance alone. We check the condition of the skin and fascia and your symptoms, and if needed we assess for a hernia with ultrasound.
Is a smaller navel a better result?
We consider not only the diameter but also the depth, the tension of the surrounding skin, and the possibility of narrowing at the opening. We do not aim for the same shape for everyone.
Can I have a consultation if I have a laparoscopic surgery scar?
Please tell us when the surgery was done and how the shape has changed since. We examine the scar tissue and the surrounding condition and explain the direction of correction.
Will there be no scar?
Even if the incision is planned inside the navel, a scar can form, and there are individual differences such as hypertrophic scars or keloids. We review the location and care methods during the consultation.
When can I exercise again?
It depends on whether only the shape was corrected or fascia closure or hernia repair was done together. Your recovery will be checked, and you will be advised on when to resume each activity.
Atelier Plastic Surgery Consultation Guide
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Juyoung Go conducts consultations and treatment. We are located at 1F, 89 Donggwang-ro, Seocho-gu, Seoul, and the phone number is 02-533-1888. The Thursday closure may change in weeks that include a public holiday, so please confirm the schedule when you book.
Please prepare information about your weight changes, pregnancy and childbirth plans, past abdominal surgeries, and the direction you want. Your individual diagnosis and surgical plan are decided after an examination.
Navel Consultation