Can An Umbilicoplasty Change The Shape Of My Belly Button To A More Vertical Elongated Shape?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I’m interested in an umbilicoplasty to improve the shape of my bellybutton. I want it to be more elongated and vertical. I have been told by other surgeons that not much can be done. I’m wondering if you have any suggestions.

A: What you currently have is a horizontally oriented belly button which is wide and hooded…which is not necessarily abnormal. By your described goals you desire a more vertically oriented belly button shape which could be done by removing the hooding (overhang) with a triangular excision pattern to create a more vertical shape. This will not, however, make the belly button more narrow in width.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana