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Umbilicoplasty
Charlotte's Most Trusted Plastic Surgeon
— delivering confidence through precision and care.
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Adjusting Navel Shape After Pregnancy or Surgery
Tummy tuck surgery often involves repositioning the belly button, but this area can also be corrected on its own. Umbilicoplasty can be helpful when prior surgeries have left the area with a hernia or changes in shape, or when patients feel unhappy with the natural shape of their belly button. At May Plastic Surgery, Dr. Brian May uses umbilicoplasty to refine this small, but noticeable part of the abdomen.
General
1-2 hours
1-2 weeks
What Is Umbilicoplasty?
Umbilicoplasty is a surgical procedure that focuses specifically on the belly button. Originally used to correct umbilical hernias in infants, it can be helpful to address changes in appearance caused by pregnancy, old belly button piercings and surgical scars left by hernia repair or laparoscopic procedures. Umbilicoplasty can also improve the shape or contour of the belly button and is often sought to create a nice oval shape and transform an “outie” into an “innie.”
- Dr. Brian May
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What Can Umbilicoplasty Address?
When you come in for a consultation, we can talk about everything that has been bothering you about your belly button area. Umbilicoplasty can address:
- Stretched or prominent belly button
- Changes after abdominal surgery
- Wrinkling or loose skin around the navel
- Changes after pregnancy or weight loss
- Outies
- Visible belly button in swimsuits or fitted clothing
If you are in good overall health and have realistic expectations for what this surgery can do, you may be right for an umbilicoplasty. We’ll talk about the adjustments that we can provide with this surgery during your consultation.
The Art & Science of Body Contouring With Dr. May
There’s an art to sculpting the body that goes far beyond measurements or technique. It’s about understanding how curves interact, how light moves across the waistline, and how to restore definition without creating results that feel artificial or overdone. Dr. May brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented mindset to every contouring procedure, not just aiming to flatten the abdomen or remove fat, but to create a natural-looking shape and proportion that feels uniquely yours.
Body contouring requires precision, but it also requires restraint. Knowing when less is more, and how to shape rather than simply remove. “Body contouring isn’t just about skin and fat removal,” Dr. May explains. “It’s more important to know what to leave behind. That means looking beyond any one feature and designing something that makes sense for the whole body… something that feels natural and balanced.”
Every decision Dr. May makes, from where to remove fat to how each area flows into the next, is made with harmony and longevity in mind. His goal is always a result that enhances your shape while staying true to your natural form.
- Dr. Brian May
Procedure Details
Umbilicoplasty can be done under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on whether it’s being done on its own or as part of a larger procedure. Dr. May will make incisions around the belly button to reshape or reposition it. He may remove excess skin or place internal sutures to keep the new shape. One of the goals of this surgery is to keep incisions as discreet as possible, and Dr. May plans each step based on what will work best with your anatomy.
Recovery & Results
Recovery from umbilicoplasty is easier and more manageable than major surgery, but you will still need to treat your body with care. You will have some swelling and tenderness around your belly button, and the incision will need special attention. After your surgery, you’ll be sent home with instructions on how to keep the area clean and protected while it heals. You’ll need to avoid anything too strenuous until cleared by Dr. May, but most people can return to office work within a few days.
You’ll notice some changes right away, like smoother skin around the belly button and correction of any visible irregularities. Swelling will continue to subside as your body heals, and your scars will soften and fade with time. Once the area settles, your belly button will start to look more natural with the rest of your stomach.
Inside the Consultation Room With
Dr. Brian May
Adjunct Procedures:
To take your
Umbilicoplasty
results to the next level, consider these options for a more complete transformation:
Request Your Consultation
Umbilicoplasty may be a small procedure, but it can bring confidence back to the right patient. At May Plastic Surgery, Dr. Brian May approaches every case with a sense of compassion and patient-centered care. His concierge-style experience is grounded in surgical skill and a continued commitment to patient safety. Every detail is considered, from planning to healing, so you feel supported through the whole process. Call 704-200-2493 to take the next step. Tab 2
Let's Connect
We are here to help. Whether you’re exploring your options or ready to schedule, our team is here to answer your questions about procedures, recovery, and next steps — and to personally guide you every step of the way.