Before belly button surgery, ask whether you have been checked for an umbilical hernia, what technique will be used and where the scar will sit, which anaesthetic is planned, whether a larger procedure would suit you better, and what aftercare and revision arrangements are included. You should also confirm that your surgeon is on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery.
Why the right questions matter for a small procedure
Because umbilicoplasty is short and often done under local anaesthetic, it can be tempting to treat it as a minor decision. Yet the navel is a highly visible, central feature, and a poor result, such as a narrowed, overly round or scarred belly button, can be difficult to correct. Asking structured questions helps you judge whether the plan suits your anatomy and whether the practice will support you if healing does not go smoothly. Belly button surgery is for adults aged 18 and over.
About the surgeon
- Is the surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery?: the answer should be yes, and you can verify it on the GMC website.
- What qualifications and memberships does the surgeon hold?: FRCS (Plast) and membership of BAAPS or BAPRAS are reassuring signs of specialist training and engagement with UK standards.
- Does the surgeon regularly reshape the navel?: belly button reconstruction is part of every tummy tuck, so experienced body contouring surgeons perform it often.
Mr Reza Nassab is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register, with FRCS (Plast), and is a member of the BAAPS Council.
About your diagnosis and plan
- Has the abdominal wall been checked for a hernia?: a good answer describes an examination and, if needed, an ultrasound. Skin reshaping over an unrecognised hernia risks recurrence.
- Is umbilicoplasty the right operation, or would a mini tummy tuck or tummy tuck help more?: look for a surgeon who considers the whole abdomen, not just the navel.
- What shape are you aiming for?: a natural navel is usually slightly vertical with a gentle hood at the top; the surgeon should explain how this will be achieved.
- Where will the scars be?: ideally hidden inside the navel, with an honest explanation if any visible scar is unavoidable.
About the procedure day
Ask whether local anaesthetic, sedation or general anaesthesia is proposed and why, where the operation will take place and whether the hospital is registered with the Care Quality Commission. Find out how long you will be at the hospital, whether someone needs to collect you, and whether dressings or packing will be placed in the navel. It is also worth asking whether any stitches need removing and when.
About aftercare, cost and revision
- What follow-up is included?: expect scheduled reviews with the surgical team, not just a single check.
- Who is the contact if there is a problem after hours?: there should be a clear route to reach the team.
- What is the revision policy?: a good answer explains the circumstances in which revision is offered and any costs, and notes that the result is judged after around a year.
- What does the quote include?: surgeon, anaesthetic, hospital and routine follow-up should be itemised. The £150 consultation fee is separate at this practice.
Questions to ask yourself
It also helps to reflect on your own reasons and timing. Is the concern limited to the navel, or does loose skin across the lower tummy bother you as much? Are you planning a pregnancy or further weight loss, either of which could change the result? Can you take a few days away from work and a month away from core exercise? Honest answers to these questions help you and your surgeon agree on the right procedure at the right time.
Signs of a good consultation
A reassuring consultation leaves you with a clear understanding of what can and cannot be achieved, the risks, including narrowing and scarring, and the recovery ahead. You should be given time to think, written information to take away and an invitation to return with further questions. Pressure to book on the day, reluctance to examine for a hernia or promises of a particular appearance are reasons to pause.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth having a second consultation?
Many patients find a second appointment helpful for reviewing the plan and asking questions that occurred to them afterwards. There should be no pressure to decide immediately.
Should photographs be taken at consultation?
Yes. Clinical photographs are a standard part of planning and allow the surgeon to compare the navel before and after surgery.
Can belly button surgery be combined with other procedures?
It can sometimes be combined with liposuction or other body procedures. Your surgeon will explain whether combining is sensible in your case.
What should happen if a hernia is found?
The surgeon should explain whether it can be closed at the same time or whether referral to a general surgeon is needed first.
