Avoiding the Vertical Belly Button Scar with a Tummy Tuck
When considering a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), one common concern patients have is the appearance and placement of scars—especially the small vertical scar that can sometimes appear on the lower abdomen. At Metropolitan Plastic Surgery, Dr. Victoria Aimé uses a customized approach to reduce the need for this visible scar, creating a smoother, more discreet result.
Why Does a Vertical Scar Sometimes Happen?
During a traditional tummy tuck, an incision is made from hip to hip along the lower abdomen, and excess skin is removed—typically from just above the belly button down to the pubic area. This area often contains the most stretch marks and laxity, making it ideal for resection.
However, in patients with minimal upper abdominal laxity, there may not be enough extra skin to remove the entire segment above the belly button. In these cases, traditionally, surgeons have had to leave a vertical scar in the center of the lower abdomen—where the original belly button hole was created and then closed.
A Better Option: The “Rainbow Tab” Technique
Dr. Aimé has developed a thoughtful and refined approach to avoid the vertical scar in these patients. Here’s how it works:
- Instead of closing the belly button opening as a vertical scar, she designs the tummy tuck incision with a small vertical “rainbow” tab of skin.
- This tab allows the upper abdominal skin to be stretched and brought down fully to meet the lower incision, without leaving an open area.
- While the result includes a small raised portion of scar tissue initially, it’s all part of a planned two-stage process.
Stage Two: A Simple Scar Revision
Once the patient has healed—typically around one year after surgery when swelling has resolved and scar tissue has softened—Dr. Aimé performs a quick in-office scar revision under local anesthesia. During this procedure:
- The small rainbow tab is removed.
- The final scar becomes a smooth, curved incision placed low on the abdomen—easily hidden by underwear or swimsuits.
This technique is especially beneficial for patients who value a clean aesthetic with minimal visible scarring. Most patients find the secondary procedure well worth the improved appearance.
Why This Matters
While not every patient will need this approach, customized scar planning is a crucial part of Dr. Aimé’s philosophy. Each surgical plan is based on the individual’s anatomy, skin quality, and aesthetic goals.
“I find that patients are usually more than willing to undergo a small scar revision at one year if it helps avoid a visible vertical scar.” — Dr. Aimé
Have questions about tummy tuck scars or whether this technique might be right for you?
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