In a full tummy tuck, all of the skin and fat at the level of the belly button and below it is removed. Since the belly button is contained within this area of tissue, it must be separated from the surrounding tissues before the this is removed. Dr. Diaz takes special care to separate the belly button in the most meticulous manner. He also makes sure that the remaining belly button has a beautiful shape. 

 

Once it is separated from the surrounding skin and fat, the belly button remains as a "stalk" of tissue that connects to the abdominal muscles. The dissection can then continue above the level of the belly button. 

 

It is important to mention that many women develop hernias in this area, especially after pregnancy. If you have a hernia of the belly button, it can be repaired during this procedure. Health insurance will cover the cost of this procedure in most cases. 

 

A new opening is ultimately made for the belly button. This is discussed in the section called "Creation of New Umbilicus."