Many People Overlook Belly Button Appearance, Yet for Some, It's a Major Concern
For the majority, the appearance of their belly button is a matter of little concern, often categorized simply as an innie or an outie. However, for individuals who have undergone surgeries affecting the abdomen, such as tummy tucks or hernia repairs, the appearance of their belly button becomes a significant issue. These surgeries can alter or even remove the belly button entirely. Similar to how areola tattoos offer a highly effective and realistic option for breast reconstruction patients, tattooed belly buttons provide a remarkable solution for those who are self-conscious about their stomach's appearance. Here’s an in-depth look at this innovative form of restorative tattooing.
Various Factors Can Impact the Appearance of the Belly Button
Dr. Ruth Celestin, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Riverdale, Georgia, explains that "surgeries most likely to affect the belly button's appearance are those involving incisions in this area, such as hernia repairs, exploratory laparotomies, and even some emergency C-sections." She further notes that abdominoplasty can also significantly alter the belly button's appearance, often resulting in an unnatural look that many patients find unappealing. Dr. Celestin also mentions congenital defects that can lead to the absence of a belly button or cause it to heal in a way that drastically changes its appearance.
Despite these challenges, options for reconstruction or repair are somewhat limited. Surgical reconstruction, scar revision, or steroid injections to flatten thickened scars are some of the available methods, according to Dr. Celestin.
Belly Button Tattoos Gaining Traction as a Restorative Solution
Shaughnessy Otsuji, a tattoo artist at Studio Sashiko in Langley, British Columbia, observes that "while belly button tattoos are not as common as areola tattoos, there has been a noticeable increase in inquiries about this type of tattoo." Otsuji's first client for a belly button tattoo was Nicci Fisher, a 53-year-old mother of three, who sought a reconstructive tattoo after undergoing an umbilical hernia procedure and a tummy tuck. Fisher recounts, "The doctor essentially removed my belly button. Shaughnessy was microblading my eyebrows, and I knew she did restorative areola tattoos, so I asked her about doing my belly button—and she agreed."
The Tattooing Process: Complex Yet Efficient
Otsuji explains that unlike areolas, belly buttons are three-dimensional, requiring the use of shadows and highlights to create the illusion of depth on flat skin. She notes that among her clients, there is a roughly equal split between those who want their tattooed belly button to mimic their natural one and those who desire a completely new look. The tattooing process itself is relatively quick, typically taking about an hour and a half, compared to the two and a half hours required for areola tattoos. The procedure is also less painful due to the reduced sensation in the scar tissue. Otsuji emphasizes the need for a gentle touch and careful technique, given the scar tissue's different texture and sensitivity. She often schedules an initial session followed by a touch-up a few months later if needed. The average cost for this service is around $300.
Belly Button Tattoos: A Life-Changing Experience
Fisher shares her transformative experience, "I went without a belly button for over 10 years. Walking on the beach in a bikini, people would stare at my stomach. Now, when I wear a bikini and look in the mirror, I feel normal and great, knowing that my body finally has what it's supposed to have." She adds, "People can't believe it's not real when they see it from the front. The only time I remember it's a tattoo is when I look down and see that it's flat." Otsuji also points out that normal aging and minor weight fluctuations generally won't affect the tattoo's appearance, though more extreme or rapid weight loss might slightly alter its placement. Regular moisturizing of the skin around the tattoo, as with other parts of the body, is sufficient to maintain its look.
