To get rid of an outie belly button, options include umbilical hernia repair, surgical procedures, and non-invasive techniques if it’s due to scar tissue or minor protrusion.
How to Get Rid of Outie Belly Button | Solutions You Can Consider
I remember being curious about belly button shapes—especially how some people have innies while others have outies. If you’ve ever wondered how to get rid of an outie belly button, you’re not alone. While an outie is typically harmless, some people prefer to change it for aesthetic or comfort reasons. In some cases, an outie belly button results from an umbilical hernia or excess scar tissue, which can be addressed with medical procedures. Here’s everything you need to know about why outies form and the options available to change them safely.
What Causes an Outie Belly Button?
An outie belly button can develop from several factors, including how the umbilical cord heals after birth or an umbilical hernia that causes tissue to protrude. While outies are often genetic or harmless, they can occasionally indicate structural issues beneath the skin. Below are some of the most common causes:
- Umbilical Hernia: This occurs when part of the intestine pushes through the abdominal muscles near the belly button. It’s common in newborns and can persist into adulthood if untreated.
- Scar Tissue from Umbilical Cord Healing: How the cord stump is tied off and heals after birth can affect the belly button’s final shape.
- Increased Abdominal Pressure: Pregnancy, obesity, or lifting heavy weights can put pressure on the abdomen, worsening an outie.
- Surgical Scars or Piercing: Scar tissue from surgeries or piercings can create changes in the belly button’s appearance.
Table 1: Common Causes of Outie Belly Button
| Cause | Description | Can It Be Corrected? |
| Umbilical Hernia | Intestine pushes through abdominal wall | Yes, with hernia repair surgery |
| Scar Tissue Formation | Tissue from cord healing creates protrusion | Yes, with minor surgical correction |
| Increased Abdominal Pressure | Pressure causes belly button to push outward | Sometimes, through weight management |
| Surgical Scars or Piercings | Alters natural shape | Yes, through surgical revision |
Non-Surgical Ways to Manage an Outie Belly Button
If your outie is mild or caused by excess tissue, there are some non-invasive techniques you can explore before considering surgery. These methods are most effective when the outie is due to temporary factors, like abdominal pressure or minor scar tissue.
- Compression Garments: Wearing abdominal binders or compression belts may help reduce protrusion, especially if the outie is caused by mild hernia symptoms.
- Exercise and Core Strengthening: Strengthening your abdominal muscles through targeted exercises can help manage mild protrusions by improving muscle tone and reducing pressure.
- Weight Management: Reducing excess abdominal fat may lessen pressure on the belly button and improve its appearance.
- Topical Treatments for Scar Tissue: If scar tissue is causing your outie, silicone sheets or scar gels can soften the tissue over time.
While these approaches won’t eliminate an outie caused by structural issues like a hernia, they can help reduce its prominence or improve comfort.
Surgical Options to Get Rid of an Outie Belly Button
When non-invasive techniques aren’t enough, surgical options provide a permanent solution to outie belly buttons, especially those caused by hernias or excess tissue. Here are the most common procedures:
- Umbilical Hernia Repair: If your outie is due to an umbilical hernia, a surgeon can repair the muscle wall to prevent the intestine from protruding. This is a common outpatient procedure.
- Umbilicoplasty: This cosmetic surgery reshapes the belly button, turning an outie into an innie. It’s often performed under local anesthesia with minimal recovery time.
- Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): For people with significant abdominal skin laxity, a tummy tuck can tighten the area around the belly button and correct any protrusion.
Table 2: Surgical Procedures for Outie Belly Button
| Procedure | Description | Recovery Time |
| Umbilical Hernia Repair | Corrects hernia causing outie | 1-2 weeks |
| Umbilicoplasty | Cosmetic surgery to reshape the belly button | 7-10 days |
| Tummy Tuck | Tightens abdominal muscles and skin | 4-6 weeks |
What to Expect from Surgery
If you opt for surgery, it’s important to know what the procedure and recovery process will involve. Most surgeries to correct outie belly buttons are outpatient procedures with minimal downtime. Here’s what you can expect:
- Before Surgery: Your surgeon will evaluate whether a hernia is present and determine the best surgical approach. You may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
- During Surgery: Most procedures take under an hour. Local or general anesthesia will be used depending on the type of surgery.
- Recovery: You’ll likely experience mild swelling and discomfort for a few days. It’s important to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise during the recovery period.
- Long-Term Results: Surgical procedures typically provide permanent results. Scarring is minimal and usually hidden inside or around the belly button.
How to Care for Your Belly Button After Surgery
After surgery, proper aftercare ensures optimal healing and reduces the risk of infection or complications. Follow these tips:
- Keep the Area Clean: Wash the area with mild soap and water, then gently pat dry.
- Apply Antibiotic Ointment: Use antibiotic ointment as directed by your surgeon to prevent infection.
- Wear Loose Clothing: Avoid tight clothing that could irritate the surgical site.
- Avoid Heavy Lifting: Wait at least two weeks before resuming strenuous activities.
Table 3: Post-Surgery Care Tips
| Care Tip | Why It’s Important | How to Implement |
| Clean the Area | Prevents infection | Wash with mild soap daily |
| Use Antibiotic Ointment | Promotes healing | Apply as directed by your surgeon |
| Wear Loose Clothing | Reduces irritation | Opt for soft, breathable fabrics |
| Avoid Heavy Lifting | Prevents strain on surgical site | Wait at least 2 weeks to lift heavy items |
FAQs – How to Get Rid of Outie Belly Button
Can an outie belly button go away on its own?
If the outie is caused by a minor umbilical hernia, it may correct itself during infancy. However, in adults, outie belly buttons typically don’t go away without medical intervention.
How long does umbilical hernia surgery take?
Umbilical hernia repair surgery usually takes 30-60 minutes. It’s typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.
Is umbilicoplasty painful?
Umbilicoplasty is generally not very painful. Most patients report mild discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Can exercise reduce an outie belly button?
Exercise can improve muscle tone and reduce abdominal pressure, but it’s unlikely to completely reverse an outie belly button caused by structural issues like a hernia.
Will I have a scar after belly button surgery?
Yes, but the scar is usually small and hidden inside or around the belly button. Over time, it fades and becomes less noticeable.
Is it safe to correct an outie belly button during pregnancy?
It’s best to wait until after pregnancy to correct an outie belly button. Pregnancy can place additional strain on the abdomen, which could affect surgical outcomes.
How much does umbilicoplasty cost?
Umbilicoplasty costs vary but typically range between $2,500 and $5,000, depending on your location and the surgeon’s experience.
Can weight loss help with an outie belly button?
In some cases, weight loss can reduce abdominal pressure, improving the appearance of a mild outie. However, structural outies may require surgery for permanent correction.
Is umbilical hernia repair covered by insurance?
If the surgery is medically necessary, such as to repair a hernia, insurance may cover it. Cosmetic procedures like umbilicoplasty are usually not covered.
What risks are associated with belly button surgery?
Risks include infection, bleeding, and scarring, but complications are rare when performed by a qualified surgeon. Following post-surgical care instructions minimizes these risks.
Conclusion: How to Get Rid of Outie Belly Button
Getting rid of an outie belly button is possible through non-invasive methods like compression garments or more permanent solutions like surgery. If your outie is due to a hernia, medical intervention may be necessary. For those seeking cosmetic changes, procedures like umbilicoplasty can provide lasting results with minimal downtime. Whether for comfort or aesthetics, there are options available to help you achieve the look you want.