Managing Umbilical Issues After Laparoscopic Surgery: Expert Advice

Umbilical issues related to laparoscopic surgery?

A long time ago, I underwent laparoscopic surgery, and since then, my belly button has become smaller, and there is a large scar from excessive suturing next to it.
After some time, my belly button starts to hurt, emits a foul odor, and becomes red, swollen, and oozes pus.
I have consulted a dermatologist.
What recommendations do you have for a permanent solution? Which specialty should I consult?

Jie, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/03/04

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! It is recommended that you schedule an appointment with a general surgery clinic.

Reply Date: 2024/03/04

More Info

After laparoscopic surgery, it is not uncommon for patients to experience various complications related to the umbilical area, especially if the incision was made through the belly button. The issues you are describing, such as a smaller umbilical opening, excessive scarring, pain, odor, redness, and discharge, can be quite distressing and may require careful management.

1. Understanding the Symptoms: The symptoms you are experiencing could be indicative of several conditions. The narrowing of the umbilical opening may be due to scar tissue formation, which can occur after any surgical procedure. This scar tissue can sometimes lead to a condition known as umbilical stenosis, where the opening becomes too tight. The pain, odor, and discharge suggest that there may be an infection or inflammation present, possibly due to a skin infection or an abscess forming in the area.

2. Consulting the Right Specialist: Given the nature of your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a specialist in general surgery or a plastic surgeon who has experience with post-operative complications. They can assess the scar tissue and determine if there is a need for surgical intervention to remove or revise the scar. If there is an infection, a dermatologist or an infectious disease specialist may also be involved in your care to address the infection and any associated skin issues.

3. Potential Treatments: Treatment options may include:
- Topical Antibiotics: If there is an infection, topical antibiotics may be prescribed to help clear it up.

- Scar Management: Treatments for scar tissue can include silicone gel sheets, steroid injections, or laser therapy to help reduce the appearance of scars and improve the flexibility of the skin.

- Surgical Revision: In cases where the umbilical opening is significantly narrowed or if there is excessive scar tissue causing pain and discomfort, surgical revision may be necessary. This procedure can help restore the normal appearance and function of the umbilical area.

4. Preventive Measures: To prevent future complications, it is essential to follow proper wound care protocols after surgery. Keeping the area clean and dry, avoiding tight clothing that may irritate the area, and monitoring for any signs of infection can help reduce the risk of complications.

5. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are crucial to monitor the healing process and address any new or ongoing symptoms. If you notice any changes in the appearance of the umbilical area or if symptoms worsen, seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, your symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation by a specialist who can provide targeted treatment options. It is essential to address both the cosmetic and functional aspects of your umbilical issues to improve your quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Concerns About Laparoscopic Surgery: Seeking Expert Advice on Post-Op Issues

Hello Dr. Huang, My sister is 23 years old. Last summer, she underwent laparoscopic surgery for an ectopic pregnancy at Hospital A in Taichung, where three incisions were made. After the surgery, everything returned to normal. In December of the same year, she became pregnant an...

Dr. Huang Jianxun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
It is indeed difficult to make a judgment. The law is based on evidence as its foundation. If you can provide strong evidence beyond just written statements, it may be more beneficial for you. Otherwise, each side will have its own reasoning.

Post-Laparoscopic Surgery: Managing Umbilical Discharge and Concerns

Hello doctor, I underwent laparoscopic surgery to remove a right ovarian teratoma on October 8th. On October 9th, I had my dressing changed and a hydrogel patch applied. The instructions indicated that if there were no abnormalities, I could keep the patch on until my follow-up a...

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
If there is redness, swelling, heat, and pain, it may indicate an infection at the wound site, and a return to the hospital for examination is necessary. However, if it is merely a bruise, the area has not expanded, and the wound is gradually drying, then an earlier follow-up app...

Post-Laparoscopic Surgery: Understanding Umbilical Changes and Symptoms

Hello Doctor, I underwent laparoscopic surgery eight years ago. Last year, my navel became inflamed for 4-5 months, and now it appears very dark (it looks like hyperpigmentation and has remained this way for a long time without returning to its original skin color), and it is als...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
Umbilical pigmentation is caused by chronic inflammation of the wound and is usually not related to the recovery of internal organs. If the scar tissue exhibits symptoms of pain or itching, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation to check for signs of infection.

Post-Surgery Concerns for Umbilical Urachal Remnant Closure

Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with a patent urachus about a month ago and underwent surgical excision. Since I have type 1 diabetes, the doctor advised me to be cautious about the possibility of recurrent infections. Recently, my wound has almost healed, but my abdomen feels cons...

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery
Postoperative conditions can vary depending on the type of surgery performed. Based on your description, it does not appear to be a specific complication issue, as the original condition was an infection, and antibiotic treatment was likely administered during the treatment proce...