When the skin of the upper abdomen is stretched to close the resulting abdominal wound the belly button is repositioned to an anatomic location. This results in a well-hidden scar that runs around the circumference of the belly button. After surgery there are usually several drains left behind to control the normal accumulation of fluid and blood. Drains are usually removed within 3 to 7 days. The complications seen after this surgery involve the abdominal scar.
Abdominal herniation can occur, presenting either as unsightly bulges or as abdominal pain.
Significant hernias or contour deformities need to be repaired surgically. Wound healing problems may result in small areas of skin slough at the middle of the incision line. Wound healing problems almost always heal on their own over several weeks and usually do not cause deformity or require further surgery. This provides support for the abdomen while it heals and helps minimize the chance for complications. TRAM flap reconstructions are among the most commonly performed and typically offer the best option for breast reconstruction without the need for implants.