Is It Normal For Change Of Belly Button From Innie To Outie?

Posted on Wed, 5 Oct 2011

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 5 Oct 2011 Answered on

Sat, 9 Jun 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : My belly button seems to have changed recently from an "innie" to a half "outie" ...should I be concerned? I'm a 36 year old male 6'2' about 200 lbs. Never have had any serious medical concerns. I know my body well and a few days ago I noticed some extra skin in my belly button area which makes it appear as if my belly button is changing from an innie to an outie. Is this normal for changes to occur to the belly button?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rakhi Tayal (16 minutes later)

Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
Transition of the belly button from an innie to an outie can either be due to excessive fat deposition in the area as a result of a recent weight gain or it can be an umbilical hernia.
A careful examination by your primary physician will help in diagnosis.
In most of these cases, no treatment is needed. Loosing some extra weight and abdominal muscle strengthening exercises help in reducing the problem. In most of the cases it remains asymptomatic and unnoticed for years.
Definitely I would reassure you saying that there is no major health concern with you. Do not worry.
Hope this answers your query.I will be glad to answer the follow up queries that you have.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T