Table of contents

• What Is Belly Button Surgery?
• Best Clinics in Korea for Belly Button Surgery
• Getting Belly Button Surgery in Korea
• Cost of Belly Button Surgery in Korea
• Alternatives to Belly Button Surgery
• Conclusion

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Have you ever considered altering the shape of your belly button for a more appealing look? In a world where beauty standards continually evolve, South Korea has emerged as a leading destination for belly button surgery, also known as umbilicoplasty, setting the trend in cosmetic innovations.

What Is Belly Button Surgery?

Belly Button Surgery, medically referred to as umbilicoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to alter the appearance of the navel. This surgery is often sought for aesthetic reasons, such as reshaping a belly button that has changed due to aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or umbilical hernia repairs. It may also be performed for those who are dissatisfied with the natural shape or orientation of their navel.

During the procedure, a cosmetic surgeon will typically make small incisions inside or around the belly button to either remove excess skin, tighten surrounding tissues, or reposition the navel for a more desirable appearance. In some cases, it can also involve the removal of scar tissue or repairing a protruding belly button.

Belly button surgery is often an outpatient procedure, meaning it's performed in a medical facility without requiring an overnight hospital stay. Depending on the complexity of the surgery and the individual's specific situation, the operation typically lasts between one to two hours.

Local anesthesia is most commonly used to ensure comfort, although general anesthesia might be preferred in more extensive cases. The choice of anesthesia will depend on both the patient's preference and the surgeon's recommendation.

This cosmetic surgery is available to both men and women, although it has gained popularity among women post-pregnancy who are looking to restore their abdominal region to pre-pregnancy appearance. The outcome of the procedure leads to a more aesthetically pleasing belly button that aligns with the patient's personal beauty standards. Recovery time varies but generally spans from a few days to a couple of weeks. Patients are typically advised to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting during the initial recovery phase to ensure optimal healing and results.

Umbilicoplasty can be a standalone procedure or performed in conjunction with other abdominal surgeries, such as a tummy tuck, for an overall enhanced abdominal profile.

Who is Belly Button Surgery for?

• Post-Pregnancy Changes: Women who have experienced a change in the shape of their bellybutton due to pregnancy may benefit from umbilicoplasty. Pregnancy can cause the bellybutton to appear stretched, or the tissue may fuse during healing, resulting in a protruding bellybutton. Umbilicoplasty can help restore its pre-pregnancy appearance.

• Old Piercing Scars: Individuals with scarring from an old bellybutton piercing, or piercings that were rejected by the body, may find umbilicoplasty beneficial. The procedure can effectively address scars located on the small ring of skin surrounding the bellybutton or within its indentation.

• Planning for Abdominal Surgery: Those considering abdominal surgery, such as a tummy tuck to remove extra skin or fat deposits, might also consider umbilicoplasty. It can be beneficial to combine procedures for a more comprehensive outcome, especially for those sure they do not plan future pregnancies, which could affect the results.

• Cosmetic Preferences: People who desire a more vertical bellybutton shape or have cosmetic concerns about the appearance of their bellybutton may find umbilicoplasty appealing for aesthetic reasons.

Best Clinics in Korea for Belly Button Surgery

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for belly button surgery:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic	Boutique leader in body contouring; world-renowned for high-definition 5D sculpting; anatomy-based belly button reshaping; VIP and celebrity trust; single-specialist model for consistent aesthetic vision; continuous investment in cutting-edge devices; emphasis on safety and artistry; 4-step systematic aftercare; comprehensive contouring options	Anatomy-based belly button reshaping: Beyond skin repositioning, careful contouring of fascia and subcutaneous fat creates a natural-looking navel that complements your overall torso. Minimal-scar philosophy: Techniques honed in high-definition sculpting prioritize discreet, well-concealed incisions and efficient recovery. 4-step systematic aftercare: A structured program focused on swelling reduction, irregularity correction, skin elasticity recovery, and residual fat contouring. Customized, Anatomy-Based Design: Each plan considers your unique body shape, proportions, and curves to ensure balanced, tailored results. Comprehensive contouring options: When indicated, belly button reshaping can be harmonized with abdominal liposculpture or tummy contouring strategies to enhance overall midsection aesthetics.
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Four-floor care system spanning consultation to post-operative skincare; world-class, research-driven clinic; Garosu-gil district of Gangnam location; led by directors Dr. Jeong Jae Yong and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun; board-certified breast specialist Dr. Lee; surgeons publish in scholarly texts, lecture globally, and conduct annual educational sessions; safety-first systems and personalized communication; culture of continuous advancement and meticulous artistry	Surgical artistry for small, high-visibility areas: millimeter-level design, symmetry, and discreet scar placement for belly button surgery. Board-certified leadership and global credibility. Harmonious, natural design philosophy. Safety and consistency backed by experience. Research and education at the core. Trusted for complex aesthetic challenges: revision work and structural refinement around the navel. Patient-centered communication.
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic	Abdominal contouring mastery: Tummy Tuck, Abdominal Lift, Liposuction, and Contouring Treatment; individualized planning; scar-focused excellence with dedicated Scar and Keloid Clinics; precision-driven technique for reshaping the umbilical stalk; seamless synergy with Liposuction and Fat Grafting; experienced leadership; comprehensive care journey from consult to recovery; capability for complex cases (including Tummy Tuck and Arm Lift); revision-ready mindset; advanced, patient-centered aesthetics	Abdominal contouring mastery: Tummy Tuck, Abdominal Lift, Liposuction, and Contouring Treatment to create naturally shaped umbilicus. Scar-focused excellence: Dedicated Scar and Keloid Clinics to minimize scarring and address prone-to-keloid patients. Precision-driven technique: Surgical precision and cutting-edge methods for reshaping the umbilical stalk. Seamless synergy with body procedures: Integration with Liposuction and Fat Grafting to refine peri-umbilical contours. Revision-ready mindset: Extensive experience with revision work in other specialties informing meticulous planning. Complex-case capability: Proficiency in procedures like Tummy Tuck and Arm Lift. State-of-the-art techniques: Broad service range ensures belly button surgery aligns with the patient’s overall aesthetic vision.

Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic

Lydian Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology Clinic in Cheongdam, Gangnam, Seoul, is a boutique leader in body contouring led by Dr. An Kyung Chun, whose more than two decades of specialized experience and international recognition set the standard for excellence. World-renowned for high-definition 5D sculpting, the clinic applies the same anatomy-focused precision to belly button surgery: rather than simply repositioning skin, Lydian meticulously sculpts the surrounding abdominal fascia and subcutaneous fat to create a naturally beautiful, harmoniously proportioned navel. With VIP and celebrity trust, a single-specialist model for consistent aesthetic vision, and continuous investment in cutting-edge devices, Lydian delivers refined results with personalized attention and an uncompromising commitment to safety and artistry.

• Anatomy-based belly button reshaping: Beyond skin repositioning, careful contouring of fascia and subcutaneous fat creates a natural-looking navel that complements your overall torso.
• Led by Dr. An Kyung Chun: Selected among Korea’s Top 18 Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Experts; Director of the 5D Liposculpture Academy; listed among the World’s Top 100 Doctors in Stem Cell Aesthetic Medicine; multiple exclusive selections in liposuction; clinical professor and trainer for domestic physicians in high-definition body sculpting and liposuction devices.
• Proven body-contouring leadership: World-class liposuction and HD (5D) sculpting pioneered by Dr. An inform navel design and surrounding abdominal refinement for cohesive, elegant outcomes.
• Customized, Anatomy-Based Design: Each plan considers your unique body shape, proportions, and curves to ensure balanced, tailored results.
• State-of-the-art technology: No outdated equipment—Lydian continuously invests in the latest Korean and international medical devices to elevate precision and safety.
• Minimal-scar philosophy: Techniques honed in high-definition sculpting prioritize discreet, well-concealed incisions and efficient recovery.
• 4-step systematic aftercare: A structured program focused on swelling reduction, irregularity correction, skin elasticity recovery, and residual fat contouring supports smooth healing and long-term refinement.
• Boutique, single-specialist care: One dedicated expert oversees your entire journey for consistent judgment, accountability, and aesthetic coherence.
• Internationally trusted expertise: A clientele that includes VIPs and celebrities reflects a reputation built on discretion, technical mastery, and natural, camera-ready results.
• Comprehensive contouring options: When indicated, belly button reshaping can be harmonized with abdominal liposculpture or tummy contouring strategies to enhance overall midsection aesthetics.

You can check out their website here: Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

Located in the vibrant Garosu-gil district of Gangnam, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery is a world-class, research-driven clinic spanning four dedicated floors that streamline care from consultation and surgery to post-operative skincare. Led by director surgeons Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, an award-winning researcher on 3D implants and a leading expert in rhinoplasty and facial contouring, the clinic is renowned for its academic rigor, safety-first systems, and personalized communication. Alongside board-certified breast specialist Dr. Lee—whose Seoul National University Hospital experience and focus on natural, long-lasting results anchor the clinic’s body aesthetics expertise—THE PLUS surgeons publish in scholarly texts, lecture globally, and conduct annual educational sessions for peers, reflecting a culture of continuous advancement and meticulous artistry that defines the clinic’s approach to every procedure.

• Surgical artistry for small, high-visibility areas: THE PLUS’s elite rhinoplasty and facial contouring pedigree translates into exceptional precision for belly button surgery, where millimeter-level design, symmetry, and discreet scar placement are paramount.
• Board-certified leadership and global credibility: Dr. Jeong (President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons) and Dr. Kim (award-winning 3D implant researcher; author of “Rebuilding Nose”) exemplify the clinic’s internationally recognized standards and evidence-based techniques.
• Harmonious, natural design philosophy: Dr. Kim’s emphasis on balanced aesthetics and Dr. Jeong’s function-meets-beauty ethos ensure the reconstructed navel complements overall body lines; Dr. Lee’s body-focused expertise supports results that look natural and last.
• Safety and consistency backed by experience: A team with over a decade of practice, active membership in major societies including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and frequent invitations for global presentations and live surgeries reinforce reliable, standardized care.
• End-to-end, four-floor care system: Purpose-built spaces for consultation, procedure, and post-op skincare enable meticulous planning and follow-through—critical for optimal scar maturation and refined umbilical contours.
• Research and education at the core: Surgeons who write, teach, and participate in international symposiums stay at the forefront of techniques that minimize scarring and enhance aesthetic outcomes in delicate procedures like umbilicoplasty.
• Trusted for complex aesthetic challenges: Deep experience in revision work and structural refinement equips the team to address nuanced concerns around the navel with stability, subtlety, and attention to detail.
• Patient-centered communication: A culture of clear, personalized guidance aligns expectations with achievable outcomes, supporting high satisfaction and confidence throughout the belly button surgery journey.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic in Korea offers a transformative approach to aesthetic care, led by a team of specialized professionals including a renowned female plastic surgeon with extensive experience. Grounded in sincerity, precision, and individualized treatment, the clinic provides a comprehensive journey of personal transformation that goes beyond simple procedures. With cutting-edge techniques and a broad portfolio—from Body Contouring (Liposuction, Line Fat, Fat Grafting, Contouring Treatment, Abdominal/Arm Lift) and Breast Augmentation to Lifting, Eye Plastic Surgery, Rhinoplasty, specialized Scar and Keloid Clinics, and tailored Petit/Skincare—the team is equipped to deliver results that harmonize function, form, and patient aspirations. Their capability to perform complex procedures such as Tummy Tuck, Arm Lift, BBL, and Fat Graft underscores the clinic’s depth of expertise in abdominal aesthetics, making it a top choice for patients considering belly button surgery.

Why Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is the best choice for Belly Button Surgery:

• Abdominal contouring mastery: Expertise in Tummy Tuck, Abdominal Lift, Liposuction, and Contouring Treatment provides the anatomical insight needed to create a naturally shaped, centrally balanced umbilicus.
• Individualized planning: Every procedure is tailored to the patient’s physique and goals, ensuring belly button size, depth, and position harmonize with overall abdominal lines.
• Scar-focused excellence: Dedicated Scar and Keloid Clinics support meticulous planning and aftercare to minimize visible scarring and address patients prone to keloid formation.
• Precision-driven technique: A culture of surgical precision and cutting-edge methods enables refined reshaping of the umbilical stalk and surrounding tissues for subtle, natural-looking results.
• Seamless synergy with body procedures: Integration with Liposuction and Fat Grafting allows fine-tuning of periumbilical contours and abdominal definition for a cohesive outcome.
• Experienced leadership: A renowned female plastic surgeon leads a specialized team that prioritizes nuanced aesthetics, proportion, and patient comfort.
• Comprehensive care journey: From consult to recovery, patients receive empathetic, expert guidance, optimizing preparation, procedure, and post-operative follow-up.
• Capability for complex cases: Proficiency in complex surgeries (including Tummy Tuck and Arm Lift) equips the team to address challenging belly button concerns within broader body contouring plans.
• Revision-ready mindset: Extensive experience with revision work in other specialties informs meticulous planning and corrective strategies when prior results need improvement.
• Advanced, patient-centered aesthetics: The clinic’s broad service range and state-of-the-art techniques ensure that belly button surgery aligns with each patient’s overall aesthetic vision.

Find more about this clinic here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Getting Belly Button Surgery in Korea

Belly button surgery, medically termed omphaloplasty, is an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure, especially in South Korea, where aesthetic surgery is highly advanced and widely accepted. This procedure is sought for a variety of reasons, including aesthetic enhancement, correction of physical distortions, or reconstruction following surgery or trauma.

Purpose and Popularity

In Korea, the emphasis on beauty and body aesthetics drives the demand for cosmetic surgeries, including belly button surgery. The procedure is often performed to create a more visually pleasing and symmetrical navel. Factors influencing individuals to seek this surgery include dissatisfaction with the belly button's appearance due to factors such as aging, weight changes, pregnancy, or piercing-related complications.

Consultation and Planning

The process typically begins with an in-depth consultation with a qualified cosmetic surgeon. During this stage, the patient and surgeon discuss desired outcomes, examine the current state of the navel, and consider any underlying medical conditions that might influence the surgery. The surgeon provides a detailed overview of the procedure, potential risks, recovery expectations, and costs involved.

The Procedure

Belly button surgery in Korea usually takes about one to two hours and is typically performed under local anesthesia, although general anesthesia may be used in more extensive cases. The overall goal is to improve the shape, size, and position of the navel.

1. Preparation: The area is cleaned and marked according to the surgical plan. This is followed by administration of anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort.

2. Incision and Reshaping: The surgeon makes a small incision, typically within the folds of the belly button to minimize visible scarring. Through this incision, excess skin or scar tissue is removed. The surgeon may also tighten the surrounding muscles and tissues to alter and improve the appearance of the navel.

3. Repositioning and Closing: Once the desired shape is achieved, the skin is carefully repositioned to ensure symmetry and natural appearance. The incision is then closed with fine sutures.

4. Final Adjustments: In some cases, additional procedures such as liposuction around the abdominal area may be performed to enhance overall contour.

Post-operative Care and Recovery

Recovery from belly button surgery in Korea is relatively quick, often involving minor discomfort that can be managed with prescribed pain medication. Patients are advised to limit physical activity and avoid strenuous exercises for several weeks post-surgery.

• Dressings and Monitoring: Dressings are applied to protect the area, and a follow-up session is scheduled to monitor healing and address any complications.
• Scar Management: While incisions are strategically placed to minimize visible scarring, patients may receive recommendations for scar management treatments to enhance healing.
• Overall Health Maintenance: Proper nutrition and hydration play critical roles in the recovery process, along with adherence to specific post-operative instructions provided by the healthcare team.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, omphaloplasty carries some risks, including infection, scarring, asymmetry, and dissatisfaction with the aesthetic outcome. However, choosing a reputable and experienced surgeon in Korea minimizes these risks significantly.

Korean clinics are known for their advanced technology and adherence to international safety standards, making the country an attractive destination for medical tourism, particularly in cosmetic surgery. Nonetheless, potential patients should conduct thorough research and consult with medical professionals before proceeding with the surgery to ensure a safe and satisfactory experience.

Cost of Belly Button Surgery in Korea

Belly button surgery, also known as umbilicoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that is increasingly popular worldwide, including in South Korea, a country renowned for its advancements in cosmetic surgery. In Korea, the cost for belly button surgery is relatively competitive compared to other nations, making it an attractive option for medical tourists seeking quality care at more affordable prices.

South Korea

In South Korea, the cost of belly button surgery can range from $1,000 to $3,000 USD. The wide range in pricing is often dependent on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, the clinic's reputation, and the surgeon's experience. South Korean clinics are known for their state-of-the-art facilities and highly trained medical staff, which contribute to the overall appeal of having the procedure done in this country.

United States

In contrast, the cost of belly button surgery in the United States tends to be higher, with prices ranging from $2,500 to $5,500 USD. The higher cost in the U.S. is often due to a combination of factors including higher overhead costs for clinics, surgeon fees, and additional expenses such as anesthesia and post-operative care. Furthermore, healthcare standards and regulations can also contribute to the overall cost.

Other Countries

In other parts of the world, the cost of belly button surgery varies significantly:

• United Kingdom: The procedure can cost between £2,000 and £4,000, roughly translating to $2,700 to $5,400 USD. Similar to the U.S., the higher cost is due to the comprehensive care provided and the regulatory environment.

• Australia: Costs in Australia are comparable to those in the U.K., ranging from AUD 3,000 to AUD 6,000, or approximately $2,000 to $4,000 USD.

• Thailand: Known for its medical tourism, Thailand offers more affordable options for belly button surgery with prices typically ranging from $1,200 to $2,500 USD. The country combines competitive pricing with qualified medical professionals, making it another popular choice for international patients.

• Mexico: Mexico also stands out for its affordability, with prices typically between $1,000 and $2,500 USD. Its proximity to the United States makes it a convenient option for North American patients seeking more affordable procedures.

Overall, South Korea's pricing for belly button surgery is competitive, especially when considering the high standards of care and expertise offered. While prices can vary depending on numerous factors, Korea is positioned as a contender in the global cosmetic surgery market, providing an attractive balance of cost, quality, and innovation.

Alternatives to Belly Button Surgery

While umbilicoplasty is a popular option for reshaping the belly button, there are several alternative procedures that can yield similar cosmetic results without the need for surgery. Here are three suitable alternatives:

1. Non-Surgical Scar Revision

Scar revision procedures are a less invasive option that can improve the appearance of scarring around the belly button without surgery. These treatments include laser therapy, dermabrasion, and chemical peels, which work by resurfacing the skin and reducing the visibility of scars. For individuals who have scars from old piercings or minor navel irregularities, scar revision can offer significant enhancement at a lower cost and with less downtime compared to surgical methods. Consultation with a dermatologist or a cosmetic surgeon specializing in non-invasive treatments is recommended to determine the most effective approach.

2. Micro-Needling

Micro-needling is a popular minimally invasive procedure that involves creating tiny punctures in the skin using fine needles. This process stimulates the body’s natural healing response, promoting collagen production and resulting in smoother and more even skin texture. Micro-needling can be effective for addressing skin laxity or textural issues around the belly button. When combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, the effects can be enhanced, offering improved skin elasticity and reduced appearance of scars. This alternative is particularly appealing due to its minimal recovery time and long-lasting results.

3. Ultrasound Fat Reduction

Procedures like UltraShape use ultrasound technology to selectively target and break down fat cells in the abdominal area, including around the navel. This non-invasive method not only helps in contouring the body but also subtly reshapes the belly button area by reducing surrounding fat that may alter its appearance. Results from ultrasound fat reduction can be noticeable in a few weeks and continue to improve with additional sessions. As there is no recovery period and risks are minimal, this option is ideal for individuals looking to improve their abdominal profile without going under the knife.

Each of these alternatives offers unique benefits and suitability depending on individual goals and conditions. Consulting with a qualified specialist will ensure the most appropriate and effective treatment plan tailored to specific cosmetic needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, belly button surgery in Korea, also known as umbilicoplasty, represents a growing trend in the realm of cosmetic surgery, driven by cultural aesthetics and advanced medical expertise. Korean clinics are renowned for their cutting-edge techniques, affordability, and highly skilled surgeons, making them a preferred destination for individuals seeking both subtle and significant changes to their belly button's appearance. As awareness and acceptance of this procedure continue to rise globally, Korea remains at the forefront, offering personalized and meticulous care aimed at enhancing patients' body confidence. Whether for medical reasons or purely aesthetic desires, Korean belly button surgery exemplifies a commitment to precision and patient satisfaction, making it an attractive option for people worldwide seeking top-notch cosmetic solutions.