It may be small, but in modern body contouring, the belly button is having a big moment. Once an afterthought in tummy tucks, this tiny detail has become one of the defining markers of quality and craftsmanship in cosmetic surgery – and South Africans are taking notice. The “perfect innie” has become the ultimate finishing touch on a flat, sculpted abdomen in post-surgery reveals, and an increasingly hot topic on social media feeds.
Reality TV personality Nozipho Ntshangase, who has been open about her mommy makeover journey, recently sparked national conversation after sharing a glimpse of her natural-looking results. The surprise star of the show was her subtle, beautifully reconstructed navel created by Professor Chrysis Sofianos – one of South Africa’s leading
plastic and reconstructive surgeons. Professor Sofianos notes that the online excitement over Ntshangase’s belly button mirrors a broader trend in aesthetic medicine, where many patients favour subtle, natural-looking enhancements over dramatic transformations.
“Today’s patients want to look like themselves, only more refined. The belly button may seem like a small detail, but it’s the visual anchor of the abdomen. When it’s shaped and positioned perfectly, everything feels balanced and proportionate – it completes the story in an authentic way.”
A subtle detail with serious implications Notably, tummy tucks, also known as abdominoplasties, have become increasingly popular across South Africa. According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), as many as 1,808 tummy tucks were performed in 2023 alone, with demand steadily rising as more women seek post-pregnancy body restoration solutions. But while attention often centres on the flatness of the stomach or tightness of the skin, he emphasises that the navel’s placement and shape can make or break the aesthetic outcome. “If it’s too high, too low, or unnaturally round, even an otherwise flawless tummy tuck can look off. A well-crafted belly button looks effortless, like it’s always belonged there.” Reconstructing or repositioning the navel is also one of the most technically demanding parts of a tummy tuck. And when things go wrong, the consequences can be serious. One of the most severe complications is tissue necrosis, where the navel loses its blood supply and the tissue dies, sometimes requiring reconstructive surgery. Poor abdominal-wall repair can further cause umbilical hernias, producing painful bulges that may necessitate further surgeries. Additionally, a misaligned or puckered navel can interfere with healing, create visible scarring, and even compromise core-muscle function, contributing to back pain and posture issues down the line.
“These are preventable complications, but surgical experience and knowledge are crucial. When experience or attention to detail is lacking, even a millimetre miscalculation can change the entire outcome.” Choosing the right hands Professor Sofianos explains that meticulous technique and anatomical knowledge are essential for preserving the navel’s natural blood supply and contour. This includes careful dissection, repositioning through a new skin opening, and suturing that mimics the subtle inward pull of a naturally formed belly button. “The belly button is small, but it’s also symbolic. It sits at the centre of the abdomen, which is the focal point of the body’s symmetry. A well-executed reconstruction blends science and artistry. When it fails, it’s immediately obvious.” For patients considering a tummy tuck, he therefore recommends thorough vetting. “Choose an HPCSA-registered plastic surgeon with proven reconstructive experience. Plus, always review before-and-after images that show the navel – it can reveal a surgeon’s precision more than any other detail.”
Ultimately, the perfect innie isn’t about chasing trends, but about safeguarding health and restoring confidence. “In the plastic surgery field, the smallest details can carry the greatest significance, influencing surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction. It’s absolutely vital to get it right.”
