I've lost a good bit by now (84lbs with 39 to go) my belly button isn't getting any air and it's gross and smelly and wet. Sooo gross. I've tried lotrimin spray and alcohol to clean it but it's still gross. Any advise on how to deal with this?

Also when do you start thinking about plastic surgery. Again I still have a ways to go but I'm already seeing belly button issues and thinking I need to wrap my head around another surgery. And also what's the chance I get my insurance company to pay for it?

Band to sleeve revision surgery 1/16/17

HW: 283

CW: 199

GW: 160

Insurances usually pay for procedures if there are rashes and wounds resulting from the excess skin.

As for the belly button, after it is clean and dry, try powders, and even absorbent dressings in it. I'd even attempt taping the skin on the upper flap "up" to try and let some air in.

Antiperspirant deodorant might help cut down on some of the wetness (if it is coming from sweat)

And of course, see your doctor, as they need to document the problem, and might have better solutions for you than I can come up with.

I could even see getting some sort of abdominal shapewear that might lift things...

Try and wait until you are at goal and weight-stable before getting the surgery. You will be happier with the result.

I use a Q-tip to clean and dry inside mine, then run another Q-tip with Bag Balm (basically Vaseline) inside to keep the skin protected and to keep it from getting irritated and red. I've done this for years and it seems to work.

If all else fails have your Dr give you a precription. Which will work inn your favor when you want Skin Removal later on. I had skin issues BAD!! After I lost my weight. I documented everything with my Suregon. PCP and my Dermatolist. I had my RNY on July 2, 2013. In Sept of 2015 I had my Panni done. It was covered 100% by my insureance. I have Medicare and Champ VA. Such a blessing. Insureance usually will cover skin removal if you have skin issues. When you get close to having it done let your Suregon's office get the info to your Insureance. They do this all the time and know exactly what they require. BTW I also took pictures of my issue on my phone just inm case. I don't know how you carry your weight but I had most of my weight around my stomach. The thing I would recommend is go for the Tummy Tuck with muscle repair if at all possible. Good Luck

Thanks everyone. I'm trying a bunch of diff things and will contact my pcp tomorrow. I have another question tho is it that the insurance will cover a panni but not a tummy tuck? And do most surgeons/insurance whoever allow you to pay the difference? Is that how it works generally?


Band to sleeve revision surgery 1/16/17
HW: 283
CW: 199
GW: 160

So based on the fact you have a smell...I'm thinking you may have a yeast issue. I would try q-tips soaked in vinegar. (Dilute some white vinegar if skin is too irritated to handle it straight) then use a blow dryer on a cold to warm setting to dry the the area. The vinegar did wonders for me pre-op. Would think it should work for you as well.

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