I had a laparoscopy in 2014 and have the same problem…
Hey, I’ve had my surgery in 2019 and my belly button has NEVER BEEN THE SAME. It’s embarrassing sometimes it leaks clear fluid, and smells. It’s wet and smelly. I put anti bacterial and anti fungal. Yea tree does wonders but you have to dilute it with coconut oil of another hypoallergenic creme oil or lotion.