ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The search for a natural-looking umbilicus that does not compromise the aesthetic results of abdominoplasty began in the 1950s. Since then, the umbilical transposition technique has remained the preferred method among most surgeons. The objective of this study was to describe a new technique for umbilical reconstruction using small X-shaped incisions in the abdominal skin to create 4 small V-shaped flaps. These flaps are then sutured to the aponeurosis using absorbable sutures.
METHODS: This technique was used in 401 consecutive abdominoplasties and a survey was conducted to determine the level of patient satisfaction with the aesthetic results of their umbilicus.
RESULTS: Remarkably natural-looking umbilici were obtained using the described technique, which was also easily reproducible, did not cause any apparent scars, had a low incidence of complications (9.7%), and resulted in high patient satisfaction with the aesthetic results of the surgery.
CONCLUSIONS: The described technique represented a simple, safe, and fast approach to create new, natural-looking umbilici with a low rate of complications.
Keywords: Umbilicus. Scar. Abdomen/surgery. Abdominoplasty.