House-roof Neoumbilicoplasty: Six-step Procedure for a Natural Navel

Abstract

Background: The umbilicus significantly contributes to abdominal aesthetics, with its reconstruction often necessary after certain procedures like umbilical herniorrhaphy, laparotomies, and abdominoplasty. Neoumbilicoplasty techniques have evolved, addressing various issues through approaches like skin and cartilage grafts, and local flaps. We are reporting our technique for neoumbilicoplasty. Methods: This study describes a novel neoumbilicoplasty technique implemented in 90 patients (88 women, two men) who underwent lipoabdominoplasty between February 2021 and June 2023. Exclusion criteria included procedures unrelated to neoumbilicoplasty. Surgical steps involved precise marking, dissection, and suturing to create a natural umbilical hood. Patient satisfaction was measured using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale. Results: The mean age was 37.7 years, with pre- and postoperative anatomics of 24.9 kg per m² and 24.2 kg per m², respectively. The average surgery duration was 84 minutes. No major complications occurred, but minor complications included dehiscence (6%), granuloma (5%), superficial infection (2%), bruising (1%), seroma (1%), and flattening (8%). Most complications were resolved with minor interventions. Patient satisfaction was high, with 96% of patients and the surgeon expressing significant satisfaction. Conclusions: House-roof neoumbilicoplasty is an innovative technique designed to effectively restore abdominal aesthetics through straightforward steps and timing, combined with high-definition lipoabdominoplasty.