Spare parts neoumbilicoplasty

ABSTRACT

Umbilical preservation can be challenging, particularly in complex cases involving simultaneous ventral hernia repair and abdominoplasty. Although the umbilicus serves no functional purpose, removal of the umbilicus can draw unwanted attention to the abdominal area and can cause emotional distress to patients. There are several well documented options for umbilical reconstruction. We present a new umbilical reconstruction technique relevant for such cases. This neoumbilicoplasty allows for preservation of the original umbilicus with relocation and reconstruction using local flaps. The technique is relatively simple and the time needed is minimal. The result is a natural, well positioned umbilicus using the principles of spare part surgery.