A new umbilical reconstruction technique used for 306 consecutive abdominoplasties.

[BACKGROUND] The search for a natural-appearing umbilicus that does not compromise the aesthetic outcome of abdominoplasty began in the 1950s and coincides with the period that saw increasing exposure of the female body. Since then, umbilical transposition has been favored by most surgeons.

[METHODS] This report describes a new technique for umbilical reconstruction using a small X-shaped incision that creates four V-shaped flaps, which are sutured to the aponeurosis with absorbable sutures. This technique was used for 306 consecutive abdominoplasty patients, and a survey was performed to determine their level of satisfaction with the surgical outcome.

[RESULTS] A natural-appearing new umbilicus was created with no visible scars, a low complication rate (9 %), and a high level of patient satisfaction.

[CONCLUSIONS] The described technique had a low complication rate and allowed the creation of a new umbilicus with a natural appearance in a rapid, safe, and simple manner.

[LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV] This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article.