Morphometric Analysis of the Umbilicus According to Age

Area of Science:

• Plastic surgery
• Pediatric surgery
• Anatomy

Background:

• Umbilicoplasty in children is challenging due to ongoing growth.
• Previous studies focused on adult umbilical morphometrics.
• Understanding pediatric umbilical changes is crucial for surgical outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare childhood and adult umbilical shape and position.
• To refine surgical techniques for pediatric umbilicoplasty.
• To establish morphometric guidelines for optimal cosmetic results.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, single-center study.
• Morphometric analysis of the umbilicus in 200 individuals (adults and children).
• Standardized measurements and photographic documentation by a single operator.

Main Results:

• Umbilical position is stable throughout growth, typically at 0.57 of the xiphoid-pubis distance.
• Round and protruding umbilical shapes are more frequent in children (<18 years).
• T-shaped umbilici appear only in adults; horizontal ovals are more common in adults.

Conclusions:

• Abdominal growth and fat redistribution influence umbilical orientation and depth.
• Optimal placement for secondary umbilicoplasty is between 1/2 and 2/3 of the xiphoid-pubis distance.
• These findings improve cosmetic outcomes in pediatric umbilicoplasty.