Neoumbilicus after Selective Excision in Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap Breast Reconstruction

The umbilicus offers no functional importance to the adult human but remains a key aesthetic landmark of the anterior abdominal wall, and its absence can be a cause for concern in aesthetic and reconstructive patients. Umbilical reconstruction or transposition for abdominoplasty and abdominally based flap operations is frequently complicated by umbilical death, infections, development of wounds needing prolonged wound care, and generally poor aesthetic outcomes. A multitude of techniques have been described to create the "ideal" neoumbilicus, but none has proven to be superior to the technique that comes before it. Our data demonstrate that, in a select set of patients, it may be beneficial to electively remove the umbilicus. Thus, umbilical reconstruction can be performed as an adjunct procedure to the primary operation with a superior aesthetic result and minimal risk for complications. This article describes the authors' approach to delayed neoumbilical reconstruction in patients undergoing elective umbilical resection.