For people that have had cosmetic or reconstructive surgery of the abdomen, a normal looking umbilicus (i.e., belly button) is very important. The belly button is crucial to the overall appearance of the entire torso, but abdominal surgery can distort, deform or even remove it altogether. An aesthetically pleasing belly button is typically small and concaved, with a vertical orientation. There have been some incredible advances in the techniques and technology to recreate the belly button, some of which Dr. Gregory Dumanian has developed.
One such surgical technique that Dr. Dumanian has found great success with is using what are known as square or “pumpkin-teeth” advancement flaps to recreate a natural-looking belly button. Read on as he explains this technique in more detail.
Using Square Skin Flaps to Recreate the Belly Button
Square or pumpkin-teeth advancement flaps can be utilized in abdominal reconstructive surgery with and without a midline vertical incision. In surgery with a midline vertical incision and significant skin laxity, the excess skin in the midline is excised, sparring two flaps of about 2 cm on either side. These flaps resemble the remaining teeth of a carved pumpkin. The flap tips are sutured together and to the fascia in the midline, and then the flap bases are sutured to each other, to create a normal looking belly button.
In abdominal surgery without a midline incision, Dr. Dumanian relies on a modified technique to recreate the belly button, using two rectangular flaps of skin and a W-plasty. The flaps should be well vascularized and non-hair-bearing for the best results. The flaps are sutured to each other and the fascia to create a small, concave and natural-looking belly button.
An Aesthetically Pleasing Navel with Minimal Scarring
Dr. Dumanian and his colleagues have successfully used the square advancement flap technique in many patients. They have been able to create aesthetically pleasing navels with minimal external scarring. The technique is simple and can be performed quickly. Complications are rare and no revision surgery has been needed. On the whole, patients are extremely happy with their results.
Learn More about Belly Button Surgery
To learn more about the square or pumpkin-teeth advancement flap technique, please read the paper published by Dr. Dumanian earlier this year. If you are interested in a belly-button related procedure, we encourage you to set an appointment with Dr. Dumanian by calling (312) 695-6022 today.