Achieving Aesthetic Results in the Umbilical Float Mini-Abdominoplasty: Patient Selection and Surgical Technique

Abstract

Background: The umbilical float mini-abdominoplasty has been criticized for low final umbilicus position and umbilical distortion. The authors believe that in the properly selected patient and with proper technique, the umbilical float can achieve superior aesthetic results in a subset of patients. Methods: A retrospective review was performed of all umbilical floats performed by two surgeons (B.A.H. and H.S.B.) at the authors’ institution. Postoperative photographs were reviewed by 20 blinded evaluators. Results: Thirty-one female patients underwent umbilical float mini-abdominoplasty between 2010 and 2017. All patients had starting umbilicus position at or above the level of the iliac crest. The umbilicus was floated for a distance of 1 to 3.5 cm. Average umbilicus position was slightly above the midpoint between the xiphoid and pubis preoperatively, and slightly below the midpoint postoperatively. Final umbilicus was considered “too low” in five patients (18.5 percent), all of which were positioned at the level of the anterior superior iliac spine. Conclusions: Optimal candidates for the umbilical float mini-abdominoplasty are postpartum women with normal body mass index, mild to moderate infraumbilical skin excess, and minimal to mild supraumbilical excess. Starting umbilicus position should be at or above the level of iliac crests, or slightly above the mid torso. Final umbilicus position should remain above the anterior superior iliac spine. The umbilical base is reattached with multiple sutures to prevent distortion. At least 10 cm of hairless lower abdominal skin should be maintained between the final scar and navel to prevent a low-appearing umbilicus. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.