Reconstruction of a natural-looking umbilicus.

Based on the assumption that the umbilicus is a wound that has healed by second intention, we describe a method of reconstruction. The procedure consists of complete resection of the umbilical scar and its reconstruction by a linear incision at the site of the new umbilicus and inversion of the skin hedges, which are sutured to the linea alba leaving a 1 cm space between the skin borders to cause secondary wound healing. This procedure provides a natural-looking umbilicus. It is easy and quick to do, and can be used for reconstruction after abdominoplasty, excision of a naevus, or when the umbilicus has been removed during a previous xiphopubic incision.