Abdominoplasty without scars in umbilical area

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the results of abdominoplasty without umbilical scar compared to classical techniques regarding advantages and limitations of this method.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included retrospective and prospective analysis of 64 patients (57 women and 7 men) aged 25-68 years (mean 44.2±9.1 years). All ones underwent abdominoplasty in 2021-2025. Patients were divided into two groups: no umbilical scar (n=32) and classical umbilicoplasty (n=32). Liposuction of anterior abdominal wall was performed by VASER ultrasound in 35 patients. Surgical results and aesthetic satisfaction of patients were assessed using a validated BODY-Q.

RESULTS

The navel-free technique demonstrated significant (p<0.001) superiority over classical umbiliplasty in all domains of the validated BODY-Q questionnaire (scale 0—100). Psychological distress was lower in the group without scarring by 14.4 (95% CI 16.2 — 12.6) points (18.3±4.1 vs. 32.7±6.8 points). Body image perception improved by 14.4 (95% CI 11.2; 17.6) points (86.5±5.2 vs. 72.1±7.9 points). Satisfaction with abdominal contour was higher by 13.4 (95% CI 10.1 — 16.7) points (89.2±4.7 vs. 75.8±8.3 points). Scar assessment demonstrated maximum differences (22.6 (95% CI 19.3 — 25.9) points, 91.0±3.5 vs. 68.4±9.1 points). Differences remained clinically and statistically significant (p<0.001) after 6-month follow-up. The incidence of complications did not differ (6.3% in both groups; p=0.74).

CONCLUSION

The navel-free technique of abdominoplasty provides natural abdominal contour, minimizes postoperative scars and accelerates rehabilitation. It is indicated for patients with moderate skin excess and preserved elasticity, high or normal navel position and provides optimal aesthetic results. Ultrasound liposuction technique reduces moderate excess skin above the navel and expands the indications for original technique of abdominoplasty.