The umbilicus is generally described as a depressed circular indentation approximately 1.5 to 2 cm in diameter positioned in the midline of the abdomen at the level of the superior iliac crests² (FIG 1A).

The vertical position has also been variably described as 30% to 47% of the way up between the symphysis pubis and the xiphoid.^3,4

The aesthetic ideal of the female umbilicus has been described as T or vertical in shape with a superior hood or shelf.¹ Protrusion, transverse orientation, or excessive size are rated as less attractive. There is a linear depression running from the xiphoid to the umbilicus, and this compares to the smooth contour of skin without a depression from the umbilicus to the symphysis pubis. Surrounding the umbilicus is a zone of decreased fat approximately 3 cm in diameter total, and this fat thickens to its maximum dimension for the ventral abdomen over the anterior rectus fascia.

Past surgical history, including prior transection of the umbilical stalk at the time of an umbilical hernia repair, must be obtained. Prior laparoscopy umbilical portal sites can be the cause of incisional hernias and scar formation around the umbilicus.

A reversed sit-up maneuver should be done for evaluation of rectus diastasis.

Significant abdominal hirsutism should be appreciated preoperatively and is a relative contraindication to umbilicoplasty, as hair-bearing skin is placed deep against the abdominal wall and could create an iatrogenic pilonidal cyst.