Computer-Aided Analysis of the “Beautiful” Umbilicus

Abstract

Background: The position, shape, size, and depth of the umbilicus influence the overall aesthetics of the abdomen. Hence, umbilicoplasty is a common adjunct to aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the abdominal wall. Delineation of the position and shape of the “beautiful” umbilicus can aid in the planning of abdominoplasty and lipoabdominoplasty.

Objectives: The authors aimed to identify key parameters of the beautiful umbilicus.

Methods: Previously, the authors developed software (the Aesthetic Analyzer) for marking and analyzing parameters from images of the nose, breast, and umbilicus. In the present study, the Aesthetic Analyzer was utilized to determine parameters of the beautiful umbilicus from images of 37 Playboy playmates. The vertical position, horizontal position, length, and shape of the umbilicus were assessed.

Results: Based on these images, the beautiful umbilicus possesses the following properties: a vertical ratio of 46:54 (with respect to the xiphoid process and lower limit of the vulvar cleft), a midline horizontal position, a length that is 5% of the length from the xiphoid process to the lower limit of the vulvar cleft, and an oval shape with no hooding (29.8%) or superior hooding (21.6%).

Conclusions: Awareness of the ideal position, shape, and size of the umbilicus can be useful for achieving successful reconstruction of the umbilicus during abdominoplasty and lipoabdominoplasty.

aesthetic umbilicus, umbilicoplasty, abdominoplasty, lipoabdominoplasty