Abdominoplasty

Patients who benefit the most from a tummy tuck are bothered by the feeling that their tummy is too large but are realistic about their expectations from surgery. They are physically fit and healthy with a stable weight and are non-smokers or have stopped smoking.

If you may fall pregnant in future or plan to lose a lot of weight you should delay the procedure until your weight is likely to remain stable in the long term.

A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss or an exercise program and we do point out to candidates to consider that whilst the results of the procedure are technically permanent, any result would be greatly diminished by significant future fluctuations in weight.

Patients who present with good abdominal tone and only moderate fat excess in the lower abdomen only, do not usually need a full tummy tuck as the abdominal muscles do not require repair.

A mini tummy tuck is where the upper abdomen and abdominal muscles are not operated on and the belly button does not need repositioning, thus, being less extensive.

Recovery periods and the scar are much shorter than for the full tummy tuck, but note that this procedure is not an option for most patients.

Although scars are the inevitable result of any surgery, every effort is made to make the scars as inconspicuous as possible. Usually, scars can be hidden inside the bikini line where they are easy to conceal.

Drains are plastic tubes sometimes inserted at the time of surgery to decrease the chance of fluid or blood collection in the wound post-surgery. We don’t usually use drains for tummy tuck surgery.

We have found that with meticulous control of bleeding at the time of surgery, drains are not required. When used, drains are uncomfortable and can be a contributing factor to increased stay in hospital.

Not necessarily. If your tummy tuck is considered medically necessary it will attract a medicare item number and then your health fund may provide cover for it. We can help you work this out once you have had your consultation.

Yes. You will be provided with a girdle to wear for approximately six weeks post-surgery.

Abdominoplasty surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, usually with a few nights in hospital followed by two to four weeks recovery time off work.

Wearing a supporting girdle during the recovery period helps optimise results and most patients are able to return to vigorous exercise after about six weeks.

NOTE: There is often a feeling of tightness in the lower abdomen and there is usually an area of diminished sensation for several months after surgery.