Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck Surgery) in Sydney

Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. It may also include tightening of the underlying muscles to improve abdominal contour and support.

Procedure Overview

Abdominoplasty may be performed on its own or in combination with liposuction, depending on individual goals and clinical assessment. In some cases, particularly in younger individuals with good skin elasticity, liposuction alone may be appropriate for addressing isolated areas of concern.

Abdominoplasty is considered a major surgical procedure. It is performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes 2 to 3 hours to complete. An overnight hospital stay is generally recommended for post-operative monitoring and recovery support.

What is involved in an abdominoplasty?

At Quayside Specialists in Sydney CBD, Dr Leo Kim will conduct a detailed consultation to understand your concerns and surgical goals. Based on your anatomy, medical history, and desired outcomes, a personalised surgical plan will be developed. The most appropriate technique will be selected to support your individual needs and achieve a balanced result.

Techniques that may be considered include:

• Traditional Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) – Dr Leo Kim will draw an incision from hip to hip, below the belly button, and make another incision around the belly button so it can be repositioned after excess skin is removed in the upper abdominal area. After Dr Kim has tightened the abdominal muscles with sutures and excess skin has been removed, the remaining upper abdomen is pulled over the stomach.
• Extended Tummy Tuck – Dr Leo Kim will make a horizontal incision reaching around the hips. This surgical technique is generally more suitable for mass weight loss patients as it is a technique that aims to remove more skin from a wider region, compared to a standard tummy tuck.
• Fleur-de-lis Tummy Tuck – This procedure requires Dr Kim to not only draw a horizontal incision but also make a vertical scar, which can be more difficult to hide. Excess skin is removed, the belly button is raised, and the skin is joined back together.
• Mini Tummy Tuck – A mini tummy tuck only requires a smaller scar above the pubic area, the belly button is not repositioned, and the upper abdominal skin is not removed. This technique is generally used for patients who require minimal improvements, such as post-pregnancy.

Abdominoplasty Recovery

Swelling, bruising and minor discomfort is likely to occur post-surgery, but can be controlled through medication prescribed by your doctor. Scarring after your tummy tuck will depend on what technique Dr Leo Kim used to remove the excess skin. It can take a full year for the scar to fade.

During recovery, you will be required to wear a garment for 6-8 weeks. Patients will require assistance after surgery for the first few weeks to help perform day-to-day activities. Your final results may not be able to be seen up until 1 year post-operation.

What to know before abdominoplasty

To be considered for abdominoplasty, you must be in good overall health and at or near a stable, healthy weight. This procedure is not intended as a method for weight loss or an alternative to lifestyle-based weight management.

It is generally recommended that patients achieve the majority of their weight loss prior to surgery. Maintaining a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle is important before and after the procedure. Additionally, individuals who smoke will be advised to cease smoking well in advance of surgery, as smoking can negatively impact healing and increase the risk of complications.

Risks associated with abdominoplasty

Any invasive surgical procedure poses risk. These risks will be discussed with you in detail at your consultation.

• Anaesthesia – Some patients experience an adverse reaction to the anaesthesia. If you’ve experienced a bad reaction to anaesthesia before it is crucial you mention this to your surgeon during the consultation.
• Bleeding – Bleeding can occur and while a little light bleeding is no concern, excessive bleeding may require a return to operating theatre. Fortunately, this is rare.
• Bruising (Ecchymosis) – Bruising after an abdominoplasty, or discolouration of the underlying skin is not uncommon but should subside during recovery.
• Infection – You will be provided with the right antibiotics to prevent any posed risk of infection. Following postoperative care procedures is the best way to avoid any risk of infection.
• Numbness – It is rare for permanent numbness to occur; however, it is possible and something to keep in mind.
• Poor Scar Healing – Noticeable healing and bad scarring are extremely rare. Poor scar healing is virtually unheard of when postoperative scar care is followed closely.
• Revision Surgery – Some patients choose to come in for a second surgery to help better achieve their desired results.

Abdominoplasty Sydney CBD

When you come in to see Dr Leo Kim at Quayside Specialists, Sydney CBD, we will ensure you feel self-assured about your decision and are fully informed on all the options suitable for your needs.

Contact us today to book a consultation or make an enquiry.