Extended Tummy Tuck/Abdominoplasty

Extended Abdominoplasty after Weight Loss Surgery in Melbourne VIC

The result of obesity, sudden or massive weight loss that results in stretch marks and excess skin, or pregnancy, may cause dissatisfaction in people of all genders, regardless of age.

URGENT UPDATE – The Australian Government has reinstated a Medicare Item Number for  an Abdominoplasty for some post-pregnancy patients suffering from Diastasis Recti (Split abdominal Muscles) if you are eligible and meet the new criteria. This new Medicare Item Number -30175 is effective 1st July 2022. Read the 30175 Medicare Item Number factsheet

Am I a Suitable Candidate for an Extended Abdominoplasty?

A suitable candidate for an extended abdominoplasty, also known as a belt lipectomy or lower body lift, typically exhibits the following characteristics:

• Significant Skin Laxity: Candidates have substantial loose and excess skin not only in the lower abdomen but also extending around the sides and back.
• Stable Weight: Candidates should be at or near their desired, stable weight. This procedure is not a weight loss solution but rather a method to remove excess skin and alter the mid and lower body contours.
• Good Overall Health: Candidates should both physically and mentally health and free from any conditions that might impair healing or increase surgical risks.
• Non-Smoker: Candidates are often required to quit smoking for a specific duration before and after the surgery.
• Realistic Expectations: It’s crucial for candidates to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure. It’s important to understand its limitations.
• Commitment to Recovery: Recovery from extended abdominoplasty can take several weeks.

It’s essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can provide personalised recommendations based on the individual’s unique situation and goals.

Outcomes of Extended Abdominoplasty

Extended abdominoplasty, medically known as a belt lipectomy, offers several potential outcomes including;

• Tightened Abdominal Muscles (if necessary): The procedure can include the repair and tightening of abdominal muscles, that may separate as a result of pregnancy and childbirth.
• Addressed Posture and Core Strength: Tightening the abdominal muscles during surgery may lead to altered posture and core strength, which may have a positive impact on overall physical health.
• Removal of Excess Skin: It removes loose, excess skin, particularly for individuals who have undergone significant weight loss or pregnancy.
• Reduced Skin Irritation: Removal of excess skin can alleviate skin irritation and discomfort caused by skin folds, especially in the lower abdominal and thigh areas.
• Scarring Placement: Skilled surgeons place incisions strategically, often within the bikini line, making scars less visible when wearing swimsuits or underwear.
• Noticable Results: The results of extended abdominoplasty are typically permanent, provided the patient maintains a stable weight and follows a healthy lifestyle.

It’s important to note that while Extended Abdominoplasty offers numerous outcomes, it’s also a major surgical procedure with potential risks and considerations. Prospective patients should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to assess their individual suitability and discuss the expected outcomes and recovery process.

REDUCED BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS

As a result of the revised AHPRA guidelines that came into effect on July 1st, 2023, our website is currently undergoing significant modifications. This has necessitated the removal of a substantial portion of our Before and After photos due to non-compliance with the updated regulations. While our primary priority is to ensure the accuracy and relevance of our content, we are committed to reintroducing a wider selection of before and after photos as soon as possible.

Extended Abdominoplasty Procedure

Our skilled Specialist Plastic Surgeons tailor Extended Abdominoplasty procedures to each individual, ensuring desired results. On the day of surgery, you will go through preoperative steps. You will receive general anaesthesia to ensure you feel no discomfort or pain during the procedure.

After making an incision in the predefined area, the Surgeon will carefully remove the excess skin on the flanks and front of the abdomen. This extensive incision allows for the removal of excess tissue not only from the front but also from the sides (flanks).

Once the incision is made, the Surgeon delicately lifts the surplus skin and fat away from the abdominal wall, repositioning it to the predetermined area for closure using sutures. Additionally, abdominal muscle tightening may be performed.

During the procedure, our surgeons can incorporate liposuction and body contouring techniques in specific areas. This approach may also reduce both recovery time and the potential trauma associated with separate procedures.

Risks and Complications of Extended Abdominoplasty

Extended Abdominoplasty, like any surgical procedure, carries potential risks and complications. Some of these include:

• Infection
• Hematoma
• Seroma
• Changes in Sensation
• Scarring
• Unsatisfactory Aesthetic Outcome
• Anesthesia Risks
• Delayed Healing
• Need for Revision Surgery

It’s important to note that these risks are not exhaustive, and the likelihood of experiencing them can vary from patient to patient. Before undergoing Extended Abdominoplasty Surgery, thoroughly discuss potential risks and complications with your board-certified plastic surgeon. They will provide detailed information and guidance to help you make an informed decision about the procedure.

Visit the risks of surgery page for more information.

Recovery

Extended Abdominoplasty, like any invasive procedure, is a complex and extensive operation. Patients will need to stay in the hospital for a night or two for observation before they are able to go home.

The recovery time itself depends on several factors, the most important being age, the quality of your skin, the extent of the procedure and your natural healing ability.

Initial Recovery

• The first few days of recovery are the most important.
• A certain level of pain and discomfort is normal. You may be given a prescription to help manage your pain.
• During this time, your mobility will be limited, therefore, it is recommended that you have a family member, friend, or professional assistant perform basic activities during this time. Such as, getting up, lying down, dressing and general movement.
• To ensure good recovery, you will wear an abdominal binder to help protect the operated area, reduce swelling and bruising. This binder is typically worn for between 4-7 weeks.
• Easier physical activities, such as;
  • Light household chores
  • Standing for long periods
  • Driving
  • And going out for groceries should be avoided for the first 10-14 days.
• Almost full recovery can be expected after 4 weeks. However, you should still avoid heavier physical activities at this time.
• If you want to train and engage in physical activities or sports, you should start slowly and gradually increase the pace over time.
  • This should only be done once you have consulted with your Surgeon and they have given you the go-ahead.
• You can reduce bruising and swelling by using cold compresses, but complete fading requires 8-12 weeks.
• Your Specialist Plastic Surgeon and their professional team will provide you with all the necessary instructions to make the healing period as comfortable as possible.
• It is important to note that following these instructions can greatly affect the final outcome of your results and prevent complications.
• Also, during recovery, your specialist surgeon will arrange follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and recovery process. Attending these appointments is vital as it not only gives your surgeon the opportunity to check on your progress but to answer any question you have.