Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck surgery, is a surgical procedure used to address excess skin, fat, and muscle separation in the abdominal region. This procedure can assist in restoring abdominal tone by tightening the underlying muscles and removing loose or excess skin.
Read on for an overview of the different types of abdominoplasty, what the procedure involves, recovery expectations, and important considerations for those exploring this surgery.
Types of Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
There are several variations of surgical abdominoplasty, each tailored to suit specific anatomy and concerns. Each approach varies in complexity, incision placement, and recovery time.
Full Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
A full abdominoplasty addresses both the upper and lower abdomen. It involves a horizontal incision above the pubic area, possible navel repositioning, muscle tightening, and removal of excess skin and fat. This procedure is suited to individuals with significant abdominal wall laxity and excess skin.
Mini Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Mini abdominoplasty involves a smaller incision, usually just above the pubic bone, and is suited to individuals who have mild skin laxity and muscle looseness confined to the lower abdomen.
Extended Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Extended abdominoplasty is a more extensive procedure that includes the abdomen, flanks, and, in some cases, the lateral thighs. It may be suitable for patients with significant skin laxity. The incision extends beyond the hip bones, allowing for broader shaping of the abdominal area.
Who is a Candidate for Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)?
Abdominoplasty may suit individuals with loose abdominal skin due to pregnancy, ageing, or weight loss. Ideal candidates are healthy, non-smokers with realistic expectations about potential outcomes. It is important to note that abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss or an alternative to a healthy lifestyle.
The Abdominoplasty Procedure: What to Expect
Abdominoplasty is typically performed under general anaesthesia and may take between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the extent of the procedure. The surgery involves making incisions, tightening abdominal muscles, and removing excess skin and fat. Incisions are closed with sutures, and dressings or compression garments are applied post-operatively.
Recovery from Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
An important consideration for many patients is how long it takes to recover from abdominoplasty. Recovery depends on the procedure type and individual healing, with swelling, bruising, and discomfort being common in the first weeks. Drains may be used temporarily, and compression garments are typically worn to support healing. Light activities can usually be resumed after two weeks, while full recovery can take several months.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, abdominoplasty involves potential risks. These may include infection, bleeding, delayed wound healing, changes in skin sensation, scarring, and blood clots and asymmetry. These risks are discussed thoroughly during the consultation process.
Procedure Overview
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Why Choose Gold Coast Plastic Surgery for Your Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)?
Dr Mark Doyle is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years’ experience in body shape procedures, including abdominoplasty. He is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS Plas) and is known for his commitment to patient care and surgical experience.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are considering abdominoplasty on the Gold Coast, contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr Doyle at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery.
About Dr Mark Doyle FRACS (Plas) – Queensland Plastic Surgeon
Servicing patients in Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Cairns and New South Wales NSW – Northern Rivers, Byron Bay, Ballina, Lismore and more.
Dr Mark Doyle is a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years of experience performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He has completed all required training and only carries out approved surgical practices. There are NO undertrained doctors or cosmetic doctors acting as surgeons at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery.
