Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck surgery, is a procedure that aims to address excess abdominal skin, persistent fat deposits, and laxity of the abdominal wall muscles. At Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, patients from the Gold Coast and Brisbane can access care from Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Mark Doyle, who is experienced in abdominal reconstructive techniques.
Disclaimer: All information on the Gold Coast Plastic Surgery website is general in nature and is not intended to be medical advice, nor does it constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Results can vary significantly and depend on individual patient circumstances. Please be aware that the outcomes shown are specific to those patients and may not necessarily reflect the results others may experience. Individual results can vary due to many factors, including genetics, diet, and exercise. All images on this website, unless specified as real patient images, are graphics used for illustrative purposes only. Surgery risks and complications will be covered in detail during a consultation with your surgeon. Book a consult for details regarding your cosmetic surgery procedure.
Throughout this page, you will gain educational surgery insights into various facets of abdominoplasty, including candidacy criteria, procedural details, the recovery process, and related considerations. This information will equip you with a comprehensive understanding, facilitating informed decisions on the surgery.
Abdominoplasty, at a glance
Target area: Excess fat and loose skin on the abdomen
Time off work: 1 – 2 weeks
Total recovery: 6 weeks
Compression garment: 2 weeks full time wear, 6 weeks total
Scar position: Generally below the bikini line, extending hip to hip from where the skin falls.
What is Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)?
Surgical abdominoplasty combines the removal of excess skin and fat with the tightening of the abdominal wall muscles. The procedure is performed to remove excess abdominal tissue and, when required, to repair abdominal muscle separation (Diastasis Recti). While many people associate this procedure with cosmetic changes, it also has a functional component when muscle repair is required.
Removing excess skin from the lower abdominoplasty and repairing muscle separation can improve a patients abdomen functionality.”
– Gold Coast Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Mark Doyle
Repairing Diastasis Recti
Diastasis Recti refers to the separation of the abdominal muscles, most commonly seen after pregnancy or significant weight gain. This separation can contribute to reduced core strength, altered posture, and back discomfort. During abdominoplasty, the surgeon may repair the separated muscles to restore their alignment. This repair can support improved core stability and posture; however, individual experiences vary.
Types of Abdominoplasty Surgery
Different surgical approaches are available depending on the degree of excess skin and the specific areas of the abdomen requiring correction. The surgeon will recommend the approach that best matches the individual’s anatomy and treatment goals, including whether muscle tightening is needed.
Full Abdominoplasty
A full abdominoplasty is the most commonly performed approach. It typically involves a horizontal incision low on the abdomen and an incision around the navel. This technique allows the surgeon to address the entire abdominal area, remove excess skin, and repair abdominal muscles when required.
Mini Abdominoplasty
A mini abdominoplasty is a less extensive operation that focuses on the area below the navel. It involves a shorter incision and is generally suited to individuals with mild skin laxity. Muscle repair is usually limited or not required in this technique.
Extended Abdominoplasty and Male Abdominoplasty
Extended abdominoplasty is designed for those who have experienced significant weight loss and have excess skin extending to the flanks or hips. The incisions are longer to accommodate the additional skin removal. Male abdominoplasty follows similar principles but is tailored to the male anatomy, often focusing on skin redundancy after weight loss.
Suitability and Medicare Rebate Considerations
Suitability for abdominoplasty depends on factors such as stable weight, good overall health, and being a non-smoker. Some patients may be eligible for Medicare rebates if they meet specific medical criteria, such as significant excess skin causing recurrent rashes or symptoms related to Diastasis Recti.
Abdominoplasty Recovery Timeline
Recovery varies between individuals, but many patients stay in the hospital overnight. Compression garments and surgical drains may be used temporarily to support healing. Light duties or office work may be resumed within 2–4 weeks, while strenuous exercise and heavy lifting typically require 6–8 weeks of recovery. Following all post-operative instructions is essential for supporting a safe recovery process.
Managing Scars
All abdominoplasty procedures result in permanent scarring. Incisions are usually placed low on the abdomen to help conceal scars beneath swimwear, though visibility varies. Scars typically mature over 3–12 months. General scar care—such as sun protection and following your surgeon’s recommended care plan—may support healing.
Potential Risks and Complications
Abdominoplasty is a major surgical procedure and carries risks. Potential complications include haematoma, infection, delayed wound healing, seroma (fluid accumulation), numbness, blood clots, and noticeable or unfavourable scarring. All risks will be discussed thoroughly during your consultations so you can make an informed decision.
Abdominoplasty Surgery Before and After Photos
There are many abdominoplasty surgeries before and after photos on the internet. Although, what is the most important information to consider? The best way to determine if abdominoplasty surgery is suitable for you is to ensure you do sufficient research and view abdominoplasty surgery before and after photos, before booking your surgery. You can also read education blogs and schedule a consultation with Dr Doyle to learn more.
Disclaimer: All information on the Gold Coast Plastic Surgery website is general in nature and is not intended to be medical advice, nor does it constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Results can vary significantly and depend on individual patient circumstances. Please be aware that the outcomes shown are specific to those patients and may not necessarily reflect the results others may experience. Individual results can vary due to many factors, including genetics, diet, and exercise. All images on this website, unless specified as real patient images, are graphics used for illustrative purposes only. Surgery risks and complications will be covered in detail during a consultation with your surgeon. Book a consult for details regarding your cosmetic surgery procedure.
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Download our Free Abdominoplasty Surgery Procedure Guide
Recovery After Abdominoplasty Surgery
For abdominoplasty recovery, you’ll likely need 2 – 4 weeks off work post-abdominoplasty surgery, to ensure a quality recovery and optimal healing. Gold Coast Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Doyle provides all patients with post-operative care instructions, which should be followed precisely to ensure you are not straining your wounds.
You should also follow Dr Doyle’s best practice cosmetic surgery recovery tips, which include an adequate wound-healing diet and more information about the use of supplements. It’s important to do your research before undergoing surgery, to ensure that you know what’s normal and what’s not when it comes to your surgery recovery. You should know when to get in contact with Dr Doyle, should a question or concern arise.
Abdominoplasty Surgery Cost
When considering an abdominoplasty surgery, understanding the cost factors and potential insurance coverage is important. Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects to consider:
Abdominoplasty Surgery Medicare Rebate
There is a specific medical criteria to meet, when it comes to abdominoplasty surgery, as in some cases it can be considered a cosmetic procedure. Therefore, Medicare rebate for abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery may not be applicable. However, there may be certain circumstances where Medicare provides coverage if there are underlying medical issues such as muscle separation, diastasis recti or hernias that require repair during the abdominoplasty surgery. It is recommended to contact your surgeon or Medicare directly to enquire about the eligibility criteria and any potential rebates for specific medical conditions.
Abdominoplasty Price Considerations
Specific abdominoplasty pricing information may vary, and it is important to consult with Dr Doyle for an accurate surgery estimate. However, as a general reference, it is worth mentioning that the starting point for a standard abdominoplasty surgery is from $22,000. Keep in mind that this figure is subject to change and may depend on various factors, including:
- Surgeon’s Experience: Experienced, senior specialist plastic surgeons may charge higher fees.
- Hospital Fees: These fees cover the use of the operating theatre, nursing staff, recovery staff and related services.
- Anesthesia Fees: The cost of anesthesia services provided by a registered anaesthetist.
- Additional Services or Tests: Any required pre-operative tests, post-operative garments, or follow-up consultations.
To receive an accurate cost estimate for your abdominoplasty surgery, it is advisable to schedule a consultation with a specialist plastic surgeon. During the consultation at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, the surgeon will assess your unique case and provide a personalised cost breakdown, based on your specific anatomy and the recommended procedures.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take To Fully Recover From an Abdominoplasty Surgery?
Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery recovery time depends on the type of surgery. A Full Abdominoplasty requires a minimum of 6 weeks of recovery time. A mini abdominoplasty surgery requires a minimum of 4 weeks of recovery time.
What are the risks?
Like any surgical procedure, abdominoplasty surgery carries certain risks and potential complications. By following all pre-operative and post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon and closely monitoring your recovery, you can minimise your risk of complications.
Some risks may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Scarring
- Delayed healing
- Fluid accumulation (Seroma)
- Numbness or changes in sensation
- Blood clots
- Anesthesia risks
Do you Stay Overnight After Abdominoplasty Surgery?
You may be required to stay in hospital overnight following full abdominoplasty surgery, although, it’s not always necessary for a mini abdominoplasty surgery.
Your Next Steps: Scheduling a Consultation
A valid GP referral is required before booking a consultation for abdominoplasty. Patients must attend at least two consultations with Dr Mark Doyle before proceeding. After giving informed consent, a mandatory cooling-off period of at least seven days applies before any surgery can be booked or deposits paid. These steps ensure patients have adequate time and information to make a considered decision.
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.
