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Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. It may also include tightening abdominal muscles that have separated, such as after pregnancy.

Abdominoplasty Sydney

Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. The procedure may also include tightening of the abdominal muscles when they have separated, such as after pregnancy. It is not a substitute for a balanced diet and regular exercise, but may be considered for individuals whose abdominal concerns have not resolved with lifestyle measures. Liposuction may be performed in conjunction with abdominoplasty when clinically appropriate.

Concerns that abdominoplasty may address

  • Skin laxity in the abdominal area, which can occur after significant weight changes or pregnancy.
  • Localised fatty tissue that has not responded to diet and exercise.
  • Separation or weakening of the abdominal muscles, which may result from pregnancy or other factors.
  • Abdominal projection associated with muscle weakness.
  • Reduced skin firmness in the midsection that develops over time.
  • Physical changes in the abdominal area following pregnancy that have not resolved with lifestyle measures alone.

It’s important to remember that every individual is unique and so too are their needs and desired outcomes for cosmetic surgery. If you’re considering a procedure, it’s essential to have a comprehensive consultation with one of our experienced surgeons. They can help you understand whether you’re a suitable candidate and what you can realistically expect from the surgery. The information provided here is meant to help guide you, but it’s not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always organise a consultation for personalised advice.

If you are concerned about the way you look or are thinking about cosmetic surgery for confidence reasons, there are alternatives. Talking to a counsellor or psychologist may help you overcome your concerns about your appearance.

What to Expect

Consultation

The process begins with a detailed consultation with the surgeon. Your medical history, abdominal structure, and relevant lifestyle factors will be reviewed. The surgeon will assess elements such as skin condition, fat distribution, and muscle tone to help determine whether the procedure is suitable. This is also an opportunity to discuss any questions about the procedure, recovery, and potential outcomes.

Number and type of consultation
It is a requirement under the law, that a patient seeking cosmetic surgery must have at least two pre-operative consultations. The patient’s first consultation must be with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery or another registered health practitioner who works with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery (not a patient advisor or an agent). At least one of the two consultations must be in person with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. Other consultations can be in person or by video.

When consent can be given
A patient must not be requested to sign consent forms at their first consultation and cannot consent to cosmetic surgery until they have had an in-person consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. The decision to have the surgery (provision of informed consent) must be made at a consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the procedure (in person or by video).

Cooling-off Period
There must be a cooling-off period of at least seven days after the patient has had two consultations and given informed consent (signed consent forms), before the surgery can be booked or a deposit paid.

Preparation

Once a surgical plan has been agreed upon, you will receive specific pre-operative instructions. These may include dietary guidelines, recommendations regarding smoking and alcohol, directions on the use of certain medications or supplements, and advice on preparing the skin in the surgical area.

Surgery

Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is usually performed under general anaesthesia and may take approximately two to three hours. The procedure typically involves making a horizontal incision between the pubic area and the navel. Through this incision, the surgeon can tighten abdominal muscles if indicated, and remove excess skin, tissue, or fat. The remaining skin is repositioned, and an opening for the navel is created before closing the incisions with sutures.
  • Surgery Time
    2 to 4.5 hours
  • Hospital Time
    1 to 3 night stay

Recovery

Following surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery area. Some people may return home the same day, while others may require an overnight hospital stay. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common and typically decrease over the days following the procedure.

Many individuals can return to non-strenuous daily activities within one to two weeks, while more physically demanding activities are generally avoided for four to six weeks, depending on recovery progress. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing.

Changes in the abdominal area may become noticeable as swelling subsides over the weeks after surgery, with final results taking several months to develop. Recovery timelines and outcomes vary between individuals.
  • Time off work
    2 weeks minimum
  • Cast Removal
    Garment for 6 months
  • Exercise
    6 to 12 weeks - ease in
  • Showering
    Sponge bath from day 2 with further guidance to be provided
  • Driving
    6 weeks and not while taking prescribed pain relief. We also recommend checking with your CTA insurer as to the post surgery exclusion period.
  • Travel
    After 2 weeks for national and 4 weeks for international
  • Full Recovery
    12 months for final results

Send an Enquiry

Want to ask a question or organisation a consultation?

Dr Kenneth Brito

MD, MSurg, FACCSM, FRACGP
Dr. Kenneth Brito is a cosmetic doctor with more than 13 years of postgraduate experience. Since earning his Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery in 2007 and his Masters of Surgery from the University of Sydney in 2012, he has continued to build his expertise through advanced training. Dr. Brito values clear communication and works closely with patients to plan treatments that prioritise safety and individual needs.
Cosmetic Doctor
MED0001680302

Contact us

Make an Enquiry

Get in touch today to organise a consultation or to find out more information.

Our team will give you a call to discuss your enquiry and we will then send you any relevant information via email.
You will need a GP referral for surgical procedures. AHPRA require all patients having a surgical cosmetic or medical procedure to have a GP referral. You can fax your referral to 02 8072 6824 or email office@drzacharia.com.au
You will need a GP referral for surgical procedures. AHPRA require all patients having a surgical cosmetic or medical procedure to have a GP referral. You can fax your referral to 02 8072 6824 or email office@drzacharia.com.au

Considerations Before Cosmetic Surgery

While we aim to provide accurate information about the different surgical procedures available, it’s important to understand that the content provided here serves as a general guide only. The specifics of each surgery, including the procedure detailed above, can and will vary significantly from person to person, depending on their unique circumstances and physical characteristics.

Undergoing cosmetic surgery is a serious decision that requires ample thought, careful consideration, and meticulous planning. It should never be taken lightly or treated trivially, as it can have profound impacts on one’s lifestyle and wellbeing.

Recovery from cosmetic surgery, too, requires time, support, and proper aftercare. We strive to present realistic and transparent information about the recovery process, but individual experiences may vary. It is typical for recovery to involve certain services or requirements, such as the use of compression garments or receiving therapeutic massages. It also often necessitates significant lifestyle changes, which may include a period of absence from employment and temporary restrictions on certain activities.

In light of these considerations, we strongly encourage potential patients to engage in comprehensive discussions with their GP and our surgeons. The goal is to fully understand the implications, requirements, and likely outcomes of any chosen procedure, and to make informed decisions about their health and aesthetics.

For more information on preparing for cosmetic surgery visit health.gov.au/cosmeticsurgery

General risks and complications

  • Substantial Hemorrhage: This involves severe blood loss from the area that underwent surgery, which may necessitate additional medical interventions.
  • Susceptibility to Infection: Post-surgery, the risk of infection can rise, potentially requiring either antibiotic treatment or subsequent surgical interventions.
  • Allergic Responses: Patients may exhibit allergic reactions to medical materials such as sutures, dressings, or antiseptic solutions used during and after the procedure.
  • Hematoma Formation: This involves the development of a sizable clot of blood beneath the incision site, which may necessitate medical drainage.
  • Post-Surgical Discomfort: Patients may experience pain, bruising, and swelling in the area surrounding the surgical site.
  • Scar Development: There's a risk of developing keloids or hypertrophic scars, which are elevated, red, and thickened scars over the healed incisions. Though they can be bothersome and aesthetically displeasing, they don't pose a direct health threat.
  • Delayed Healing Process: Healing can be sluggish, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions like diabetes or those who smoke.
  • Anaesthesia Risks: Patients may experience short-term nausea following general anaesthesia, along with other potential risks associated with anaesthesia.

Abdominoplasty surgery risks

  • Unsatisfactory Cosmetic Outcome: Despite careful surgical planning, there's a risk that the patient might be dissatisfied with the shape, contour, or tightness of the abdomen following the surgery.
  • Changes in Skin Sensation: The surgery might lead to temporary or permanent changes in skin sensation in the abdomen, including numbness or tingling.
  • Fluid Accumulation (Seroma): Following surgery, there is a risk of developing a seroma, a pocket of clear serous fluid that sometimes develops in the body after surgery.
  • Necrosis: Rarely, skin or other tissue may die (necrosis) due to insufficient blood supply. This is more common among smokers.
  • Changes to the Belly Button: The appearance of the belly button can change after an abdominoplasty, and in some cases, a second surgery might be required to achieve the desired look.
  • Skin Irregularities and Discoloration: Skin irregularities, such as lumpiness or mottling, are possible after abdominoplasty. Changes in skin color are also possible but are typically temporary.
  • Long-lasting Scars: While all efforts are made to minimise scarring, the incisions from an abdominoplasty can result in visible scars that might be larger or more noticeable than initially expected.
  • Poor Wound Healing: In some cases, the healing process after an abdominoplasty can be slow and the wound may not heal completely or normally. This is more likely in individuals with poor nutrition, underlying health issues, or those who smoke.

AHPRA Registration

  • Dr Michael Zacharia MED0001178357 - Otolaryngology
  • Dr Kenneth Brito MED0001680302 - General Practice
  • Dr Ahmed Alsultan MED0001647273 - General Practice
Disclaimer: Surgical and invasive procedures are not an exact science and they carry risks. Results vary with each patient depending on their age, health, weight, hormones and lifestyle. Please note that results are not permanent solutions and will change as your body changes over the years. After you consult with Team MZ, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner
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