Considering getting an abdominoplasty in Sydney? Let’s begin with who qualifies for abdominoplasty. Like all plastic surgery operations, a tummy tuck is a personalised procedure that involves more than just flattening the stomach.
How can an Abdominoplasty help?
A tummy tuck (also referred to as an abdominoplasty) is a great option for people who want to feel comfortable after weight loss, or those who have given birth and can’t manage to shift the excess skin & fat from their midsection. The surgery can also be a good option for people who have suffered from abdominal muscle separation, as the surgery can correct the separation, which will eliminate the ‘bloated’ appearance of the stomach.
Am I a Candidate for Abdominoplasty
While the tummy tuck procedure offers medical and aesthetic benefits, please note that not all people are a good candidate for abdominoplasty. Certain factors contribute to a successful outcome, and it’s essential to meet specific criteria to be considered an ideal tummy tuck patient. Here are 5 criteria for an optimal outcome
- Non Smoker or prepared to give up smoking for 6 weeks before & after surgery
Smoking is detrimental to the body’s healing process, and it can significantly increase the risk of complications following a tummy tuck procedure. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the surgical site, which can hinder wound healing and increase the likelihood of infection. Ideally, patients should quit smoking at least six weeks before the surgery and refrain from smoking during the recovery period to optimise healing and minimise potential complications. - Not Diabetic
Individuals with diabetes may have impaired wound-healing abilities, which can increase the risk of surgical site infections and other complications. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can also interfere with the body’s ability to fight off infections and properly heal after a tummy tuck procedure. For this reason, individuals with well-managed blood sugar may be considered for surgery, but those with uncontrolled diabetes are typically not ideal candidates. - Be of reasonable BMI and at your Maintainable Weight
The ideal tummy tuck patient should be at a stable, maintainable weight before undergoing the procedure. Significant weight fluctuations after the surgery can compromise the results, leading to stretched or loose skin and potentially affecting the outcome. It is recommended that patients achieve their goal weight and maintain it for at least six months to a year before considering a tummy tuck. - Have a Belly Pouch With Excess Sagging Skin
A tummy tuck is designed to address excess skin and fat in the abdominal area, as well as tighten the underlying muscles. Therefore, the ideal candidate should have a protruding belly pouch with sagging skin, often resulting from significant weight loss, pregnancy, or the natural ageing process. This procedure can effectively contour the abdomen and create a smoother appearance. - Be in Overall Good Health
Patients in overall good health tend to have better surgical outcomes and faster recovery times. Individuals with chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease, lung disorders, or immune system deficiencies, may not be ideal candidates for a tummy tuck. These conditions can increase the risk of complications and make the recovery process more challenging. Your plastic surgeon in Sydney will thoroughly evaluate your medical history and current health status to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
What Does an Abdominoplasty Involve?
The surgery involves removing excess skin and fat to create a more flat appearance in the midsection. Once the anaesthesia is administered, a horizontal incision is made in the lower abdomen. The skin is then lifted and corrections to the abdominal muscles are made. The excess skin is then removed and the remaining skin is pulled down and reattached to the original incision. After the surgery, only one scar is left on the abdomen, which is under the bikini line.
Why get a Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty procedure?
There are a few common reasons behind the desire for a tummy tuck.
- Pregnancy – While childbirth is a miraculous event, it can significantly impact the appearance of the abdominal area.
- Weight Loss – Whether you’ve been on a fitness journey or had weight loss surgery, significant weight loss can leave you with sagging skin that just won’t snap back.
- Ageing – As we age, our skin loses its elasticity, meaning our tummies can stop looking as tight as they once did.
- Genetics – For some, the battle over the belly bulge is hereditary and all the crunches in the world won’t make a difference.
Recovery after Abdominoplasty
The recovery period after having an abdominoplasty depends on what combination of surgery was performed. Generally, recovery from a tummy tuck will initially take 1-2 weeks for you to be up and about doing normal activities. However, caution must be taken when doing certain things such as lifting and bending. It take up to 6 weeks to be fully recovered and be back to pre-surgery capabilities. Be sure to consult your doctor before you begin working out again.
It is important to follow the instructions of your surgeon and ask them for advice during the recovery period if any issues arise.
Abdominoplasty Surgery Before and After Images
What Can You Expect During the Abdominoplasty Healing Process?
A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is a major surgery, so you’ll need to brace yourself for around 3-4 weeks of downtime initially.
- Week 1 – Hello, pain medications! You’ll be pretty sore after the operation. You will need to prioritise rest and take things at a gradual pace.
- Week 2-3 – The most intense phase has passed, but you’ll still have some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. It’s time to bid farewell to your comfy sweats for the compression garment.
- Week 4-6 – You are beginning to progress! Most of the swelling should be gone, and you can start to see your new, flatter tummy shape emerging.
- Week 7-11 – Continue with a nutritious, balanced diet with plenty of protein to remain within your optimal weight range. Keep using scar treatments on your incision to aid in the healing process as recommended by your surgeon.
- Week 12-16 – Get ready for the big reveal! Your wounds should be mostly closed up now, and you can begin to appreciate the outcome of your tummy tuck fully.
What Type of Abdominoplasty Is Suitable for Me?
Tummy tucks/Abdominoplasty are not a one-size-fits-all procedure. Depending on your specific needs and desired outcomes, the best cosmetic surgeon in Sydney may recommend one of the following options:
- Full Tummy Tuck – The Comprehensive Approach! Excess skin is removed, abdominal muscles are tightened, and the belly button is repositioned to achieve a completely flat abdominal transformation.
- Mini/Skin only Tummy Tuck – For those with only a small amount of excess skin in the lower abdominal area, this more targeted procedure focuses solely on the region below the navel
- Extended Tummy Tuck – Do you have additional concerns with love handles or flanks? This variation extends the incision around the sides of the body, allowing for more comprehensive contouring of the midsection.
How much does an Abdominoplasty cost with Dr Kohout in Sydney?
What Is the Cost of a Tummy Tuck?
You can expect to pay anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 for a tummy tuck/abdominoplasty procedure performed by plastic surgeons in Sydney, Australia. The exact cost depends on factors like the extent of the surgery, the experience of the surgeon, surgical facility fees, anaesthesia costs and more.
Concluding Thoughts
At last, the awaited moment has arrived – the visible changes from a tummy tuck procedure. However, it’s crucial to understand that an abdominoplasty is not an instantaneous fix. The final results unfold gradually over time. For most individuals, it takes approximately one year to complete the outcome of the surgery. Nevertheless, most patients will start to observe noticeable changes within a few weeks to a few months as the swelling subsides.
Just be sure to research, choose an experienced surgeon, and be ready to discover your potential!
Dr. Mark Kohout prioritizes his patients’ well-being above all else. Utilising cutting-edge technology and adhering to global standards of care, he delivers exceptional body sculpting results. With decades of experience, he regularly performs tummy tuck procedures, ensuring his patients achieve their desired outcomes.
What Are The Next Steps?
Book a consultation with us to assess your options and to determine if you are an ideal candidate, suitable for a Medicare rebate and subsidy from your Health fund.
About Dr Mark Kohout – Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Sydney & Orange NSW
Choosing the right surgeon is essential to achieving exceptional results and ensuring a safe, successful procedure. When it comes to transformative tummy tucks in Sydney, Dr. Mark Kohout stands out as an exceptional choice, offering a unique combination of expertise, artistry, and patient-centric care that sets him apart in the field of cosmetic surgery. He has performed countless successful tummy tuck procedures, consistently achieving transformative outcomes that harmonise with each patient’s unique goals and body contours.
Visit our Sydney Clinic today to receive expert guidance tailored to your needs.
Further Reading about Abdominoplasty Surgery with Sydney Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Mark Kohout
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Abdominoplasty Tummy Tuck Procedure
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Body Surgery Pricing Page
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Different Types of Abdominoplasty – Tummy Tuck Surgeries Blog
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Compression Therapy After Abdominoplasty / Tummy Tuck Surgery Blog
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Diet After Abdominoplasty / Tummy Tuck: What to Eat when Blog
