Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

I hear it every day: “No matter how hard I exercise, I can’t shift this tummy”

A tummy tuck is all about quality of life, self-esteem, and enjoying the things you used to enjoy. If you have been considering a tummy tuck – also known as an abdominoplasty – you have doubtless struggled with trying to reshape your abdominal area with repetitive exercises, but to no avail.

When you are considering surgery to correct this sort of problem, you need to decide whether you need a tummy tuck or a mini tummy tuck. I’m here to help you make up your mind.

Which tummy tuck is for me?

In order to make an informed decision, a surgeon will have to examine your particular condition and consult with you as to your expectations. Abdominal contouring can take a number of forms and each procedure is designed to address the specific needs of each patient. 

There are three issues that a successful tummy tuck must address: skin, fat, and muscle. There are a number of procedures that can be used as part of a tummy tuck, including:

• Liposuction will remove excess fat deposits and bring that troublesome area back in line with the rest of the body. Remember, though, that liposuction will rely on the skin springing back into place. As such, this procedure is a good option for younger patients with more elasticity in their skin. 
• Mini abdominoplasty is a smaller abdominoplasty, also called a mini tummy tuck, that addresses excess skin below the belly button but will not allow tightening of the muscles. The advantage is a shorter, less visible scar.  
• Endoscopic abdominoplasty allows skin and muscles to be tightened. This is often done through a shorter incision.
• Full abdominoplasty involves all of the skin below the belly button being removed and the muscles tightened.  It can be combined with liposuction of the abdomen to achieve the fat removal. This procedure achieves the maximum tightening of abdominal tissue. However, the scar usually runs from hip to hip.
• Extended abdominoplasty is used if weight loss has led to excess skin extending around the hip. An extension of the abdominoplasty can be used to remove excess skin over the hip to improve body contour.  The scar is slightly larger than that of a traditional abdominoplasty.   

“I want my pre-pregnancy body back”

Excess skin is a common problem after dramatic weight loss or pregnancy. Though some may argue that exercise is all you need, you know better. Skin is versatile but there are instances in which it simply won’t shrink no matter what extreme fitness measures you take. Unfortunately, the only solution for stubborn excess skin is surgery.

There are many stages in life that can have a detrimental and lasting impact on the way we look and feel. Breast feeding, especially, can have a profound impact on the breasts and abdomen. The changes that occur during and shortly after pregnancy can leave excess loose skin and loss of tone that can just not be recovered through traditional exercise. That’s where I come in.

The Mummy Makeover

A tummy tuck or mini tummy tuck, when combined with breast lift or breast augmentation, is a common post-pregnancy procedure nicknamed the “mummy makeover”.  The combined procedures addresses the loose tissue and excess skin left after pregnancy.  If you struggle with loose skin and reduced muscle tone and it has eroded your self-confidence, this procedure might be right for you.

At my practice, I combine surgical expertise and artistry to provide you with the result you desire. In all of my procedures, I focus on proportion and balance. If you're ready to learn more about any form of abdominoplasty or post pregnancy makeover, then I invite you to take a step toward an improved quality of life and renewed self-confidence by clicking the button below to schedule an appointment.

Considering Abdominoplasty?

There are some common questions that many people who are considering abdominoplasty ask, such as:

Is it for me?

Abdominoplasty is a highly personalised procedure, and the before and after outcome will be different for everyone. That is why before you make any decisions you will have a consultation with Dr Hunt to discuss your needs and goals for the surgery.

During your first consultation, Dr Hunt will evaluate your general health and explain the recommended surgical procedure to achieve your goal, including the risks, potential complications and your recovery time.  Dr Hunt uses a different surgical technique according to your specific needs.

• Endoscopic abdominoplasty.
• Mini-abdominoplasty.
• High lateral tension full abdominoplasty.

Before surgery photographs will be taken for your medical record and to allow Dr Hunt to fully plan your surgery. Photographs will also be taken after surgery as a procedure reference.

A quote will be prepared for you that will include the surgical, anaesthetic, and hospital fees.

When can I go home?

You will stay in hospital for 3 to 5 nights following surgery. Once you are comfortable and able to get to and from a bathroom you can go home.

When you go home you should limit your movements to around the house for 2 to 3 days to ensure a complete recovery. When you are discharged you will be given a prescription for pain medication, which will minimise your discomfort.

You should take only the pain medication prescribed, and eat before you take it to prevent an upset stomach.

Eat lightly for 3 to 4 days after surgery and then resume you normal diet. Make sure you get plenty of fluids to supplement your recovery.

Will I have to return for post-operative care?

You will return to see Dr Hunt several times over the few weeks following your surgery. Dr Hunt will see you weekly for the first month and then will extend time between visits as your recovery progresses.

How long will I be off work?

You should plan on taking at least 3 weeks off work to ensure that recovery times are met.

When can I resume my normal activities?

For the first 10 days after surgery you will be stooped and will have to walk carefully. As the skin stretches and gets used to its new position you will slowly straighten up.

You will be taught how to care for the drain sites and incisions before you leave hospital. Once the drains are removed you may shower.

Compression garments must be worn continuously for 2 weeks, and then during the day for a further 2 weeks.

It will take at least 3 weeks before you achieve a full recovery.

When will I see the end result?

The benefits of abdominoplasty are immediate, although the full recovery benefits may take up to two months or more to be fully appreciated.

You will have a scar. The standard abdominoplasty incision extends at least from hip to hip, right over your pubis area. This leaves a long scar that usually heals very well but is always present. If you have a mini-abdominoplasty your scar can be limited to the width of your pubic hair.

It will take at least a year for the scar to mature and fade from pink/red to pale. It is usually not visible in your swimsuit or underwear.

Take the next step. If you're ready to learn more about tummy tucks, or take that step toward an improved quality of life click the button below to make an appointment to see Dr Jeremy Hunt, offering procedures for tummy tuck Sydney wide.

Following pregnancy or weight loss, and with the aging process, the contour of the tummy can change. The procedure will create a flatter, trimmer abdomen, better in proportion with the rest of your body.