Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Weight loss, weight gain or simply getting older can all affect the contour of the abdomen. Excess loose skin, fatty deposits or lax abdominal muscles can give you a ‘pot belly’; this may restrict the type of clothes you feel comfortable wearing or the type of activities you participate in.

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, flattens the abdomen, tightens the muscles and removes excess skin. You can also have liposuction at the same time to remove any excess fat to make you feel even more confident about your body.

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.