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WHEN EXPERIENCE MATTERS: HAVING AN ABDOMINOPLASTY IN BRISBANE

Specialist plastic surgeon Dr David Sharp performs abdominoplasty or ‘tummy tuck’ surgery to improve abdominal wall strength, reduce hernias and reduce loose skin. Read on to learn more about the benefits, risks and recovery involved with this procedure – as well as our ethos for patient care and postoperative support.

What is an abdominoplasty or ‘tummy tuck’?

Abdominoplasty surgery – often referred to as a tummy tuck – tightens the abdominal area by surgically removing skin and fat, while restoring weakened or separated muscles. Dr Sharp is also able to offer his patients hernia repair within their abdominoplasty surgery, if required.

Cost of tummy tuck surgery in Brisbane: is abdominoplasty a medically rebatable procedure or cosmetic surgery?

It can be both! Abdominoplasty surgery can be cosmetic or reconstructive in nature.

Skin and muscles in the abdominal region can become separated or stretched by weightloss or weight fluctuations, pregnancy, age, genetics/hereditary factors, injury or previous surgery. This can make the stomach protrude, and most importantly can lead to functional concerns. In such cases, abdominoplasty can be considered to be medically required, offering functional benefits, including reduced back pain and pelvic floor weakness through improved core strength – while addressing hygiene and irritation issues caused by excess loose skin.

Abdominoplasty surgery addresses loose skin, pelvic floor and score strength weakness and hernias – achieving a firmer abdominal wall overall. When viewing before and after images on this page, please note they are only indicative of the individual patient’s result and outcomes vary depending on a number of factors including genetics, nutrition, natural body habitus and adherence to post operative instructions. To view scarring, please click here

Abdominoplasty - Tummy Tuck - 1
Abdominoplasty - Tummy Tuck - 2
Abdominoplasty - Tummy Tuck - 3
Abdominoplasty - Tummy Tuck - 4

Left to right: patient one, before and 5 months after abdominoplasty surgery – patient two, before and 3 months after abdominoplasty surgery. Both procedures performed by Dr Sharp. 

What to expect at your abdominoplasty consult with Dr Sharp

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Prior to your consultation, our patient support team will provide you with our abdominoplasty education pack. This includes a copy of the Abdominoplasty Clinical Consent document, outlining the risks, benefits and recovery involved with the surgery. It also includes information issued by the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons regarding abdominoplasty surgery. Reading this educational material prior to your first consult will help you prepare pertinent questions to ask Dr Sharp. It will also provide some foundation knowledge about the procedure. Before your consultation, you will also be asked to forward your GP referral to us, and complete our patient information forms/questionnaire, to help us understand your concerns, motivations and expectations from the surgery. If you can’t view the video, please log into YouTube to confirm you are over 18.

Most importantly, your initial consultations will be with the surgeon who will be performing your surgery : Dr Sharp.

We appreciate that our patients have invested significant time and consideration in choosing to consult a surgeon and waited patiently for their consult – and so our clinic believes that having your initial surgery discussion with the surgeon himself is a defining feature of our patient care, rather than this consultation being ‘outsourced’ to another doctor, nurse or healthcare professional in the clinic.

After your initial consult, you will be provided with a quote and a second copy of the aforementioned Abdominoplasty Clinical Consent document to reconsider – as well as a copy of the postoperative instructions for tummy tuck surgery. Why do we provide this so early in your surgery consideration process? Because the recovery is a large part of your surgical decision-making, and self-care postoperatively is a large component of achieving a successful outcome.

We know that when patients are aware of postoperative requirements and restrictions, they are better able to make confident, informed decisions about undergoing surgery. A second discussion with Dr Sharp – followed by a cooling off period if your procedure is classified as ‘cosmetic’ instead of carrying an item number – will be observed, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions. Patients are invited to book as many consultations as they wish prior to surgery.

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TUMMY TUCK GALLERY: BEFORE + AFTER PHOTO

Scroll down to read more about tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) surgery with Dr Sharp, after the image gallery. When viewing before and after images, please note they are only indicative of the individual patient’s result and outcomes vary depending on a number of factors including genetics, nutrition, natural body habitus and adherence to post operative instructions. To view scarring, please click here

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp; this patient also underwent fat grafting to her bilateral breasts during the same operation.

before and three months after abdominoplasty, mastopexy (breast lift) and augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty and breast lift (mastopexy) surgery with Dr Sharp

before and nine months after abdominoplasty and breast lift surgery with Dr Sharp; this patient also underwent a second stage breast augmentation six months after her initial surgery (shown her three months post ‘second stage’ breast augmentation).

before and three months after combined abdominoplasty and breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after combined abdominoplasty and breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp. Patient had undergone mastopexy (breast lift) surgery with another surgeon years prior.

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty and flank/torso liposuction surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp; please note tattoo is not present in ‘after’ photo as it was part of the excised skin removed during the surgery.

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp; note patient’s tattoo does not appear in ‘after’ photo as it was excised when excess skin was removed during her operation

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty, breast lift (mastopexy) and breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty and breast augmentation surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty and breast reduction surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty and breast lift (mastopexy) surgery with Dr Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty with hernia repair and mastopexy/breast lift with augmentation surgery by Dr Sharp.

before and three months after abdominoplasty with Dr David Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty with Dr David Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty with Dr David Sharp

before and three months after abdominoplasty with Dr David Sharp: please note this patient had undergone three previous abdominal trauma surgeries. Her abdominoplasty surgery was tailored to remove excess skin and revised internal scarring.

What does abdominoplasty surgery involve?

In most cases, Dr Sharp will make a low ‘apron’ incision along your pubic hairline or ‘bikini line’. While the he resulting scar will never disappear completely, by following post operative instructions and our scar care recommendations, most patients find it usually fades in colour over time. It is usually positioned to sit under underwear or swimwear.

The surgery will remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen, and rejoin separated muscles.

See also: Body Lift

Although a tummy tuck is sometimes a cosmetic procedure,  it is usually classified as reconstructive surgery, particularly in the following circumstances:

  • Estructural or function defects
  • Ehernia
  • Epost pregnancy
  • Eobesity / extensive weight loss
  • Etumours
  • Eabnormally excessive overhang (called a pannus) of fat, which can cause hygiene issues, inhibit normal activity and create skin infections.

before and three months after surgery with Dr Sharp

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before and three months after surgery with Dr Sharp

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tummy tuck mummy makeover with Dr David Sharp

before and three months after surgery with Dr Sharp

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before muscle wall repair with Dr Sharp
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before and three months after surgery with Dr Sharp

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before and three months after surgery with Dr Sharp

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before and three months after surgery with Dr Sharp

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before and three months after surgery with Dr Sharp

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before and three months after surgery with Dr Sharp

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before and three months after surgery with Dr Sharp

before abdominoplasty
after abdominoplasty
before tummy tuck
after tummy tuck with Dr Sharp

before and three months after surgery with Dr Sharp

abdominoplasty results Dr Sharp
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tummy tuck results Brisbane plastic surgeons before
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before and three months after surgery with Dr Sharp

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abdominoplasty surgery

before and three months after surgery with Dr Sharp

The patients above are shown three months post abdominoplasty with Dr Sharp following pregnancy or weightloss. Their surgery included abdominal muscle repair and skin removal. Approximately half were performed as day surgery.

The surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and takes two to three hours. In some cases it can be performed as a day procedure, with 24/7 access to our post operative nurse and regular post operative wound checks. Or you may choose to have the procedure as an in patient in a private hospital, with a three to five night stay.

Benefits of having an abdominoplasty

The procedure will lead to strengthened abdominal tone, skin hygiene where skin folds used to cause issues, while improving the function and appearance of the abdominal wall.

Repairing the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles will result in an increase in core strength.

If your ‘apron’ of skin was hanging over your pants or rubbing on the skin underneath, you will also no longer have to worry about chaffing, skin infections, dermatitis in this region.

Some patients also notice improved abdominal and pelvic muscle function, which can help them develop better control over defecation and urination – and help with stress incontinence and sexual function.

In the long term, patients may also notice a reduction in back pain and improved posture.

‘Mini’ abdominoplasty or tummy tuck

Partial abdominoplasty involves a smaller incision; in this procedure, there is no incision around the navel as it does not require repositioning. The abdominal wall is not repaired.

A ‘mini’ abdominoplasty is ideal for people with a mild degree of excess skin in their middle, lower abdomen, with or without separation of their rectus abdominus muscles – for example, slim women who would like to remove a pocket of excess skin after pregnancy to create a smoother abdominal contour. It can also revise c-section scarring.

Dr Sharp will advise you during your consultation as to whether or not you are a candidate for a mini abdominoplasty.

Combined abdominoplasty + breast lift or augmentation

Dr Sharp also performs abdominoplasty surgery alongside liposuction, breast lift (mastopexy) breast reduction and breast augmentation surgery.

Like all surgery, combined operations carry benefits, risks and recovery periods that are important to consider. Advantages of combining procedures include the aesthetic benefit of having a ‘total’ result and a single recovery period and hospital admission instead of two.

However this must be weighed against a potentially longer recovery and stay in hospital. Click here to find out more about this procedure’s postpartum benefits.

Tummy tuck + liposuction

Liposuction is sometimes used during abdominoplasty surgery to achieve additional changes in shape and body contour. Liposuction can alter areas that cannot be corrected by the abdominoplasty alone, such as thighs, hips, flanks, lower or upper back.

WANT TO SEE MORE BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS? WE RESPECT THE DISCRETION AND PRIVACY OF OUR PATIENTS; WHILE SOME OF OUR PATIENTS KINDLY AGREE FOR US TO SHARE THEIR IMAGES FOR OTHER PATIENTS' EDUCATION, MANY ASK US ONLY TO SHARE THEM IN CLINIC. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE MORE BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS, PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE BY CALLING 07 3202 4744.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT
TUMMY TUCK

WHY MIGHT SOMEONE HAVE A TUMMY TUCK?

The aim of abdominoplasty surgery are unique to every patient, and can include:

  • Create a flatter abdominal wall
  • Repair abdominal hernia
  • Removal of an apron of excess skin and fat
  • Improvement in abdominal tone and core strength
  • Revision of any existing scars

HOW DO I KNOW IF ABDOMINOPLASTY IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Abdominoplasty is a very personal decision and should only be undertaken by an adult who has considered the benefits and risk, is prepared for the recovery involved – and is undergoing the procedure for their own benefit, not to meet the expectations of family, their partner or society.

Abdominoplasty surgery can be beneficial for functional concerns as well as aesthetic purposes, enabling more movement and reducing potential medical problems such a hernias or skin infections. Tummy tucks are frequently performed by Dr Sharp however, it is major surgery and should only be undertaken after due consideration under the guidance of a specialist plastic surgeon.

Abdominoplasty should be performed when your weight loss is stable, with a BMI under 30 (in the healthy or overweight range, but not in the obese range). The best candidates for tummy tucks are in good health, and have stubborn pockets of fat and loose skin – or stretched skin and muscles from pregnancy.

If you are in the process of losing a substantial amount of weight with the view to obtaining an abdominoplasty, it is best to wait until you are getting close to your ideal weight before proceeding with a tummy tuck; this will benefit long-term results and healing.

Abdominoplasty is not recommended for people who are obese due to increased risks of complications and unsatisfactory outcomes.

Abdominoplasty surgery is not a form of weight loss or fat reduction surgery. It’s primary goal is to remove loose skin and restore the abdominal wall.

WHAT DO TUMMY TUCK SCARS LOOK LIKE?

In this video, Dr Sharp explains where he places the abdominoplasty scar.

And in this article we discuss scar development, and what you can do at home after your surgery to give your body the best chance of favourable scarring.

Abdominoplasty involves an extensive scar, which is why it is important to consider the surgery carefully and choose a qualified plastic surgeon, to ensure adequate postoperative care – including postoperative hospital admission and ongoing scar care – is available to you.

Scars are low, along the bikini line and depending on your torso length, are usually hidden when wearing most underwear, swimwear, and clothing.

Scars take 24 month to fully mature during which time they can be very visible when unclothed.

While the scars will always be visible, they will improve, softening and lightening over time. Patient who are prone to poor scarring or who wish to optimise their scar recovery are invited to undertake additional postoperative scar therapies such as scar tape ($25), Fraxel laser (from $250) or prescriptive scar gel (from $107).

All patients leave the operating theatre with a thin scar, but how it matures and develops over time is largely due to genetics, physical strain placed on the scar through exertion or repetitive movement - and following post operative care instructions including daily massage and scar therapy, if needed. 

Dr Sharp and his team offer a proven pre and postoperative skin optimisation program that supports you in maintaining healthy skin quality throughout, and after, your surgical journey to reducing long-term scarring. Ask us about our targeted therapies to reduce the appearance of scars.

WHY DO I NEED A TUMMY TUCK?

Abdominoplasties can be medically required or cosmetic. Even if you have a normal body weight, good diet and active lifestyle, the impact of weight fluctuations and pregnancy can weaken core strength and leave excess skin that can be uncomfortable.

Pregnancy, age, weight gain and loss , genetics, caesareans, hernias or laparotomies leave your stomach with protrusions, small fat deposits and loose or sagging skin. These need not bother you (and if that’s the case – that’s great!) but if they do, abdominoplasty may improve these areas of concerns. 

Cosmetic abdominoplasties may also correct some medical issues, such as hernias and mildly weakened abdominal wall, while other patients seek a cosmetic tummy tuck for purely aesthetic reasons, which is fine too.

Provided you have realistic expectations, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to do something to change the appearance of your abdomen. This procedure will not resolve poor body image or low self esteem, and your expectations of the surgery will be discussed with your surgeon during your preoperative consultation process.

TUMMY TUCK AND PREGNANCY

Pregnancy can cause stomach muscles to separate, which is called rectus divarication or diastasis recti. In addition to leaving the abdomen with a permanently protruding appearance, research shows that pregnancy can result in significant functional and medical problems such as core strength issues, urinary incontinence and back pain. Abdominoplasty surgery with Dr Sharp reconstructs the abdominal wall, repairs hernias, restores core strength and removes excess unwanted skin.

If you are planning future pregnancies, Dr Sharp recommends that you postpone having an abdominoplasty until you think you have completed your family.

Following pregnancy, women should not feel pressured to do anything to change or ‘improve’ their bodies. Some women’s bodies return to their pre-pregnancy form after having babies, and some don’t. For those whose bodies don’t return to their pre-pregnancy form (which is very normal), some may exercise their right to seek out plastic surgery after pregnancy.

We do not believe they should be made to feel selfish, insecure or guilty for wanting their bodies to look more similar – but of course not identical – to how they looked before pregnancy. Our clinics are a judgement-free zone where women are encouraged to make independent, well informed, appropriately supported decisions about their bodies. Click here to read more about the tummy tuck and breast surgery options for restoring pre-pregnancy body shape and condition.

HOW DO I CHOOSE MY SURGEON?

When performed by a specialist plastic surgeon in Australia, within an accredited hospital facility, tummy tuck surgery carries low morbidity and mortality rates. Abdominoplasty is performed frequently by specialist plastic surgeons like Dr Sharp in Brisbane. However it is a major procedure – and therefore, choosing the right surgeon is of upmost importance. Abdominoplasty surgery should be performed by a qualified plastic surgeon who is registered as a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. You can confirm your surgeon’s credentials here.

Dr David Sharp is a qualified specialist plastic surgeon with a special interest in cosmetic procedures. His personalised approach means that you receive plenty of preoperative time with him to discuss your specific objectives and any questions.

It’s normal to feel both nervous, and an excited sense of anticipation, when planning your tummy tuck. Dr Sharp takes the time to ensure you have as many consultations as you require, so that your treatment is customised to suit your body and expectations – and address any concerns you may have.

Be ready with some questions to ask your surgeon, including:

  • how frequently do you perform this procedure?
  • what technique is used?
  • what are the risks?
  • how long will I need to stay in hospital?
  • how long will I need help at home?
  • how long should I have off work?
  • what will be my obligations as a patient postoperatively - eg appointment attendance, at-home scar care? 
  • if I have a complication, what will happen?
  • if I am not happy with my aesthetic result, what will happen?

WHAT IS AN APRONECTOMY?

This is similar to an abdominoplasty but is usually in the setting of massive weight loss – or post-bariatric surgery. It involves the removal of a large apron of fat, called a pannus, which can cause:

  • Skin infections
  • Hygiene problems
  • Impaired function, mobility or movement
  • Chronic dermatitis

 

DO ABDOMINOPLASTIES REMOVE STRETCH MARKS?

A tummy tuck does not remove stretch marks, however, some of these might be removed or reduced if they are located on the excess skin that is removed, generally below the belly button.

Dr Sharp’s clinic offers a range of skin therapies that have been scientifically proven to improve stretch marks – without surgery, needles or downtime. If you are concerned about stretch marks, call 07 3202 4744.

WHAT KIND OF ANAESTHETIC WILL I HAVE?

Abdominoplasties are performed under a full general anaesthetic. A specifically selected range of medications are administered during the surgery to ensure your post-operative comfort. Dr Sharp works with an experienced team of anesthetists, some of which you can meet here. 

RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS

Risks and complications

Like any surgery, you must weigh up whether the benefits outweigh the risks for you. While abdominoplasty surgery is very common, it also carries risks. Your pre-operative consultations with Dr Sharp will enable him to discuss potential complications with you, and help you determine whether the surgery is right for you. Possible complications of surgery in general include:

  • Acute medical event such as stoke, heart attack, pneumonia
  • The need for revision or further surgery 
  • Pain which does not respond to pain relief 
  • Nerve damage, causing altered sensation or loss of sensation - temporary or permanent
  • Haematoma (collection of blood), oedema (collection of fluid) and abscess 
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolisms (PE)
  • Damage or or loss of loose teeth during placement of anaesthetic apparatus
  • Sore throat, swelling or discomfort following placement of breathing tubes during anaesthetic 
  • Breathing difficulties following anaesthetic
  • Allergic reaction to medication 
  • Allergic reaction to sutures, dressings, tapes or intraoperative solutions
  • Heavy bleeding from the wound, which may require further surgery
  • Poor or slow skin healing, wound infection, breakdown or necrosis (skin death)
  • Wound dehiscence (incision separation)
  • Adverse scarring
  • Psychological impact of surgery, recovery or altered appearance
  • Death

 

Risks that are specific to abdominoplasty surgery include but are not limited to:

  • Excessive bleeding or haematoma
  • Post operative infection
  • Blood clots, cardiac and pulmonary complications
  • Discoloured or keloid scars
  • Infection
  • Slow or poor wound healing
  • Skin or fat necrosis
  • Loss of the belly button (umbilicus) due to necrosis or infection
  • Numbness or sensory changes around the scar and across the abdomen.
  • Wound separation (dehiscence)
  • Asymmetry (lopsided) appearance to the scarline
  • Persistent pain or abdominal tightness
  • General anaesthesia risks
  • Swelling or accumulated fluid
  • Skin looseness (especially if further weight loss occurs)

Complications are rare, and Dr Sharp and his team manage each of these risks with the upmost care to further reduce the likelihood of them occurring. In the event they do occur, most can be treated with prompt intervention.

Everyone’s body responds differently to surgery. In some cases, post operative revision surgery might be required.

Some factors, such as weight, lifestyle, certain activities, medications or health problems can increase the chance of a complication occurring. Dr Sharp will take time to learn about your potential risk factors during your pre operative consultations, and will determine if they are relevant to your surgery.

If you have any concerns regarding your abdominoplasty and the associated risks, feel free to book additional pre operative consultations with Dr Sharp.

 

ABDOMINOPLASTY RECOVERY

Abdominoplasty recovery

After your abdominoplasty, your incisions will be covered by dressings (bandaging) and you will be wrapped in a surgical tape to provide support and reduce swelling. During the surgery, small drains (thin plastic tubing) is placed under the skin, enabling excess blood and fluid to drain away from the site; this reduces swelling, discomfort and the chances of a hematoma forming. These tubes are removed after drainage has stopped. You will also be wearing a compression garment. This will be worn for 6 weeks.

If having surgery as an inpatient (instead of day surgery) you will stay in the hospital for two to six days, positioned on your bed with pillows under your legs to take any pressure off the wound.

Within 24 hours of your abdominoplasty surgery, you will be encouraged to move around within your hospital room/bedroom, while minimising straining of the abdominal muscles and suture site.

Before leaving the hospital, your dressings will be checked.

They are checked again approximately 1 week after your discharge, at your next post operative visit in our clinic. Your nurse will provide information about when they can be removed and replaced by the next stage of taping and massage (if incisions are fully healed over). Restrictions after an abdominoplasty include no driving for at least 2 weeks and no lifting or exertion for 6 weeks.

At this time, you can begin LED  therapy, which is a complimentary aspect of your postoperative care with us. 

Due to swelling the hunched-over posture, many abdominoplasty patients acquire in the days after leaving the hospital, Dr Sharp recommends that you book a home lymphatic drainage massage after returning home. We can provide you with a list of recommended therapists that provide home calls specifically for post-surgery patients.

Within one to two weeks after your surgery, you will be able to stand up straight and observe good posture. This will help gently re-tone your core muscles, rebuild strength and accentuate your results. It is also important to follow your postoperative instructions and maintain good hydration and a healthy diet.

Most patients require abdominal wall repair during abdominoplasty which means you will not be able to ease slowly back into normal activities for at least 6 weeks; lifting of heavy weights, strenuous activity or normal work outs can resume around 12 weeks. During this time, you will be gradually returning to a normal level of physical activity.

HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I TAKE OFF WORK OR ACTIVITIES?

It is important to avoid strenuous activity for six weeks. This means not exerting yourself nor lifting anything over 2kg during this period. After this, normal activity does not resume immediately; it is a slow process of gradually increasing intensity of exercise, lifting and exertion.

Patients who exercise frequently or rely upon lifting or exertion for their jobs must carefully consider the impact of the procedure on their work, finances and lifestyle. Depending on your work, you would may need to take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks off work, although most patients return to work, particularly if it involves sedentary activity, after 2 weeks.

If your recovery is impacted by a complication  or delayed healing please keep in mind that this may prevent you from returning to work as planned. Please consider the financial impact of such possibilities in the rare chance that they occur.

HOW MUCH DO TUMMY TUCKS COST?

Potential costs include:

  • Surgeon’s fee
  • Anaesthetist’s fee
  • Assistant’s fee
  • Theatre costs
  • Support garments

Dr Sharp performs this procedure as either an inpatient stay or as a day procedure in an accredited private hospital. The decision to have a abdominoplasty as a day procedure or inpatient will cause the hospital component of your costs to vary.

Abdominoplasty for cosmetic reasons is not covered by an item number or rebates from Medicare or private health insurance . However, in some cases, your surgery might be classified as reconstructive, and therefore have a Medicare item number. If so, you might be eligible to claim a rebate from Medicare, as well as your private health fund.

After your consultation with Dr Sharp, if there’s a possibility that your surgery meets Medicare’s criteria, you will be provided with an item number, we recommend you contact your health insurance provider and ask them if you are covered for plastic surgery, particularly siting the item number provided.

It is important to understand that, in the case of complications or revision surgery, the cost of your abdominoplasty might extend to future surgical procedures and hospitalisations. We encourage patients to think about how they would fund further treatment beyond the immediate costs expected.

ABDOMINOPLASTY RESULTS AND EXPECTATIONS

Abdominoplasty surgery produces a flatter, firmer and tighter stomach, however, your immediate results can be obscured by swelling and posture restrictions.

Women who have undergone previous cesarean section find that their original c-section scar is incorporated into their new abdominoplasty incision.

Once you can stand up straight and observe good posture – within 2-3 weeks of surgery for most patients – your swelling will be reduced and you will notice your new, contoured shape. However the initial phases of recovery can be very challenging, with patients feeling tight, uncomfortable and restricted. It is important to have reasonable expectations of how your body can heal and recovery, as well as strong support at home. Results will vary between patients depending on their natural body habitus, body fat, genetics, diet and nutrition and adherence to post operative instructions.

When embarking upon this surgery, it is important to discuss your expectations with your surgeon. Abdominoplasty surgery will not perfect your body. It will leave a permanent scar. You may still have cellulite, stretch marks and rolls of skin or fat when you bend over; this is part of being human.

Self care during the recovery is essential! Engaging with your body during the healing process with lymphatic drainage massage, daily self-massage to your scar and even physiotherapy to relax tight scarring reduces the risk of complications and improves the chance of you being pleased with your result.

CAN I CLAIM REBATES FOR MY TUMMY TUCK SURGERY?

In some cases, abdominoplasty surgery can be considered to be medically required. This is determined by assessing whether the patient meets the Medicare Benefit Schedule’s criteria for abdominoplasty surgery after pregnancy or massive weightloss. If you meet the criteria, an item number will be assigned to your procedure. This item number will carry a Medicare rebate for a portion of your surgeon and anaesthetic fee. If you have eligible private health insurance, it means your fund will also cover all (or part) of your hospital fee, depending on your policy provisions. At your initial consultation, a detailed quote including rebates, will be provided. We recommend that patients have private health insurance before undergoing this surgery, even if they intend to have it as a day procedure.

HOW LONG DO THE RESULTS LAST?

Natural ageing and skin changes will continue to take their effect on your body; abdominoplasty surgery will not stop the clock. However if you generally maintain your operative weight, moderate exercise and don’t sustain injuries or undergo further abdominal surgery, your results will offer life-long improvements for your core strength and abdominal shape. Pregnancy and substantial weight gain are the two most common reasons why abdominoplasty results don’t last.

WHAT IS A DOG EAR?

Dog ears are an excess ‘pucker’ of skin and fatty tissue at the end of an incision line. Most abdominoplasty patients do not experience dog ears. They are, however, more common in procedures that involve the removal of a large amount of skin, fat or tissue, for example abdominoplasty, brachioplasty, breast reduction or bilateral subcutaneous mastectomy. Dog ears are more likely to occur at the end of an incision line if a patient has residual fat, or loose skin, in the adjacent area. An example of this can sometimes be seen following abdominoplasty, especially if the patient has experienced significant weight loss. Where the abdominoplasty incision stops at the hips, patients sometimes have residual skin or fat. Pockets of swelling along the incision line are sometimes mistaken for dog ears during the first few weeks or months of surgery. If you develop a dog ear at the end of your incision line, your surgeon might ask you to wait 3-6 months to see of it will improve on its own as swelling subsides. If it doesn’t, a dog ear is relatively simple to remove under local anaesthetic in the clinic. It does not usually require a general anaesthetic or hospital visit. If performed within a year of your initial surgery with Dr Sharp under local anaesthetic in clinic, the procedure is bulk billed to Medicare.

Read more about dog ears here.

WILL MY ABDOMINOPLASTY SCAR BE LIKE MY CESAREAN SCAR?

No, an abdominoplasty scar is longer, and often thicker, than a cesarean scar.

Abdominoplasty scars are often thicker, as they are under tension from the tightened abdominal wall and reduced skin laxity, compared to a cesarean incision which occurs in an area that has been stretched through the pregnancy, usually resulting in loose skin which places no strain or tension on the incision line.

Abdominoplasty scars are always visible, but they ‘mature’ over a period of 2 years. That sounds like a long time, but it is the approximate length of time that internal and internal scarring takes to settle into its final state. At this point, if postoperative instructions have been closely followed, the scar is significantly softer, lighter and less prominent than it appears during the first 6-12 months after surgery.

Self care during the tummy tuck recovery is essential. We highly recommend:

  • Engaging with your body during the healing process with lymphatic drainage massage
  • Daily self-massage to your scar
  • Physiotherapy to relax tight scarring
  • Organise good support and home and don't rush back into weight-bearing exercise or any activity that stretches your scarring
  • Wearing your support garment consistently, and ensuring that you wear it properly, so it does not ride up too high or rub on other parts of your body. 

This reduces the risk of complications and improves the chance of you being pleased with your result.

CAN I DO ANYTHING TO IMPROVE MY SCAR?

Yes, scarring is dependent on many factors, but the key ones are:

  1. the position of the scar on the body
  2. postoperative scar care
  3. time since surgery
  4. skin type/quality and genetics 

Scar position 

Scars that are located on parts of the body that are under tension or frequent movement are more likely to be stretched, and thicker. This is why it is important to wear postoperative compression garments after abdominoplasty surgery and limit movement. Where scars widen, thicken and feel more restrictive, we often find patients have returned to activities that stretch or place pressure on the scar too soon.

Postoperative scar care

Our patients go home with extensive postoperative instructions. These feature evidence-based, best practice scar care recommendations; when followed, they give patients the best possible scar outcome.

It is therefore essential to wear your support garment correctly (our team are always on hand to clarify if you are unsure of the correct positioning), observe physical activity restrictions, practice good nutrition and only use approved tape/products on incisions for the recommended amount of time. Your postoperative nurse will guide you through when to use tape and when to massage the area; please keep in mind that good scar management takes months, even years, rather than days or weeks - in order to attain the best possible scar.

When we see poor scarring in otherwise healthy patients, it is usually because one or more of the above recommendations have not been followed.

For example, failure to wear compression garments properly can place additional pressure on the scar, or result in excessive swelling, haematoma or seroma, which can require further surgery, in turn causing more incisional tension and unfavourable scarring.
Essential oils, bleaching creams or any products not supplied or recommended by the clinic can be detrimental to healing and cause wound breakdown, delayed healing and poor scarring.Time since surgery

It is inevitable that patients will monitor, observe and worry about their scars most closely during the exact phase of natural scar healing when it is always going to be looking its worst; the first 3-12 months postoperatively. This maturation process takes the scar approximately 24 months in total, so patience is needed in order to see the final result! While it might be annoying to hear ‘be patient’ during this period, it is important to give your body time to fully heal.

Rest assured that if postoperative instructions are closely followed, patients usually find their abdominoplasty scars mature into soft, lightly-coloured scars that are not anywhere near as prominent as they appear to be in the first 3-12 months.Skin condition, quality or genetics

Some skin types or ethnicities are more predisposed to poor scarring. Sun damaged, aged or thin skin can also scar badly or experience delayed healing. Even if you are genetically predisposed to poor scarring, good scar care can go some way to improving the appearance of the scar.

 

 

 

INCISONS, MUSCLE REPAIR + HERNIAS

Abdominoplasty incision

A full abdominoplasty involves two incisions; a horizontal one from hipbone to hipbone near the pubic hairline and another that circles around the navel. The length of the horizontal incision depends on how much skin and fat needs to be removed and in which areas. Weakened abdominal muscles are then repaired and sutured to bring them closer together, and excess fat and skin are excised to remove the protubing appearance of the abdomen. The skin is tightened over flat abdominal muscles. The second incision around the navel is necessary to remove additional loose skin in the mid to upper abdomen. The navel is repositioned in an aesthetically sensitive manner.

Sutures and surgical skin tape is used to close the incision.

If you have concerns about scarring after abdominoplasty surgery, talk to our skin clinician regarding the laser options we have available to accelerate healing and improve the appearance of scars.

Muscle repair during abdominoplasty

Abdominal wall muscles can become lax or separated due to pregnancy or aging. When toned, the rectus abdominus muscles join to create a flat stomach or ‘six pack’ shape. When repeatedly stretched, they can sometimes sit far apart from where they should ideally meet in the middle (called diastasis or divarication of rectus). This is corrected using permanent stitches, which pulls the muscles together for a firmer abdomen and narrower waist. Sometimes the laxity of the lateral abdominal muscles (obliques) also requires permanent sutures to create an ideal shape (called muscle plication).

Abdominal hernia repair

A weak abdominal wall, previous surgery (such as laparoscopy or caesarean) can be associated with abdominal hernias; whereby the fat surrounding the bowels, or the bowel itself, protrudes through the abdominal wall and can be seen and felt as an irregular lump.

During surgery, the hernia is pushed back through the wall, and the weakened area stitched back together and oversewn to strengthen the site.

If the weakness is large enough, sometimes Dr David places a surgical mesh to provide extra strength to the area and prevent future hernia from forming.

Vertical abdominoplasty

In patients with an existing vertical (‘midline’) scar from previous abdominal surgery, a vertical abdominoplasty may be considered.

HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR RESULTS

Healthy nutrition and regular physical activity, including core strength exercises and practicing good posture, are integral to obtaining and maintaining optimal long-term results.

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