Abdominoplasty, also called a tummy tuck, is a very common type of plastic surgery. After pregnancy or major weight loss the skin and muscles of your abdomen can become stretched out, sag, and affect how you look and feel about your body. Excess fat may also be stored in the abdomen as a result of aging, and these muscles weaken as you get older. The result can be a pouch, or folds of skin and fat that hang. An experienced Sydney plastic surgeon can help you get a flatter, firmer, younger looking, and more aesthetically pleasing abdomen with a tummy tuck or a post pregnancy reconstruction that includes this procedure.

There are a Variety of Tummy Tuck Procedures to Choose From

There are several abdominoplasty procedures that may be used. Your Sydney plastic surgeon will discuss the different methods available and help you decide which one is right for you. Some options include:

Full abdominoplasty

    • This is the tummy tuck type that is performed most often, and the most effective method in many cases. A long incision is made, positioned so the scar is below your bikini line, and there is a significant amount of down time and recovery involved. During the procedure your belly button will be moved. This method allows for maximum muscle and skin tightness.

Mini tummy tuck

    • A mini tummy tuck may be performed if your Sydney plastic surgeon determines that your skin is only moderately loose and your problem area is located in your lower abdomen. The incision and resulting scar is shorter and is strategically located below your bikini line. Your belly button is not moved with a mini abdominoplasty, it is less invasive than a full tummy tuck, and there is less down time and recovery required.

Reverse abdominoplasty

  • A reverse abdominoplasty may be recommended if you have had major weight loss and this has caused excess fat and skin to develop in your upper abdomen. The incision will be made under your breast and the the tissue is tightened by pulling the skin upwards toward the breast rather than down towards your pubic area.

How is a Tummy Tuck Performed?

During an abdominoplasty the Sydney plastic surgeon will make an incision in the targeted area. Next any excess skin and fat will be removed, and your muscles will be tightened. In a full tummy tuck the incision will go around your belly button, which will be properly positioned in the right place after the surgeon is finished removing the extra fat, skin, and other tissue.

The surgeon then pulls the skin in the desired direction so that it is tighter and firmer. The muscles and skin are usually stitched into place with stitches that dissolve over time. A no drain abdominoplasty eliminates the need for drains after surgery. Even a mini abdominoplasty, very common in post pregnancy reconstructions, does involve significant down time and general anesthesia. Liposuction may also be performed at the same time for even more drastic results.

To find out more about this or our other cosmetic surgical and non-surgical procedures, please contact Pure Aesthetics on 02 9252 9262 or send us an enquiry.