Abdominoplasty/Tummy Tuck
An abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance and con-tours of the abdomen. It has also been linked to a reduction in stress incontinence and lower back pain.

Loose skin is one of the effects of losing a significant amount of weight. A tummy tuck or belt lipectomy will remove this excess skin.
The abdominal walls are also affected during pregnancy, but a tummy tuck can repair weakened and separated muscles.
A general anaesthetic is required to complete abdominoplasty surgery. One long incision is made close to the bikini line to remove excess skin and repair the muscles. Placing the inci-sion here also conceals any scarring.
For those who also want to address sagging buttock tissue, a belt lipectomy is a better op-tion. A belt lipectomy address skin below the belly button and includes a tuck.
After the incisions are closed, dressings are applied, and a compression garment is worn to reduce swelling during the recovery period.
At Valley Plastic Surgery this procedure is performed in an accredited hospital facility by a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
Tummy Tuck Before and After
Dr Matthew Peters
FAQ’s
How much does a tummy tuck cost?
Once you have met with your surgeon and a clinical plan has been established, our client support officers will organise a quote. Your quote will include a fee for your surgeon as well as an estimate of anaesthetist and hospital fees. There may also be costs associated with medication, pathology and post-surgery garments.
In some instances, an abdominoplasty is considered medically necessary, and will attract a Medicare item number. If you are insured, your private health insurer may also cover some of the costs of your procedure, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.
What is the best way to prepare for abdominoplasty?
Prior to your procedure, it’s important to stay healthy. This means eating the right foods, getting enough sleep and exercise, and keeping your immune system strong. It’s also im-portant to prepare for your recovery before your abdominoplasty. You may wish to pre-prepare some healthy meals, purchase some comfortable loose clothing and ice packs, and fill any prescriptions you may need in the week following surgery.
You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and stay with you for a couple of days. This is particularly necessary if you have small children at home – you will need someone to assist you. You may wish to set up a recovery area where you can relax and sleep in an elevated position.
What happens during a tummy tuck procedure?
Once a general anaesthetic is administered, an incision is made close to the bikini line. The incision for an abdominoplasty procedure can differ depending on your anatomy and desired surgical outcomes. Excess skin is removed and abdominal muscles are repaired, if they have separated, before the remaining skin is then stitched back down over the midsection. If re-quired, the belly button can also be moved into a more desirable position.
A belt lipectomy will also include the removal of excess skin around the back and hips.
What can I expect after my tummy tuck?
Your abdominoplasty recovery will take time, so patience is essential. Bruising, swelling and pain can be expected after surgery. This will ease over the following weeks, and our clinic team will be able to offer you advice on effective pain management. You will be required to wear a compression garment and be prescribed medication to help support the area and manage some of the post-operative discomfort.
How long after a tummy tuck will I see results?
What are the risks associated with abdominoplasty?
How much scarring can I expect after a tummy tuck?
All surgical procedures will result in scars however there are steps that can be taken to en-sure visible scars are kept to a minimum. For instance, keeping your incision site protected from the sun, using tape and massaging the area once healed.
Can I combine abdominoplasty with other procedures?
Yes, tummy tucks can be combined with other procedures and you can discuss these options with your specialist plastic surgeon during your consultation.
Do I need a tummy tuck or just liposuction?
If you have achieved significant weight loss or have issues with abdominal muscle separation you may be better managed with a tummy tuck. This procedure will remove excess ab-dominal fat and skin, and repair abdominal muscles. Liposuction, on the other hand, is only able to remove small fat deposits for specific areas of the body.
In some cases an abdominoplasty is combined with liposuction to improve body contour.
Is it possible to lose weight after a tummy tuck?
Abdominoplasty is not meant to be used as weight loss surgery and patients are required to have a steady weight prior to this procedure. It’s important to have realistic expectations about what can be achieved with a tummy tuck before scheduling surgery.
Do I need a full or mini tummy tuck?
Whether or not you require a full or mini tummy tuck depends on where the abdominal skin is sagging. Mini tummy tucks won’t address anything above the navel, while a full tummy tuck addresses excess skin that sits above and below the navel. Mini tummy tucks only re-quire an incision along the bikini line, while traditional tummy tucks require an upper and lower incision. Going the route of a mini tummy tuck means you won’t require as much downtime.
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Body Surgery Before & After
By Surgeons
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.