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Sydney, Australia Abdominoplasty

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Abdominoplasty with dr turner

Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck surgery, is a surgical procedure aimed at creating a flatter abdomen by removing excess skin and fat. Often combined with the tightening of abdominal wall muscles, it addresses the physical changes caused by pregnancy, significant weight loss, or the natural aging process.

Beyond enhancing appearance, abdominoplasty provides functional benefits, such as improved core strength and posture. With extensive expertise in body contouring, Dr Turner strives to achieve results that align with each individual's aesthetic and functional goals.

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What is an Abdominoplasty?

Factors like aging, pregnancy, weight changes, previous abdominal surgeries, and genetics can cause permanent changes such as weakened abdominal muscles and excess skin or fat accumulation. An abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and tightens the underlying muscles.

Functionally, tightening abdominal muscles can improve core strength, alleviate back pain, and enhance posture. If you have a “belly apron” covering the suprapubic area or desire a flatter abdomen despite normal weight, an abdominoplasty might be suitable. The surgery can also address issues like diastasis recti by repairing the gap between separated abdominal muscles.

Before and afters

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Dr Scott J Turner Plastic Surgeon

Types of Abdominoplasty Procedures?

Dr Turner offers a range of abdominoplasty techniques in Sydney to suit diverse patient goals:

Full Abdominoplasty

A full abdominoplasty is recommended for patients with moderate excess skin and muscle separation. This comprehensive approach addresses the entire abdominal area, targeting both the lower and upper abdomen. The procedure involves making an incision across the lower abdomen, extending from hip to hip, and another around the umbilicus. The abdominal skin is elevated to allow access to the underlying muscles, which are then sutured together to create an internal corset, firming the abdominal wall and slimming the waistline. After tightening the muscles, the skin is redraped downward, and any excess tissue, including stretch marks in the treated area, is removed. The belly button is carefully repositioned through a small opening to ensure a natural appearance.

Mini Abdominoplasty

A mini abdominoplasty is designed for patients with minimal skin laxity or excess fat confined to the lower abdomen below the umbilicus with good overall skin quality. It involves a smaller incision than a full abdominoplasty and focuses on removing loose skin and excess fat in this targeted area. Liposuction may be performed to the remaining abdominal area to enhance contouring, but the belly button is not repositioned, and the abdominal muscles are not fully reconstructed.

If a patient has muscle laxity and significant protrusion of their abdomen, a full abdominoplasty may be recommended instead.

Extended Abdominoplasty

An extended abdominoplasty is ideal for patients with significant excess skin extending beyond the abdomen on to the flanks and lower back. This procedure combines the techniques of a traditional abdominoplasty with additional contouring to address a wider area. The incision is significantly longer than a full abdominoplasty, often wrapping around the body to allow for comprehensive removal of excess skin and fat. In some cases, an inverted T-shaped or fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty, incorporating both horizontal and vertical incisions to achieve optimal results.

This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced massive weight loss and are left with significant loose skin that cannot retract on its own.

Reverse Abdominoplasty

A reverse abdominoplasty is designed to remove loose skin specifically from the upper abdomen. This procedure involves incisions placed discreetly along the natural breast crease. The upper abdominal skin is gently pulled upward, the excess is removed, and the incisions are closed for a smoother contour. Unlike traditional abdominoplasties, this technique does not tighten the abdominal muscles, nor does it involve repositioning the belly button.

This approach is ideal for individuals with a firm lower abdomen but lax, sagging skin in the upper abdominal region, often following significant weight loss.

Lower Body Lift

A lower body lift, also known as a belt lipectomy, is a comprehensive procedure designed to address excess skin and fat in the abdomen, flanks, lower back, thighs, and buttocks. This technique involves making an incision around the entire circumference of the torso, allowing for the removal of sagging skin that disrupts the shape and proportions of the lower body.

This procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals with significant circumferential tissue excess, often resulting from massive weight loss.

Suitable Candidate for Abdominoplasty Surgery?

Suitable candidates for tummy tuck surgery should meet the following criteria:

  • Physical Health: Be in good overall health with no underlying medical conditions that could interfere with the wound healing process.
  • Emotional Well-being: Have realistic expectations and a positive mindset regarding the outcomes of body lift surgery. As of 1st of July 2023, patients are required to have a psychological evaluation to ensure they are suitable to proceed with surgery.
  • Stable Weight: It is recommended to be near your target weight before undergoing the procedure. Dr Turner does not perform abdominoplasty surgery on patients with a body mass index (BMI) > 30.
  • Non-smoker: Smoking or vaping dramatically interferes with the healing process and increases the risk of complications. Therefore, candidates are required to cease smoking for a minimum 6 weeks before surgery.

Patients actively losing weight or planning future pregnancies may be advised to postpone the procedure.

Benefits of Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty is not a weight-loss procedure and works best for those with stable weight who have tried non-surgical options like diet and exercise. If you plan to have children in the future, it’s recommended to delay the surgery.

Dr. Turner’s abdominoplasty procedures in Sydney can provide significant functional benefits:

  • Diastasis Repair: Correcting separated rectus abdominis muscles can restore core strength, stability and improve posture.
  • Hernia Correction: Certain hernias may be addressed as part of the tummy tuck procedure.
  • Improve Back Pain: Tightening the abdominal muscles tensions the thoracolumbar fascia reduce strain on the lower back and alleviating discomfort.

Medicare Criteria for Abdominoplasty

In certain cases, Medicare rebates may apply, particularly for:

  • Significant Weight Loss: At least 5 BMI units and has maintained a stable weight for at least six months.
  • Post-Pregnancy Patients: Separated or weakened abdominal muscles (rectus diastasis >3cm) can contribute to poor posture, leading to back pain and discomfort.

Dr. Turner will provide a thorough assessment to determine if you meet Medicare criteria and discuss potential rebates.

Abdominoplasty Surgery: What to Expect?

Tummy tuck surgery is a complex procedure performed under general anaesthesia in a fully accredited hospital with the assistance of a qualified anaesthetist. Depending on the complexity of the procedure it may take 2-4 hours to perform, and Dr Turner recommends patients rest in hospital for 3 to 4 days to rest, recover, and receive initial post-operative care. 

The procedure involves carefully placed incisions, usually in the pubic region, designed to minimize visible scarring along the bikini line. The length of incisions depends on the type of abdominoplasty. For a mini abdominoplasty, a small incision is made above the pubic area, while a full abdominoplasty requires a larger incision on the lower abdomen and another around the umbilicus. An extended abdominoplasty includes additional incisions along the flanks to address excess skin on the sides.

During the surgery, the abdominal muscles are sutured to repair separation providing a firmer core. Loose skin is removed, and the remaining skin is redraped over the tightened tissues. Liposuction may also be incorporated to enhance overall contouring results. After the procedure, compressive bandages are applied, and drainage tubes are usually left in place for up to a week to manage fluid build-up. Patients must wear a compression garment for six weeks to minimize swelling and support proper healing.

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Specialist plastic surgeon

Dr Scott J turner

Dr Turner FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons – Plastic Surgery) is a Sydney Plastic Surgeon with clinics in the Eastern Suburbs at Bondi Junction and Northern Beaches at Manly.

Dr Scott J Turner has over a decade of experience in private practice solely focused on performing cosmetic surgery.

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Dr Scott J Turner Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Recovery After Abdominoplasty Surgery

Recovering from abdominoplasty involves several stages and requires careful adherence to the post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Turner to ensure optimal results.

  • Rest & Elevation: Rest is critical during the initial recovery period. For the first two weeks, it is essential to keep your upper body slightly elevated while resting or sleeping. Most patients can comfortably sleep on their sides after about three weeks.
  • Post-Operative Dressings: The sutures used in abdominoplasty are typically self-dissolving, so suture removal is not required. Specialized dressings will be applied to support the incisions, and Dr. Turner will replace them at your follow-up appointment.
  • Surgical Drains: In some cases, surgical drains may be used to prevent fluid build-up. These are usually removed within the first week, often before hospital discharge.
  • Compression Garments: A surgical compression garment must be worn full-time for the first month to help reduce swelling and support the healing tissues. Dr. Turner recommends transitioning to a supportive garment during the day for the first six months.
  • Incision Care: Proper scar management is essential for optimal healing. Scars from abdominoplasty typically mature over three years. Dr. Turner recommends a protocol including silicone scar therapy and, if necessary, laser treatments to improve the appearance of scars.
  • Medications: You will be provided with antibiotics and pain medication to manage discomfort and reduce infection risk during the first week of recovery.
  • Normal Activities & Exercise: Most patients can resume light activities within two weeks. However, strenuous exercise, especially those engaging the core, should be avoided for six weeks, and heavy lifting or high-intensity activities should be delayed for three months.
  • Follow-Up Appointments: Turner recommends regular follow-ups to monitor your progress. Appointments are scheduled at one week, one month, three months, six months, and one year to ensure your recovery is on track and results are satisfactory.

By following these post-operative guidelines, you can maximize your recovery and achieve the best possible outcome from your abdominoplasty surgery.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, abdominoplasty carries certain risks and potential complications. While every effort is made to minimize these risks, they can still occur even with the highest standard of medical care.

It’s essential to fully understand these risks, which will be discussed in detail during your consultation with Dr. Turner.

  • Scarring: Visible scarring along the incision lines is common, although scars typically fade over time. In some cases, scars may remain more prominent or raised (hypertrophic scars or keloids).
  • Infection: Infections can occur at the incision sites, requiring antibiotics or, in rare cases, additional surgical intervention.
  • Sensation Changes: Some patients may experience numbness or altered sensation in the abdominal area, which may be temporary or permanent.
  • Asymmetry: Slight differences in abdominal contours or the positioning of scars can occur. Revision surgery may be needed to address significant asymmetry.
  • Delayed Wound Healing: Incisions may take longer to heal, especially in individuals who smoke (including vaping) or have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes.
  • Blood Clots: There is a risk of blood clots forming in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism), which can be life-threatening if untreated.
  • Bleeding or Hematoma: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery can lead to the formation of a hematoma (a collection of blood under the skin), which may require additional surgical intervention.
  • Fat Necrosis: Rarely, fat tissue beneath the skin can die, leading to firm lumps or irregularities.
  • Anaesthesia Risks: General anaesthesia carries potential risks, including adverse reactions or complications.
  • Unsatisfactory Results: While every effort is made to achieve the desired outcome, the results of surgery may not meet all expectations.

It’s important to approach surgery with a clear understanding of these risks and realistic expectations for the outcome. Dr. Turner and his team are committed to providing comprehensive pre-operative education and post-operative care to minimize complications and support a smooth recovery.

Cost of Abdominoplasty Surgery in Sydney

The cost of abdominoplasty varies based on several factors:

  • Surgeon’s Fees: Based on experience and expertise.
  • Hospital Costs: Including anaesthesia and facility fees.
  • Procedure Type: Full, mini, or extended abdominoplasty.

On average, the total cost for abdominoplasty surgery in Sydney can range between $15,000 and $45,000.

Dr Turner’s fees:

Patients seeking a standard abdominoplasty

  • Privately Insured – $22,000
  • Uninsured – $32,000

A formal quote will be provided after your consultation with Dr Turner that gives a better estimate of costs involved in your planned procedure