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Sydney, Australia Vertical Abdominoplasty (Fleur De Lis)

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Vertical (Fleur De Lis) Abdominoplasty with dr turner

Achieving significant weight loss is a commendable milestone that often leads to improved health and well-being. However, such transformations can leave individuals with excess skin and tissue, particularly in the abdominal region. This surplus skin can cause both aesthetic concerns and physical discomfort, including skin irritation and hygiene challenges. For those seeking a solution, a vertical abdominoplasty or Fleur De Lis abdominoplasty, offers an effective treatment.

With his extensive experience in body contouring after weight loss, Dr. Turner strives to achieve results that align with your goals through meticulous, patient-focused care.

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Understanding Vertical (Fleur De Lis) Abdominoplasty

The Fleur de Lis Abdominoplasty is a specialized surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from both the upper and lower abdomen, as well as the flanks. Named after the fleur-de-lis symbol due to the shape of its incisions, this technique involves both horizontal and vertical cuts, allowing for a more comprehensive reshaping of the torso compared to traditional abdominoplasty.

Key Features

  • Incision Pattern: The procedure utilizes a vertical incision along the midline of the abdomen and a horizontal incision along the lower abdomen. This dual-incision approach enables the surgeon to remove a significant amount of excess skin and fat, resulting in a more contoured and toned appearance.
  • Comprehensive Contouring: By addressing both vertical and horizontal laxity, the Fleur de Lis technique effectively tightens the abdominal area, flanks, and waistline, providing a more balanced and proportionate physique.
  • Muscle Repair: In addition to skin and fat removal, the procedure often includes tightening the abdominal muscles, which may have become separated or weakened due to weight fluctuations or pregnancy.

Key Benefits

  • Dramatic Contouring: The vertical incision allows for the removal of significant skin laxity, creating a smoother, firmer, and more proportionate abdominal area.
  • Improved Posture and Core Strength: Tightening the abdominal muscles enhances posture and increases core stability, which can reduce back pain and improve overall mobility.
  • Resolution of Discomfort: Eliminating excess skin folds reduces skin irritation, rashes, and hygiene issues caused by trapped moisture.

Suitable Candidates for Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty?

This procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced massive weight loss, whether through bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes, and are left with substantial excess skin in the abdominal area.

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.

Vertical Abdominoplasty Surgery: What to Expect?

Vertical abdominoplasty 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 3-4 hours to perform, and Dr Turner recommends patients rest in hospital for 3 days to rest, recover, and receive initial post-operative care. 

The Fleur de Lis technique involves carefully planned incisions to remove excess skin both horizontally and vertically, resulting in a more comprehensive contouring of the abdomen. Similar to a traditional abdominoplasty, a horizontal incision is made low on the abdomen, usually just above the pubic area and extending from hip to hip. Additionally, a vertical incision is made from the lower abdomen up to the breast fold or sternum. This allows for the removal of excess skin in a side-to-side direction, effectively tightening the waistline.

During the surgery, the abdominal muscles may be sutured together to repair any separation (diastasis recti), providing improved abdominal strength and a flatter profile. Excess skin and fatty tissue are meticulously removed from both the lower and central abdomen. The combination of horizontal and vertical incisions creates an inverted “T” shape, enabling Dr. Turner to remove a significant amount of redundant skin and fat. The remaining skin is carefully redraped over the tightened muscles, and a new opening is created for the umbilicus. Dr Turner generally avoids liposuction as part of a vertical abdominoplasty to minimise any complications with surgery.

After the procedure, a specialised negative pressure dressing will be applied for the first week to aid in healing. Drainage tubes are usually placed to prevent fluid accumulation and are typically left in place for up to a week. Patients are required to wear a medical-grade compression garment continuously for six weeks. This garment aids in reducing swelling, supports proper healing, and helps maintain the new abdominal contour.

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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 Vertical Abdominoplasty

Recovering from a Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty involves several stages and requires careful adherence to the post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Turner to achieve 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 to reduce swelling and promote healing. Using extra pillows or an adjustable bed can help maintain this position. Most patients find they can comfortably sleep on their sides after about three weeks.

Post-Operative Dressings

The sutures used in a Fleur de Lis Abdominoplasty are typically self-dissolving, so there is no need for suture removal. Specialized dressings will be applied to support and protect the incisions. Dr. Turner will replace these dressings at your follow-up appointment to ensure proper healing.

Surgical Drains

In most cases, surgical drains may be placed to prevent fluid buildup around the surgical site. These drains are usually removed at your first week follow up appointment with Dr Turner at his Manly clinic. Dr Turner will provide instructions on how to care for them while they are in place.

Compression Garments

A surgical compression garment must be worn full-time for the first month following surgery. This garment helps reduce swelling and supports the healing tissues. After the initial month, Dr. Turner recommends transitioning to a supportive garment during the day for the next six months to aid in your continued recovery.

Incision Care

Proper care of your incisions is crucial for minimizing scarring. Scars from a Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty will mature over the next several years. Dr. Turner will provide a scar management plan, which may include silicone scar therapy and laser treatments, to enhance the appearance of your scars.

Medications

After surgery, you will receive prescriptions for antibiotics and pain management from the anaesthetist. It’s important to take these medications as directed during the first week to manage discomfort and prevent infection.

Normal Activities & Exercise

Most patients can gradually resume normal daily activities within two weeks after surgery. However, strenuous exercise and activities involving heavy lifting or abdominal strain should be avoided for at least six weeks. It’s advisable to refrain from intense abdominal workouts for approximately three months to ensure proper healing.

Follow-Up Appointments

Regular follow-up appointments with Dr Turner are essential to monitor your recovery. Scheduled visits at our Manly clinic are recommended at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after your Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty. These appointments allow Dr. Turner to assess your healing progress and address any questions or concerns you may have.

Risks and Complications

Undergoing a Fleur de Lis Abdominoplasty, like any surgical procedure, involves certain risks and potential complications. While Dr Turner employs the highest standards of medical care to minimize these risks, it’s important to be fully informed before making a decision.

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 vertical and horizontal incision lines is common with the Fleur de Lis technique. While scars typically fade over time, some may remain more prominent or develop into hypertrophic scars or keloids.
  • Infection: Incision sites can become infected, requiring antibiotic treatment or, in rare cases, additional surgical intervention.
  • Changes in Sensation: Numbness or altered sensation in the abdominal area is possible. This change can be temporary but may become permanent in some cases.
  • Asymmetry: Minor differences in abdominal contours or scar positioning can occur. Significant asymmetry may require revision surgery to correct.
  • Delayed Wound Healing: Healing may take longer than expected, especially for individuals who smoke or have medical conditions like diabetes that affect circulation.
  • Blood Clots: There’s a risk of developing blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism), which can be serious if not promptly treated.
  • Bleeding or Hematoma: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery can lead to hematoma formation, necessitating additional surgical procedures to remove the accumulated blood.
  • Fat Necrosis: In rare instances, fat tissue beneath the skin may die, resulting in firm lumps or irregularities in the abdominal contour.
  • Anaesthesia Risks: General anaesthesia carries its own set of potential risks, including adverse reactions or complications during the procedure.
  • Unsatisfactory Results: Despite meticulous planning and surgical execution, the final results may not meet all of your expectations. Factors like skin elasticity and individual healing can affect the outcome.

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 Vertical Abdominoplasty Surgery in Sydney

The cost of FDL 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 FDL abdominoplasty surgery in Sydney can range between $20,000 and $45,000.

Dr Turner’s fees:

Patients seeking a Fleur De Lis abdominoplasty

  • Privately Insured – $25,000
  • Uninsured – $35,000

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

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Dr Scott J Turner Specialist Plastic Surgeon “We are equally as passionate about cosmetic plastic surgery as we are about you and your experience with us. We are here to listen, educate, and support you throughout your cosmetic surgical journey.”

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1300 437 758

Manly Clinic

Suite 504, Level 5 39 East Esplanade
Manly NSW 2095

Bondi Junction Clinic

Suite 1902, Level 19 Westfield Tower 2 101 Grafton Street
Bondi Junction NSW 2022