Explore the possibilities with abdominoplasty

What Is Abdominoplasty?

Also referred to as a ‘tummy tuck’, abdominoplasty is a type of cosmetic or reconstructive surgery that’s designed to remove fat and excess skin around the abdomen, and to tighten loose muscles.

There are two different types of abdominoplasty surgery, these being:

  • Full Abdominoplasty – Involving the removal of excess skin and fat, and tightening the abdominal muscles across the full abdominal area
  • Partial Abdominoplasty – Involving the removal of excess skin and fat only under the navel, and tightening just the lower abdominal muscles

In both types of abdominoplasty, the patient can expect to have excess skin and fatty tissue trimmed, and for their wounds to be closed with stitches, surgical tape, or clips. A drain is also often positioned in the wound to reduce the risks of fluid build-up post-surgery. The duration of abdominoplasty procedures is also dependent on the extent of the surgery, however it’s common for patients to expect their abdominoplasty to take up to three hours.

Although abdominoplasty can be considered a type of cosmetic surgery, most patients seeking to undergo the process are looking to correct issues like itching and skin infection caused by loose skin after pregnancy or extreme weight loss. Patients recovering from diastasis recti (or ‘abdominal separation’) that may have occurred during their pregnancy can also benefit from undergoing abdominoplasty, as the surgery can repair separated abdominal muscles.

As abdominoplasty typically involves smoothing out the patient’s abdomen, it has become a popular cosmetic procedure. It is, however, an extensive surgical procedure that must be performed whilst the patient is under general anaesthetic alongside applying an intravenous sedation. As a result, abdominoplasty procedures can only be performed in registered hospitals and day procedure facilities in Australia, as stipulated by 2018 amendments to the Health Services Act 1988.

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Abdominoplasty FAQs.

Abdominoplasty or also known as a Tummy Tuck Average Cost Breakdown

Please note that the below costs are general in nature, and provided to Pirk through their esteemed surgeon network. Everyone is different, and if you wish to receive specific costs to your needs you should book a consult with a Qualified Surgeon.

Estimated prices do not include post-care, garments, consultations and any complications.

Item Min. Cost Max. Cost
Est. Total Cost $13,375
 $31,200
Surgeon Cost $8,000 $21,000
Daily Hospital Cost $4,000 $8,000
Anaesthetist $1,375 $2,200
Surgery Time (hours) 2.5 4
Hospital Time (days) 1 1

Patients can typically expect their abdominoplasty procedure to last for around three hours, with partial abdominoplasties typically taking less time than full abdominoplasties.

Most patients report an inability to stand up straight following their abdominoplasty procedures, as their abdominal muscles are still recovering. For this reason, it’s also not recommended that patients perform any strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for at least a month. This is to ensure that their abdominal muscles are able to heal and regain their strength slowly and without risks of overexertion and tearing.

Recovery from abdominoplasty typically takes 3-4 weeks, however most patients still report some tenderness even a month after their procedure. Avoiding strenuous exercises and wearing compression garments can help support your healing process.

Prior to your preliminary consultation, it’s recommended that you research abdominoplasty and organise a list of questions that you’d like to ask your surgeon. Pirk’s Learning Hub is a good place to kickstart your research.

Abdominoplasty surgery involves patients going under general anaesthetic alongside the application of an intravenous sedation. The surgery typically takes up to three hours, and may involve the repositioning of your navel following the removal of fatty tissue and excess skin around the abdomen.

Like any surgery, there is a risk of infection, scarring, and pain or discomfort surrounding surgical incision sites. Some patients have also reported experiencing numbness, nausea and vomiting due to the effects of anaesthetic, fluid accumulation under the skin (i.e. seroma), and even haematomas and blood clots.

For most patients, the long term results of abdominoplasty are typically a smoother abdominal region, and less belly fat. Abdominoplasty surgeries don’t prevent weight gain either, so patients are advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise to ensure positive long term results.

If you’re looking to reduce your risks of experiencing itchiness or infection due to loose skin on your abdomen, then an abdominoplasty surgery will likely be able to provide the results you’re looking for. Abdominoplasty is also ideal for treating diastasis recti in postpartum patients, and patients looking to surgically reduce their belly fat.

Scarring that results from abdominoplasty surgery is typically temporary, with most patients reporting that scarring begins to fade twelve months after their procedure.

The results of a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty procedure are considered to be permanent, as the removed skin or fatty tissue doesn’t grow back but rather is replaced if the patient gains weight following the procedure.

Although the procedure itself is not painful due to anaesthetic and sedation, abdominoplasty patients report pain and discomfort up to a week following their procedure. An uncomfortable ‘tugging’ sensation has also been reported whilst incision sites continue to heal in the weeks following an abdominoplasty.

Patients can expect their stomach region to be smoother following recovery from an abdominoplasty. During the recovery period, however, scarring and wound care will prevent the abdomen from being entirely flat.

Although the results of abdominoplasty differ from patient to patient due to their unique physiology, most women can expect to drop 2-3 dress sizes following their tummy tuck, whilst men can expect to drop 3 or more pant sizes.

Most specialists agree that there is no age limit for abdominoplasty, as excess skin and fat tissue can be removed from patients of any age. If you do, however, have adverse reactions to anaesthesia or any pain relief medication, then you will need to consult your GP prior to scheduling your abdominoplasty.

Please note that Pirk is not a medical provider. Pirk receives approved information from its partnered surgeons and approved websites. All information provided is general and should not be used as medical advice. Pirk encourages all clients to research and speak to a qualified surgeon or specialist before deciding what is right for them.

We can help you find your Surgeon

Our Pirk Cosmetic Consultancy connects you with top-rated Australian cosmetic surgeons, offering you the freedom to choose. With the significant costs and risks associated with Abdominoplasty, finding the right surgeon and facility is crucial. Let Pirk simplify the process for you.

How We Make It Easy

  1. Tell Us What You Need: Start by filling out our simple enquiry form. It’s quick, easy, and helps us understand exactly what you’re looking for.
  2. Let’s Chat: Schedule a Discovery Call with one of our Pirk Cosmetic Consultants. We’ll dive deep into your preferences and requirements to match you with qualified surgeons who fit your needs.
  3. Find Your Match: Based on our conversation, we’ll handpick a list of recommended surgeons near you. Take your time to browse through their profiles and find the one that feels like the perfect fit.
  4. Book With Confidence: Once you’ve found your ideal surgeon, book your initial consultation. You can do it directly through Pirk, making the process smooth and stress-free.

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Let us know what you’re looking for, and our expert team will ensure you have everything you need, matching you with the ideal surgeon for your requirements.