Abdominoplasty procedure

An abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) is a cosmetic surgery that alters the patient's appearance by removing excess skin and reconstructing abdominal muscles. According to a 2020 survey by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, abdominoplasty is one of the top five most common cosmetic surgeries worldwide. 

This procedure is commonly confused with liposuction and panniculectomy. Liposuction is only limited to removing fat and can be done in other body parts. On the other hand, panniculectomy removes the skin without tightening the underlying muscles and is not considered a cosmetic procedure.

Why people choose abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) surgery:

• Remove excess fat from the abdominal area
• Improve hygiene and reduce skin irritations or chafing
• Greatly reduce the appearance of stretch marks
• Strengthen the abdominal muscles

Who Should Not Have An Tummy Tuck? 

Even if they need one, not everyone is qualified to have an abdominoplasty procedure. Some of the people on the exclusion list include: 

• Women who still wish to have children: The main objective of a tummy tuck is to tighten the muscles in the abdomen. Having a pregnancy after your tummy tuck can reverse the effects of the surgery.
• Smokers: Smoking is not ideal for almost every medical and surgical scenario. It slows the healing process and may predispose you to infections following the surgery. Smoking may also aggravate post-surgical pain or cause you to develop dangerous blood clots. 
• People living with chronic medical conditions: If you have cardiovascular disease or a kidney problem, your body may not adequately handle the stress of the surgery. Also, conditions like diabetes may reduce the healing rate of your surgical scar and increase the risk of infection. 

• Individuals with ongoing weight loss: This includes those on a weight loss plan intending to lose more weight. Also, if your weight is unstable, you should not have an abdominoplasty until it is stabilised. 

How To Prepare For An Abdominoplasty 

Abdominoplasty surgery is an intensive surgical procedure, and you may have to wait for about a year to achieve full recovery. The success of your surgery depends on multiple factors, and that’s why you need to get everything right before going in. 

• Consult a plastic surgeon with the right experience in the field. Dr Nathan Stewart is board-certified and has spent more than 14 years helping people in Perth. With his team, you are guaranteed the best medical and surgical care. 
• Stop smoking. Studies have shown that quitting smoking 6-8 weeks before surgery reduces the risk of postoperative complications. 
• Stop some medications. Your doctor may modify your intake of NSAIDs like aspirin, ibuprofen and diclofenac. If you are on blood thinners or long-term medications, inform your surgeon so you can be adequately evaluated. 
• Consider the financial implication. The fee may be higher if you do not have insurance coverage for the procedure. 

How Is A Tummy Tuck Done? 

There are two main types of abdominoplasty surgeries, depending on the extent of the surgery.

Partial Abdominoplasty

Partial Abdominoplasty (also called mini-abdominoplasty) is done for people without significant excess skin overlying their abdomen.

The surgeon makes smaller incisions and separates your skin between the incision line and your belly button. From here, the corrections are done without shifting the position of your navel. Partial abdominoplasty takes a short time, usually less than two hours. 

Complete Abdominoplasty

During a complete abdominoplasty / tummy tuck, the surgeon will make an incision at your bikini line and extend it depending on how much excess skin is on your abdomen. 

Another incision is made to free up your belly button from the surrounding tissue. The surgeon then begins the corrective process. The incisions are subsequently sutured, and drainage tubes may be placed under your skin for a few days. 

What Are The Risks Associated With Abdominoplasty? 

Like any other surgery, an abdominoplasty may lead to side effects. With experienced hands, chances of having these complications are limited. Some of the risks you should be aware of are: 

• Pain and slight swelling in the operated area. 
• Soreness and fatigue lasting a few weeks. 
• Numbness, which may last a few days or even be permanent. 
• Scarring or infection of the surgical site. 
• Asymmetry of the abdomen, giving a lopsided view. 
• Seroma or haematoma.
• Death of the fatty tissue deep underneath your belly, causing painless lumps. 

What To Do After Your Abdominoplasty Procedure? 

Until you reach full recovery, 

• Avoid strenuous activities that require lifting heavy objects. 
• Do not smoke or drink alcohol.
• Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. 
• Be in constant communication with your surgeon. 

You may have to wear a compression garment after your surgery. If you start feeling uneasy, feverish, or notice bleeding, call for help and meet your healthcare provider. 

What is Dr. Nathan Stewart's experience with Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgeries?

Dr. Nathan Stewart brings a wealth of experience and formal qualifications in the field of abdominoplasty/ tummy tuck surgery. Trained in Australia as a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (MBBS MS FRACS Plastic Surgery), he holds the highest credentials for Plastic Surgery in the country.

After completing an international fellowship in the UK and a rigorous 5-year Australian Fellowship in Plastic Surgery, Dr Stewart has gained extensive knowledge in the complexities of abdominoplasty. His academic journey also includes earning a master's degree from the University of Sydney, where he focused on wound healing.

With such an extensive background, Dr. Stewart has gained specialised techniques. These skills involve more than reducing stomach size and removing excess skin. They also focus on reshaping the abdomen into a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing form while reconstructing abdominal muscles. The mastery of this plastic surgery art truly showcases his expertise and hands-on experience.

When it comes to choosing a surgeon for your abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), Dr. Stewart is a standout choice. With a comprehensive skill set and qualifications, you can trust that you're in capable hands for your procedure.

What Should You Do Now? 

Want to see results from our past patients? Be sure to view our gallery page to see before and after images. Dr Nathan Stewart is available for consultation in Perth and Bunbury. If you have any questions or would like to know more about the procedure, contact Dr Stewart today.