Abdominoplasty, Geelong

What is it?

Abdominoplasty or tummy tuck is done to remove the sagging skin and excess fatty tissue from the middle and lower abdomen.

This is usually caused by stretching from:

  • Childbirth
  • Weight loss
  • Tissue hanging over of a scar, such as after a caesarean section.

The muscles of the abdomen wall may be surgically tightened. Excess skin is removed which then gives a firmer, flatter and shapelier abdomen.

Am I suitable?

Abdominoplasty is an option if you:

  • Are healthy and have a realistic expectation
  • Have finished your family
  • Have reached your goal weight
  • Have excessive skin and fat after a diet and exercise program
  • Are a non smoker and have a body mass index (BMI) below 30.

Your initial consultation will be with our practice nurse who will determine if you fit the criteria as stated above and provide you with information regarding the procedure. This consultation is at no cost to you.

All being well, your next appointment is then with Mr McDonald who will discuss your medical history and perform a thorough clinical consultation. He can show you before and after photographs of other patients’ results.

Mr McDonald will have a full discussion with you about the risks and complications of the surgery. Mr McDonald will not agree to perform any cosmetic procedure on you unless he feels the benefits significantly outweigh the risks. Pre and post-operative photos are taken.

What can I expect if I have the procedure?

The operation takes two to three hours.

  • Expect a two to three-day stay in hospital.
  • You will need help at home.
  • You will need to walk slightly stooped to keep the tension off the wound.
  • Pain and discomfort are controlled with medication prescribed by Mr McDonald.
  • You will be required to wear a compression garment for 12 weeks post-operatively. Initially this is 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for at least the first two weeks and then it may be removed for showering.
  • Your scars will be taped for three months.
  • You will require four to six weeks off work.
  • No driving for four weeks.
  • Exercise will be limited to short walks, gradually increasing. This helps to reduce the risk of blood clots in the legs.

The procedure

The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic. During the procedure a long, curved cut is made in the skin across the lower abdomen at the level of the top of the pubic hair. Sometimes this needs to be extended around to the flanks if extra tissue needs to be removed. A separate small cut is made around the umbilicus (belly button). Beneath the skin the abdominal wall muscles are tightened with stitches. The excess skin and fat is then removed. The lower wound is stitched with dissolving sutures. The umbilicus or belly button is stitched with non-dissolving stitches. Liposuction may be performed in conjunction if additional excess fat needs removing. The wounds are taped and the garment is applied.

Follow up

We will keep in close contact with you and see you in five days after the surgery, then on a needs basis weekly and finally at three months. You can phone our rooms anytime and there is a recorded message after hours.

Complications

These may occur with any surgical procedure. These will be discussed in detail in your consultation with Mr McDonald. The risks of complications are reduced if you are healthy, are a non-smoker and not overweight.

The first step to a new, more confident you is an initial consultation with one of our knowledgeable and friendly team members. During this session you will be invited to ask all your questions to ensure you are happy and comfortable, and we will discuss the procedure itself and the care you will receive during and afterwards.

Mr Anthony McDonald also performs other cosmetic medical procedures including breast augmentation and breast lifts.