Abdominoplasty

To see Dr Avery, you will need a referral from your GP or another specialist who knows you well. Some people seek a consultation after speaking with family or friends, or following their own research into plastic surgery.

The initial consultation is an opportunity to discuss your personal reasons for considering surgery, your expectations, and any questions or concerns you may have. Dr Avery will take time to understand your health history and circumstances so that the information you receive is specific to you.

When you arrive at Avery, you will be welcomed by our Care Team and asked to complete a medical history form if this has not already been done. You are welcome to bring a supportive family member or friend with you to your consultation, should you wish, to help you collect and retain al of the information you need to make an informed decision about surgery.

As part of the consultation, Dr Avery will carry out an examination of the area of concern and provide information about whether surgery may be suitable for you. This discussion will include what the procedure involves, the possible risks and complications, and any limitations that may apply in your situation. The aim is to provide you with clear information about what surgery may or may not achieve, and whether it is an appropriate option for you.

Your consultation will also include discussion of the estimated costs associated with surgery.

After your appointment, our Care Team is available to answer any further questions, including those relating to fees and practical next steps.

At Avery, our focus is to provide you with accurate and personalised information to support your decision-making process before, during, and after surgery.

There are several types of abdominoplasty procedures. The choice depends on individual anatomy, previous scarring, and the location of excess skin.

• Traditional abdominoplasty: Removes a larger amount of lower abdominal skin. It usually results in a scar extending from hip to hip and a scar around the umbilicus (belly button).
• Mini-abdominoplasty: Involves a shorter lower abdominal incision. This is considered when less skin removal is required. It generally does not include a scar around the umbilicus.
• Fleur de lis abdominoplasty: May be considered when there is skin looseness in both vertical and horizontal directions. It results in a vertical midline scar in addition to a lower abdominal scar.
• Reverse abdominoplasty: Considered when skin redundancy is mainly in the upper abdomen, often in patients with pre-existing scars in this area. It results in a scar placed beneath the breast line.
• Circumferential abdominoplasty (body lift): Extends the scar around the entire lower abdomen and back, often for patients with skin excess circumferentially.

The length of surgery depends on the amount of tissue being removed and any additional procedures performed at the same time. A partial abdominoplasty may take 1–2 hours, while a complete abdominoplasty may take 3–4 hours.

As with any surgery, abdominoplasty carries risks. The type of procedure that may be considered depends on individual circumstances and should be discussed during a consultation.

As with all surgical procedures, abdominoplasty carries risks. Outcomes and recovery differ between individuals. It is not possible to list every potential complication, but it is important to be aware of the more common risks, as well as less common but potentially serious complications. so you can carefully consider the potential benefits, risks, and limitations of surgery.

There may be other complications that are not listed. Smoking, obesity, and other significant medical problems will cause greater risk of complications.

Some general risks and possible complications of surgery include, but are not limited to the following:

• Heavy bleeding from an operated site. This may require a blood transfusion.
• Infection that may require treatment with antibiotics or further surgery in some cases.
• Allergic reaction to sutures, dressings or antiseptic solutions.
• The formation of a large blood clot (haematoma) beneath an incision site may require further surgery.
• Complications such as heart attack, pulmonary embolism or stroke may be caused by a blood clot, which can be life threatening.
• Pain, bruising and swelling around the operated site(s).
• Slow healing.
• Short-term nausea following general anaesthesia and other risks related to anaesthesia.
• Tissue cannot heal without scarring and that how one scars is dependent on individual genetic characteristics. Dr Avery will do his best to minimise scarring but cannot control its ultimate appearance.
• Smoking or using nicotine products during the 3–4-week pre-operative and post-operative periods is prohibited as these could dramatically increase the chances of complications.
• All medications I am currently taking, including prescriptions, over the counter remedies, herbal therapies and supplements, aspirin, and any other recreational drug or alcohol use can affect the safety of my surgery.
• There can be no guarantees about the results of any surgery.

Some specific risks for abdominoplasty surgery include, but are not limited to the following:

• Seroma or fluid under the skin
• Infection and Delayed healing
• Asymmetries of contour
• Recurrent laxity of skin
• Bleeding or haematoma (clot) requiring surgery
• Loss of skin from insufficient circulation (requiring further surgery and skin graft)
• Change in sensation or numbness of abdominal skin
• Loss of umbilicus (belly button) or displacement to the side
• Pulmonary embolism or blood clots in the lung
• Changes in shape or appearance of pubic hair
• Permanent scars
• Pain (may be prolonged)
• Need for more surgery for surgical corrections (revision surgery) or further treatment
• Further recovery time if further surgery is required
• Failure to alleviate symptoms of rash and back pain
• Extended hospital stay may be required, beyond the typical time indicated
• DVT (deep vein thrombosis) - clot in legs or PE (pulmonary embolus) – clot in lungs
• Allergic reactions to tape, suture material, topical preparations, medications
• Disappointment or dissatisfaction with result
• ‘Dog ears’ (excess skin at scar end)
• Loss of skin from insufficient circulation (requiring further surgery and skin graft)

The Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) has further information about abdominoplasty surgery including the possible risks for this surgery. All patients will receive a discussion of risks that are most relevant to their individual health and circumstances.

Patients undergoing abdominoplasty generally stay in hospital for several days. The length of stay depends on the extent of surgery and any additional procedures.

In many cases, small drainage tubes are placed beneath the incision to help remove fluid. These are usually removed before discharge. Bruising, swelling, and a sensation of tightness are common and may last for several weeks. Patients are often advised to wear a compression garment for up to six weeks to provide support and reduce swelling.

Time off work depends on the type of surgery, individual recovery, and the physical demands of a job. Many patients require 2–4 weeks before returning to work or light activity. Heavier lifting and strenuous exercise are usually avoided for at least six weeks.

Pain management plans are developed for individual patients and can be adjusted during recovery as needed.

Scarring is a normal part of abdominoplasty. Scars are permanent, though their appearance changes over time. In some cases, scars may be positioned so they can be covered by clothing or swimwear, but visibility and appearance vary between individuals.

As with all surgery, recovery experiences differ and complications may extend the expected recovery period.

The financial aspects of your surgery are as important as the medical elements when planning for surgery. At Avery, the surgeries we offer fall into three different financial categories: Self-funded – aesthetic surgery; self-funded – plastic and reconstructive surgery; and health insured – plastic and reconstructive surgery.

To make sense of these three financial categories, we have created a detailed price guide to help you understand what may or may not be covered by your health insurer/Medicare and your out of pocket expenses.

To download this guide, please click here.

For more information or to book a consultation, please contact our team on 02 4002 4150.

All surgery results in permanent scarring. The size and location of scars depend on the type of procedure and individual factors such as skin type and healing response. Scars are often red or raised at first, and may change in appearance over time. The final appearance varies between individuals and cannot be predicted with certainty.

Abdominoplasty is not a procedure that is intended to affect fertility. Pregnancy is still possible after surgery. However, the abdominal skin and muscles will stretch again during pregnancy. This may cause discomfort and may reverse some of the surgical changes, such as repair of abdominal muscle separation. For these reasons, abdominoplasty is often considered after completing pregnancies.

Recovery after abdominoplasty occurs in stages and varies between individuals. Early mobilisation is encouraged as soon as possible after surgery, usually beginning with short walks within the first few days. This helps circulation, reduces the risk of blood clots, and supports general recovery.

During the first two weeks, gentle daily walking is usually advised, along with avoiding lifting, straining, or direct abdominal loading. By two to six weeks, many patients gradually increase their level of activity, introducing low-impact forms of exercise such as a stationary bike or cross-trainer once wounds have healed. Swimming may also be considered once wounds are fully closed. Heavier exercise, including running, high-intensity training, and weight lifting, is generally avoided during this time.

From around six weeks, some patients can begin returning to more strenuous exercise, including progressive resistance training and, if muscle repair has been performed, carefully supervised core strengthening. Recovery is highly variable and can be influenced by the extent of surgery and whether the abdominal muscles were repaired.

It may take between six and twelve weeks before patients feel ready to resume their previous fitness routine, and for some people, this can take longer. Scars and abdominal tissue continue to mature for many months after surgery, so gradual progression remains important.

As with any surgery, recovery differs between individuals. The timing of return to exercise should always be guided by the treating surgeon and, where recommended, by a physiotherapist.

0–2 weeks

• Gentle daily walking as tolerated (short, frequent).
• Deep breathing and circulation exercises.
• No lifting >2–3kg.
• Support incision when coughing/moving.
• Surgical garment as advised.

2–6 weeks

• Progress walking distance/pace.
• Introduce very gentle pelvic tilts, gluteal squeezes, and posture work if cleared.
• No core or resistance training if rectus plication performed.
• Avoid overhead reaching, twisting, or straining.

6–8 weeks

• Gradual reintroduction of low-impact cardio (stationary bike, swimming once wounds closed).
• Light resistance training for upper and lower body (not core).
• Core exercises may be introduced only with surgeon/physio clearance.

8–12+ weeks

• Progressive return to full exercise, including resistance and core strengthening.
• Running, HIIT, and heavy lifting reintroduced gradually.
• Expect some individuals to take longer than 12 weeks to return to pre-surgery activity.

Pain after abdominoplasty is common and varies between individuals. The level of discomfort depends on the extent of surgery and personal healing factors.

Local anaesthetic is often administered at the surgical site during the operation, and pain relief is provided through tablets or injections as needed during the hospital stay and recovery at home. Other measures, such as dressings, compression garments, limiting certain movements, and the use of ice packs in some cases, may also help manage discomfort.

Some patients notice that pain lessens within several days, although this differs between individuals. If pain increases after surgery, this may indicate the need for a review to check that recovery is progressing as expected.

Movement is generally restricted in the early weeks after surgery. Gentle walking is encouraged, but heavier activity should be avoided until cleared by the surgeon. A gradual return to normal activity is recommended, guided by medical advice.

There are several types of abdominoplasty. The most appropriate approach depends on individual anatomy, medical history, and surgical assessment.

• Mini abdominoplasty – removes a smaller amount of excess skin from the lower abdomen.
• Traditional (full) abdominoplasty – involves an incision along the lower abdomen and around the umbilicus (belly button).
• Extended abdominoplasty – involves incisions that extend further around the lower abdomen, sometimes including the flanks.
• Circumferential abdominoplasty (body lift or “360 abdominoplasty”) – the incision extends completely around the abdomen and back.
• Fleur de Lis (FDL) abdominoplasty – involves a vertical midline incision in addition to the horizontal incision, used when there is significant horizontal as well as vertical skin excess.

In addition to skin removal, abdominoplasty may also include:

• Liposuction – performed in selected cases to address localised fat deposits.
• Muscle repair (rectus diastasis repair) – tightening of the abdominal wall muscles if they are separated.

The most appropriate type of abdominoplasty depends on individual anatomy, medical history, and the nature of excess skin or muscle separation. Before surgery, a consultation is required so that your abdomen can be examined and your medical history reviewed. During this process, Dr Avery will discuss the different surgical options, the potential risks, and the expected limitations, and will advise whether abdominoplasty—and which type—may be suitable in your circumstances.

Liposuction is a procedure that removes fat from beneath the skin using suction. It is sometimes performed at the same time as an abdominoplasty, usually in areas that are not removed by skin excision. The decision to combine liposuction with abdominoplasty depends on individual anatomy, surgical planning, and safety considerations. Whether liposuction is appropriate for you will be discussed during consultation.

Coverage depends on whether the surgery meets the criteria for a recognised Medicare item number.

• Cosmetic abdominoplasty: When abdominoplasty is performed for cosmetic reasons only (such as to change appearance), it does not attract a Medicare item number. In these cases, private health insurance will not provide benefits for the procedure or hospital stay.
• Abdominoplasty with Medicare item number: In some circumstances, abdominoplasty may be considered medically necessary. For example, there is an item number (30177) for abdominoplasty after significant weight loss when strict criteria are met. These include the presence of excess skin causing skin conditions that have not responded to other treatments, and where weight has been stable for at least six months. In such cases, Medicare may contribute to part of the surgical fee, and private health insurance may provide benefits towards hospital and anaesthesia costs, depending on the level of cover.

The eligibility for a Medicare item number can only be determined after a consultation and clinical assessment. Patients are advised to confirm directly with Medicare and their private health insurer about coverage and out-of-pocket costs.

Direct sun exposure can affect wound healing and may cause scars to darken or change colour. For this reason, it is generally recommended that scars be protected from the sun until they have matured, which may take up to 12 months or longer. Protection can include covering the area with clothing or using high-SPF sunscreen once the wound has fully healed.

Artificial tanning products such as spray tans should only be considered once the skin surface has completely healed, to avoid irritation or infection. The timing for this varies between individuals, and it is best discussed with your treating team.

Separation of the abdominal muscles (rectus diastasis or divarication) refers to a widening of the gap between the rectus abdominis muscles on either side of the midline. This can occur during pregnancy when the abdominal wall is stretched. In some people, the muscles remain separated after pregnancy, and the connective tissue between them becomes stretched or weakened.

During an abdominoplasty, this muscle separation may be repaired by suturing the muscles closer together and tightening the layer of tissue overlying them. Whether this is appropriate depends on individual circumstances and is assessed during consultation.