Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Abdominoplasty addresses more than excess skin alone. Understanding the changes affecting the skin, abdominal wall, and overall body contour is the first step in selecting the treatment most appropriate for each patient.
Introduction
Abdominoplasty (or tummy tuck) is surgery designed to address excess skin and soft tissue of the abdomen, restore abdominal contour, and repair separation of the abdominal wall muscles that commonly occurs following pregnancy or significant weight change.
In appropriately selected patients, abdominoplasty may also improve symptoms such as lower back discomfort, abdominal wall weakness, and bladder control, although these outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
THE PROCEDURE
Abdominoplasty involves removal of excess lower abdominal skin and soft tissue, tightening of the abdominal wall muscles where indicated, and reshaping of the abdominal contour. The umbilicus (belly button) is preserved and repositioned as part of the procedure.
Liposuction is commonly incorporated into abdominoplasty, particularly of the flanks and waist, to improve overall contour. This is performed as part of the procedure where appropriate.
Surgical drains are not routinely required. Instead, internal suturing techniques are commonly used to secure the abdominal tissues and reduce the potential for fluid accumulation. This approach may improve comfort during recovery, although drains are occasionally required depending on the findings at surgery.
Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia by Dr Raymond and his experienced surgical team.
THE PROCESS
Your consultation includes a detailed assessment of abdominal skin quality, muscle separation, fat distribution, previous abdominal scars, body contour, prior surgery, and your treatment goals. Assessment also includes factors that may influence wound healing or recovery.
Where medically indicated abdominoplasty is being considered following pregnancy, diagnostic imaging is arranged to assess abdominal muscle separation.
Not every patient requires the same operation. Depending on the pattern of skin excess, muscle separation, previous surgery, and overall body contour, treatment may involve a standard abdominoplasty, a more limited procedure, or discussion of alternative body contouring procedures.
Surgical planning is individualised and includes discussion of incision placement, the extent of abdominal wall repair required, and whether the procedure is best suited to Hunter Valley Private Hospital or Newcastle Private Hospital.
THE RECOVERY
Most patients:
- Remain in hospital for three to five nights
- Walk on the day of surgery, initially with a slightly flexed posture
- Return to desk-based work within three to four weeks
- Gradually resume unrestricted activity after approximately six weeks
After surgery, you will wear a supportive abdominal binder, which we provide. A specialised dressing is applied over the lower abdominal incision and connected to a small portable suction device. This dressing helps manage fluid at the incision site and support early healing. It is removed in the clinic approximately one week after surgery and does not involve internal tubing.
Swelling continues to settle over several months, and scars continue to mature for 12–18 months.
Patients receive routine follow-up appointments, scheduled LED light therapy, scar care products, and ongoing nursing support throughout recovery.
Treatment Risks
All surgery carries risk. Risks specific to abdominoplasty may include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Delayed wound healing
- Fluid collections (seroma)
- Unfavourable scarring
- Residual contour irregularity or asymmetry
- Changes in skin sensation
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism)
- Anaesthetic complications
- Dissatisfaction with the cosmetic outcome
- Need for further surgery
These risks are discussed in detail during consultation. Further information is available on our dedicated Treatment Risks page.
Pricing
Abdominoplasty pricing depends on whether the procedure is performed for a medical indication or cosmetic reasons.
Pricing is provided as an all-inclusive estimate incorporating surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital admission, garments, routine follow-up appointments, LED light therapy, scar care products, and ongoing nursing support.
Medically Indicated Abdominoplasty
For patients who meet Medicare criteria and have appropriate private health insurance, Medicare and private health fund rebates may apply.
As a guide:
- Total upfront cost: approximately $18,000–20,000
- Estimated out-of-pocket cost after rebates: approximately $16,000–18,000
Eligibility is assessed during consultation, and diagnostic imaging may be required.
Cosmetic Abdominoplasty
For patients who do not meet Medicare criteria:
As a guide:
- Total all-inclusive cost: approximately $24,000–26,000
A personalised written quotation is provided following consultation. Medicare eligibility is assessed where appropriate, and all treatment options and associated costs will be discussed before proceeding.
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