Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Sydney

Abdominoplasty is designed to improve abdominal contour rather than serve as a weight loss procedure. Individuals who smoke, have diabetes, or carry major abdominal scars may face additional risks. It is important to discuss your personal health circumstances with your surgeon to determine suitability.

Dr Amira Sanki offers consultations for abdominoplasty at Kogarah and Miranda. During your consultation, Dr Sanki will take a medical history, assess your abdominal contour, and identify any health factors that may affect treatment. The consultation also provides the opportunity to ask questions and review options. During your consultation for abdominoplasty, the procedure will be explained in detail, with careful attention to your concerns and questions. This includes discussion of potential benefits, limitations, and risks, so you can make an informed decision. Written information will be provided to support your decision-making. Because abdominoplasty is a significant procedure, a second consultation is arranged before confirming surgery.

Abdominoplasty describes a group of operations that vary in extent. These may include:

• Mini-abdominoplasty – removal of a smaller amount of skin and fat.
• Total abdominoplasty – tightening of the abdominal muscle wall together with removal of skin and fat.
• Extended abdominoplasty – may include removal of tissue extending to the hip region.
• Corset and fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty – removal of skin that includes a vertical ellipse from the central abdomen.
• Abdominoplasty combined with liposuction – in selected cases.

The procedure is performed under a general anaesthetic, sometimes with local anaesthetic to assist with post-operative comfort. An incision is made in the lower abdominal fold. The abdominal skin and fat are lifted from the muscle layer, and the belly button is separated from the overlying skin but remains attached to its stalk. This allows the surgeon to assess and, if required, repair separation of the abdominal muscles. The excess skin is then removed, and the wound is closed in several layers with dissolving stitches. In some patients with lower amounts of fat and a normal body mass index, a “drainless” technique may be possible.

A compression garment is usually recommended for the first three to six weeks after surgery. It supports healing, minimises swelling, and helps improve comfort. The garment can be removed for showering and wound checks.

Abdominoplasty is a major operation. Most patients spend between one and six nights in hospital to ensure a safe and monitored recovery. This allows nursing staff to provide appropriate post-operative care and support.

Liposuction and abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) are different procedures designed for different concerns.

Liposuction removes fat deposits beneath the skin but does not remove excess skin or repair muscle separation. It may be considered by people who have good skin elasticity and localised fat deposits that have not responded to diet and exercise.

Abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen and may also include tightening of the abdominal muscles. It is generally considered when there is loose or stretched skin, or when the rectus (six-pack) muscles have separated, such as after pregnancy or significant weight change.

The choice between the two depends on factors such as skin quality, muscle position, overall health, and personal circumstances.

Recovery times vary depending on the extent of surgery and individual healing. Many people can drive after one week, return to office-based work after around three weeks, and gradually resume exercise after clearance by their surgeon. More strenuous activity, such as heavy lifting, is usually delayed for six weeks or more.

Dr Amira Sanki performs abdominoplasty procedures at accredited private hospitals in Sydney, including St George, Hurstville, Bondi Junction, and St Luke’s. These hospitals are chosen for their high standards of peri-operative care.

Private health insurance may contribute to the costs of abdominoplasty if specific criteria are met, such as when the surgery is performed after significant weight loss and is required to address health problems associated with excess skin. Patients should confirm with their health fund whether they are covered. Medicare item numbers that may apply include 30165, 30174, or 30177, depending on the individual procedure.

Abdominoplasty is a significant surgical procedure and carries risks, which should be considered carefully. It should be performed by a surgeon with formal qualifications and training. In Australia, this includes holding a Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Membership of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons indicates additional specialist training.

Dr Amira Sanki is a fully qualified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon based in Sydney. She is an Australian-trained specialist, holding FRACS (Plastic Surgery), and is a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr Sanki has extensive experience in abdominoplasty procedures, as well as other reconstructive and aesthetic surgeries. Her practice includes consulting and operating in Bondi Junction, Kogarah and Miranda.

1. Anaesthetic risks – complications related to general anaesthesia, such as allergic reactions or breathing problems.

2. Bleeding (haematoma) – bleeding may occur during or after surgery, occasionally requiring further treatment.

3. Infection – uncommon, but may require antibiotics or further intervention.

4. Delayed wound healing – some areas may take longer to heal, particularly along the scar.

5. Scarring – scars are permanent, though usually placed low on the abdomen; some patients may develop thickened or widened scars.

6. Seroma (fluid collection) – fluid can accumulate under the skin and may need drainage.

7. Skin or fat necrosis – reduced blood supply can cause small areas of skin or fat tissue to heal poorly.

8. Umbilical necrosis – in rare cases, the blood supply to the belly button is affected, leading to partial or complete loss of the umbilicus.

9. Numbness or altered sensation – temporary or permanent changes in abdominal skin feeling are common.

10. Chronic pain – persistent discomfort or nerve-related pain may occur, though it is uncommon.

11. Asymmetry or contour irregularities – differences in shape, tightness, or scar position can occur.

12. Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) – rare but serious risks associated with reduced mobility after surgery.

13. Need for revision surgery – occasionally further surgery may be needed to improve results or address complications.

It’s crucial for individuals considering plastic surgery to consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon who can thoroughly explain the risks and benefits specific to their desired procedure. Understanding and carefully weighing these risks against the potential benefits can help individuals make informed decisions about whether to proceed with plastic surgery.

If liposuction is performed as part of your procedure, please also read the section on the risks of liposuction.