Body Sculpting Perth
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Abdominoplasty Perth
Abdominoplasty
What is abdominoplasty?
Dr Jeremy Rawlins, Plastic Surgeon Perth
Abdominoplasty and other body contouring procedures may be considered in cases where excess skin and fat persist despite exercise and dietary efforts. These procedures can involve the surgical removal of excess tissue and, where appropriate, the tightening of abdominal muscles.
Abdominoplasty is a functional surgical procedure used to remove excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen. It is often combined with the surgical repair of abdominal muscles that have stretched or weakened, for example after significant weight loss or pregnancy. This may support improved abdominal stability and posture in some individuals.
Abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss or a healthy lifestyle. It is generally recommended when a patient’s weight is stable, as weight fluctuations may impact results. Patients are typically advised to consider this procedure after completing their family, as future pregnancies may affect abdominal outcomes.
Abdominoplasty is performed on both men and women, often in cases of significant weight loss or post-pregnancy changes. It may be considered when excess abdominal skin and fat remain despite lifestyle measures such as diet and exercise.
Abdominoplasty may involve the surgical repair of separated abdominal muscles (rectus diastasis), which can be combined with hernia repair if clinically indicated. In some cases, the procedure has been associated with secondary benefits, such as improved core stability or a reduction in symptoms of urinary incontinence, particularly in women post-childbirth. These potential benefits should be discussed with your surgeon during consultation.
Patients with stable weight and persistent abdominal skin or fat concerns after weight loss may be suitable candidates for abdominoplasty. A consultation with a specialist surgeon is required to assess individual suitability.
Book an appointment with one of our plastic surgeons at Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery in Perth to discuss your individual needs and treatment options.
How to best prepare for abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia and typically requires a hospital stay of one to two nights. Patients are advised to arrange transport home in advance, as driving is not permitted immediately following surgery.
What are the different types of abdominoplasty?
There are several types of abdominoplasty procedures, each tailored to specific anatomical concerns and clinical requirements.
Full abdominoplasty is the most commonly performed type and typically takes around two hours under general anaesthesia. It involves an incision above the pubic area, usually extending from hip to hip. Excess skin and fat are removed from the lower abdomen, and the abdominal muscles may be tightened using sutures. The remaining skin is repositioned, and a new opening is created for the navel. This procedure may be combined with liposuction to assist with contouring, where clinically appropriate.
Mini abdominoplasty is a more limited approach suitable for patients with a smaller amount of excess tissue in the lower abdomen. It involves a shorter incision and less tissue removal compared to a full abdominoplasty.
Fleur-de-lys abdominoplasty includes both a horizontal and vertical incision. This technique may be considered for individuals who require removal of excess skin from both the midline and sides of the abdomen, such as patients with existing midline scars or significant lateral skin redundancy.
Total body lift, also referred to as a belt lipectomy, is a more extensive procedure than a standard abdominoplasty. It involves the circumferential removal of excess skin and fat from the abdomen, sides, upper hips, and lower back. This approach may be considered for patients with substantial skin laxity, particularly following major weight loss.
How long is recovery after abdominoplasty?
Recovery time varies depending on the type and extent of the procedure performed. In general, more extensive surgeries may require a longer recovery period. Your surgeon will provide personalised guidance based on your procedure and individual circumstances.
Recovery following abdominoplasty can vary depending on the type of procedure performed and the individual’s pre-operative health and fitness. In many cases, surgical drains may be used for a few days after the procedure to assist with fluid management. Your surgeon will provide specific post-operative care instructions tailored to your recovery needs.
Dr Jeremy Rawlins, Plastic Surgeon – Body Sculpting Perth
Sutures used in abdominoplasty are typically dissolvable and may take up to three months to fully absorb. Patients are usually reviewed in the clinic approximately one week after surgery to monitor the healing process, with follow-up appointments as clinically indicated.
Compression garments are generally recommended for a minimum of six weeks following surgery, and in some cases up to twelve weeks. These garments assist with wound healing, reduce the likelihood of fluid accumulation (such as haematoma or seroma), and provide support to the healing tissues and scar.
In the initial days after surgery, rest is important. However, early gentle movement—such as sitting upright and taking short walks—may help promote circulation and reduce the risk of post-operative complications, including swelling or blood clots.
Your recovery plan will be discussed during your consultation and will be tailored to your specific procedure, general health, and personal circumstances, including your work and home responsibilities.
Liposuction Perth
Liposuction
Liposuction is a surgical body contouring technique used to remove localised deposits of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. It may be performed alone or in combination with other procedures, depending on individual clinical goals and anatomy.
Liposuction involves the removal of localised fat deposits from specific areas of the body such as the abdomen, flanks, thighs, hips, cheeks, chin, and neck. The procedure is performed using a thin surgical instrument called a cannula, which is inserted beneath the skin to remove fat using suction or power-assisted technology. The approach used depends on the area being treated and the clinical assessment of each patient.
Liposuction may be considered for patients who:
- Are at or near a healthy weight but have localised fat deposits that have not responded to diet and exercise.
- Are undergoing other body contouring procedures, such as abdominoplasty, where liposuction may be used to assist in refining contour and reducing residual fat in adjacent areas.
Unlike abdominoplasty, liposuction does not address excess or loose skin. A comprehensive clinical assessment will help determine whether a skin-tightening procedure, such as abdominoplasty, is more appropriate, or if liposuction alone may be suitable. In some cases, both procedures may be performed together to address different aspects of body contouring.
What type of liposuction procedures do you recommend?
Liposuction can be performed using different techniques depending on clinical factors:
- Suction-assisted liposuction: This method uses vacuum suction to remove targeted fat deposits through a cannula.
- Power-assisted liposuction: This approach uses a rapidly vibrating handpiece to assist in dislodging fat before it is removed by suction.
The choice of technique depends on the volume of fat to be removed, the treatment area, and whether the liposuction is being performed alongside other procedures. This decision is made based on a detailed clinical assessment of your specific needs.
Liposuction—also referred to as liposculpture or lipoplasty—may be performed in combination with other surgeries, such as breast augmentation, a breast lift, or abdominoplasty. For more information, see the Body Contouring section.
How to prepare for liposuction?
Liposuction is typically performed under general anaesthesia. Once the patient is anaesthetised, the procedure begins with small incisions through which a cannula is inserted to remove fat. Liposuction is often performed as day surgery, meaning patients may return home the same day. However, if it is performed in combination with another procedure, an overnight hospital stay may be recommended.
Preparation for surgery includes maintaining good general health. Patients are usually advised to reduce alcohol intake and cease smoking or vaping prior to surgery, as these can impact healing. Your surgeon will provide specific pre-operative instructions based on your individual medical history.
How long is recovery after liposuction?
Pain, bruising, and swelling are common after liposuction. Patients are generally advised to take regular analgesia as prescribed to manage discomfort during the initial recovery period. A compression garment should be worn following the procedure and brought to the hospital on the day of surgery.
Compression garments are an essential part of recovery following liposuction. Your surgical team will provide instructions on the appropriate garment type and fit during your consultation. These garments are typically applied in the operating theatre and remain in place as you wake from anaesthesia. They assist the healing process by minimising swelling, supporting the treated areas, reducing the risk of fluid accumulation (such as haematoma or seroma), and helping the skin conform to the underlying tissues during recovery.
Final outcomes from liposuction generally become more visible around three months after surgery, once swelling has resolved and the healing process has stabilised. Individual results and timelines may vary.
Maintaining good general health is important in preparing for surgery. Patients are encouraged to reduce alcohol intake and are strongly advised to stop smoking or vaping prior to the procedure, as these factors can negatively affect wound healing and recovery. Your surgeon will provide personalised pre-operative advice based on your medical history and treatment plan.
Body Contouring Perth
Other body contouring procedures
While abdominoplasty and liposuction are among the most commonly performed body contouring procedures, some patients—particularly those who have experienced significant weight loss—may benefit from surgery involving other areas of the body.
Brachioplasty is a surgical procedure used to address excess skin and fat in the upper arms. It aims to improve arm contour by removing redundant tissue in this region. Liposuction may be combined with this procedure where appropriate.
Thigh reduction procedures may be used to remove excess skin and fat from the inner (medial) thighs. These procedures can be combined with liposuction in surrounding areas to assist with contouring, based on clinical assessment.
Other body contouring procedures may include mons lift, bra-roll lift, reverse abdominoplasty (targeting the upper abdominal region), and revision procedures for individuals who have previously undergone body contouring surgery and require further skin or fat reduction. The suitability of any additional procedure is determined through a personalised surgical consultation.
Body Sculpting Perth
Why Forme Specialist Plastic Surgery in Perth?
From your initial enquiry through to consultation, surgery, and post-operative care, we are committed to providing clear communication, coordinated support, and professional clinical care at every stage of your treatment journey.
We recognise that seeking surgical advice can feel unfamiliar or overwhelming. Our team aims to provide a supportive and respectful environment throughout your care experience.
Dr Jeremy Rawlins, Plastic Surgeon – Body Sculpting Perth
If you’re considering a consultation, you can request an appointment to discuss your options with one of our surgeons.
