
What is an Abdominoplasty?
An abdominoplasty—commonly called a “tummy tuck”—is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the lower and/or upper abdomen, and tightens the underlying abdominal muscles. It’s designed to create a firmer, smoother abdominal profile, often after significant weight loss, pregnancy or ageing.
Types of Abdominoplasty
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Full Abdominoplasty
• Removes skin and fat from the pubic region up to the ribs
• Repairs separated (“diastasis”) abdominal muscles from xiphoid to pubic bone
• Requires a longer incision (hip‐to‐hip), ideal for major skin laxity -
Mini Abdominoplasty
• Targets the lower belly only, with a smaller incision
• Tightens muscle and removes skin between the pubis and navel
• Shorter recovery time for patients with mild to moderate laxity
Who is a Good Candidate?
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You’re at (or very near) your healthy, stable weight
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You have loose or sagging abdominal skin that won’t respond to diet and exercise
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You experience muscle separation after pregnancy or large weight fluctuations
Further Reading
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Better Health Channel (Victorian Govt):
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Abdominoplasty overview:
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/abdominoplasty
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Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Australia:
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Tummy tuck FAQs:
https://plasticsurgery.org.au/procedures/abdominoplasty
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