Book an appointment
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
A tummy tuck, medically referred to as an abdominoplasty, is a surgical cosmetic procedure, designed to help flatten and shape the abdomen and waist by removing excess fat and skin whilst tightening the muscles in the abdominal wall. This cosmetic surgery is often commonly undertaken after pregnancy, significant weight loss, or simply as a result of natural ageing, where the skin has lost some of its elasticity.
Â
This transformative procedure is ideal for individuals who struggle with loose or sagging abdominal skin that hasn’t responded to diet and exercise. Candidates for a tummy tuck should be at or near their ideal weight, in good physical health, and have realistic expectations about the results. Women planning future pregnancies and individuals who are planning substantial weight loss are usually advised to postpone the surgery, as these events may impact the long-lasting benefits of a tummy tuck.
Â
Here at West Coast Plastic Surgery in Perth, we thoroughly evaluate every abdominoplasty candidate, considering their overall health, medical history, and personal goals, in order to provide the best possible results in the safest way possible.
After your first consultation with Dr Khan, he will be able to assess what procedure is perfect for you and will provide you with the cost for your own personalised tummy tuck procedure.
Book an appointment
One of the key benefits of a tummy tuck is an improved abdominal appearance. The procedure can effectively remove excess skin and fat, while simultaneously tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles. As a result, patients typically enjoy a smoother and firmer abdominal profile that is more proportionate to their body shape and weight. It can even improve the appearance of stretch marks, particularly those located below the navel.
Â
A tummy tuck in Perth, performed by Dr Qadir Khan at our West Coast Plastic Surgery clinic, not only offers physical improvements but also contributes to increased self-confidence. Changes in our bodies can affect us in more ways than just physically. Excess, sagging skin can make people feel uncomfortable and self-conscious about their appearance, impacting their quality of life. Following a tummy tuck, many patients report feeling more confident and comfortable in their own skin. They often find themselves participating more in physical activities, wearing clothes they previously avoided, and experiencing a renewed sense of self-assuredness in both personal and professional situations.
Â
It’s important to note that individual results can vary, and while a tummy tuck is designed to provide long-lasting results, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle post-surgery is crucial to ensure the benefits endure.
At West Coast Plastic Surgery in Perth, we offer several different types of tummy tuck procedures, each tailored to the unique needs and goals of our patients.
A Full Tummy Tuck is the most common type of full abdominoplasty procedure. This comprehensive procedure targets the entire abdominal region—both above and below the navel. It involves the surgical removal of excess skin and fat, as well as the tightening of abdominal muscles. The belly button is kept and is repositioned once the skin is removed.
A Mini Tummy Tuck, on the other hand, is a less extensive procedure that focuses on the lower abdomen, below the navel. It’s an ideal option for patients who have a small amount of excess skin and a slight bulge in the middle and lower abdomen.
An Extended Tummy Tuck is a more comprehensive procedure that not only addresses the abdomen but also the flanks and lower back. This procedure is often suitable for individuals who have undergone significant weight loss and have more extensive loose skin.
A Reverse Abdominoplasty is another variant of the procedure, where the incision is made under the breast, rather than near the pubic area. It’s often suitable for patients who have excess skin in the upper abdominal area.
Each of these procedures carries unique benefits and considerations. During your consultation at our Perth clinic, Dr Qadir Khan will work with you to determine which type of tummy tuck is most suitable for your individual needs and goals.
Book an appointment
Preparation is a critical step for any surgical procedure, including a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty. At West Coast Plastic Surgery, we guide our patients through every step of this process to ensure the best possible results.
Â
The first step in preparing for a tummy tuck is to schedule a consultation with Dr Qadir Khan, our leading Plastic Surgeon. With years of experience and a dedication to achieving natural-looking results, Dr Khan will thoroughly assess your health, discuss your goals, and answer any questions you may have. He will also help determine the type of tummy tuck procedure that will provide the best results for your specific needs.
Â
Following your consultation, Dr Khan and his team will provide you with a set of pre-op instructions to help you prepare for your tummy tuck. These instructions are designed to maximise your safety and comfort and to optimise the outcome of your procedure. They may include guidance on diet, physical activity, medication, and what to arrange for your recovery period. Following these instructions diligently is essential to the success of your tummy tuck surgery and your overall well-being.
Â
At West Coast Plastic Surgery, we understand that every patient’s journey is unique. That’s why we are committed to providing personalised care every step of the way, from your initial consultation to your recovery.
At West Coast Plastic Surgery, our tummy tuck procedure is performed with the utmost care and precision. Here is a general overview of the steps involved in a typical abdominoplasty or tummy tuck procedure:
Â
Anaesthesia: Your comfort and safety are our top priorities. The tummy tuck procedure begins with the administration of anaesthesia. This is typically general anaesthesia. Our anesthesiology team will closely monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure your comfort.
Â
Incision Placement: Once the anesthesia has taken effect, Dr Qadir Khan will make the necessary incisions. The size and location of these incisions will depend on the specific type of tummy tuck procedure being performed.
Â
Muscle Repair: After the incision is made, the underlying abdominal muscles are repaired and tightened using sutures. This muscle tightening provides a firm foundation and helps create a flatter, more toned appearance in the abdomen.
Â
Excess Skin Removal: Following muscle repair, the excess skin is carefully removed. The remaining loose abdominal skin is then repositioned and smoothed over the newly reshaped area.
Â
Closure: Finally, the incisions are closed with sutures. Dr Khan takes great care to place these sutures in a way that will minimise scarring as much as possible.
Â
It’s important to remember that each tummy tuck procedure is customised to the patient’s individual needs and goals. The exact steps of your procedure may vary slightly based on the type of tummy tuck you are having. We will ensure you understand your personalised surgical plan before the day of your procedure.
Book an appointment
Recovering from a tummy tuck requires time and patience, and understanding what to expect can greatly ease this process. At West Coast Plastic Surgery, we are committed to ensuring that your tummy tuck recovery is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Following your procedure, we will provide you with detailed post-op instructions. These guidelines will cover everything from how to care for your surgical site, what medications to take, specific concerns to look out for, and when to schedule follow-up appointments. Following these instructions diligently will be essential to your recovery and the overall success of your surgery.
Some discomfort is expected following a tummy tuck, but it can be effectively managed with prescribed pain medication. We will also guide you on how to properly position yourself when sitting or lying down to minimise discomfort.
Proper wound care is crucial to prevent infection and ensure the best possible healing of your incisions. This might include changing dressings, cleaning the incision site, and applying topical treatments as directed.
You will need to limit physical activity in the first few weeks following surgery to allow your body to heal. This includes avoiding strenuous activities and heavy lifting. It’s important to gradually reintroduce activity into your routine based on our team’s guidance.
Please remember that everyone’s recovery timeline and experience are unique and largely dependent on their general health and the specific procedure performed. We will monitor your progress closely and will be available to address any concerns or questions you might have throughout your recovery period.
The cost of a tummy tuck in Perth can vary widely based on the specific procedure and the individual patient’s needs. Factors such as surgeon’s fees, hospital and anesthetic fees, and post-operative care can all influence the overall cost. We encourage you to schedule a consultation at West Coast Plastic Surgery for a personalised quote.
The duration of a tummy tuck procedure can vary depending on the extent of the surgery. Generally, it can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours.
Yes, a tummy tuck can often be combined with other procedures such as liposuction, breast augmentation or a breast lift, in what is commonly referred to as a “mummy makeover”. Combining procedures can sometimes reduce overall recovery time.
Typically, a tummy tuck is a significant procedure that may require an overnight hospital stay for monitoring and optimal post-operative care. However, the exact length of hospital stay can vary depending on the extent of the surgery and individual patient factors.
Medicare coverage for a tummy tuck is generally limited to cases where the procedure is deemed medically necessary, such as after significant weight loss or following pregnancy. You should check with Medicare and your private health insurance provider for more information about your coverage.
One of the inevitable outcomes of a tummy tuck is scarring. The incision for the procedure is typically made low on the abdomen, just above the pubic area, which can usually be concealed under most underwear and swimwear. However, the length and visibility of the scar will depend on the extent of the surgery, your body’s healing process, and how well you follow post-operative care instructions.
Patients can expect some discomfort following a tummy tuck, but this is usually well-controlled with prescribed pain medication. Most patients report that the discomfort diminishes significantly after the first few days.
You will need to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for several weeks following your tummy tuck. Light activity, such as walking, can usually be resumed fairly soon after surgery, but you should always follow the specific advice of your surgeon.
Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and liposuction are two different procedures used to improve the appearance of the abdomen. A tummy tuck addresses additional skin and fat, tightening the abdominal muscles, while liposuction removes excess fat deposits. In many cases, these procedures can be combined for comprehensive body contouring results. Your surgeon can help you understand which procedure is best suited to your individual goals.
At West Coast Plastic Surgery in Perth, we understand that deciding to undergo a tummy tuck is a significant decision. We believe in empowering our patients with the information they need to make confident, informed decisions about their bodies. Under the expert guidance of Dr Qadir Khan, our team is dedicated to providing individualised care and achieving results that enhance your natural beauty and improve your quality of life. From your initial consultation through recovery, we are committed to supporting you.
Â
Â
If you’re considering a tummy tuck and want to explore your options, we encourage you to reach out to us. Schedule a consultation with Dr Khan today to discuss your goals and learn more about what a tummy tuck could do for you. Take the first step towards your new self. Contact West Coast Plastic Surgery today – because you deserve the very best.
Book an appointment